Check Out My Feature on HerFuture.com!

A few months ago I did a photo shoot with inspirational speaker Gabrielle Bernstein. She is the brains behind HerFuture.com, a site that provides a platform for successful, inspirational women to be mentors for other girls just making sense of their future. As a lifestyle/career coach, Gabrielle has toured the country helping young women be their best selves. I was lucky enough to be featured on the site this week as a mentor to the fashionable ladies of the world! Read and inspire yourself along the way! Be sure to follow Gabrielle at @herfuture or on her fan page on Facebook: Gabrielle Bernstein Motivational Speaker.

Tell us about you and your business:
I am a fashion stylist and expert in New York City. I not only do personal styling to help the everyday gal or guy feel like and look like a celebrity, but I also work with magazines, television shows and commercials. I have appeared as a fashion expert everywhere from The Today Show to MTV to Martha Stewart Living Radio. I love to create beautiful images, but most of all, I love to make people feel fabulous about themselves. Everybody needs a boost of style inspiration to get us going sometimes and that is where an expert like me is your best friend!

How did you start this project?

I have always loved fashion and beauty growing up, but never realized it could truly be a full-time job. When I was about to graduate from college I realized that a "real job" was not for me so the search for a creative career began. I used my networking skills to contact the right people to ask for advice or opportunities. Utilizing my innate creative talent combined with learning from the right people, I created a styling business that allows me to style everyone from models to business women.

Who are your mentors?

I would say anyone that works hard and is successful is my biggest mentor! Talent can only take you so far, you need to really want success and have extreme drive when working in a creative and extremely competitive field. I strongly admire Andrea Lieberman who works with Gwen Stefani and is the co-creator of LAMB, one of my absolute favorite clothing lines. She truly thinks outside of the box and has developed some amazing looks that have helped to re-define current styles.

What inspired your business?

The people of New York City inspire my business everyday. The forward thinking of this fashion community sometimes even surprises me. They are constantly encouraging me to challenge my own styling capabilities and giving me new and fabulous ideas for future shoots and clients. Inspiration can truly come just from walking down the street in this city.

What kind of advice would you offer our members?
The best advice I can offer your members is to understand that how you feel when you walk out the door can affect your attitude and confidence all day long. People often call fashion superficial, but having been in the business for over 8 years, I can tell you that helping people to look more fashionable is the the best confidence booster. I have literally seen my personal clients start posing in the mirror and walking around on a "catwalk" like a model just by having on an amazing outfit I styled for them. Sometimes we forget that loving the way we look can ultimately change the way we feel. Being fabulous is a great gift for one's self. And in this holiday season, a great gift for someone else!!!

Fashionista Prep (and me!) in the NY Times!!!

READ ALL ABOUT IT!!!

NY TIMES ARTICLE
Eric Wilson: Style Section

Those Who Can, Teach

Business has been tough for the dressmaker Kathlin Argiro during the recession, as it has for virtually every small business on Seventh Avenue. Seeing other designers close their doors, she was determined to save her studio by whatever means she could dream up.

“Out of necessity comes creativity,” Ms. Argiro said last week, speaking over the din of a half-dozen teenagers who were sprawled on her floor, cutting pages out of magazines. For four days, she set aside her design work for a venture that taps into the career aspirations of the “Project Runway” generation, basically a stylish boot camp, called Fashionista Prep. For $495, students learn the ropes of design, public relations and styling from Ms. Argiro and her colleagues.

“Purple shoes, I think, might be a bit too much,” Amy Salinger, a professional stylist, instructed Lizzie Borowiec, 15, from Summit, N.J., who had paired a J. Crew navy blazer with a lace dress, two intertwined belts, a pearl necklace on a satin ribbon and fingerless lace gloves, for a good-girl-gone-bad assignment. The outfit was Rachel Zoe worthy, but missing something. “Pointed toe makes it sexy,” Ms. Salinger said. “Round toe makes it sweet and innocent.”

In another corner was Maggie Hemphill, a precocious 14-year-old from Scranton, Pa., who, while in the sixth grade, started her own magazine, called Maggie-Zine. When she was littler, as in 3, she wanted to be a designer. But her career focus has since shifted into editing and styling; and, as a result of her training, she now thinks, “I kind of want to own a publication company so I can work with a number of different magazines.”

Feeding into the interest in fashion careers, LIM College hosted a seminar for teenagers this month, Teen Vogue has its Fashionista University and other summer fashion camps have popped up around the country. Ms. Argiro said that she was somewhat frustrated to hear from potential investors who were more interested in her instructional business than her dress line.

