June 2, 2023, 4:47 pm by MSP
16 Things to Toss from Your Closet...
As busy women, we're all occasionally guilty of accumulating a huge pile of clothes hidden in the back of our closets or stuffed into a drawer. Hey, it happens.
A clean closet would give a us clearer mind and make finding something to wear so much easier in the mornings. Part of the problem is this accumulation: the stuff you should be tossing but haven't because you're too busy or a bit sentimental. Let me help you clear the clutter.
Print this list out and get busy this weekend. I guarantee that getting dressed on Monday morning will be so much easier*
*Yes, it's another post about closets! Can you tell I want to prepare you (and myself) for spring~before it arrives. Nothi[ More | Email | Print ]
May 29, 2023, 3:06 pm by MSP
One Item Three Ways-Summer Edition!
Back by popular demand! The return of "One Item, Three Ways".
This week's article gives you a fun variety of outfits by starting with one item directly from your closet. Find out how to wear each particular item, three different ways. Talk about maximizing your wardrobe basics-this will amaze you how easy it is to be stylish with only a few pieces!
Quick! Can you think of 3 different ways to wear this knit skirt?
Relax, MissusSmartyPants has 3 fab ideas right here!
No need to buy a thing, let's work with what you have! Let's take the same summer basics we wear each day-and get creative (remix them). Let's find NEW ways to wear 'em. When you 're-mix' [ More | Email | Print ]
May 22, 2023, 8:27 pm by MSP
Looking to freshen up your wardrobe? Who isn't right? I've got a few amazing accessories that can do wonders to update your current wardrobe.
Shop less-yet look more chic. While I’d never agree to swearing off shopping entirely, we could all do with asking ourselves how often we’d (really) wear something before buying it, or taking a little time to see the pieces we already own in a fresh new way. A cleverly chosen accessory is an excellent way to do this.
More style, less shopping. Who's with me? Let's do this. With these 6 unique new trends-your wardrobe will be instantly on-point.
Grab these 6 accessories to update your current wardrobe.
From hats, shoes, jewelry, to handbags...MSP has the best new trends for you!
&[ More | Email | Print ]
May 15, 2023, 4:01 pm by MSP
To me, hearing "One must age gracefully" is like fingernails screeching across the chalkboard. Initially, it rubs me the wrong way! Must I? Does aging gracefully mean I take a backseat to the younger gals, start blending into the wallpaper, and quietly go off into retirement? The topic: "aging" seems to stir up negative emotions, when it fact, there are so many good things about being older. Let's take a deep dive at what "aging" and "gracefully" both mean.
As an "older" woman chronologically, my opinion is: age is more subjective. Do you agree? Think about the woman you were 10 years ago. Today you are a totally different person. We all change physically, mentally, emotionally. With different life choices, habits and thoughts-you have evolved into who you[ More | Email | Print ]
May 8, 2023, 5:57 pm by MSP
Summer is just right around the corner! What's the best way to prepare for the warm weather ahead? As a stylist, my best answer for you is to add a few summer essentials to your wardrobe. Certain summer pieces will offer you the most "mix and match potential"...and that's what summer-chic is all about.
It's going to get hot (real hot) so prepare your wardrobe now. You will want wardrobe essentials that allow you to pack quick for a 3-day getaway, or for a backyard barbeque (or whatever summer event comes your way).
Get the list of 7 Summer Essentials to start your warm season wardrobe. Join MissusSmartyPants today!
Gain Style Confidence With This Week's Style Tips
AND a MSP Personal Profile Membership!
MSP's W[ More | Email | Print ]
May 1, 2023, 3:38 pm by MSP
Cool Style on a Hot Day
It is not yet hot outside, but give it a few weeks and we'll be talking about the heat and what to wear in the heat. Living in the South means as the temperature rises, so does the humidity!
Hot days create a unique dressing challenge: "How can we look stylish without melting"? If you know me, I’m always up for a good challenge. So, I did what any fab fashion stylist would do…I went shopping in search of the best looks for hot days!
STAY TUNED...You'll want to "save" this article, because in a few short weeks the weather is going to heat up!
I've collected the best outfit ideas for hot days...
For example, this sassy, yet cool swing dress is perfect for wearing when the heat is on...
[ More | Email | Print ]
April 24, 2023, 2:49 pm by MSP
Dear MSP SYSters,
Nothing gripes me more than being told I can not wear something because of my age. Really? Just exactly who decided certain articles of clothing should no longer be worn by woman of "a certain age"? Is thirty, forty, or even fifty-or beyond too old for certain styles?
