Category: fashion

SO YOUR DAUGHTER IS GOING TO PROM

Posted on by

Prom night might possibly be the most horrifying night a parent can experience. Everything from the right-of-passage that prom night represents, to what our kids are wearing to prom is horrifying.

I remember shopping for my first prom dress. I knew what I wanted; but my Mom had a different idea what she was going to allow me to wear. Let’s just say that what our high school girls are wearing to prom “ain’t your mama’s prom dress”!

What happened to the demure dresses with lace up to your chin, 3 or 4 layers of tulle on top of a hoop skirt? Ah yes, the good ‘ol days!

According to a leading family psychologist, the best tactic with the prom dress debate is compromise. Here are some ideas to keep in mind when you hit Goodwill searching for the perfect prom dress and accessories:

  • If your daughter is busty, don’t allow her to wear something that is strapless. Compromise by allowing a side slit in the skirt.
  • If your daughter wants something that is low cut…in the front and the back – compromise with a higher cut front (maybe a nice drape) and the lower cut style in the back. 
  • Hollywood Fashion Tape (Google it). This is amazing stuff that will affix itself to skin and fabric. If you are worried about something falling off – tape it down!
  • If your daughter’s dream dress is something that is on the short side, compromise in looking for something that is at least knee length, but form fitting, or a shorter bubble-skirt style. 
  • Is your daughter self conscious about her arms? Look for a wrap, pashmina, or scarf to put over her shoulders.
  • Is your daughter’s belly what she doesn’t like? Find a dress with a definite separation between the top ½ and the bottom ½. Better yet, look for a dress with interesting rouching through the bodice. 
  • Make sure your daughter wears the right undergarments; it will make her look like a svelte super model in her prom gown! 
  • Shoes…if your daughter isn’t used to walking in 3” stilettos, leave them at the store. She will look (and feel) much more graceful in a lower heeled shoe. 
  • Your daughter’s dress is going to need to be altered (99.9% of all formal wear will need some alterations). A perfect fit is always the most flattering look!
  • Perfume. Make sure your daughter sprays her body, not her dress. The alcohol in some fragrances will stain delicate fabrics – and ruin her prom dress. 

Make sure your daughter knows that the secret to looking great on prom night is more about how she feels, than the actual dress. If something doesn’t feel right, it isn’t right. Beauty starts on the inside; the most beautiful women in the world are self confident, self assured intelligent women…who probably had a great prom dress!

PHOTO CREDITS:

http://www.tonganoxiemirror.com 

Question: What do I do with this holiday weight?

Posted on by

I thought about making a New Year’s Resolution to lose weight – but really…would I? Is weight a matter of something to be “lost” or something to simply deal with once and for all? It seems that losing something implies you will find it again. I am deciding to deal with the weight thing – whatever medical, psychological, caloric, emotional thing it is…it will be dealt with once and for all!

But how to start?

I assume I should start by making myself feel better. Ever notice when you feel like you look OK, you seem to be more motivated? Looking your best at whatever weight will do more for your psyche than any diet I have ever tried. A visit to Goodwill for some new items to add to your wardrobe can do wonders without breaking the budget.

Step 1: make sure we feel like we look our best…every single day!

This means employing a few “hide weight” tricks. Here are the tips I plan on living by:

PATTERN – When you are trying to disguise a little extra weight, pattern can help you or really hurt you. Pay attention to where pattern and detail lies on your outfit. For example, if you don’t want people to notice your midsection and hips, then don’t put any detail (pattern, belts, color contrast) in that section.

However, some pattern can act as camouflage. For example, an all over pattern on a wrap dress. This option is a very slimming and is forgiving of bumps and bulges. If the pattern thing seems too complicated, and if you are worried about making a mistake – for the time being, skip it and go with outfits that are monochromatic.

COLOR – I would be lying if I said monochromatic (all black) wasn’t a good option…especially since I live in this community, and see so many of you out and about – you’d bust me (since I wear all black a lot – it is a problem, and it another New Year’s Resolution). In our quest to keep attention away from trouble areas, lets strategically wear pops of color; for example a colorful scarf or a bright red shoe. This will bring the attention to your face, or bring it down to your feet. That tactic is one of my favorites, as long as you don’t notice lumps and bumps in the middle, I am OK with face and foot attention!

STYLE – When we put on a few pounds, we seem to hibernate and pull out the muumuu from the back of our closets. This is a mistake. It is important when you’ve added a few lbs that you wear the right style for your shape; things that fit as opposed to oversized and baggy (non structured) pieces. Concentrate on defining your waist, be sure the cut of clothing you wear is flattering to your shape rather than hiding it. Choose clothing that creates an hourglass silhouette…rather than a bowling ball silhouette.