“Everybody wants to get into fashion,” she said. “God help them.”

The Last Warm Day of Fall.... Go Colorful!

I felt so damn cute when I wore this that I had to share it with you! For some reason I always end up is more subtle colors (which is crazy because my personality is so loud!), so this was really fun for me. Why am I not wearing more color when it looks so freakin' good?!?

You may recognize this dress from my hosting gig as Rebecca and Drew for Fashion's Night Out. Part of the benefit of hosting events is that often times you get to keep what you wore. I am glad I wore this because it looks so good hanging in my closet, not to mention when I wear it! I paired it with another piece you might recognize, my Club Monoco lime green cardigan purchased at a consignment store. The color combination is not only chic, but completely eye catching. Too add a little bit of edge, I added a pointed toe black flat and layered gold and black bangles. Wearing a black bag as well would have been a bit harsh and overpowering, so I went with a more neutral camel color Sabina bag.

Overall I felt cute, sassy and completely appropriate for any situation. This is the type of look that will stand out and receive compliments without overpowering whomever wears it. It is also a great outfit because it will look good on most body types. A button-down dress is a comfortable choice for most sizes. The cinched style allows any woman to show off her curves properly. Love thy curves.

So next time you are deciding what to wear, think outside of the box. Pair together items that you never would have thought about. You just might surprise yourself and create something fabulous...

Bridal Shower Appropriate: Looking Great While Eating Cake.

Yesterday was a monsoon in Connecticut, not exactly the perfect day for a bridal shower. Does that mean I just packed up my things and left? Did I whine and complain and put on something less than fabulous? Well I did whine and complain, but I definitely still put on something amazing.

It was a brunch with a group of lovely ladies, most of which I have known since childhood. The bride is a fellow competitive ice skater from my youth (oh so long ago!) and her sister is a fellow competitive dancer. Yes, my mother was nuts and took me to all these activities. Throw in a few high school friends, my mom and all of the ice skating mothers and you have a bridal shower in a monsoon.

Luckily it is Connecticut and you merely have to walk from your car to the door. I am all about dressing for the weather, but I was home with one bag and one outfit, so I wore what I brought. It could have been worse, at least my legs were covered from the elements with tights.

My super cute outfit all began with my black, satin bubble skirt. About a month ago I hosted an event at Bloomingdales and I wore this lovely piece. I couldn't live without it, I had to have it. I knew it would have a good life with me if it moved into my closet. I paired it with a basic black tank top and my Club Monoco lime green cardigan. I actually got this cinched waist 50's style piece at a consignment store near my house. I hate paying retail when I am so good at searching!

To really push my 50's chic with modern day funk look, I added a handbag that I literally think I have worn once. I picked it up at Salvation army years ago and sadly this little electric blue wonder just sits in my closet. Truthfully, it really isn't my usual style, but a piece like this certainly comes in handy with the right outfit. Example: This outfit! I loved not only the complete throw back to another era, but the color combination really made the whole look pop. If you look closely you can also see I pulled out my favorite vintage citrine ring. It does match the cardigan, which I am usually whole-heartedly against, but it was such a small pop that it was the perfect compliment.

And finally, there was my necklace. Although this might look completely vintage, I only had to travel to Banana Republic to pick it up. I am sure a clever woman might be able to make this nifty piece on their own, I just wasn't feeling that clever the day I bought this:) It is simply a few bold trinkets, you could most likely pair together consignment store broaches, and voila, you have a fabulous necklace. It was the perfect topper to my fun, funky and fabulous monsoon bridal shower 50's chic with a modern twist look.

MOD-tastic! My Throw Back to the 60's

You should know by now (if you are an avid reader), that most things I buy have a story behind them. Why should this dress be any different? Almost 5 years ago, while living in Chicago, I wandered into my favorite second hand store (think Goodwill here), and found this fabulous creation. It was old, it was wrinkled, it was amazing. My eye was instantly drawn too it's Missoni-esque style. The fit was slightly off and it was a floor length gown, hardly wearable, but for 5 bucks it was mine. I seriously only paid $5. The truth is that other people would have seen grandma's old, beat up dress where as I saw lots and lots of MOD possibility.

After purchasing my new, amazing dress, I (almost) immediately went to the cleaners. After hosing down my frock, I took it to the best tailor in town. An awesome $5 purchase deserves all of the tailoring it needs. It STILL would not, could not, ever be as much as a brand new shiny cocktail dress. Plus, no one will have a copy of it and you have a fab story to tell when you wear it.

