How to Do Summertime Black-Tie

Recently, a client called me for help in pulling together an outfit for a black-tie party held in July. A lightweight and colorful dress felt right for the Summertime date, but how to incorporate the traditional black-tie accessories and details?  The solution: add both black and white/light accessories to the monochromatic lace dress. We created the final look without ever meeting face-to-face.  See how, below...

Above are just a few of the styling options I found for this sweet dress.

1) She sent me a picture. The first picture was of a pretty salmon colored dress that I felt was too 'daytime.' This had been her concern, too; and it felt good for her to get confirmation on that. I created an Online Boutique with some dress options for her and she ultimately found this mustard colored lace dress after looking at my suggestions.

2) I shopped for all the finishing touches. She wanted to add traditional black details (shoes, necklace, etc) but thought that black may feel a bit heavy against this dress.  I agreed that solid black would be too overwhelming and shopped for accessories made of black, white, and crystal elements. The black formalized the look; the white/crystal lightened everything up for Summer. I gathered all my finds into her Online Boutique so ordering was a breeze for her: just click on the photo and put the item into her shopping cart.

3) She ordered, tried on, sent me photos--and we finalized the look all via email. She had a pair of white earrings and a small white/gold box clutch already in her closet.  Mixing those pieces with the new shoes and necklace created the authentic final outfit.  My extra touch of adding the black ribbon to the necklace made it one-of-a-kind and at the same time on-trend with this Summer's feeling of vintage layering.  As an added bonus, she kept a few other pieces that I'd found and I sent her styling tips on how to wear those within her daily wardrobe.

Click here to see her entire Online Boutique for this outfit--more dress options and jewelry and shoes.

“I bought a dress for a summer black tie party, and realized I had no idea if the dress was appropriate for the occasion or how to accessorize it. Maria pulled everything together for me in just a few days. First, we shopped together via online links for jewelry and shoes. Then, we used cell phone pictures from my current closet to select the clutch and earrings— this took 10 minutes. The whole process was easy, efficient and very economical. She pulled the look together in less than a week, and I did not overspend for this black tie party. She is a gem and her process is pure joy! ”

— ALB

Are these a bunch of bracelets or a study in repetition and contrast?

Repetition makes the human eye happy!  It can move from one element to another without getting stuck.  Too much repetition and the grouping becomes boring.  This is the time to add some contrast.  See below for an explanation of how these two ideas are working in the image and how you can apply these concepts to your own wardrobe...

Keep some basic design principles in mind when choosing your accessories.

Each of the bracelets above repeats its shape over and over.  The large red rectangles repeat as do the crocheted flowers, the pearls, the links and the brown rectangles.  The contrast comes into play with the softness and texture of the crocheted yarn and twisted silk rope (with pearls attached) against the smooth, hard red and brown rectangles.  There is even more contrast in terms of size:  the extra large red rectangles against the tiny pearls or smaller brown rectangles. But then the repetition comes back into play: the brown rectangles pick up the brown in the red bracelet. And then there's more contrast: the dark red and brown colors play against the creme and gold.  But then the creme and gold colors are repeated in three consecutive lines.

These principles of repetition and contrast can be used when choosing many accessories from necklaces to neck ties:  layer your necklaces to create the repetition and contrast--wear a tie with a repeating pattern that picks up a color or pattern in your dress shirt or pocket square. Keep these ideas in mind the next time you're finishing an outfit.  Attention to these principles with elevate any look you put together.

