YOUR Style Can be Easy & Effortless, too!

Submitted by catherine on February 14, 2012 - 3:07 am

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AND, working with a Personal Stylist IS accessible and approachable.

Yes, it’s true. I cannot tell a lie. (Seriously, I can’t, I’m a horrible liar.)


Here’s how it is:

Virtual Styling Sessions via Skype or Facetime.

I’ve worked with many ongoing clients who don’t live in LA virtually for a few years now and I have a love/hate relationship with the technology. For one, I love being IN your closet and finding your hidden treasures and giving you new ways to wear them. For two, I really really like my clients and I love getting to see them!

However, all of my packages and programs are inspired by my current clients and my potential clients and I’m constantly working to figure out the best way I can serve YOU.

A conversation with a new client made me realize that all you may need is a bit of style coaching and you’ll be ready to take the reins and run with it. In fact, I do believe that my clients innately do know what’s best for them, they just need affirmation that they’re on the right track and a bit of guidance to make it all easier.

Drumroll, please: Introducing (for a limited time) Virtual Style Sessions!

Take 45 minutes to get clarity on your personal brand of style, what quick and easy adjustments you can make to your style, what pieces you MUST have in your wardrobe and, most importantly, where to find them easily and effortlessly. (Hint: this last piece saves you TIME and MONEY) You also get your own personalized Style File from the session. All for only $95.

Happy Valentine’s Day to you, indeed.

Seriously, in just 45 minutes you could completely transform your style. So, if you’re ready to have an effortless style just like First Lady Michelle Obama …

Click here if you’re ready for your Style Session.  

How it works:

You’ll get an email confirmation, we’ll schedule the appointment, you’ll fill out a quick survey and we’ll get down to transforming your style in 45 minutes. Then, when we’re all done, I’ll send you your Personal Style File so that you can reference my hints, tips and resources for you. Easy peasy!

PS. For these virtual styling sessions, the offer is good for the first 10 people to step up in style or until 2/21/12, whichever comes first. So, don’t delay if you could use a boost in your style tool belt!

Inspired Style: 2012 Golden Globes

Submitted by catherine on January 19, 2012 - 1:53 am

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It’s officially awards season and you know what that means … gorgeous gowns!!

This year, instead of simply oo-ing and aww-ing over the gowns, I wanted to take it one step further for you to help you discover your own personal inner style.

Here is my breakdown of some of the best looks and what they say about your style. You don’t have to pick one favorite. You can have a few. You likely don’t have one facet to your style, but a menagerie of influences. This will help you identify those so you know better when you go shopping and/or style what you’ve already got in your closet. As Oprah so wisely says: “When you know better, you do better.”

So, what was the outcome for you? Write down the list of descriptors you have and see if it resonates with you. Take note of what elements you loved (or hated) about the styles. This gives you insight into colors, fabrics, silhouettes, and feeling you go for with your style. Finally, see if you can come up with STYLE phrase that is uniquely yours. For instance, Quirky Classic, Mexican Resort Eclectic, etc. Then, when you go shopping, keep this phrase in the back of your mind so you only buy pieces you love and feel like you and YOUR style!

If you look at these women in their magnificence, I hope you realize that it took a team to help them get ready for this one event. Experts in each field – hair, makeup, style and even fitness and nutrition. Having all that help makes the whole endeavor a lot less time consuming, a whole lot easier and the experience way more fun. If you’d like your own version of the experience for a fraction of the price, check out U*styled’s TOTAL TRANSFORMATION package and you’ll get your own team of experts making your life and style a whole lot easier and way more fun!

ESSENCEntial Style

Submitted by catherine on July 7, 2011 - 8:27 pm

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What IS Style?

Submitted by catherine on May 11, 2011 - 1:32 am

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Is it an essence? Is it innate? Is it learned???
All of the above!

Your essence relates to your ‘inner style’ … your preferences, how you wear something and the confidence you radiate as you enter a room.

It’s innate because you know exactly what works for you, what goes with what and the colors that will make you stand out in the best possible way.

And it’s learned because we’re continually evolving in our bodies, in our lives and, of course, in our style. As my dad always told my brother’s and I: ‘you’re not finished with your own project.’ I may have been a teenager at the time, but it still seems true.