So, after cleaning it, taking it in, chopping off the bottom to a proper cocktail length, it sat in my closet for over 4 years. This is truly not my style, but I just could not find a place to wear this amazing party dress. I am usually only this dressed up for weddings and most of those take place in the warmer months. This dress was clearly made for "getting down" when there was a chill in the air. The material is thick and the silver screams for snow flakes. So it took me getting invited to judge a "Condom Couture" fashion show in October to bring this baby out! She was so happy for the world to see her.

You know that if I was going to show off my $5 "Missoni" dress from a Goodwill style store, I was going to go all the way. Why style things boring when you can style things fabulous?!? I really went with the mod feeling of the dress and pulled out all of the 60's stops. You never want to feel like you are wearing a costume, but why not use what the dress is giving you? This dress was giving me retro fabulous. I went completely vintage and pulled out my silver clutch that also cost me no more than $10. Ladies and gentleman, here we have a $15 look prior to shoes and jewelry. Who is a recession proof fashionista now? I slathered on dark sparlky silver nail polish, the color of the moment, and 2 of my favorite vintage-esque rings. All in all, I was a sparkly silver masterpiece!

My black patent leather round toe wedges completed the look. They were feminine with a bit of sex appeal. They sealed the deal on the cute, sassy 60's feel I was going for. Of course styling does not end with the ensemble, so my make-up and hair had to be done up right! Complete with a cat-eye and a teased out pony tail with side-swept bangs, I had achieved my MOD goal.

Next time you are going to a special gala, don't be afraid of going the distance. A look is about the whole package, not just the dress. Put the effort into creating a head to toe style and you will certainly have a memorable (if not stylish) evening!

Waiting for Fame....Filming "One Hour Photo"

I have never tried to hide the fact that my true goal in life is to spread fashion goodness across this great and vast universe. My Sass N Style episodes are certainly a good start, but I am looking for the grand television vehicle to bring me to the masses. Doesn't everyone deserve a little Amy Salinger in their lives? A little funny fashion knowledge to get them through their otherwise monochromatic day? Not that there is anything wrong with monochromatic, but we all need a little flashy every now and then!

People have joked with me my whole life that I was born with a spotlight on me.... Unfortunately, sometimes I am the only one who sees it:) Well fashionably challenged people of the world, I invite you to watch my one woman show!



Last Friday I spent the entire day filming a teaser for a new show called, "One Hour Photo". Pretty much it is a makeover on crack. Here is the concept: 2 stylists are pitted against each other in a "mall makeover" that must get done in only one hour. Are they serious? Apparently so:) Each of us ambush an unlikely candidate for a quickie pick-me-up look that will have them looking and feeling fabulous. We have one hour to pick out an amazing ensemble, get them into hair and make-up and take a few snappy and sassy photos of their new looks. It is then up to the mall audience to decide, after looking at the before and after photos of each participant, who has the better transformation. And voila, one of the people is crowned with a prize and I or my fellow stylist receive bragging rights for our "quickie" talents.




















So what do you think of my participants makeover? It is obviously hard to make this lovely lady look bad, since she is hot, but I still think I did a good job getting her "date ready". Alright, truthfully because this is a teaser and we are pitching the show, not actually ambushing anyone, this is an actress. Her name is Kiki and she was a great sport. We made her up to be a mother of 3 who has no time for herself and doesn't feel comfortable with her post-mother body. She hides behind her clothing and never takes any time for herself.

Post Amy, Kiki was ready for a night on the town with her hubby to show the world that she still has a sexy, curvy and womanly body! I even made sure to bring out her "cougar side" with the animal print pencil skirt. She is classy and still says Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!! The oversized necklace was a great statement piece that made her look trendy and still age appropriate. I had the hairdresser sweep her hair back to show off her fab cheek bones and keep the look extremely sophisticated. Too bad we forgot to take her before picture so she had to take it all off and go back to doubty mom for the shot on the left! Oops.

My stylist counterpart, Kathy, had the lovely job of making over a model. I always love people who look good no matter how much you try to make them look bad! Unfortunately I don't have a before shot of the "college student who doesn't care" look, but I do have this fabulous "night on the town" ensemble created by Kathy. Fun, funky and completely age appropriate. I really wish I had a full body shot because the shoes were to die for. Guess you will just have to imagine her silver booty black lace tie up's by Moschino. So pretty!

So that was my big day of filming! I do enjoy those days where other people can see the spotlight.... I will let you know how it goes and if networks are fighting over the show! Keep the Sass N Style word out there and be a part of speading Amy Salinger's funny fashion knowledge to the universe!!!!!!!