Of course we need to assess our own bodies and decide what's best covered up and not exposed. But, what we wear should be of a more personal choice-not necessarily an "age" related thing. By using a full-length mirror and reviewing our backsides as well our complete look head to toe, most women can come to an intelligent decision whether they should be wearing something, or not. A good rule of thumb is; if you have doubts, then you should not wear it.[ More | Email | Print ]
April 17, 2023, 3:10 pm by MSP
Just the title, “How to Have Glowing Skin” is intriguing to say the least. I think I could easily say we all desire glowing skin. It's a possibility and quite frankly, something we should work at. The reason you want your skin to be its best is because your skin reflects your health! Read that again: Your skin is a reflection of your health!
As a woman with aging skin, the topic of skincare is near and dear to my heart. Since I'm over 60, I do my best to take care of my skin. I wash it with a gentle cleanser every morning and night, and I wear a moisturizer with sunscreen daily. But, am I really doing all I should? Is there more to skincare?
Taking care our skin is hugely important because better looking skin makes us look more youthful. Looking pos[ More | Email | Print ]
April 10, 2023, 3:19 pm by MSP
3 Steps to Comfy Chic
Casual style can get too casual. After awhile, you start to feel down right sloppy! The good new is; while at home, you have other options besides yoga or sweatpants, and beefy t-shirts. You can put a little more effort into your comfy outfits without trying too hard.
This week: tips to help you put together comfy (stylish) outfits for when you are going absolutely nowhere (or just the grocery store). Why bother? Because simply put: when you look good, you feel good. We deserve to feel our best any day of the week. Find out how to take a simple t-shirt and jeans into a simple-yet casual chic look!
Get MSP's "3-Steps to Comfy Chic" article in this week's Personal Profile article (along with style information based on[ More | Email | Print ]
April 6, 2023, 6:19 pm by MSP
3-Step Smoky Eye
Dear SYSters,
With so many spring special events (weddings, proms, wedding and baby showers, date nights, outdoor concerts, etc.) right around the corner-putting together your best outfit, hair, and makeup are a must.
Use these 3-Steps to an Instant Smoky Eye....
1. Apply a light eye shadow all over lid- from top of brow bone to your lash line.
2. Use a soft kohl eye pencil and apply 2 downward lines, 2 horizontal lines (for a hashtag appearance) on your outer bottom portion of your lid.
3. Gently smudge applied eye pencil for a soft, smoky look. Add a shimmer eye shadow over the top-if desired.
[ More | Email | Print ]
April 3, 2023, 2:19 pm by MSP
Figure Fixes
This week's article is about defining and refining your assets. By taking time to evaluate your shape (from head to toe) you learn how to play-up your assets and mininize other areas that you wish to minimize. We are not perfect (FYI: no one is "perfect") nor are our bodies; and that's what makes us real. So, if we play up our assets and work with our bodies-we gain confidence...and that's what real style: self-confidence!
This week, find out what to wear if you have a short neck, long neck, full bust, small bust, long or short waist, full tummy, flat or full bottom, heavy thighs, and so much more!
With style being more about putting together a complete look and feeling good about your appearance; this week's article helps you focus on your actual f[ More | Email | Print ]
March 27, 2023, 4:04 pm by MSP
This week: MSP's Guide to Shorts and Crops!
Before you know it, the weather will be sizzling hot! Will you ready? What will you wear? More than likely, you'll be wearing shorts, crops or capris.
Recently, I helped several clients build their spring and summer wardrobes. The issue of what to wear when it gets hot out triggered a dressing dilemma for both of them. They were afraid to show too much skin, or to appear to be dressed too young-just for the sake of trying to stay cool. However, the good news is women have lots of options; like wearing a sundress, or a skirt, but more than likely when it's really hot out, most women will wear shorts, crops, or capris. This means we have to get our proportions right so we look our best in shor[ More | Email | Print ]
March 20, 2023, 4:35 pm by MSP
As we age, we realize it’s a blessing to get older. However, we are confronted with some not so fabulous things about aging like, age spots, chin hair, spider veins, gray hair, a sagging bust…and as you know, much more. I’m sure I don’t need me to continue-you get the picture. While we try our best to minimize these issues; there are some things you may be doing that actually makes you look OLDER!
You want to keep your look fresh, up-to-date-you want to appear "ageless". Check the list from this week's style article and see if you are doing any of these “aging” things that you should be avoiding!
