| FACT: Communication is 55% visual.
So what does that mean for you? As a small business owner, ladder climbing corporate powerhouse, and/or philanthropist it means the difference between getting what you want or not. Whether it’s a new client, a promotion or a donation. Communication Breakdown:
So, what can you do to make sure you stand out in the right way? 1) Know your Audience While you are ALWAYS dressing for yourself, you do have to be aware of your audience. I would never ask you to sacrifice your personality, so you have to incorporate it into your look in a way that is appropriate for the occasion. Whether you’re in a business meeting, at a networking event, with your friends or on a date determines your outfit … NOT your look. You wouldn’t wear a business suit on a date and you wouldn’t wear a low cut top to an important business meeting. 2) Add a POP of Color You may have heard it before, but if not, take note: Color has meaning. It affects your mood as well as the mood of those around you. For more details on the meaning of color, check out this past U*styled post. Even if you like a more neutral color palette, that actually makes for a great base for a stunning pop of color. Add color in your wardrobe through a necklace, earrings, your purse, a shell under your blazer or even with your nail polish. Just make it interesting and a color that makes you happy! 3) Add a Statement Again, something to draw attention. Since we’re dressing for the real way, not the runway, it’s best to have one piece that stands out. This can be a gorgeous sweater, a favorite skirt, a great pair of shoes, a statement accessory (bag, necklace, earrings, etc) or jacket. This shows your confidence and it also allows you to draw people in and even start a conversation based on a compliment (what a positive way to start a relationship!!). 4) Represent your Brand Whether you like it or not, your image is absolutely a part of your brand. If you don’t believe me, consider some of your friends. What do you think of when you think of them? Classic, chic, friendly, bubbly, intense, eloquent, etc. All of those are a description of their personal brand. What do you want people to think when they think of you? Does your image and presentation really represent that? If not, consider what you can do to tweak that. Is it your conversation, your energy or your wardrobe? Just taking the first step with awareness will begin the transformation of your personal brand. Some things to consider as representations of your brand: Colors (and meanings, see above!), the fit of your clothes, the polish of your wardrobe, eloquence and word choice, energy, relationships and success. 5) Carry Yourself with Confidence It turns out your mom had a point when she told you to stand up straight time after time. Not only is it good for engaging your abs and slimming your figure (multitasking!), but it also presents yourself as confident and self-assured. Included in this basic etiquette of presentation is eye contact and a firm, feminine handshake. When you enter a room, keep your head and eyes up. The only time I look down is when I’m running with the sun in my eyes and I don’t want to trip (my knees appreciate this!). Otherwise, it’s stand tall, make eye contact and smile. Invite people into a conversation with an open body stance. Sometimes I’m guilty of standing with my arms crossed because it’s more comfortable for me, so I make a conscious effort to hold my hands in front of me instead. Are you ready to get yourself heard? Attract more clients? Find the love of your life? Make more money? Enjoy more success in your life? The time is TODAY, not tomorrow!! To YOUR Styled Life! |
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Tags: Communication, personal branding, Personal Style, Success
| Jennifer Aniston has come a long way since her early Friends’ days. Who didn’t love her as Rachel on friends? Who hasn’t loved watching her evolve into the Star that she is today. (And, who hasn’t envied her amazingly fit body!)