Weekend Wedding Fabulous: Old Hollywood Style

I had the pleasure of attending the wedding of my best friend since I was 14 years old. If we are counting folks, that means we have known each other for 16 years, oy. He and I went to our first dance in high school together and, based on a contract I made him sign early on, our prom as well. He is my brother from another mother.

This past Labor Day weekend, he and his beautiful bride were married in Lake George at the famous Sagamore hotel. The place was absolutely to die for. It sits on a cliff side overlooking Lake George and had "old Hollywood" written all over it. At least in my mind.... It also was reminiscent of Dirty Dancing and this was only promoted by the fact that they had the soundtrack playing there. I swear, could I make that up?

I decided to go with the throwback theme and pull out a vintage light grey silk gown that I have owned for a year. This was a bit of a tricky piece as I bought it when I was a size bigger and it was see-through. Oh yea, see-through. What I had going on underneath that dress was short of a miracle that I devised. Thank God I am a stylist or this never would have been pulled off. Here is the list of goodies it took to make this fabulous look happen: Double stick tape, check. Clear stick on boobs that appeared to be actual fake breasts stuck to mine, check. Nude, barely there at all thong, check. I really wish my boyfriend had been able to make the wedding becauses I had no one to show this monstrocity to. I had to laugh at it myself:) I should also mention that I got back from Columbus on Thursday and had to leave on Friday leaving a small hour and a half window to find all of these lovely items. Sales people looked at me like I was nuts when I explained the dilema, it was then that I realized I was completely on my own.

Once the ridiculous adventure of finding all of these undergarments was threw, I rolled up the dress and stuck it in a bag for the Greyhound bus ride I had to take up there. I am so damn glamorous. But alas, it really did turn out all right. I was obsessed with how the look turned out. It was themed, but not over the top. My boobs managed to stay on all night so that was a plus. My friends joked that they were going to make shirts that read, "I danced my tits off at Eric's wedding". Thankfully, this was not true in my case!




So paired with my sassy silver shoes and vintage clutch (oh yea, I went all the way with the vintage thing), I would say I looked pretty fab. You always know you did a good job when other guests at the wedding are stopping you to tell you how amazing your dress is and how they like your throw-back to another era look. Remember, no matter where you are going it is not just about one piece, it is about the WHOLE ensemble. That is truly what styling is, making the entire outfit completely fabulous!!!

My Cold Island Rainy Day Chic Look

How hilarious is this? Only I would put a pissed off picture of myself freezing my nonnies off in the pouring rain.... on a weekend getaway. Here is the story: We all know that I am in Ohio this summer so the word "vacation" is different than what I am used to. My boyfriend took me to an island (yes, there is an island here:) called Put in Bay. Seriously, that is the name! Who wouldn't want to go there with such a fabulously amazing name? I had no choice but to follow his lead as I had never been there. It is always tricky when you are being led into the unknown, specifically, what do you pack? My goal is to always be the most fabulous, appropriate and comfortable person within in a 10 mile radius of where I am. I was given this information by him: "It is a small island where you don't need a car and people drink their way through the weekend. It will be raining for most of the first day we are there. Remember Amy, it is VERY casual." Done and done.


So here is how it really went. We drove 2.5 hours and put everything we had on his back, literally. Yea, I didn't really carry anything.. I think he was tired of hearing me complain:) We were camping, taking bikes and had our clothes, but leaving the car on the mainland and taking the ferry over. Just picture that. Did I mention it was pouring and 60 degrees? So much for an island vacation. I had to think quickly with what I had brought, luckily I was prepared..... and stylish:)

Now, aside from the garbage bag my boyfriend claims is a poncho, I actually looked pretty cute given the absurd circumstances. Drinking for hours straight not only made me feel better about the situation, but I think I actually started to look better:) My cold island rainy day drinking chic look had to be layered. I was in and out of bars, it was freezing out and I was soaking wet. Did I mention I drank a lot that day? I am all about being functional and stylish and apparently God was challenging me with this particular scenerio. But did I quit? Did I throw in the towel and just look like crap? No! I looked fabulous for myself, I looked fabulous for my boyfriend, I looked fabulous for my faithful blog reading audience!

The ensemble was this: A garbage bag poncho (hot), my super hot pink windbreaker, a purple Forever 21 fitted hoodie, my longer American Eagle lace trim tank (I needed some "fancy"), my peace sign gray and white summer scarf, American Apparel leggings and my FAVORITE gold Reef flip flops. Thank God it was cold, because where would I have packed all of this stuff????