As we grow into our bodies and confidence, our style evolves. It becomes a more true representation of ourselves. Not just what we think it should be or what the trends dictate.

Not to mention that even those who seem to be BORN stylish really had to learn somewhere. And that may just have been a very stylish mom they were lucky to have! Of course, even if your mom wasn’t the Jackie O of the neighborhood, she still had valuable lessons to share with you.

It is through the evolution and process of learning about yourself and your style that your style becomes innate and an essence.

And it all starts with mom!

Some of the most valuable style lessons I learned from my mom (and grandma):

Don’t leave the house without your earrings. Though I had to provide a compelling argument to convince my mom to get my ears pierced before I was 13 (the first attempt at age 5 didn’t go so well) and I so desperately wanted them, I still wouldn’t wear earrings regularly. Now, of course, I see the value in always wearing earrings – even if it’s the only accessory you wear. They add color and sparkle right next to your face to enhance your complexion and complete your outfit.

Black and Brown worn together is very sophisticated. When I was younger, I was SO adamant that you couldn’t wear black and brown together. To the point that if I was wearing brown shoes and didn’t have a brown bag, I would carry a brown makeup bag as a purse!! Eventually, I started playing with this combination and now I love it! It IS sophisticated. Another supposed ‘no-no’ color combo that I love is Black and Navy. Tres Chic (and slimming!).

Silver and Gold mixed is very French. If you know me, I’m quite the francophile, so when my Grandma (also a francophile) shared this with me it didn’t take much convincing! And of course it makes sense. Leave it to the French to toss aside ‘rules’ and mix silver and gold because, really, who cares? If you like it, do it!

Pull it together. Both my mom and my grandma have always been very particular about their appearance and it definitely rubbed off. Even my workout clothes coordinate! I just can’t help it. But what it comes down to is that when I put in the effort to pull together a look (including accessories), no matter how simple or the occasion, I feel more confident and poised.

Have a Signature. My grandma is always in stylish separates, her good walking shoes (even her walking shoes are stylish!) and some statement accessories. She has the best collection of costume jewelry! My mom loves red which is so appropriate for her personality, so she wears a lot of it. Not a lot of people can get away with red and even I don’t wear it that often. I do, however, adore a bright blue.

Confidence is Key. Who hasn’t felt awkward from time to time? I’ve definitely had my moments. And when that happens, I just slap a smile on my face and stand a bit taller. A little confidence goes a long way in having a memorable presence. Maybe that’s why Mom was always telling you to strand up straight??

These are just a few of the things I’ve learned and carry forward with me. What about you? What has your mom taught you that has helped shape your style? I would love to know… and so would the rest of the U*styled community … so, please share your lessons with the rest of us!

Secrets of Style

Submitted by catherine on April 12, 2011 - 8:50 pm

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Many women I meet seem to think that they don’t have great style. They’re unsure of what they’re wearing and buying. So, they may create a uniform out of boredom. Or, they simply don’t try.

While, a uniform can be a great resource for a busy professional woman, it most definitely can’t be boring! Your wardrobe and style is an extension of your personality and mood. The way you’re dressed both expresses and impacts how you feel … about yourself and throughout the day.

Pretty powerful!!

Think about why we have women we look to as ‘Style Icons.’ What is it about them that makes them seem stylish? Universally, the answer tends to be the same, though two-fold: It seems so easy and effortless AND it’s an authentic expression of herself.

Really, style doesn’t need to be intimidating. YOU have style! If you’re not feeling confident about your style, you simply have to access it.

Whenever I work with a client, I access the foundation she’s already created and simply tweak it for her. This is why I love starting in a client’s closet. I bet you have an amazing wardrobe and you wear only 35-50% of it! What a waste. Imagine if you incorporated the rest of your clothes into your rotation? Amazing! And it becomes SO much more fun to get ready in the morning!

It comes down to discovering and teaching a few key things to my clients for them to uncover the secrets for themselves …

Know yourself
If you’re going to feel great about your style, it needs to be a true reflection of yourself. Your clothes and wardrobe should work FOR you! This means taking into consideration your lifestyle AND your personality.

