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Dear Readers,
Believe it or not, Easter is right around the corner [wasn't Christmas just yesterday?]. It's the perfect time for classic prints and popsicle colors to make their splashy entrance. After the winter many of us just experienced? We need them, we want them and we are going to have them! Ginghams look fresh again, color blocking is oh so modern and polka dots? Hey! It just wouldn't be spring without them! And so that we are both stylish and smart about our wardrobe choices this season, here are some things to consider before signing up for the annual Easter Parade . . .
First, remember that bright colors and prints need to be anchored by a solid neutral . . . and not paired with another colorful solid. The reason is simple. "Less is more", and "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." Thus, the Frenchman and the Italian have spoken. And here in these three photos, we see bright colors and prints worn with a solid neutral anchor in black or tan. Savvy career women please take note: all three looks are very office appropriate.
Beautiful!
 
Second, the sophisticated way to wear a classic print like stripes, polka dots or gingham is with restraint, even if you see otherwise on the streets of Milan. 
And, the modern way to wear bright color is to use it as an accent rather than to drench yourself in it from head to toe.
Last but not least, every time I hear someone in the media refer to the need for a pop of color, I want to shout out "hold the presses please"! I am all for brightening up our look for spring, but the truth is, not every outfit needs a pop of color. One can elevate their mood and take pleasure in the sheer beauty of spring simply by looking out the window. One does not necessarily have to wear the poppies in order to enjoy them. And, I will even go so far as to say that some very sophisticated ensembles are actually ruined by trying to add a pop of color. See the model above who is wearing the black and ivory gingham blouse with the black sweater? I cannot imagine a more beautiful or sophisticated look on this particular woman and I cannot imagine adding even one little "pop" to her or her outfit!
One memorable Easter when I was about eight years old, I asked my mother "Can I wear my purple daisy hat with my new dress? [a yellow and white gingham print with a navy sash that tied in a big, BIG bow] My sainted mother replied: "No, Honey. That would be gilding the lily."
Thank you, Mom. Rest assured there will be no lily gilding going on in this household, especially on Easter!
Please have a beautiful, blessed and very happy Easter.
Best regards,
Nancy
PS. Many of you have expressed an interest in attending one of my workshops this summer and I am excited to let you know all the details! Good friends, good fashion talk and good advice! So, just click on this link and get the scoop:
Summer Workshop Information
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reader FAQ
Q. What are the hottest colors of the new spring season?
A. I just love these popsicle colored cardigans! Reminiscent of tangerine trees and marmalade skies, they are a treat for kaleidoscope eyes! But please note: we are also seeing the Neon Citrus color collection for the third year in a row. These kookie colors are very hard to look at, and even harder to wear! And after three straight seasons of poor sales performance, perhaps the fashion gods should just give it up. Or at the very least, confine these day-glow colors to accessories and clothing for young children. They will look very cute and be easy to keep track of!
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My around town:
On March 29th, I will present "Shop in Your Closet" at the Palos Park Library at 7pm.
708.448.1530
All are welcome!
On all Wednesday mornings in April, I will teach a class on "business appropriate social skills and proper dress" for the Elmhurst College ELSA program.
On April 9th, I will present a workshop entitled "Preparing for your Job Interview" for the LaGrange Department of Special Education.
On April 18th, I will present a program entitled "The ABC's of Professional Presence" for Right Management in Oakbrook, Illinois.
On May 4th, I will present "Dressing for Success: Top Ten Wardrobe Mistakes of Professional Women" sponsored by the Darien Women in Business organization. 5:30 pm.
event details
All are welcome!
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