The best part of it all is that I am wearing a garbage bag, drinking at a shady bar and holding a bird.... all while looking super stylish! And, if you notice, my expression becomes much more joyful as the day went on. Was it the fact that it had stopped raining or that I was on my 8th drink that made me so smiley in the picture on the right? You decide:)

"I Have Nothing to Wear!" Mix Up What You Got.

Yesterday evening I was having one of those days..... You know them, the days when you stare into your closet and although there are tons of possible ensemble choices, your brain just simply won't quit saying, "I have nothing to wear!" Yes, even stylists have those moments and yesterday was one of them.

But as I am sure you all know, you and I surely do have something to wear! Although my brain hurt, I knew I could put together something fabulous from what was hanging right in front of me. The basis for any outfit choices should be made directly in relation to how you feel. I felt like I wanted to be sassy and comfortable, a little sexy and a little earthy.

I have always promoted with personal clients and at my Sass N Style workshops that you should try and begin an outfit with something besides an article of clothing. Pick a pair of fabulous shoes, a great piece of jewelry or even a fantastic bag. You don't always need to start with the clothing!!! This allows you to think a bit differently when you are putting together a look and it should kick you out of that rut!

This whole look started with my necklace. I haven't worn it all summer and it is one of my favorite, funky pieces that I bought on the streets of NYC from an amazing jewelry designer. This set the tone for the earthy element. I didn't want to compete with the necklace, so I threw on a basic white tank top. The skirt was a quirky choice, because it clearly has a "cha-cha" element, but it was white and I was going to make it work! I continued to pull in the earthy element through my vintage, brown lizard bag ($12 at the flea market!), silver and red stone ring and my woven, leather Michael by Michael Kors shoes. I made silver and bronze mixed together acceptable because they were all underneath the "earthy" vibe. To top it all off, I layered the look with a structured jean jacket. I made it a bit more trendy and funky sophisticated. Not to mention that it showed off my shape allowing it to be sexy!



Overall, this ensemble was a success! I achieved the look of sassy, comfortable, sexy and earthy all by pairing together things I already owned! Now it is your turn, think outside of the box and mix up items that you never thought would go together. By carrying through a color or style in the top, middle and bottom using accessories, you are sure to make it work!!!

P.S. That awesome looking dog is Yukon. He is obviously stylin'.

Grecian Goddess Meets Biker Fab? Hell Yea!!!

I am all about a good combination. Peanut butter and chocolate, sweet and sour, Thelma and Louise... Grecian goddess and biker fab? Um, yes please. I own it, so I make it work. People, I get bored with my clothes too. Everybody, including a stylist, has those days where they feel like they "have nothing to wear". That is when I have to really step up to the plate and think about new and inventive ways to style what I got. I certainly cannot go out and buy something new everyday I feel bored with my wardrobe. That is not a reality for me and most of the universe out there! Make it work.

None of these pieces are too outrageous separately, but together they make one hell of an interesting and fun combo. White jeans, check. Grey tank top, check. Jean vest, check. Ok, maybe the jean vest is a push for most people, but almost everybody should own white jeans and a grey tank top! The jean vest is a creation that came simply from hating it as a jean jacket. I chopped off the sleeves and instantly created a biker chic jean vest. It certainly can be a bit masculine if it is not paired with a bevy of accessories. It is also definitely not a piece you want to wear if you have broad shoulders or thicker arms! The thick width of the shoulder on the vest will only accentuate these things!


To "feminize" my look and bring in the Grecian goddess feel, I added multiple bracelets, including my coin necklace worn as a bracelet. I also threw on my braided gold headband. I love a wrap around headband because it allows you to NOT do your hair that day:) I topped it all off with my tan leather and gold hardware handbag that is my go to piece for a neutral item that doesn't ever compete with my look, it just adds that special something! It is like gravy on top of my look... Mmmmmmm, gravy:)

Date Night: Salvation Army "Vintage" Never Looked So Good!

I can think of any reason to put together a fabulous ensemble, but this time there really was a reason, my big 6 month anniversary! We are talking long term here folks:) My dinner date was upon me and I certainly did not feel like getting a whole new get-up (the economic state is killing me), so it was time to dig. I wanted to look pretty and sweet, not usually my M.O. Funky sexy was for another time because that night I was playing the role of the sweet and doting girlfriend. My outfit had to match my "classy" act, I had to make it believable:)

I went straight for a dress that I bought at Salvation Army in Chicago around 4 years ago. 4 years is already considered an older piece, now add in how many years it must have been loved by someone else prior to me. I was going vintage here. It was pretty, it was sweet, it was perfect. Plus my boyfriend seemed to like it!