So, what do you do each day? Are you in casual or formal environments? Who are you meeting? Are you active or at a desk? Are you chasing kids or meeting with clients? What you’re doing each day will determine what you’re wearing. And the frequency that you do different activities will determine how to build a wardrobe you love that really does work for you.

In terms of your personality, consider a few adjectives you would use to describe yourself. Now, you want to incorporate those ideas into your style. Are you creative, free-spirited, a bookworm, classic, athletic, etc.?

The bottom line is that if you’re trying to be something you’re not, the disconnect will be apparent and you may find that people don’t respond or relate to you as you would like. Even if you work in a corporate conservative setting and you’re a free-spirit, you need to have a bit of that free-spirit element in your style while still being work appropriate. Trust me, it’s possible!!

Shop Smart
You don’t have to have a huge budget to have a great wardrobe that works FOR you. For instance, I prefer to start in a client’s closet and re-work everything they already own! And there are so many resources for buying quality, designer goods at crazy savings!

The key is knowing when to spend versus when to save. I could go into so much detail on this which will probably have to be another article. (If you’d like more on this, please comment!)

For your basics, you should spend as much as you can afford. These will last in your wardrobe for years. They should fit you perfectly and work with your body type. These pieces are what I call ‘Closet Staples’ and stand the test of time. You will always need a dark blazer, a perfect cardigan and a great pair of nude pumps. However, I’m willing to bet that you can still find a lot of these pieces on sale.

For your trendier items, shop at chain stores that take inspiration from the top designers and interpret them at a price point that is much more reasonable. For instance, Zara, J Crew, Banana Republic and even Target! These are what I would call Wardrobe Updates and are prints, colors, fabrics, textures, etc. FUN!

Take Risks
One reason why Carrie Bradshaw’s style is so memorable is because she took risks. Chloe Sevigny is another great example of a risk taker. Even I will take a risk … and sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t. Either way, I’m pushing my boundaries and comfort zone … and even discovering some great new things along the way. This is where you truly experience an evolution of style.

By taking risks you learn what you really like, which colors are best for you, what shapes work for your body type and how amazing it feels to stand out and get noticed!

Have Fun!
Your style is an extension of you and you’re an amazing woman, so don’t hide that! Have fun with color, textures, prints and all of the tips I shared above. Find what works for you and start playing! When you have fun with your style and don’t take it so seriously, you’ll realize it becomes a lot more easy and effortless. You can be honest with yourself about what works, what you like and what the occasion calls for and then you can add a pop of personality. Start with color, then add accessories, then play with color (unexpected and/or sophisticated color combinations), and finally play with proportions.

Those women you look to for being easy and effortless and may feel a pang of jealousy because it looks like they just ‘threw it on and went out the door.’ Well, they probably did! Simply because they’re having fun. They’re wearing what they’re wearing because it makes them feel great. And, it works with their lifestyle and personality.

Blossoming Spring 2011 Trends

Submitted by catherine on March 28, 2011 - 10:37 pm

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Spring is the eternal season of new beginnings and excitement for the future, so it’s no wonder that designers are consistently influenced by this sense of rebirth each year. However, with the economy these last few years, we saw trends that weren’t exactly novel. This year, we’re finally seeing a bit of newness and excitement in Fashion for Spring 2011. Even just this last Fall 2010 we still saw styling and colors that were minimal and sedated.

A few key trends for Spring 2011 …

70′s Influence
In color and styling we’re seeing 70′s influence big time. Marc Jacob’s show was all about the 70′s. In fact, the bright colors and easy, breezy styling carry over into our other big trends. I’m really loving that this is about easy to wear, flowing pieces, but NOT oversize. A great influence is the maxi length we’re still seeing … as well as the midi-maxi – a skirt that hits above the ankles but below the knees. Instead of heavy jersey, we’re seeing lightweight flowing knits and beautiful silks.

Bold Prints
Instead of pretty florals, we’re seeing statement florals and bold graphic prints. Again, there is definitely the 70′s influence in the graphics AND the colors. And we’re not just seeing prints on dresses and tops … we’re seeing prints on jackets, skirts AND pants! Talk about some fun mixing and matching! The beauty of the majority of these prints is that they have staying power in your wardrobe – both because of the color and the prints – especially on dresses and tops. If you’re feeling a bit more visionary in your style, then definitely opt for the prints in jackets, pants and skirts. Have FUN!