We can learn a lot from Jennifer Aniston …  Jennifer Aniston leaving a meeting in Los Angeles. Source: People.com
She knows what she likes and sheknows what works for her.Granted, she’s worked hard to stay in shape, so she can wear most things easily. But she always tends towards a neutral color palette and classic pieces. While I’d prefer more color more consistently for her wardrobe, I’ve noticed that she uses color brilliantly. People notice that much more when she adds color.Strategic – I like it! 2) Dress for Success. She is also very aware of her public position and reflect that in the way she dresses for everything. Even her beach attire is perfectly stylish! I don’t think we’ve ever seen a photo where she looks less than great. The key here is that Aniston alwaysknows who her audience is and she dresses for that. While she’d rather be low-key t-shirt and jeans with a great bag and fab shoes, she easily turns up the volume for a business meeting. 3) Find Balance. After many years of battling her weight, being told she should be slimmer, Aniston has learned the beauty of moderation and balance. She indulges when she wants to, but otherwise maintains a very healthy lifestyle. In a recent interview, she admitted to working out 7 days a week. However, when she once thought of exercise as a chore, she now enjoys it. So, yoga and running become a way for Aniston to do something for herself each day in an otherwise hectic schedule. 4) Reap the Rewards. Aniston’s style (as much as her love life) has kept her very vividly in the public eye. In fact, of all of our ‘Friends,’ she’s enjoyed the most consistent success and exposure. Exposure is so important. Whether your a business owner or climbing the corporate ladder, people need to notice you if you want to get ahead. Give them a reason. Identify your own star style and you’ll be the one turning heads when you walk into a room! |
Tags: Dress for Success, Find Balance, Jennifer Aniston, Personal Style, Rewards, Star Style
Gay Hendricks book The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to the Next Level walks you through the hidden barriers you have towards reaching your greatest success and potential.
If that quick summary doesn’t have you wanting to read more, well, I don’t know what to tell you!! What he basically tells us is that we have a hard time maintaining our happiness and success. For varying reasons, we achieve a certain level of success in an area of our lives and then our subconscious freaks out that it can’t be possible to be that happy or successful, etc. so it creates a problem that brings you back to where you started. Kind of annoying, huh? Well, if you equip yourself with the tools, you can start chipping away your Upper Limit Problem (ULP). It dawned on me that this equates very directly to women’s style and inner confidence. It’s also exactly why U*styled exists – to give you the tools to reach your greatest potential in Style, in Career, in Love and in Life. Everything you want to achieve starts with you. So, how are you holding yourself back? This is something I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting upon myself. It never fails that the only reason I haven’t achieved something I’ve wanted is because I’ve gotten in my own way. Again, that’s in Style, in Career, in Love and in Life. What I’ve noticed is that women settle for good more often than going for GREAT. This is the ULP at work in your life. What is holding you back from going for GREAT? Are you settling for the status quo? Please, tell me, I’d really love to know why you don’t think you deserve a great life in style. Time and again I observe the potential in every woman to really be GREAT. And I’ve seen the transformation time and again as I take someone through the Style process.  "A closet full of diapers and nothing to wear!" - It starts at an early age!! Instead of constantly being frustrated at her ‘closet full of clothes and nothing to wear,’ she sees the opportunities to play with new outfit options. Instead of spending 5 hours shopping for the perfect outfit for ONE occasion, she spends 5 hours shopping her closet for endless outfit options for every occasion. Instead of looking at that stunningly dressed woman and lamenting to herself ‘wow, I wish I could dress like that,’ she goes up and compliments her on her amazing shoes and said woman compliments her back on her gorgeous necklace. Are you ready to be the one people notice because of your style? What I love most about the results I’ve seen, is that breaking through a barrier in the Style area of your life often leads to breaking through barriers in other areas – yes, Love, Career and Life. Are you ready to break through your ULPs? Yesss! To your Life in STYLE! |
Tags: Big Leap, Confidence, Fashion, Personal Style, Style
Sorry, I couldn’t resist. My inner nerd came out … I’m totally exposed!
But seriously, wouldn’t you love someone to refer to you as ‘Hot Legs’? No matter how progressive you are, we love to be told we look great. Because we take the time to take care of ourselves and dress our best, we love it when someone else notices.
So, if you’ve been working on your gams … here’s how to show them off best.
1) Lotion and/or Self Tanner
Prep is SO important. Always use lotion immediately after getting out of the shower when your skin is most ready to absorb it. You may even want to reapply just before you leave the house.
If you’re comfortable with Self-Tanner, I highly encourage it. If you’re really fair (and even if you’re not, actually), using a very light color will allow you to easily build a gradual ‘tan.’ I personally use this approach because I’m a perfectionist … and perfect at applying self tanner, I am not!
The main reason why I do it anyway is because it’s the best way to camoflauge and ‘tone’ your legs without much effort. Also, you should know that MOST women, regardless of size, have cellulite … and we ALL want to camoflauge it!