Find out if you are doing any of these 7 mistakes that make you look older! Get this week's article, "7 Style Mistakes That Make You Look Older".[ More | Email | Print ]
March 13, 2023, 2:20 pm by MSP
It's week two (2) of MSP's "Big Spring Preview"
The fun and the fashions continue!
This week, the remaining LIST of what to get for your wardrobe this spring...and more importantly, HOW to wear it!
I've been getting lots of love regarding The Big Spring Preview (Part One)! You're welcome. I'm just as excited as you to start wearing these new spring trends as soon as the weather warms up. Luckily, recently we've had some beautiful weather here in the south. Even though it might not be warm in your neck of the woods without a sweater, start wearing the lighter, brighter colors of this spring's color palette (check out all the colors in part one).
Spring has almost sprung!
[ More | Email | Print ]
March 6, 2023, 3:11 pm by MSP
Yes! It's almost spring and the start of something BIG. This week, part one of the Big Spring Preview. Next week, part two.
It is March and all the pretty spring fashions are arriving at our favorite stores. I hope you’ve had a chance to take a peek at what’s new at your local stores (or online). Just seeing these lighter and brighter colors queues us that we need to start planning our warm season wardrobe now!
Spring is right around the corner! My local weather (here in the South) is warm and above average. Everything is leafing out! As I ran errands on the weekend, everyone else had the same idea (or "excuse") to get outside and enjoy the weather that was gorgeous and super warm!
It's time to lighte[ More | Email | Print ]
February 27, 2023, 6:18 pm by MSP
"I think women are realizing that they don't need a closet full of clothes.
They just need the RIGHT clothes" ~ Michael Kors
How functional is your closet? Can you rely on your clothes to help you create an outfit when you must dress for a specific occasion? Can you go into your closet and easily put together something fabulous when you are short on time?
Too often, we don't have what we really need in our closets. The answer to most of your dressing dilemmas starts by simplifying your wardrobe. That's right. A better wardrobe starts with the WARDROBE BASICS.
Most closets are full of clothes hardly ever worn. Up to 80% of what’s in our closet are not worn on a regular basis. Every morning this 80% is passed over as we hunt f[ More | Email | Print ]
February 20, 2023, 3:50 pm by MSP
THIS WEEK'S ARTICLE: Update Your Hair
What's aging you? Often it's your hair. Its one of the most noticeable things about you and it's what people see first is your hair. Think about what your current haircolor and style.
It could be your unstyled hair and/or your haircolor that ages you. Nothing ages you like hair that's too dark, a solid block of hair dye, dull dry hair, gray roots, or long hair pulled back in a banana clip. Pause and think about your hair color and current style. What could you do to improve it?
“Life is an endless struggle full of frustrations and challenges,
but eventually you find a hairstylist you like” ~Author Unknown
&nbs[ More | Email | Print ]
February 13, 2023, 3:22 pm by MSP
Buy something new and you can't help but feel a pinch in your wallet. What's a SYSter to do when money is tight; yet a new season will soon be here? I'm glad you asked, because this week I have a few answers to looking stylish AND saving money. Actually, there are seven (7) things you can do to increase your style without buying a thing!
We all want to look our best, feel our best, and live our best life. A big part of feeling good, is to feel good with what you are wearing. There is nothing better than knowing your style looks up-to-date and yet, is still age appropriate.
This week: "Up Your Style" without spending a dime!
YES! Your style will come together without buying a thing. Use these 7 dressing strategies to look your best; [ More | Email | Print ]
February 6, 2023, 3:27 pm by MSP
Change begins when you take that first step out of your comfort zone. It's this first step that feels shaky and uncertain. Sometimes it feels more like a leap of faith. But, that's okay when it comes to your style. This newness means something good is about to happen!
Before spring arrives-get your style together. This week's article: "12 Steps to Style Swagger" will re-energize your wardrobe and help you get your style mojo going before spring arrives. This list of 12 items are clever ways to improved style. It will amaze you how doing just one of these 12 steps will improve your confidence!
One new "style tweak" can change everything! This week, learn how you don't have to spend a lot of money, or go crazy shoppi[ More | Email | Print ]
February 4, 2023, 6:57 am by MSP
10 simple...yet practical tips for organizing your clothes and closets.
1) Edit your wardrobe.