Bright Colors
Color is everywhere! Even in shows that were otherwise sparse or neutral, we saw a burst of color … and often in NEON! And I mean NEON! Yellow, orange and green, oh my! To temper the Spring 2011 color palette for those who aren’t quite into neon, we have luxurious purples, reds, greens, oranges and yellows. To be honest, this is much more my style.

If you want to stand out this Spring, choose one, or three of these colors. Yes, I said three and, yes, I meant at once! We’re seeing color blocking again this season. Color blocking can be as simple as two unexpected, yet complimentary colors or as many as four colors. Many designers were showing colorblocked prints and dresses, but just as many were also showing color blocked through outfits – a top, bottom, belt and accessory in 2-4 colors. Yes, exciting!

Easy, Breezy
Let it flow! A major fan of comfortable Fashion myself, this trend really makes it easy and effortless. Think flowing dresses, loose yet tailored lines, jersey dresses, flowing silk, silk jackets, maxi skirts. Layer these easy pieces or juxtapose them with something structured. Either way, it’s gorgeous and easy to wear. The key here is to keep the volume in check. Thankfully, most designers are aware of the female form this year and instead of hiding our bodies, they’re gracefully skimming them for a subtle allure.

Neutral Accessories
From golds, to animal prints and skins to classic nude patent leather we’re seeing a slew of accessories that can go the extra mile in your wardrobe. I’ve long since loved all of these accessories for their ability to both pull together an outfit and go with everything. You can never go wrong if you add an accessory that is gold, animal or nude. If you don’t have any of this in your wardrobe, now is the time to invest. This is a trend with staying power in your wardrobe!

So, now I ask you: What is the one trend you will embrace this season that is outside of your comfort zone? And which trend do you already have in your closet? Finally, which trend are you excited to try???

Red Carpet Ready

Submitted by catherine on March 3, 2011 - 5:57 pm

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Ahh, awards season. More importantly, awards season fashion! I don’t know about you, but that’s really the only reason I watch the shows. Except for, maybe, when the hosts are hilarious and entertaining … which was pretty much just the intro video montage.

For the 2011 Oscars, the writing of the show was just like the Fashions of the night … safe.

Boring!!!

My favorite of the night: Cate Blanchett. While it’s not in everyone’s taste, that’s the point. It’s detailing is beautiful and it’s unique. Cate was the only person who really stood out. And she’s known for being a bit avant-garde in her style. She was true to herself, had some fun with the opportunity to dress up and made a style statement.

Whether you’re going to the Oscars or getting ready for a night out with the girls or your guy …what girl doesn’t enjoy the excuse to dress up?

Sure, it’s comfortable hanging around your house in your (cute, colorful) sweats. But it’s more FUN to get dressed up and go OUT!

U*styled gets you Red Carpet Ready for any Occasion:

Prep: Get the Adrenaline going!
If you have an event at night, get in a vigorous workout before you start getting ready. This literally gets your blood moving and brings color and vitality to your face and skin. Talk about inner glow! This could be a 20 minute run, 30 minute power walk or maybe even a dance session. The point is to get moving! And do something you enjoy so it gets you into a good mood. I promise this is much better than a cup of coffee to wake you up.

Hair & Makeup: Like a Pro
Depending on the event, it’s definitely worth it to invest in someone to help you with your hair and makeup. And don’t think this is just for the celebrities! Why not hire someone to come get the whole group ready? Split the charge and share the experience, how fun!

There is a new trend (at least in Los Angeles) of salons that only do blow drys. Wow. And for $35-50!! That’s a no-brainer. Otherwise, invest in the tools the pros use. My ionic hairdryer changed my life. It made both curly and straight easy and effortless for me. My ionic flat iron did as well. Oh my gosh. T3 is available at Sephora and Nordstrom (both have good return/exchange policies).

If you’re not great at doing your own make up and that’s your only option, set aside some time to venture to your local favorite department store. Head to the makeup section and walk around looking for someone whose makeup you would like for yourself. Ask them for help … these men and women are incredibly knowledgeable. Become the pro. Many lines have freelance professionals who visit their counters to help teach clients how to best use the line. Take notes and ask to try it yourself. Of course, there is an intention to sell, but don’t feel obligated. Like a perfect wardrobe – start with the foundation and build from there.