As a last ditch effort, if you’re not into the self-tanner, don’t be afraid of pantyhose. Donna Karen makes a FABULOUS sheer hose that matches your skin so it doesn’t look like you’re even wearing any hose. This is exactly what you want when opting for hose – sheer, barely there perfection.
2) Appropriate Lengths
The perfect length to flatter your legs (and depending on your age and/or the occasion), is from mid-thigh to just below your knees. A good rule of thumb for appropriateness is the good ol’ Catholic schoolgirl test – if you’re skirt skims your fingers when your arms are to your side, you’re good to go. This is also what would be considered mid-thigh for most of you.
Even if you don’t love your legs because of your age (not your shape), I highly encourage shorter skirts for special occasions. This is simply where the perfect sheer, nude hose come in to play.
3) Heels
This is obvious, but it never hurts to reemphasize a great point. Heels lengthen the look of your leg. Who doesn’t want legs that go on forever?
A ‘one better’ trick is a pair of nude heels … your legs will look like they go on forever. BONUS: You now have a pair of heels for every occasion!
When choosing the perfect heel, be careful of cutting yourself off. These days, we’re seeing a lot of ankle straps and chunky booties, These can still be a great heel option, but just be careful of where they hit you. Just below the ankle is best and scooping a bit is even better. The idea is to keep drawing your eye down. (Often times, this style is best for leggings and/or skinny jeans since you’re not breaking the line, you’re continuing it.)
4) Strappy Sandals
The more skin you are willing to shoe on your foot, the better. Again, we’re talking about pulling the eye down.
I personally am obsessed with the Jimmy Choo’s Jennifer Aniston has been wearing (and was WAY before she wore them … she just validated my LOVE!). They’re so subtly sexy and prove my point. Amore budget friendly option from Nine West work just as well, though. 
Even if you’re wearing a flats … opt for a strappy version. It will be just as flatter as a heel … justkeep pulling the eye down. It’s almost as if you’re not wearing any shoes at all when they’re strappy. This is one time where showing more skin is the best option AND still classy!
I wonder, did I emphasize enough … pulling the eye down?
Tags: Fashion Trends, Hot Legs, Jimmy Choo, Personal Style
Every season there are new Fashion trends to follow. New IT colors, new themes, new styles, etc. What’s a busy stylish gal to do to keep up with it all? Every three months and new trends to adapt to? Oy!
Now, to set your fears aside, I’m going to explain to you why you can stop your worrying. Perhaps because I’m a personal stylist with an emphasis on STYLE, but I’ve never really bought into trends. For one, I’m not a beanpole. I can’t wear just anything the way those runway models can. Real Women have Curves and I’m one of those women. And I embrace it. Fully. And if you are a beanpole, you probably wear your clothes so as to give you more shape (you are if I’m working with you, at least). For instance, it took me a full year to buy into the skinny jean. Before that, I was wholeheartedly against it. Why did I eventually buy into it? For two reasons … 1) It morphed from a trend item to a closet staple. They’ve been around for years now, so you have a ton of designer creating their own versions. 2) I found my fit. Again, I’ve got curves, so I had to find something that would compliment them and not exaggerate them. My perfect pair were fitted and slim to balance the voluminous tops, a dark wash and more of a straight leg than a really skinny leg. Also, Fashion Trends are no different than business trends. They follow a cycle. It all starts with Designers debuting a collection with a few ‘new’ key items and styles (these are the trends) and a few key people pick up on these ideas and start the trend on the streets. About a year later, more designers have picked up on the trends making it more mainstream so more people are following it. The trend ‘dies’ … onlyto come back three (or ten) years later. For instance, Cargo Pants are now making a huge comeback though this time around they’re a lot sleeker and sophisticated. I’ve even seen some people wearing Overalls. Some more subtle trends we’re seeing again (from only 2 years ago): Ikat and Tribal Prints, Military influence, Romantic Flourishes aka Lingerie Inspired, etc. Moral of the story? Trends come and go, but style is eternal. |
Like a good Fashionista, I went to see Sex and the City 2 on opening weekend. It’s the same good stuff we loved about the show – relationships, great friends, sexy guys and STUNNING FASHION!
Of course, I loved it.