The reality is, too much stuff makes anything more difficult and challenging. It’s common knowledge among professional organizers that we typically only wear 20% of our wardrobe 80% of the time. Are you the exception? If not, take a long, good look at your clothes and decide what you wear most, the least, and not at all. Remember to focus NOT on letting things go and feeling the loss—instead focus on finally having enough room in your closet to see the clothes you wear every day. Clear out the clutter and keep only what you wear and love. Bonus points for the joy you’ll experience knowing that everything you donate will bring someone else happines[ More | Email | Print ]
February 2, 2023, 1:22 pm by MSP
Hi Leslie. I haven’t subscribed for about 3-4 years. During Covid I enjoyed purchasing new clothes. I’m 82, but am anything but frumpy.
Friends compliment me a lot on how I look and dress since I enjoy my SPRING SEASON LOOK, and try out current styles that are age appropriate including shoes, jewelry, makeup and hair style and color. I am a happy temperament and have faith in God and Jesus. I am blessed with a wonderful husband. We’ve been married 58 years.
These 10 questions are so helpful to get me through purging my full closet. The advice about mixing up items in my closet is extremely helpful. I just hope I can be courageous enough to weed out old non-fitting clothes. I have gained so much weight thru Covid [ More | Email | Print ]
January 30, 2023, 10:52 am by MSP
It is Monday, another week, another fresh start. Last week nothing went quite right, so this week, I'm happy for a fresh start. I'm feeling positive, upbeat and optimistic this is going to be a fabulous week.
We have all had "one of those weeks" where nothing goes quite right. Last week, my busy schedule and several looming deadlines...left me short on time and a bit frazzled.
This week will be different. It will be different because I have the mind-set to make it a good week. I also am sharing how to look ten pounds slimmer!
Want to look instantly 10 pounds slimmer?
THIS WEEK: MSP's favorite visual dressing tips to help YOU look slimmer!
This week's: "Visually Lose 10 Pounds[ More | Email | Print ]
January 27, 2023, 2:54 pm by MSP
Most women do not spend near enough time or thought when purchasing a new bra. If it seems like it fits, they buy it. However, stop and think about it, your bra's sole purpose is to offer you the support you need all day long. That's important, and worthy of spending time to find the right support for your body since you'll be wearing it for up to 18 hours a day.
1. Some sizes are interchangeable. Just like with clothing, you will find when trying on bras, a size 34D in one brand and a 36C in another fit the same-what's up with that?! The fact is, there is no standardized sizing when it comes to bras. So, don't get stuck on a bra size--instead focus on fit.
2. Your straps don't support you. Unlike what many women thi[ More | Email | Print ]
January 23, 2023, 10:51 am by MSP
Is This Outfit Right for Me?
Not sure if your outfit looks good? No worries, this week you’ll learn how to get your look right...every time you dress. Simply go through the “checklist” given when something looks a little off; then you’ll know how to correct it.
Still can’t get your style to come together? Don't know why you still lack style? Don’t know if something looks off? There are several reasons. It could be that you are wearing the wrong length, or the proportion you are wearing draws your body off balance, or it could be you don’t have the right shoes-and a few other reasons why. However, with this week's style checklist you will be able to decipher what may be off.
Get your style to really come together!
[ More | Email | Print ]
January 16, 2023, 2:58 pm by MSP
There are a few things that work on every woman. Actually, there are four (4) pieces that work on every woman. The structured jacket, the straight-leg trouser, the pointy-toed shoe, and the A-line skirt. It does not matter your body type, these four pieces of clothing generally work on everyone.
These pieces will do different things for different body types. For example, if you are heavy in the middle, the A-line skirt gives you the illusion of a smaller waist by extending the hips. And if you don't have curves, it helps give you the volume where you need it--in the hips. Similarly, a structured jacket is the best way to camouflage a tummy. It has a "build in" hourglass shape, then it makes people think you do. This jacket does the work for you![ More | Email | Print ]
January 16, 2023, 11:50 am by MSP
What Jewelry Works With What Neckline?
Q: Dear MissusSmartyPants,
Thank you for all of the information, help, guidance, support, motivation and love that you give each week! I have learned SO much from you regarding proper fit, overall proportions, body type B, layering, color coordination & saturation, handbag styles & shapes, and correct pant lengths. I have one thing I'm still not sure about...
Can you please address which jewelry works with which necklines/sleeve lengths? This is something I can't seem to get right and I'll bet others are wondering too.
Thanks, Lisa D
A: MSP HERE... Dear Lisa & MSP SYSters (Psst...the answer to what SYSters means appears below)...