For your makeup, your focus should be flawless skin. For your hair, your focus should be polished … whatever that means for you, your hair cut and your hair type.

Wardrobe: Your Style Statement
Have fun! Considering what’s appropriate for the occasion (ie: Oscars = Black Tie) create an outfit that is truly you. Add color. Add details. Add accessories. Play with proportion. DON’T keep it simple. Simple and streamlined is for the office, not the red carpet. You want to make an impression, don’t you? Stand out with your Style Statement.

If you have a specific event, then shop well in advance. Even more than a month. You NEVER want to buy something last minute because you need it now. Those are the pieces you only wear once and regret buying. Huge Faux-Pas. Consider what you already have in your wardrobe that you’d want to wear and build around that.

Pull it all in with some control undergarments. Don’t worry. We all do it. Spanx was god’s gift to women on the red carpet. In fact, for it all to lay right, ALL of your undergarments are important. Lines are a huge No-No. Everything should fit well and lay flat. If you need, get a bra fitting. It will change your life. Nordstrom’s Lingerie department has fit specialists or there are numerous boutiques that specialize in finding you the perfect fit.

This is YOUR night! Don’t skimp anywhere. If you are a U*styled fan, then you’re getting plenty of mileage out of all of the pieces in your wardrobe … even special occasion outfits.

Step out: Confidence
More important than the dress or the shoes … this is what you absolutely need to wear to rock the red carpet. Confidence. If you’ve taken the time to have fun with your hair and makeup and play with your clothes, then you should be feeling pretty dang good by now!!!

YOU are wearing the dress, the dress is not wearing you. It could be the most stunning dress or outfit, but if you are in any way uncomfortable or not confident, no one will notice you at all.

This is about standing out and SHINING! Enjoy your moment in the spotlight – wherever that is!

A Case Study in Color

Submitted by catherine on January 28, 2011 - 10:30 pm

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In perusing the Rebecca Minkoff sample sale on Gilt today, I noticed something I had to immediately share with you.

The green dress below completely stood out and I clicked through. Now, if you’ve gotten to know me, you know I’m a little particular. It really takes something to get my attention!

Then, I realized I’d noticed the name of the dress before. So, I scrolled back up and realized that I had seen the same dress, but it didn’t catch me the same way the green dress did.

Then, I noticed it also came in a print. Still, it didn’t jump out to me as much.

There are a few reasons why:

1) The color, obviously. Green is eye catching, black is easily lost as another LBD and the print is essentially neutral.

2) The details. With the black you can’t really see the details. You probably can in person, but they obviously won’t show up on camera. Even in person, the details won’t stand out as much. The print itself conceals the details. For all but the green dress, though the shape is great, the details are lost.

3) Mood. Color persuades your mood. This Green is vibrant and sophisticated. It’s in between a kelly green and a turquoise. So, you feel a sense of freedom, balance, money, transformation, imagination and clarity … to name a few! Black is quite the opposite: power, elegance, formality, evil and mystery. The prints reads as a black/beige which translates to brown: stability and masculine.

So, can you see how important it is to choose your colors wisely?

I would never say you CAN’T wear black since it will always be classic and sophisticated, but I encourage you to consider WHY you’re choosing a color to wear for the day. Also, if you find something with great details, you don’t want them to be lost in the black!

The Inner Game of Style

Submitted by catherine on December 24, 2010 - 11:48 am

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I have a confession to make. I like to lounge around in sweats when I’m not working. When I get home from a day out shopping, the first thing I do is change out of my tight jeans and into my comfy sweats.

Here’s the deal, though … they’re CUTE sweats! And even calling them sweats isn’t quite accurate. The term ‘sweats’ conjures up an image of an ill-fitting and ugly yet cozy marshmallow-esque ensemble.

The point is, while I’m a Style Consultant, I’m also human. And I have my moments when I don’t want to get dressed in the morning as well. But if I’m going to lounge in sweats, they’re still a reflection of inner me … and so they’d better be stylish!

However, I know how to pull it together and make it happen so I look and feel fabulous even when my schedule has me so busy I’d really rather just crawl back into bed.

