U*styled's Shopping Resource Guide
Submitted by catherine on November 24, 2009 - 2:10 pm
BY CATHERINE CASSIDY
 With the holidays around the corner and the current state of the economy, I’d say it’s safe to assume that we’d all like to save a little money where we can with our holiday shopping.I use these resources I’m about to share for any day, but now at least you have the opportunity to give while you receive the savings.
What is so great about these resources is that they allow me toshop the designers I love at the price point I want. In your wardrobe I believe in quality over quantity. I would rather have an item last than be proud of myself for spending only $10. Of course, if I can have the best of both worlds, I’m a really happy camper! The following online resources allow me to have the best of both worlds and I love them for it: Gilt Groupe Invite only, and here’s mine to you: Gilt also has Gilt Fuse, which is contemporary Fashion, as well as Jetsetter which offers amazing deals on luxury vacations. What’s not to love?! Hautelook Also invite only, but I’ve got one for you: Rue La La My invite for you: These are all considered online sample sale sites, but with many designers and consumer products brands having overproduced with decreasing consumer demand, the consumers (you) now benefit from significant savings of production quality products. It’s also a great way to see what’s out there, learn about new designers and get inspired! I know that ordering online can feel intimidating, but these sites have great fit guides. So, as long as you know your measurements you can be sure to order the appropriate size. Now, for your further Holiday Shopping enjoyment, these major retailers are offering huge sales. Take advantage! There is some amazing Fashion to be found for a steal! Saks Fifth Avenue - up to 40-50% off and offering free shipping! Neiman Marcus – also offering up to 40-50% off and free shipping! Barney’s Co-op – Sale started yesterday with savings up to 40% in store. Also, great deals online! Check out the Vince and 3.1 Philip Lim. Revolve Clothing – One of my favorite resources has great up-and-coming designers and you can find amazing deals. Something for everyone! And check out Forward for the higher-end lines! Happy Shopping! |
Women Empowering Women
Submitted by catherine on November 16, 2009 - 4:59 pm
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BY CATHERINE CASSIDY
This is a great passion of mine. I left the crazy busy world of corporate Fashion because of my need to really make a difference and affect the lives of women. It really goes back to my time working at Nordstrom while in college. It felt really great being able to help a woman who was not at all looking forward to shopping for an outfit for an event, yet by the end of our time together she was actually pretty excited to go show off her new look. This was the beginning of my experience with empowering women to feel amazing about themselves. Of course, I had no idea at the time that’s what I was doing. Have you felt the movement in this past year of Women Empowering Women? It’s been brewing for a while, but we’re seeing it come to the forefront now. What I love is the beautiful transformation it’s allowing for women. First we were the happy homemakers, then we were so focused on our career and now we’re moving into the era where we’re balancing both … always working on doing it with grace and ease. The beauty of it is that we can have it all. Even more beautiful, is that we’re realizing that we’re not doing it on our own. We can’t. This is how women are empowering women. We are stepping into our true feminine power. And we’re doing it with the support of a community of women behind us. I know I am. And I know I couldn’t do it any other way. If you’re looking for more inspiration to this, I encourage you to revisit my posting of the keynote speech at the USC Women’s Conference by Gayle Garner Roski. Even more, this is a global movement. Women in the states are working SO hard to empower and enrich the lives of women in developing countries. Fair trade is a huge part of it. You may remember the interview I shared with Erika Mosebach of Global Daughter. I am so passionate about supporting her business because Global Daughter is giving women in Nepal an opportunity to support themselves and their families. All it takes to support these women is purchasing their fair trade items. It’s beautiful simplicity. The final piece of women empowering women is YOU. We are so lucky to be naturally supportive of each other. What woman doesn’t give SO much of herself for others. However, we’re also realizing that it’s OK to do things just for ourselves. Wow. I think that’s huge. So I put two challenges to you for this week: 2) What are you going to do for yourself? To empower yourself? What will make you feel absolutely fantastic about yourself? |
How Can I Dress to Look Older???
Submitted by catherine on November 12, 2009 - 12:41 pm
So, a client recently asked me this question and while I was pretty surprised, I also completely understood. Surprised because we live in LA, the land of eternal youth. If anything, everyone always wants to look younger! I understood because when you’re younger and working towards professional success, you don’t want people to dismiss you or not take you seriously simply because of your age.
Now, on the flip side, I’ve had clients who were relatively young (early 30′s) who really needed to start dressing their age. They were dressing too young to be taken seriously professionally and/or personally.
So, as with everything, it becomes a delicate balancing act.
The question becomes this: How do you blend your personal style with your career image and aspirations?
A key tenant of mine comes into play: know your audience and your purpose, while staying true to your personality and style.
So, in a professional setting that means still being conservative, respectful and well dressed in great fitting clothes, but you have to be sure to inject a bit of personality to your look. That can come from the color of your suit jacket, a bold accessory, your favorite purse, a pretty scarf, gorgeous earrings, etc.
If you are true to your audience as well as yourself with your style, then you will be sure to have the confidence to go forward professionally with great confidence. Confidence is the key factor for winning anyone’s trust and ultimately business success.
The key takeaway? Your image is your brand. YOUR brand.
FAQ: What is your Experience?
Submitted by catherine on November 6, 2009 - 9:31 am
Even though I’m definitely not the first personal stylist offering her services one on one to women, for most women I meet it’s definitely a new concept. So, the conversation naturally progresses to how I got into personal styling. For me, though, the WHY is so much more important than the HOW. Still, when hiring an expert, you should know why they’re considered an expert.
Now, I also want to share with you a question that you should consider asking when hiring a personal stylist. I know I’m a bit unique in my belief in starting with what you already have in your closet. Many (though, definitely not all!) stylists prefer to just take you shopping to style you in new clothes. I personally LOVE making something old feel all new and shiny again …
Now you should feel equipped with the knowledge to hire a great personal stylist who can get YOUR style.
Are you ready to live your life in STYLE?
Boots! Boots! Boots!
Submitted by catherine on November 3, 2009 - 12:35 pm
dissimilar from booties, shooties are a take on the cool feel of a boot in a more innovative way. These have peep toes, laser cut details, etc. and combine the look and feel of booties with your pumps. Basically, two for the price of one! This can be a tricky look to pull off and it’s a new trend, so I would advise to try it only if you fall in love with a pair. Again, it’s all about wearing them with confidence!|
Before I leave you, some words of advice for extending the life of your boots:
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