Thank you for your style que[ More | Email | Print ]
January 9, 2023, 12:36 pm by MSP
Fast Figure Fixes
This week's article is about defining and refining your personal assets/attributes. What are they? Can you list a few of your assets? We always think right away about the areas we want to minimize...but, can you list a few of your good bits too?
By taking time to evaluate your shape (from head to toe) you'll learn how to play-up your "good bits" and mininize the areas that you wish to minimize. No body is perfect; and that's what makes us real women-we are all a little bit different. Viva la difference. The real definition of style therefore is a woman knowing her true assets (and of course, her not so good bits).
This week, find out what to wear if you have a short neck, long neck, full bust, small bust, long or short waist, thick middle[ More | Email | Print ]
January 2, 2023, 1:15 pm by MSP
2023. It's your chance to write your novel...12 chapters, 365 pages. Everyday is a new day to create the life you want. What will each new day say about you?
Are you resoved to taking better care of yourself (mind and body)? By far the most popular New Year's resolution is to be more active. I'm all in when it comes to improved health and fitness. As a group fitness instructor and yoga teacher, it is my passion to inspire others to be healthier by consistantly showing up and working out. Even if you don't attending group fitness classes, you can improve your fitness by walking briskly regularly.
Are you resolved to move more in 2023?
Don't we all need something to motivate us? What's going to get you to move more and make exercise part of your wee[ More | Email | Print ]
December 27, 2022, 8:26 am by MSP
It's the final week of 2022! And I say, "Let's celebrate the closing of this year and the start of the new one". What better way than a fresh start in our closet. "Out with the old and in with the new"!
There's no better way to ring in the new year than with an organized closet. However, if your closet is full of clutter; a clean closet will certainly not happen overnight. You've got to take decluttering in small bite-size (doable) steps. However, before we declutter-the real question is...HOW DID THE CLUTTER GET IN OUR CLOSET IN THE FIRST PLACE?!?
STOP! Think about what's inside your closet right now. I'm sure there is a small handful of items you wear on a regular basis, but what are rest of the items hanging in there? Perhaps you a[ More | Email | Print ]
December 19, 2022, 11:45 am by MSP
Dress With Color Contrast in Mind
As women figure out their own color season, be it a spring, summer, autumn, or perhaps a winter, they learn that they have either warm or cool undertones. However...they are still missing one key element in regards to color: knowing if they have low or high in color contrast.
What's missing is how high or low their own color contrast is. Armed with this information, they can start to use their personal color contrast and dress in colors that not only flatter them, but dress in colors that awaken their skin tone, and bring the sparkle in their eyes.
It's like getting a vitamin shot of colors...and the best part-it works for every woman! Find out how to classify your color contrast in this week's ar[ More | Email | Print ]
December 12, 2022, 10:59 am by MSP
25 Ways to Revamp Your Style
Want to revamp your style...or at least see if your style is up-to-date and looking current? I thought so. I mean, who doesn't want to look her best?
With so much crazy advice floating around the internet, in books, and magazines, it can be hard to figure out what you should focus on. Should you follow the current trends, or try to define your own sense of style?
Of course, you want to look your best for your age (or perhaps a few years younger) so, how much should you change your looks based on your age without looking like you're trying too hard?
This week's list of the "Top 25 Ways to Revamp Your Style" will help you check-off fabulous ways to look age amazing!
This week: 25 ways [ More | Email | Print ]
December 8, 2022, 5:11 pm by MSP
Dear Friends,
With the arrival of the holidays, we often find ourselves with an occasion we need to dress for. Instead of being excited about dressing up; we become panicked.
Suddenly panicked thoughts creep into your head...“What could I possibly wear?!”
There's no need to get anxious or worry you won’t be dressed appropriately for any festive event. Why? Because you’ve got MissusSmartyPants! ...And now dressing for any festive occasion will be a snap!
My Holiday Gift to YOU!
Use these ‘festive’ tips to help you create an outfit for any holiday party or get-together (from Christmas to New Year’s eve).
(Print tips below and save them in your Style Control Journal...you have one, right?[ More | Email | Print ]
December 5, 2022, 10:51 am by MSP
As much as we hate to admit it, looks matter. The clothing we wear doesn't just cover our bodies, they make an impression. Our clothing (as well as hair and makeup, etc.) should be neat and clean to create our best image. Of course, once the person knows us better, besides how we dress, they will appreciate everything else we have offer. However, if we minimize the importance our outer appearance we are doing ourselves a huge dis-service. The fact is, we don't get a second chance at a first impression. It is true: a first impression is a lasting impression.