I didn't stop there. I went for one of my favorite 50's style clutches which quite possibly is from the 50's. I bought it at Salvation Army as well. I am crazy. I think it cost me $4. It is not in perfect condition, but it has literally seen the light of day (and night) so many times while I have owned it. Talk about cost per wear!



Now you ask, "Where did you get that amazing necklace!?!". Yup, that's right, Salvation Army. I have gone full-on inexpensive second hand thrift store FAB for almost this entire date night look. Who says you can't find anything at Salvation Army? What's that saying? One man's trash is another man's treasure? I think I have proved this theory without a doubt. Search at your local Salvation Army, your next great treasure is waiting there for you for the bargain basement price of $5!

Sunday Stroll: Leisurely Chic

There is nothing I love more then a Sunday with no particular place to go. Of course there is no question that although there is no destination, I must look cute getting there. And so I create a leisurely look that says, "I am fabulous, but I didn't try TOO hard".














This past Sunday was not unlike most of my Sundays. I know I want to do something, the real question is what. As my brain is mush by the time this day of rest comes along, my "fashion show" styling capabilities are not in full form. This does not mean I stroll outside in my pajamas! Take note, there is never a time or place when roaming around in your "leisure wear" is acceptable. This does not mean you should ever sacrifice comfort for style. Ever.

It was hot and my ensemble was going to reflect that. I chose a red loose and easy top from Zara. This great store in all over NYC and is coming soon to Chicago's magnificent mile. It is a dressy, yet comfortable option. Jean shorts, as with jeans, are a no-brainer bottom half. As I mentioned, my brain is not functioning at full force on Sunday. I threw on my new, amazing Grecian sandals that I picked up at Off 5th the weekend before. Orginally $250, bought for $60. I am awesome. Grecian themed sandals will pump up almost any look and this lovely Sunday was certainly no exception. Dressy sandals are one of the easiest Summer options to make your entire look pop. My black and gold hardware Nine West bag was the most simple finale to my look. Not too much competition for the ensemble, but it is definitely a great stand alone piece... As all of your choices should be! One vintage white jade ring and I was done.

When you break apart this outfit the concept is easy: It doesn't take much to look fabulous on a day when you really just don't want to care that much about your fashion. Top, bottom, shoes, purse and a ring... All of the basics without all of the fuss. Find your fabulous individual pieces and pair them together for a no-frills dressing experience! Sunday is now stupendous!

Toyko Joe: Awesome NYC Consignment Store

So with the special requests to see more of my own personal style, I thought it was time to invite you in to one of my favorite stores. This is not one of those places that you go to with a plan, oh no. Your sole purpose for going to Tokyo Joe's is to to find that one amazing "diamond in the ruff" type of piece. Some of my greatest purchases have been from this small 11th street consignment store and none of them have been sought after or planned.

The preparation to shop at Tokyo Joe's is simple: Just go. It is full of fabulous consignment pieces that range from Manolo's to Jimmy Choo's with a bit of Banana Republic and Theory thrown in for good measure. Basically, you can seriously get a range of items that can instantly spice up your look. The greatest part is that the buyers for the store really do sift through all of the incoming possible items to make sure they are current and fashionable. They may only take one or two items from an entire bag full of clothes which ensures that your intimate shopping experience will be that much more worth while.

The space is not that for the "merchandised" shopper, so be prepared. You are there to search in what appears to be a studio sized apartment. You must be easy going about your shopping experience and only bring those along that are also ready for the hunt. Since all of the items are one of a kind it is best to bring a friend that is not your size and super stylish. This way they will not only NOT be your size, but they will be of great assistance in finding items for YOU! Of course this theory works both ways so one must not be greedy!

Just a quick list of unbelievable things I have gotten here: A massive brown suede and pattened leather Kate Spade tote, a brand new Franco Sarto bag for half price, a white watch similar to Channels, a wrap shirt by Anne Fontaine, a large black leather clutch... I could go on and on and on..... The basic point you should take away is that even if you can't make it to NYC's east village, find your own favorite "hole in the wall" consignment or sample store. Stop in from to time and your favorite pieces collection will slowly grow and grow and grow.....

Toyko Joes: 11th street between 1st and 2nd avenues

Giddy Up! Cowgirl Style is In

I know this makes three days in a row that I have talked about me, but I have really liked my outfits lately and I want to share them with my fashion world! I have also been changing at least once a day so with two outfits per day and not enough people seeing them, I figured it was time to broadcast them. Hell, I figure you guys actually care what I have on:)

I am completely in love with my new cowgirl shirt and I want to wear it a million different ways, this look is just the beginning! I went crazy over the weekend at Off 5th, the Saks discount store, and not just because I bought three new things. I actually went a little mad because everything was between 20% and 50% off. My boyfriend had to back away from me because he was scared. I walked in the store and declared that "It was so done" and he should go entertain himself in the men's department.