The Fashions were a little bit more toned down (with a few exceptions) as appropriate with a toned down economy. The plotline was a little bit toned down as well, but the characters were just as lovable as ever … so I quickly forgave.
There were two things that absolutely stood out for me above all else.
For one, the girls were finding more success both in careers and personal lives. Balancing it all, striving for me, finding peace, etc.
More importantly, in finding the balance, it was also about keeping some of the sparkle. Of course, Carrie was focusing on her relationship with Big, but it really made me think about the sparkle in their wardrobe.
Of course, I don’t necessarily mean bling, but I do mean excitement. Yes, let’s make Fashion FUN again!
Adding the Sparkle Back into Your Wardrobe
Accessorize. Seriously, it’s that easy. And why not try something new? Add a hat (I LOVE Urban’s inexpensive options). Or, try a piece of jewelry that makes more of a statement than your used to. Layer them unexpectedly, etc. Play with what you’ve already got and keep your eye for some fun additions to your collection.
Play with Color. Even if you’re wearing a basic neutral outfit, pop in a bit of unexpected color. Color has a natural tendency to liven your mood, so if you’re needing a pick me up, the brighten the better! Go with your favorite and you’ll never fail. It will always brighten your mood!
Dress up for YOURSELF. It seems quite daring, I know. But, why not? Who cares what other people will think? Most likely, they’ll be checking you out and doing an inventory of your outfit. Wear a dress to a casual event, pull out your black tie for a dinner out and even better … recruit your girlfriends to do the same. Make up an excuse! Who doesn’t love to get dolled up??
Tags: Accessorize, fashionista, FUN Fashion, Personal Brand, Personal Style, Play with Color, Sex & the City, Sparkle
One thing that kept coming up this weekend was VALUE. Offering value, perceiving value and most importantly, valuing yourself.
This is a huge question
for all of us, but women most especially.
Time and again I’ll have women tell me they want to work with me and then get scared of the price. When they let that scare them away, that tells me they’re not ready for the value I can give them … and not just the value of my service, the realization that they’re worth it!
This might be a controversial and sensitive topic for you, but it’s one that needs to be addressed.
Quite frankly, I’m over it:
As a woman, you have so much to offer the world!!
Example A) Whether or not you have children, you’re a mother.
Women are natural nurturers. This translates to numerous hours fundraising for your booster club, supporting philanthropic causes, offering an ear for your girlfriends and mentoring other women. Unfortunately, this tends to translate to putting everyone’s needs in front of your own.
Example B) Women do better in school than men
More women graduate college, perform better on tests, are entering upper management, etc. Yet, you’re still earning less than your male counterparts. Even more so, you’re still doubting your abilities.
Example C) Women Start Businesses
With the recent economy, there has been a boom in women-owned businesses. Businesses that create jobs, stimulate the economy, add value to others lives and add income to their families’ bottom lines. However, you’re still taking on more than you can chew and not valuing your time enough to ask for help.
This subject means a lot to me because I get it, I’ve been there.
I’ve been the girlfriend who was always there no matter what – no matter how much drama, no matter if it was always the same drama and no matter if it ultimately actually hurt me. (Ironically, I have a very low ‘drama’ tolerance!)
I’ve been through those amazingly tough times where you can’t understand why someone would backstab you that way. I’ve been the one who was uncomfortable talking about money. I’ve been the one whose pride wouldn’t let her ask for help.
And I can tell you with absolute certainty that overcoming those limiting beliefs and recognizing my value line has had a direct and significant impact on the success of my business.
Basically, I took back the control. I decided what was best for me. I asked for help. I hired assistants. I’ve UPPED my VALUE!
So now, ask yourself, what do you most value about yourself?
Tags: Brand Image, personal branding, Personal Growth, Personal Styling, Self Value, Value
| BY: CATHERINE CASSIDY
You know who you are. You have to be mindful of what you choose so as to not be too revealing.