HOW TO SHOP THE GREENWICH SIDEWALK SALES

Few shopping experiences are more satisfying than finding a great deal:  a quality piece at a deep discount that works perfectly for you.  Greenwich offers it's sidewalk sales each July and there is abundant opportunity to find those great deals.  But there's also the temptation to buy something that used to be very expensive just because it's no longer so pricey. Those purchases tend to hang in closets with tags still on.  Here are 3 tips for maximum success at the sales going on now…

Above are a few pieces from Greenwich Avenue stores which are offering sales online as well as on the sidewalk.  Alice and Olivia embellished jacket, The Row navy coat, Moncler trench, Charlotte Olympia flats, Vineyard Vines all-over floral print sport coat, Alexandre Birman crocheted sandals,  Anya Hindmarch caramel shoulder bag, VineyardVines classic windowpane sport coat, Theory leather T-strap sandals

1) Have a Plan.  Decide what you would like to find before you go. This is the perfect time to search out an 'investment' piece at a great price--something classic that will stand the test of time.  Do you need to update your trench coat? perfect leather pumps? beautiful handbag or earrings?  You can also go in the opposite direction:  find a show-stopper dress for an upcoming event; or statement sandals that will complete any little black dress already hanging in your closet.  A unique and specific piece that you would never spend $$$$ on...but would consider spending $$ on.

2) Don't buy it if it doesn't fit.  We've all been in this situation: you've found a piece you love at an amazing price...if only it wasn't so short; ; if only it wasn't backless; if only it zipped all the way up.  Those who have worked with me know that I'm all about altering favorite pieces so that they work for you.  A hem here, taking in at the waist there, even fixing the shoulders when called for...but letting out skimpy seams (there's never a lot of room in there) or completely re-cutting something to make it fit isn't practical.  Not only will it be expensive and time-consuming, but the final result rarely resembles what you had imagined it to be.  And if it's a matter of only losing 5 pounds to make it work, unless you've already lost 4 of those pounds, release the item.

3) Shift your inner attitude.  This is my favorite one because it always works!  Approach the sales with an appreciation for the amount of choices and great quality to be found in our own backyard.  Isn't Greenwich amazing?  Wonderful community spirit, beautiful amenities like parks, marinas, and the beach, and Greenwich Avenue with all of its offerings to boot.  Focus on this third tactic while keeping #1 and #2 in mind and most likely the perfect pieces will fall right into your lap.

Good luck and let me know you do!  Post comments here or let me know privately at maria@mariaturkel.com.  

A Week of Casual Summer Work Outfits

If you work in a casual-dress office setting, then you know that sometimes casual is the hardest look to get right.  A T-shirt is casual, but often just not professional enough.  Put on a dress and heels and you can look like you're trying way too hard. Particularly in the Summertime, when casual can mean shorts and flip-flops to some people, dressing for the office can be confusing. Here are 5 outfit ideas from Monday through Friday.  Use the templates as daily ideas and adjust the looks based on your personal style.  All details below…

Give Mondays a boost of energy using color and pattern. These are red linen cropped trousers with a drape-y, back-printed tank plus gold geometric details on the necklace and sandals.  Notice the silhouette of the tank—long and loose; it is still Monday, after all.

For Tuesday, a simple dress with an espadrille wedge and feminine drop earring looks polished yet easy.  Keep a pair of flats under your desk for running to lunch.

Wednesday calls for another dress.  This one is more structured and worn with classic silver hoops and a more refined cork slide/sandal.

On Thursday, a pretty tank and colored cotton pants look fresh.  Add nude patent leather flats and classic gold ball earrings.  When stepping into a meeting, create a ‘casual suit’ by adding a linen/cotton chambray blazer.

Summer Fridays in a casual office call for denim.  Rather than wearing typical blue jeans and a white top, flip that idea with a blue denim popover and white brushed-cotton jeans.  The metallic flats and colorful bracelet pull the look together while keeping it comfy and ready for the weekend.

blue hydrangeas + Gucci = 2 of my favorite things

I love the entire Gucci Blooms collection and was so excited to see the new blue pieces.  Here's a little collage that makes me happy! Links to the four Gucci pieces are below...the flowers are from my garden :)

GG Blooms platform sandal, GG Blooms supreme chain wallet, Reversible GG Blooms leather tote, GG Blooms print silk scarf

Workout Clothes with STYLE

 I'm often asked, "Is it OK to wear my workout clothes all day?" These new pieces answer that question with a resounding, "Yes!"  I'd still rather see your personal style displayed through 'real' clothing, but on the days when it just makes sense to stay in your yoga pants or tennis skirt, choose something fabulous-looking yet functional.