Two important things a woman can do for herself: 1. Understand what clothes are best her shape 2. Dress for the body she has today.
Isn't time to BE the woman you've always wanted to [ More | Email | Print ]
November 28, 2022, 6:47 am by MSP
Each season the fashion industry introduces new fashions. There's always a "remix" of a fashion from the past. However, our fashion sense is also influenced today by social media (online, T.V. magazines, social apps).
We watch (and often admire) celebrities, and others public figures that dress well and want to emulate their style. However, current celebrity style didn't just happen; their styles are "remixes" from the past.
Today's celeb is critiqued (and criticized) within seconds about everything they wear. The outfit they wore out to dinner, to the nightclub, or even the grocery store, gets hundreds (if not thousands) of Tweets each day. Within hours, that's all social media is talking about; who wore what and [ More | Email | Print ]
November 25, 2022, 6:40 am by MSP
14 Ways to Work With What’s in Your Closet
It's hard to stay within a budget, especially with the price of everything on the rise. What's a stylish SYSter to do? Work your closet. Can you tick-off all 14 of the listed items below?
Here’s how to work with what you’ve got in your closet right now:
__Wear your LBD (Little Black Dress) with unusual accessories or colors. For example, wear a dark brown belt & dark brown accessories for a sophisticated look w/ your LBD.
__Mix dressy and casual items together--in one outfit. Why not? It’s an uber-chic thing to do.
__Wear unmatched items in one outfit. The ‘ground’ the outfit by wearing matching [ More | Email | Print ]
November 21, 2022, 11:02 am by MSP
Over the years I've found that women really want to feel comfortable in the clothes they wear. They also want to have a stylish edge to what they are wearing. However, many women end up dressing way too casual in order to be "comfortable". This week, I'm here to prove you can have both style and comfort in one (1) outfit!
Most mornings we run short on time. This rush only adds stress to figuring out what to wear. So, what's the answer??? "MSP's Grab N' Go" outfits...These will save you from the boring outfits (and you'll feel comfortable too)!
Imagine, grabbing a hanger with a complete outfit ready-to-go....including the accessories. How good would that be?! It certainly will make the mornings much easier...and t[ More | Email | Print ]
November 20, 2022, 7:32 am by MSP
You've been invited to Thanksgiving dinner.
What should you wear? Here are 3 comfy, yet stylish suggestions...
Look fabulous on Thanksgiving (in U.S. Thursday, November 24th)...or perfect for any fall get-together!
Choose from these stylish combinations***
1. Cream cable-knit sweater, plaid scarf, dark slim jeans, animal-print flats.
2. Deep Marsala sweater, bold gold-link necklace, cream quilted vest, tan twill denims, tan booties.
3. A-line knit sweater dress, trendy necklace, knit cap, flat riding boots.
*** Get more stylish outfits suggestions based on your body type with a Personal Profile style membership!
Not yet a member?
[ More | Email | Print ]
November 14, 2022, 12:46 pm by MSP
We are revisiting "Copy Her Style".
Celebrities and other women out in the public eye always seem to look good. Even on days when they are running errands, going to the gym, or simply relaxing-they have not a hair out of place.
Fact: celebrities enlist help. They have personal assistants, personal trainers, a chef, and a nutritionist to help them keep their scheduled lives in order. Celebrities also hire personal stylists to help with their public image. As a celebrity, you won't make it very far if you don't have a bit of panache with your wardrobe.
A hired stylist puts together complete "outfits" for their celebrity clients; showing them exactly what to wear. This personalized wardrobe plan includes not only outfits based on thei[ More | Email | Print ]
November 11, 2022, 3:17 pm by MSP
What are your numbers? Use your measurements to balance shape.
Do clothes often pull, are not long enough, or on the other hand, too long? Do you sometimes feel clothes just never fit you right? Guess what, most of these problems can be resolved if you know more about your body's proportions.
Measure yourself:
__Top of head to underarms ___
__Underarm to break of the leg (where your upper leg bends) ___
__Break of leg to the knee ___
__Knee to floor ___
By knowing where on your body you are long or short can help you adjust your clothing lengths to balance your shape.