As yesterday was my new cowgirl shirt's maiden voyage, I wanted to be simple yet funky. I am in Ohio this summer so I don't want to go crazy, yet I really do think these mid-west fashionistas can completely handle it. I wear whatever I want and still fit in. My style is not too NYC over the top. It is more realistic with an edgy yet classic side. At least that is how I envision it.

Shorts chic was the avenue I took for the first of many cowgirl looks. First things first, it was hot and since I was covered on top, I had to let my bottom half breath. That and I felt sexier showing some skin. I get one season a year to show off my legs and damn it, I am going to do it until I can't do it anymore. I went with a nude wedge to elongate my legs because every girl needs all the help she can get! I went with a wedge because they are more comfortable and realistic for a Thursday night. I went with nude because every girl needs a shoe the color of her legs for lots 'O length. As you pan up you will find a gray tank layered underneath. It really just adds to the comfortable chic feeling I was going for. I only buttoned two buttons in the middle to keep it feeling a bit messy and thrown together. Although I may not have been carrying the world with me, I chose my biggest bag to keep it feeling funky and casual. Topping it off with my new vintage coin necklace was a way to throw the entire look off by choosing an accessory that didn't necessarily fit. Cowgirl chic and grecian fabulous are not exactly under the same umbrella, but my choice only solidified the alternative, eclectic feel I was going for. Can I find a few more adjectives to describe this ensemble???:)

Hope you enjoyed my fashion show!

July 4th Lake Fabulous!

July 4th is truly my favorite holiday. The only real purpose of it is to gather with friends and family, drink (a lot), eat (a lot) and watch fireworks. Seriously, does it get better than that? To add even more fun, it is my best friend Tina's birthday.... And this year, it was her 30th. Good times. I am lucky enough to be invited (or just show up) every year to her family's lake house on the finger lakes. It is not only beautiful, but her family is like mine so I can be as ridiculous as I want to be. They love me:)

For some reason, mother nature did not want to cooperate this year and it was a low of 55 damn degrees at night. Probably even colder because we were on the lake. When has it ever been this cold on July 4th I ask you???? I am a fabulous packer and am obsessed with weather.com, but I was traveling from working in Chicago prior to this and could not expect such insane coldness! I was packing ten days in advance of this lake trip and was WAY off with my chosen summer items. Why would I think to pack a parka? I had to think quickly, and this is how it turned out.

The story of this outfit goes: My boyfriend was driving from Ohio so I requested he bring me my dark, straight leg jeans. The shoes were already with me and complimented the jeans nicely and didn't compete with the rest of the ensemble. The striped button down is from Tina's mothers closet with a birth date of 1975. Yes I said 1975, I do love vintage:) Shockingly, it did not button all the way up (I have a small bust) so I utilized by nude tank bra as a layering piece. The safari inspired blazer was a lucky pick-up. My last client in Chicago had decided she was not in love with this earlier purchase I had picked up for her and that I could have it. Really! So I should just buy you things that I love, convince you to keep them and then you will give them to me next time I see you? The gig is up! Just kidding, I felt badly but took it anyway... It was cold! I layered on a vintage coin necklace that I picked up in another finger lake town for $25 and my longer multi-charm necklace I had brought with me. Add aviator shades and I was lake chic! Happy fashionable July 4th!

My First BIG Sass N Style Workshop!

Finally, I have a REAL audience listening to me! I held my first BIG Sass N Style workshop on fashion and style at Ohio State University Alumni Association. Over a hundred women showed up to hear yours truly chat about everything from recession proof style to looking skinny All the time. They handed me a microphone and I was off!

Coming from New York City to Columbus has made me into something of a big fish in a small pond. There aren't many people who do what I do out here so I am lucky because I seem famous:) I was able to be connected with the OSU alumni association by accident and I blindly pitched myself and received a gracious invitation to speak. Why am I here you ask? I am living with my boyfriend for the summer who resides here so I decided to do something besides clean his house everyday:) A self-starter I am.

I have recently developed the Sass N Style workshops and they are being done as an at-home party. Basically a reason for women to get together, drink wine, chat fashion and learn from an expert....me! A tupperware party, but way better:) The facts are simple: Pull together 10 or more of your fun friends and receive 15% off of all of my initial services. We are talking closet consultation, shopping and styling. Pretty good deal:) Each lovely lady can attend for the bargain basement price of $25. If you know anyone in NYC, Chicago or Columbus, send them my way! I am expanding to other places so let me know if you want me in your town.....