Though, this wasn’t always the case.

My first job out of college was in the Advertising Accounting department at Robinson May while they were going through the merger with Federated. I thought it was pretty cool that I’d witness a Case Study in Change Management (something I studied at USC) firsthand.

However, as good as I was at accounting, it was incredibly boring for me. Every day I literally threw on my uniform of nice slack and some version of a sweater set or blouse. It was about getting out the door and nothing else.

Since I knew this was a short term job, I was soon looking for my next move. As I researched jobs in the Fashion Industry, I stumbled on Merchandising. OMG! It was the perfect blend of creative and analytical … it was the strategy of Fashion. LOVE!

Unfortunately, it was also really tough to break into. People would go back to school to be able to get a Merchandising job. That wasn’t an option for me (more because I’m stubborn than anything), so I strategized how I might be able to get a merchandising job … including taking another job I didn’t want, just to get a foot in the door at a company.

Fortunately, my dad gave me The Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer to read.

Well, that changed everything. After finishing the book I quickly realized that it was completely possible to get the job I wanted since it was highly analytical and I had a degree from USC, gosh darn it!

2 weeks later, I got the job of my dreams at BCBG!

Very quickly I realized two things:

1) Wow, I really can accomplish anything I set my mind to.

2) I am going to have an amazing wardrobe!

At least my priorities were in order!

The point is, The Power of Intention got me started on this personal growth journey and if it wasn’t for that book and all the work that I’ve done on my mindset and self-image, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today.

I started my business with no financing because I had a passion. I’ve built this business up over the past two years weathering the good times and the bad and you know what … business keeps growing and getting better and better.

While the first year in business as U*styled was admittedly very tough, I never bought into the ‘bad economy’ of it. When I was having a tough time, I worked on myself more than my business. And what happened? Business got better!

You know what else has happened over these past two years? My style has improved. While I was always a resource for friends, I was never as confident as I am now … in business, in life and in style.

By doing the work on the inside, it’s reflected and magnified on the outside.

And that’s really the key to easy and effortless style. Know who YOU are and you will know your STYLE.

Easy and Effortless Holiday Style

Submitted by catherine on December 14, 2010 - 4:31 pm

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BY CATHERINE CASSIDY

The holidays are officially here! That means one thing in particular for you – holiday events galore!

So now you’re not only worried about what to wear to work, that very important presentation or the charity luncheon … you have to factor in holiday events to your wardrobe.

Lucky for you, I’m here to break it down and make it simple. Really it doens’t have to be that difficult and you don’t have to spend a fortune.

U*styled’s Holiday Basics

Sparkle

You might interpret this to be sequins or shine, but sparkle really sums it up nicely. It also makes it a lot more straighforward. Instead of finding that perfect sequin dress, you can simply add a bit of bling to your LBD. Of course! Accessories are the easiest way to quickly update your look! Take a basic look and add some sparkle and you’ve got a holiday look!

Every year we see designer add more sequins and shine to their designs, so it’s a safe bet for you that this is one holiday trend that is here to stay. So, if you find yourself drawn to a great sequin skirt, top or dress, it’d be a smart investment for holiday seasons to come.

Jewel Tones

A little less obvious that red and green, jewel tones get you in the holiday spirit in style! I love me some cranberry and emerald and I see this year after year as well. Easy to incorporate into your wardrobe through accessories (maybe a scarf, a ring or earrings) or with a silk top or a sweater for layering.

Or, perhaps you have this in your wardrobe already … they’ve been showing jewel tones for the last few years now! Another great investment.

Luxe Fabrics

This is one way you can indulge that won’t kill your diet. I love how the fabrics get richer and richer as the holidays get closer. Silks, laces and velvet, oh my!

One thing I love to do is play with mixing fabrics. Try heavy versus light, delicate against tough, etc. I could see a wool with a velvet or a lace … what would you try?

Little Black Skirt

Or, if you prefer, brown. This can be pencil or a-line, depending on your body type, but this is such a staple during the holidays! This goes with anything and makes it quick and easy to pull together a holiday party worthy outfit! Try pairing a silk jewel tone top with your favorite LBS, some great heels, a bit of sparkle through your accessories and you’re good to go!

What are your favorite Holiday Basics? I’d love to know!!

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