Trend or Blend?

So just how do you cut through the fashion haze and choose the trends that work for you? Never fear. Many of these fads can easily be woven into your wardrobe.

In general, I am not a proponent of slavishly following trends simply to be “in.” Instead I suggest creating a basic wardrobe of classic, never-go-out-of-style pieces–a closet full of clothing that fits both your palette and your personality.

First you need to know your palette. That’s where I can help. During a two-hour color consultation we’ll determine which of almost 200 color choices best fit and flatter your eye color, hair color and skin tone. Then we place the most flattering hues on a purse-size fan guide that helps take the guesswork out of your shopping trips.

In general, you’ll look best in jewel tones (think ruby, sapphire and emerald hues, for example) if you have cool skin coloring with a blue undertone. Those with a yellow skin undertone will look stunning in rich tropical shades such as rust, orange, bright red and yellow-green. And those with fair skin coloring, light hair and light eyes will appear at their best in confectionery hues you might find in icing on a cake or cotton candy: pastel pink, pale yellow and baby blue.

Your Personality

Next you need to determine your personal style. When I first sit down with you as a client, I present you with a list of over 300 adjectives–all positive and uplifting. Then we work together to distill the list down to 10 words that best describe who you are. Are you sporty of sophisticated? Are you casual or classic? Are you formal or fashion forward? We then further distill the list to four words that best describe your personality.

Wardrobe Basics

That’s because your personality informs your “look.” No matter what your look, you wardrobe should be built around one basic outfit consisting of a matching skirt, pant and jacket. (You don’t necessarily want to wear them together. Too matchy-matchy. Instead use them as separates. But by purchasing them in the same color and fabric, you can begin to build your basic wardrobe from the ground up.)

Choose a classically designed (think simple) outfit that will stay in style for at least five years. Select that outfit in a neutral color such as black, gray, brown or navy as the basis of your wardrobe.

Seventy percent of your wardrobe should be classic, never-go-out-of-style pieces and 30% should consist of separates–sweaters, jackets, blouses and shirts that you can mix and match with other pieces.

Always buy the best you can afford. This is called investment dressing. You are literally making an investment in yourself and your signature style. An item that might cost $100 or $1,000 could end up costing only two cents or two dollars per day when amortized over time.

Adding Fads

Now that you have your basic wardrobe pieces, it’s time to blend in the trends. Add a lacy top to your basic pencil skirt. Go Boho chic with a tribal-themed statement necklace. Combine your gladiator sandals with a short white summer dress. Or pair a camo-print scarf with your favorite top. You want just a taste of trendy, not a tubful.

Trend and Blend Away

Trends and fads can be fun, adding an up-to-date look to your classic wardrobe. But blending fads in with your investment pieces is going to give you the biggest wardrobe bang–and the best personal style. Trend away!