And ladies, don't forget that I can speak anywhere and anytime about everything fabulous and fashionable. For those that are involved in conferences or womens networks, I am always ready to provide fun facts about looking and feeling great for all shapes, sizes and ages. In this world where we seem to take care of everything but ourselves, it is always nice to know that putting on the right ensemble can take you right out of that rut you are in. Take my blog from the written word to the stage with a simple phone call.... I will be hearing from you shortly:)

Business Meeting Chic in 80 Degree Weather!

I know that my version of what one must be dressed like for a business meeting is definitely varied from that of the "normal" workforce, but that's why God invented styling!:)

Yesterday I went to a meeting with a production company (not for my own show, at least not yet:), and knew that I had to look stylish, professional, fun, trendy and overall, hot. This leaves an interesting mix of adjectives that would make most people's heads hurt. Luckily, I had just the dress!

Here in NYC (I believe they have a few others on the east coast and in LA), we have a great store called Zara. You really should check it out. It has reasonable prices for trendy yet fun and professional clothing. Weren't these three of the words I used in my description? I got this dress last year, not because I went to the store, but because it didn't fit a client I had bought it for. This is yet another danger of my job because I think everything I buy is cute, no matter who it is for, if it doesn't fit them I sometimes end up owning it. Oops.

This light, linen, jean colored dress hit all of my descriptive notes on how I wanted to woo the production company with my awesome ensemble. The '50s throwback with the silhouette hit my trendy mark. Think Donna Reed and funk her out 2009 style. The classic, simple ring on my left hand kept it office appropriate by not overdoing it with jewelry (something I tend to lean toward:). What you can't see if that I do have on a large, thick pair of ornate gold hoops so that I still put my stamp on the whole look! Now, I do have on sandals (studded for that matter!), but this is an informal meeting that took place in my friends office and I am selling myself as a fashion stylist. I am not trying to be a lawyer here! The point is, sandals may be inappropriate for most meetings, but not for this one.

Overall, this dress would be appropriate for any office. My client that I bought it for was actually a lawyer! Add a waist-length cardigan and a cute pair of flats and you would be good to go. I love looking fabulous all of the time and so should you!

Wedding Guest Chic

I don't know why I never thought about this before? I dress up for different occasions all of the time and consider myself (and my clients) a walking billboard for my styling business. With that said, it is only recently that I began to post pictures of some of my favorite looks that I think you lovely readers could learn from. So, from here on out, I will make it a habit of taking shots of outfits that I truly love. Outfits that really make a statement. Outfits that serve as a learning tool. Basically, outfits that rock.

This weekend I traveled out to Cleveland, Ohio to attend a wedding. I knew not a soul there, including the bride and groom, aside from my boyfriend. To me this only means that I have even more of an opportunity to make a splash! When one's career is to dress people, it is highly important to look the part especially when the audience has never met you before!!!

This lovely recession has even hit this fashionista so my first mission was to borrow a dress. Find a stylish friend... Check! Find a stylish friend who is my size... Check! Find a stylish friend who is my size and will lend me a dress for a weekend... Check, check, check!!! The lovely Miss Erin Donnelly (Star of Sass N Style: Shop Your Closet) was kind enough to lend me this purple frock. The yellow tie is from J Crew and had nothing to do with the dress... That is until we started looking through her closet for something to cinch the dress and this jumped out! Most people would never have paired the two together, but that is what really makes "a look". A dress and heels is one thing, but creating an ensemble is quite another.

I trecked home (across the street:), toting the dress, yellow peacock feather belt and peep toe pumps. I knew I needed to complete my very stylish wedding guest look, but wasn't sure what would be the perfect fit. Everyone always goes for a shawl at weddings, stop the craziness! A shawl is fine, but you and twenty other people have one on. Go for something a little more interesting. I paired my purple dress with a tuxedo jacket from H & M that I have had for almost 5 years. By folding up the sleeves, I not only made the look a bit funkier and personalized, but I also added in another accent color of pink. My vintage citrine ring pulled in the yellow of the belt perfectly and my '50s style clutch was the sassiest topper! The shoes and purse off-set the look for a more classic feel.

Overall, there were a lot of elements going on, but they all flowed perfectly. It was a fun and flirty ensemble that set me apart from the crowd without putting a spotlight on me. They tell me that weddings are the bride's day so I never want to completely out-do them:)