FABRIC – When you feel a little thick in the middle, be conscious about what kinds of fabrics you wear. Avoid overly heavy fabrics, and likewise, avoid very thin fabrics. Heavy fabrics (like tweed) can add extra weight to your look. Thin fabrics have a tendency to cling…in all the wrong places. Thin fabrics are OK, if you are using them as first layer pieces…but definitely not as the statement to your outfit.

Remember – extra fabric will translate (visually) to more weight. It seems to me, this is the opposite of what our goal is (to look thinner!).

FINALLY…
The simple fact is looking your best lies in your attitude and the presence you have in your clothing. Embracing WHO you are under the jackets and jeans will make those jackets and jeans look amazing on you…the you today, and the you of tomorrow!

…and when you become the ‘you of tomorrow’, go through your closet and donate all of the clothing you don’t need to Goodwill!

___________________________
Photo Credits:
http://gigabiting.com
http://health.com
www.clker.com
http://flatstomachplan.com

What to do with ties

Posted on by

A few months back, I became obsessed with ties. I saw a skirt that someone had made out of old ties, and decided that I needed to have one. Thing is…I have no skill with a sewing machine, so the notion of having all these great “tie” things has been dashed (insert big sigh…).

But I am sure many of you have been blessed with the crafty-gene, so here are some great ideas:

OK, really? How adorable is this? Adding this tie detail to the collar of a tee? INGENIOUS!

Love the notion of re-purposing not only ties, but this vintage chair. So cute!

Yes, this dress is made out of ties! Can you imagine? LOVE IT!

This is so creative! What a great holiday gift for that guy who has everything!

This skirt is so cute, and the thing I like the most is the face that the ties don’t look like ties!

Thanks Pinetrest for the images and ideas!

Goodwill Fashion – winter coats!

Posted on by

Goodwill is a great place to pick up a fashion-forward vintage coat. Look for quality fabrics and signs of wear. Also search details that make a piece unique. Remember, anything can be altered. Buttons can be changed.

This is my favorite Goodwill jacket find. It is the perfect weight for this time of year…and is also a great jacket to wear in the rain.

I’ve been searching for some fun funky vintage buttons to add to this jacket for a long time (haven’t found the perfect set yet). I change the pins from floral to something with sparkle…depending on my outfit that day.

I paid around $5 for this jacket.

Be on the look out for leather. Leather jackets are always in style. Search for something with details that make it unique, like this biker jacket. Love the way this fashionista paired it with a skirt! Super cute!

PHOTO: chictopia.com

PHOTO: www.shopgoodwill.com

This style harkens back to the 60’s and 70’s. I am pretty sure I have family photos where my Mom is wearing a coat just like this (hey, maybe this is HER old jacket?!).

A tie waist wool coat is a smart addition to any wardrobe. If you find one that doesn’t have a fur collar, that can be added later.

PHOTO: www.thedressrecycler.com

PHOTO: www.shopgoodwill.com


How to Shop at a Thrift Store

Posted on by
One question I get asked quite a bit is “how do your shop at a Thrift Store“?
Well – I’ll tell you – it is a mix of science, research, art and…GOOD LUCK!
Here are some basic tips that will help you as you head out to fill your closets with fab finds for Fall!
1. Be patient The biggest tip I can offer is to be patient!  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve frequented stores searching for an authentic vintage Louis Vuitton (anyone out there have one?  message me!).  But many times on those “scouting trips” I find something else amazing…like Gucci sandals, 7 (seven)-jeans, Anthropologie skirt.  All things I would not have in my closet (all for under $20, by the way!) if I hadn’t stopped in searching for that vintage LV.
2. Be ready to dig Think of this kind of shopping like an archeological dig, or treasure hunt.  You really don’t know what you will find until you dig through a lot of other stuff.  This means your Thrift Shop shopping trips may take some time. Be prepared to invest that time. What you invest in time you will save 10-fold in your wallet!
3. Be friendly Everyone who’s worked in a customer service position knows what a big difference one nice person can make in your day. Besides, being nice pays off; in return for your smile the person checking you out might tell you about a 50% off day or suggest a “preferred customer” shopping program!
4. Avoid binging, shop with cash It can be tempting to stock up when you go to a thrift store – I’ve done it, and end up with all kinds of things that end up getting donated back to Goodwill.  If you are on a tight budget, it is wise to seek out sale days, and implement a ‘cash only’ policy.
5. Go in With a Plan Know ahead of time what you need. The organization of each store can be a bit different, and might be overwhelming. So if you go knowing you’re looking for 12-24 month-old boy’s khakis, and size 8 black dress shoes, it can be a lot less stressful.
6. Be Open-Minded That said, keep your eyes open for any surprising deals. It’s hit-or-miss with thrift stores, so sometimes you really hit the jackpot (remember my note above about the Gucci sandals, Anthropologie skirt and 7 (Seven) jeans?). You need to make sure what you find is actually something you need – otherwise, you’re just over buying. Think about unexpected gift ideas. You could find birthday gifts for all your nieces and nephews, or you might find throw pillows in just the right shade your friend is looking for.
7. To Brands or not to brand It is true that there is a coorelation between quality and price – which means know your brands.
8. Try Things On Always try things on. Just because it’s a beautiful silk Ann Taylor skirt doesn’t mean you should buy it. If it doesn’t fit well, then it’s a needless purchase and will only clutter your closet. And different brands size things differently, so you can’t assume anything by the number on the tag.  One last comment on this – many people alter clothes.  Just because the tag says it is a size 10 doesn’t necessarily mean it is a 10.
9. Don’t Go With Kids Sure, you may have to bring them sometimes. But if you’re armed with a detailed list, it can be hard to get much accomplished at a thrift store when you have little ones to watch. Shopping at thrift stores means having to sift through lots of aisles of crammed-full racks. If you have to bring your kids, plan on just shopping one of the store’s sections, and then come back another day to shop the rest.
10. Find Ways To Repurpose Think creatively when you head out to your local Goodwill store. I read about a woman who was looking for a Christmas tree skirt, but she happened upon a perfect vintage tablecloth with red and green flowers. It was thick, durable canvas with a beautiful red fringed border – and it will work better as a tree skirt than she had originally planned.
PHOTO CREDITS:
http://blog.oregonlive.com
http://media.goodwillindy.org
http://goodwillsp.files.wordpress.com