And, for sartorial inspiration this Spring, I’m looking forward to these: Manus x Machina: Fashion in the Age of Technology at the Costume Institute at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Isaac Mizrahi: An Unruly History at The Jewish Museum in NYC. Unfinished: Thoughts Left Visible at The Met Breuer.
A Bigger Splash starring Tilda Swinton wearing costumes designed by Raf Simons while at Dior. 

Winter to Spring Wardrobe Transition

Spring can be the most challenging season for your wardrobe.  One day it's 40 degrees; the next it's almost 70.  How to dress for the temperature changes?  Here are 5 tips to remember.

1. Use Color--this is the time to wear a bright pop against darker Winter colors.

MZ Wallace quilted tote

2. Wear Black and White--it's really not too early to wear white jeans when you pair them with a black sweater and boots/shoes.  I love to add a camel coat and pretty scarf over black and white.

Anthropologie short swing trench coat

3. Choose Light Denim--no matter if your jeans are skinny, flared, cropped or straight, a lighter tone feels like Spring.  Combine with a black, navy or green sweater for the chilly transitional days.  

4. Own a Spring Coat--the perfect option has an interesting color or pattern and still keeps you warm.

5. Layer Your Tops--start with a camisole, add a short-sleeve T-shirt or blouse, then a cardigan or blazer and finish with a scarf and coat.  You can remove, re-combine, and re-style your outfit all day long as the temperature fluctuates.

Zara pink coat and Madewell scarf

What to Wear When You're at Home

I'm writing this during our first snowfall of 2016 (and, really, of the entire season) here in the Northeast--the Big Blizzard!  Most of you are at home right now--what are you wearing? To see many more ideas, click here to link to my Pinterest board dedicated to at-home comfy yet stylish pieces.

A client and I were discussing what to wear around the house and I told her that one of my favorite things to do is to change clothes as soon as I come home. After a long day of seeing clients, attending school meetings and driving carpools for the kids, this small act makes a big difference in my mood: it delineates my private space from the public sphere and immediately makes me feel more relaxed, at ease, and focused on the work I do in the home. I still want to project my sense of style though--let's call it Pajama Chic :) Add soft sweaters and scarves to traditional pajamas or simply wear a flow-y robe and slippers around the house.  Key detail:  soft undergarments!  Just in case the dog-walker stops by earlier than planned or your teenage son’s friends pop over, you’re covered.  Punny but true!

What to Wear to Work When It's Freezing Outside

Whether your professional wardrobe calls for suits, separates or blue jeans, these tips can keep you warm and stylish when it's really cold outside.

Turtlenecks and Blazers
Merino wool, silk or cotton modal blends are ideal fabrics for refined turtlenecks.  Consider the weight of your blazer when choosing the fabric type for your turtleneck.  Add a necklace or scarf or let the turtleneck itself be the focal point of the outfit.

Weatherproof Boots and Wool Bottoms
Aquatalia and La Canadienne offer stylish and warm boot options that are polished enough for any office.  Stretch wool skirts or tapered pants add another layer of warmth.

Lots of Layers (Under not Over)
Layer warmth under your outfit rather than adding bulky pieces overtop.  For example, Heat Tech tanks and Smartwool tights are thin and warm at the same time.

All clothing pictured is from my clients' closets except for the Brooks Brothers windowpane suit and oatmeal sweater/camel blazer found on tumblr.

How to Pack like a Pro for Holiday Travel

Here are a few quick tips on how to pack your suitcase for the upcoming holidays:

Start with your shoes.  Choose a dressy night shoe, a couple of everyday good-looking yet still great for walking options, and then add in a sneaker and/or flip-flops depending upon your destination.  If you’re flying: wear easy on-off shoes to go through security OR conversely, your heaviest boot so that it doesn’t take up space in your suitcase.