For example, you can change how long your legs appear by changing the length of your jacket...of course how much you change[ More | Email | Print ]
November 7, 2022, 11:18 am by MSP
Great style is attainable. I know this to be true with every bone in my body. However, I know there are plenty of women out there that would disagree with me. Their reasoning might be that some women are born with a "fashion gene" and others, are not. Well, couldn't disagree more. Style is something that can be learned.
As a stylist, I have worked with women from all walks of life who thought they could not be stylish. Yet, with each of my personal shopping clients; I've managed to change their opinion. How did I do it? I showed them a few fashion tricks, shared a few tips specific to their body type, and got them into a great fitting jacket-just right for their shape. With the right jacket they looked instantly fabulous! Each and every woman was[ More | Email | Print ]
October 31, 2022, 11:09 am by MSP
Without a doubt, a basic core wardrobe is essential to being a stylish woman. Read that again: a basic core wardrobe is essential to being stylish. With the right basics you can put together more outfits...yet your core wardrobe remains small. How can this be? More outfits yet less clothes?
The truth is, with a resourceful core wardrobe.... you purchase less clothes; yet you are able to create more outfits...this in turn makes you more stylish! See how this works? You really don't need many clothes...because you let your accessories do the talking!
E-X-P-A-N-D your wardrobe possibilities... by relying on fab accessories!
Pull out your scarves ladies...it's scarf season! One of the best accessories (especially in t[ More | Email | Print ]
October 24, 2022, 12:06 pm by MSP
There's an old saying, "Rules were meant to be broken". Who knows where it came from; however sometimes we must break a "rule" for a good reason. Admit it. You've been a rule breaker from time to time. I think we all have. I've got a few rules I want you to break: fashion "rules" to be exact. That's what this week's article is all about: breaking the fashion rules!
I'm not afraid to break "rules"...especially when it comes to fashion. I'll try the latest fashions trends (age appropriate, of course) and wear the newest colors. But sometimes doubt creeps in. Does this really look good on me?!?
Sometimes we have doubt that we are wearing looks appropriate. For example: Can you wear your navy dress with all black accessories? Isn't this a f[ More | Email | Print ]
October 17, 2022, 10:23 am by MSP
Some things in life are inevitable...like taxes and getting older.
Another thing that happens as we age...we gain extra flesh around our mid-section! Between dealing with an over-scheduled life and natural shifts in our body’s hormones; before we know it...we end up with an expanded waistline-and a perplexing dressing issue. What are we to do?
This week at MSP...10 dressing hacks that hide belly fat...
You can look amazing when you wear the right clothes that minimize (and camoflauge) your waistline. Learn this week your best styles; the most slimming pants, which jackets to choose, and your best necklines-and style tricks to hide belly fat. Use these "tricks" to make your torso appear slimmer, and your body more balanced. Cleve[ More | Email | Print ]
October 10, 2022, 11:03 am by MSP
The mornings are cooler, and now you must grab a sweater (or warmer jacket) before heading out the door. It's a refreshing change to feel a coolness in the air, and a joy to witness the brilliant leaves changing and falling off the trees; one by one.
Fall also means layering our clothes in order to stay warm. Wearing layers however, is also an opportunity to look more stylish, but it can quickly go wrong. But relax, I'm here to help you get it right. This week: 4 Steps to a Perfectly Layered Look!
Wearing shirts and sweaters in light layers will not only help you adjust to the fluctuating temperatures; it's also a very stylish!
One of the best things about cooler weather is wearing a pretty layered sweater to stay warm (a[ More | Email | Print ]
October 4, 2022, 3:04 pm by MSP
This week, we're talking about denim!
When the weather cools, I love to wear denim. And guess what? Recent survey shows, I'm not alone. According to Invista: every woman owns 8 pairs of jeans and wears denims the average of once a week.
A fall uniform. Denims are on the top of our fall list of "go-to" staples. A typical fall/winter outfit usually consists of one of our favorite jeans matched-up with a knit top, or fuzzy sweater, or even a long tunic, fitted jacket or cardigan-plus a colorful scarf (or accessory) added for good measure. Gravitating towards comfort and warmth as the weather cools means wearing our jeans <<grin>>
Q: Are your jeans flattering on you? Do your denims make the most of your s[ More | Email | Print ]
September 26, 2022, 10:54 am by MSP
Dear Leslie,
Any tips on which footwear to wear with different styles of jeans? I am 60 and need to wear lower heeled shoes/ boots, but want to look stylish this fall. A foot wear review would be terrific!
Thank you,
Patti
MSP HERE: Dear Patti and MSP SYSters,
Yes! Let's do an update/review of the best shoes (of course, lower-heel options) for fall.