A few full-busted celebs:
   Their keys to successful style: Do not add bulk NO high-necked tops V-necks, U-necks and halters are best for you. We already know from previous articles that v-necks are universally flattering for slimming. Anything to accentuate that collarbone! Just be sure that you’re not going too deep for that V-neck. I actually really like a halter because it’s incredibly flattering without being too revealing. The way a halter cuts in at the shoulders is very slimming and subtly sexy! Balance Your Proportions Wear something streamlined that fits well on top with a tailored waist and balance your proportions on bottom with A-line styles, full skirts and details at the hem. Additionally, boot cut or full-legged trousers are great pant options for you. |
Tags: Dressing a Full Bust, Fashion, Kim Kardashian, Personal Style, Salma Hayek, style tips
Women want to be you and men want to be with you. Aren’t you lucky! You’re part of the 8% of women who actually have an hourglass body type. The rest of us are simply trying to create the illusion.
Your body is curvaceous with a full bust, defined waist and full hips. You gain weight very evenly, so you always maintain your shape.A few famous Hourglass celebs:
No empires! They hide your shape. You should look for wrap
dresses and tailored jackets. Jackets should hit at the waist or just below the bottom for the correct proportions. Otherwise, you cut off your fab figure and you want to elongate it! The same goes for sweaters – cardigans or pullovers should hit at the waist or just below the bottom. Check out where Jessica Biel’s gorgeous jacket hits (and subtly shows off her fab figure!). PS. I want her hair!
Once more, I’ll also encourage a belt. Though, for the hourglass figure, a slim belt at the waist is more flattering than a wide one. This is because you’re not trying to create a waist, you already have one!
Skirts to the knee
To avoid cutting yourself off, skirts and dresses should hit at least mid thigh. Anything else shortens your proportions and you’ll look stocky instead of curvy. No!
A skirt to the knee, a la Halle’s, perfectly accentuates your curvaceous body.
Streamline your look
When possible, avoid breaking up your figure by wearing dresses or monotone outfits. Otherwise, you have to create the streamlined look such as adding a belt at the waist to tie the top and bottom pieces of your outfit together.
A wide leg easily balances out your straight frame to give you those elusive curves. With this volume you on bottom, you want a fitted top (possibly tucked in and with a belt!) or jacket.
V-necks
Show off your bountiful bust (subtly, of course) with a v-neck. They also elongate your look to make you look nice and slim and draws attention to your perfectly proportioned curves. Avoid turtlenecks as they close you off and make you look heavier than you are because of your 
bust.
Another advantage to v-necks is that they highlight the collarbone, one of the most attractive feminine attributes. And everyone’s collarbone looks great, so it’s easy to show off and make yourself feel slim and sexy!
Flaunt your Assets
Wear clothes that fit! It sounds simple, but some women are afraid of their curves and the attention they bring. This is when you wear a tailored jacket or a shift dress that skims your body, while still showing off your curves … just not totally flaunting them. Now, when you really want to work it, something like this gorgeous LBD Kate Winslet is wearing is perfect for you. Just smile and say ‘thank you’ to every compliment you get!
Tags: Celebrity Style, Dressing for your Body Type, Fashion, Fashion Expert, Hourglass Body Type, Personal Style, personal stylist, Personal Stylist Los Angeles, Style
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BY CATHERINE CASSIDY Apple might be one of the more frustrating body types. Especially when you gain weight, as the majority of it hits your waistline. Your body has it’s narrowest point above the natural waist, at the ribs. You also probably have pretty rockin’ legs! A few celebs with Apple bodies:
Their keys to successful style:
The second best for you are wrap tops and dresses. These don’t fit too tight and the way they wrap across your body creates the look of a beautiful waist and perfect curves. Remember: No matter your size, it’s all about balancing proportions to create the look of that perfect hourglass ideal shape (which, by the way, only about 2% of women have the luxury of flaunting). Add a belt
Lengthen the Torso
Wear tops that fit your figure – skimming the body. Definitely not tight, but not too loose either. Ideally, this includes a v-neck as well as a bit of tailoring to keep a shape and structure. This tunic from Joie is an excellent example. Dark on Top A-line Dresses & Skirts
Goes back to three things I’ve highlighted – skimming your top half, empire waists, and accentuating your great legs. Need I say more? Skinny Pants |
Tags: Apple Body Type, Brand Image, Dress for Success, Dressing your Body Type, Personal Style, Personal Stylist Los Angeles, Successful Women, Wardrobe Consulting