From the shoes you’ve chosen, build your outfits up.  Work within a specific color way so that many (or all!) of the pieces can be mixed and matched.  Start with either a black base or a tonal base.

Once you have a few outfits pulled together, don’t forget specific undergarments and jewelry to go with each.  Use an accessories travel pouch with clear, zip pockets or separate your jewelry for each outfit and store in individual zip-top baggies.

Ship any gifts ahead of time OR designate one suitcase just for presents.

What to Wear to Thanksgiving Dinner

**Thanksgiving 2022 Update ** The following ideas are still relevant: choose your style direction (boho, classic, casual, etc) and then mix colors and patterns. The links may be outdated but you can click here to see lots of my 2022 Thanksgiving picks or shop your closet and pull these outfits together. Happy Thanksgiving to you all 🤎 🍁 🦃

Joie lace blouse, embroidered T-strap flats, Lands End polka dot cashmere sweater, Theory trousers, Charlotte Olympia kitty flats

Creme cable knit sweater, Woolrich pants, Ugg booties, Joie blouse+turtleneck, Frye Melissa over-the-knee boots

What to wear for the big dinner? It depends...are you hosting?  Then short sleeves and flat shoes are in order.  Heading outdoors?  Then a yummy sweater and extra-warm layers are needed. Whether you're drawn to the lace-n-distressed vintage look, classic trousers-n-cashmere ensemble, outdoorsy cables-n-plaid or relaxed boho-n-boots, always use color and texture to pull your Thanksgiving outfit together.  

Tones of blue, brown, bronze, chestnut, gold and grey mix well and add a bit of sophistication to any style.  Don't forget to finish each look with simple jewelry. For links to all of the above and many more Thanksgiving Day ideas, click here.

When She Wears This, He Wears That

How to dress cohesively as a couple without looking like you stepped out of the same catalog?  Use color, texture and/or accessories to pull the looks together.  No matter the personal style genre, fit is of utmost important.  No baggie shirts or pants on men or super-tight or too-short garments on women.  The above are only a few options...these principles can be applied to casual outfits, cocktail attire and black tie as well. 

Click here to link to all of the men's garments plus even more choices.

Date Night: When She Wears That, He Wears This

Her outfit is casual and polished and mixes tones of blue and brown.  Coordinate his colors with hers--add some pattern on the shirt and texture on the jacket.  There is a great rhythm of tones between the two of them without feeling too 'matchy.'

She goes preppy and bright and so can he.  Keep his outfit a bit more tonal  (only blue and green used above) to avoid an overly-colorful, juvenile feel. 

Her outfit has some edge.  His can, too--use black and grey exclusively.  The leather jacket is sharp--not too many bells and whistles (in other words, zippers and snaps) allows it to go edge-y or more refined with other combinations.

Click here to link to all his choices.

Newsletter: Fall Closet Turnover

Remove all Spring/Summer to another location--Take out all the warm-weather clothing that you can’t use as layering pieces. I love to hang as many pieces as possible so I keep everything on hangers and just shift from one closet to another.  Clear bins work well for folded items.  Put your flip-flops and sandals away in clear bins, too. The goal is to see only the Fall/Winter pieces when you open your closet each day.

    Launder, dry clean and repair before storing--Cleaning items before putting them away keeps clothing in great condition for years. Shoes, also, need some attention--new soles and some polishing work wonders.  When you open your bins next Spring, you’ll be so happy that everything is fresh and read to wear.

    Hang, fold and stack in garment and color order--Starting on the left, hang all of your Fall/Winter tops and sweaters together in your closet.  Next hang pants and jeans and then dresses.  Within each of these sections, hang the items in color order.  For example (and again starting on the left), hang all the white then all the creme tops; then all the blue, green, red, etcetera...going through all of the colors you happen to own and ending with black on the right for each section.  Apply the same method to folded items and stack by color.      