I agree, my fussy feet don't want anything on them that's not comfortable. Yet, I also want fab footwear. I believe we all want to look our best from head to toe (or shall we say "from head to shoe").
Fall Shoe Update this week: What to wear and how to pair your fall footwear with your jeans; from wide to slim leg (...plus other fall looks). As the wea[ More | Email | Print ]
September 22, 2022, 10:40 am by MSP
Still got it at 80, thanks to MissusSmartyPants...
I was crossing the parking lot at Trader Joe's, when a car stopped to let me cross. As the driver passed, she opened her window and called out "you look really nice". I'm 80 years old and have followed MissusSmartyPants for a number of years. You are never too old to have a bit of style, even at the grocery store!
Many thanks! Marina
MSP HERE:
Yes! I love this! ...And I totally agree...you are never too old to have fabulous style (and obviously you looked fabulous).
Love, Leslie MSP
Q: Can you say that about your current style?
You can with a MSP Style Membership!
[ More | Email | Print ]
September 22, 2022, 10:39 am by MSP
How to Layer Correctly
As the weather cools, you'll appreciate this handy style advice ;)
To layer successfully you need to do 2 things:
1. BOTH layers made out of lightweight fabrics (bulky fabrics make you look bulky, therefore they don’t work well).
2. The first layer must fit you snug. If not, your layers will slide around and not look right or stay put. The first layering is usually longer too.
Layering pieces to consider:
__Short and long sleeved thin soft tees (in pretty fall colors)
__Tanks and camisoles in every conceivable color
__Vests in menswear plaids or long sweater vests
__Variety of scarves
__Long or layered necklaces
__Classics like v[ More | Email | Print ]
September 19, 2022, 12:14 pm by MSP
Want a week's worth of stylish outfits-fast? You've come to the right place!
I'm always chatting it up about the need for more versatility in our wardrobes. Without a doubt, a basic yet versatile wardrobe is essential for any woman that wants to be more stylish. Why is this aspect of wardrobe building so important? Because instead of purchasing clothes "willy nilly" (without a plan) where nothing really goes together-with a planned wardrobe suddenly, you see outfit possibilties. Simply put, a small coordinated wardrobe yields more outfits.
Once you establish a core wardrobe.... you will purchase less clothes; yet you will be able to create more outfits...which in turn makes YOU more stylish.
THIS WEEK: L[ More | Email | Print ]
September 15, 2022, 2:04 pm by MSP
You spend hours trying on clothes and spend hundreds of dollars (or more) on clothes-yet when you open your closet, you can't find a thing to wear! What gives??? How can you stop this wasteful spending and start loving what you wear?!?
This common dilemma can be a thing of the past if you deploy these 5 tips below:
1. Go with quality. While fast fashion (trendy items) are super-tempting...too many trendy clothes are a waste of your hard-earned money. Most trendy pieces are made cheaply and will wear out quickly. Instead, stuck with quality items that are classic in style. Invest in one quality piece vs. 5 trendy items that will soon need replacing.
2. Get the right fit. One of the[ More | Email | Print ]
September 12, 2022, 10:41 am by MSP
Do you sometimes look in the mirror and know there's something off with what you're wearing? Yet, the bigger problem is; you have no idea what it is, or how to fix it!
It's frustrating when what you’re wearing doesn't look quite right. It's even more frustrating when you like the color or the style, but again, something doesn’t look right. Every woman wants to look her best. But not every woman has it figured out how she can fix style mis-haps, or how to avoid them all together.
This week is for you. Get the answers of how to wear something this way-not that way.
This week's article is full of ideas of how to "wear it this way, not that"!
STOP "making do" with waistlines too tight or gaping in the [ More | Email | Print ]
September 5, 2022, 2:34 pm by MSP
Dear SYSters,
Here in the South, the weather continues to be warm, with a few days of lower humidity (thank goodness). With cooler mornings soon on their way, all that will be needed is a light jacket or sweater before heading out the door in the mornings. Welcome early fall. Cooler weather is a refreshing change.
It's almost fall! Prep now; before the new season arrives. You'll be right in-step with the latest fashions and trends-yet there's nothing to buy!
This week's article is about s-t-r-e-t-c-h-ing your summer wardrobe into fall. It's about using those warm season items to create chic and "trendy" outfits for fall.
This week: lots of clever ideas of how to wear (and layer) 10 items you already ha[ More | Email | Print ]