ROAD TRIP JUNE 18th!

Posted on by

Join me at the NEW St. John Goodwill store.  St. John is in north/western Indiana-ish (kinda close to Merrillville).  Honestly, you will NOT be sorry you made the trip!  Lots of goodies at this store…can’t wait to see you!

The Perfect Valentine’s Day Look

Posted on by

by Kathy Friend

When it comes to finding the perfect outfit for Valentine’s Day, I always seem to be stuck somewhere between what I want to wear, and what I should wear.

Because of the weather here in Northern Indiana, Valentine’s Day usually means frigid temps. However, Valentine’s Day evokes ideas of frilly dresses.

Here are some ideas of what to wear…to stay warm and to look super fashionable at the same time!

CASUAL VALENTINE’S DAY
Here is an idea of what to wear if you and your sweetie have decided to do something casual…

  • This look features a basic trouser cut jean (which is flattering on EVERYONE!).

  • We’ve pulled together some romantic pieces that feature feminine details like bows, ruffles and lace.

  • Here, we simply paired a ruffle front white tee (this tee is sleeveless) with a bright red rouched sweater.

  • The necklace would be super easy to make, simply take a simple chain – double it and add a black ribbon. EASY!

  • The look is grounded with a super sassy shoe-boot with a bow detail

DRESSY VALENTINE’S DAY
Got big plans at a fancy restaurant? Here is an idea how to be appropirate for the venue, but still warm!

  • Here, we took a strapless ruffly dress (might be an old prom dress?) and found a great red cashmere cardigan to pull over the top.

  • With some ribbon and a simple chain, we were able to create a neat necklace for this look.

  • Because it seems to snow 3-5″ every day here, boots were a MUST! These are a great simple black heeled boot that will be perfect with the outfit, weather and dancing!

  • Finally, the little ribbon belt. These are easy to find at retail stores, but don’t discount your own creative abilities! Look for a chain belt or skinny leather belt at a Goodwill Retail Store, add some wide ribbon and make your own!

Hope these looks spur on some ideas for you. I wish you the best, most fashionable Valentine’s Day!

In fashion and friendship,

______________________________________________________

Kathy Friend is a wardrobe coach and fashion stylist. For over 15 years, she has consulted with thousands of men and women all over the world to help improve their self esteem through image. She is the Fashion Editor of The Family Magazine and regularly provides information on the WSBT Morning Show as a Fashion Expert. Kathy provides fashion advice regularly through FASHION DAY events at Goodwill stores in Northern Indiana. For information on upcoming Goodwill events, please visit the Goodwill Website.

Sparkle…the Goodwill way!

Posted on by

PHOTO: http://tangarangblog.blogspot.com

This time of year, we’re all looking to add some glitz and glam into our holiday wardrobes. I have an idea…put on your crafty hat, and get to bedazzling! Find a perfect tank, or perfect blouse and add a few sequins. Adding just a touch of glitz can transform something that is rather boring into something that is fabulous!
PHOTO: http://www.chictopia.com 

 
You can also purchase glitzey appliques from any craft or fabric store. You could also purchase sequin fabric, and add a band of sparkle to a skirt, top, gloves or anything! 
PHOTO: http://www.recycledlovelies.com

Even adding a little pop of shine with a hair accessory can bring up the wow factor in your holiday garb.
PHOTO: http://www.prudentbaby.com

Tips on how to add sequins can be found at: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-sew-on-sequins