   Keep only the Fall/Winter pieces that make you feel great--This is the perfect time to edit.  Create give-away or consignment piles of pieces you just aren’t wearing anymore. I’ve heard the ‘haven’t worn it in two years then it’s time to go’ rule but mine is: if you feel great when you wear it, then it doesn’t matter how old it is.  Feeling confident and authentic is the best style guide. One caveat:  the piece has to be in excellent condition (no stains, pilling, discoloration--recycle these types of items at any H&M store).

Click here for more on Elena Ferrante and her Neapolitan quartet of books.

Fall 2015 Trend To Try: Wide Leg Pants

This is the one trend that will totally update your wardrobe this season. Don't throw out your skinny jeans, but do wear one of these wider-leg styles with any T-shirt, blouse or sweater that you already own; and instantly, you'll look current and chic.  Click here to link to all above images and here for the schedule at The Museum of the Moving Image.

HOW TO WEAR THESE COOL BOOTS

A client saw these boots on my recent Facebook post and asked,
"How would you wear these?"  Here are my answers:

1) With frayed boyfriend jeans, an over-sized black sweater and slouchy socks
2) With refined black joggers and a simple denim shirt
3) With a patterned peasant blouse and mini-bell black jeans
4) With a casual knit dress, yummy scarf and slouchy socks or patterned tights

Click here for links to all of the above
 

YES--PREPPY LADIES WEAR WHITE AFTER LABOR DAY!

Every year, I'm asked the same question, "Is it really OK to wear white after Labor Day?" And the answer has always been "Yes!  Go for it!"  Instead of wearing white pants and a colorful top which reads Spring/Summer to me, use white throughout the entire outfit.  The key to any type of tonal dressing is to add texture and vary the tones (in this case white, eggshell, cream).  Above are a few examples of how to transition classic white pieces into Fall for sophisticated, post-Labor Day looks. Well-chosen accessories supply additional pattern, texture and tonal contrast.

1) J.McLaughlin white sweater and DKNY wool twill pants
2) J.McLaughlin cardigan and print top plus Mother cream corduroy pants
3) Vineyard Vines cream hooded cardigan, white T-shirt and white corduroy pants
Click here for links to all of the above

The Perfect Outfit for Back-to-School Coffees, Meetings and Lunches

Vineyard Vines top, J.McLaughlin skirt, Kate Spade flats, Longchamp bag, Tory Burch + Fossil + Kate Spade bracelets and Kate Spade stud earrings.

Like what you see?  Click on the live links above for each piece.

The kids are back in school and that means busy days ahead for moms.  Whether she works inside or outside of the home, Mom is going to need a few easy, everyday outfits that look polished and pulled-together for all of the back-to-school Open Houses, Class Coffees and long-overdue lunches with friends.  Here is a great template for early September days:  khaki skirt + striped T-shirt and fun accessories.  Notice the great fit on the skirt due to the cotton stretch fabric and good length.  The shirt is more relaxed in terms of fit; imagine the sleeves pushed up to show off the cool bracelet combination.  Finish the look with an interesting pair of flats and an everyday, yet elegant, handbag.

Originally published on September 2, 2013

Young Modern Mamma Attending High Holiday Services

Tory Burch leather jacket and dress, Jimmy Choo ankle boots, Alexander Wang handbag, CC Skye horn necklace, Alexis Bittar hinged cuff, Eddie Borgo crystal stud earrings

The High Holidays are early this year and so the weather will be warm.  Choose a sleeveless dress in a conservative plaid and then accent it with bohemian touches to create an updated, young feel.  The basket-weave stitching, black horn necklace and organic texture of the bracelet and bag are unexpected partners, but work well together.  The reason:  the sheen on the jacket, boot, bag and jewelry all complement each other and the black accessories tie in with the waistband on the dress.

Happy New Year!
Originally published September 1, 2013