Category Archives: celebrities

Business Casual Style Using Colored Denim

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It’s hard to miss this trend- colored denim is showing up everywhere!  Have you bought a pair yet? Since we did recommend it as a Must Try Spring Trend, it’s only fair we show you how to work this versatile pant into your work wardrobe.


All the celebs are flaunting colored denim this season and some with more polish than others. If you’re going for this more casual bottom in the office make sure it fits nicely, not too tight. Also topping it off with a blazer will instantly up the professional ante.  We’ll use these celebs for color inspiration and recreate our own looks you can take to work.

Green Jeans for Spring

For business casual or casual Friday in the office try a look like this. We paired green denim with a print blouse and easy black blazer. Together these pieces are polished with a touch of rock and roll attitude. A pair of neutral heels is the perfect go-to accessory when you’re not sure what to wear on your feet.

Colored Denim for Work

A cardigan can also help create the polished look you’re going for. As you can see, any color of denim will work. So pick your favorite shade and have a little fun. We paired these looks with patterned ballet flats and matching bags. Finding something with pattern or color-blocking takes the look from “matchy-matchy” to sophisticated with  high-end flair.

We hope this inspires you to break away from simple black pants this Spring. If you’re not comfortable wearing denim in the office try looking for similar styles and colors in chinos or trousers. When trying to create outfits with your new colored denim start with neutrals and build on your selections as your confidence grows.

For more tips check out Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style. It is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.

How to Wear a Lace Dress for Work

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Lace is a big trend in fashion these days. With celebrities turning up left and right wearing lace in revealing ways, it’s hard to interpret this trend into your professional wardrobe.  In the right silhouette it can be the perfect dose of femininity you’ve been looking for.

Mila Kunis lace dress and jacket

Mila Kunis does lace perfectly in this simple dress and white coat. It’s important to note that there is nothing revealing about this look. Her dress hits at the knee and falls in an A-line. The neckline is a flattering scoop that hits around her collarbone. Even covered up, Mila looks ultra-feminine.

Tahari by Arthur S. Levine Lace Overlay Crepe Sheath Dress
Create your own version with one of these lace dresses. Add your favorite blazer or trench coat to complete the outfit for the office. Both Tahari by Arthur S. Levine Lace Overlay Crepe Sheath Dress and Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon Lace-Top Sleeveless Dress have a sophisticated feel. Notice the lace is only used over the bodice and the dress is finished with a streamlined pencil skirt.

Inspired by Mila Kunis Style

Inspired by Mila Kunis Style by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring studded belts

If you’re in love with Mila’s style as much as we are, you’ll appreciate this quick inspiration. Aside from the shape and style of her dress, we also loved the matching peep toe pumps and contrast accessories. Not everyone can wear soft blush. As you can see this style works with a variety of colors.

Nanette Lepore Homecoming Lace Dress
Of course lace is great on weekends too. Nanette Lepore Homecoming Lace Dress is adorable for brunch with friends or even a more casual work outing. Follow this models cue and pair the dress with a neutral shoe.

Lace can easily carry that professional polish you want to exude in your work life. Make sure the fit is flattering without being revealing.  Layer on a blazer for added polish and look for colors that work for you.  Luckily this season you can find beautiful laces dresses in just about any color! Most importantly, have a little fun adding color and texture to your work wardrobe. Stay tuned, we’ve got more fabulous color inspiration coming soon.

Plus Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style, has everyday tips to help you along the way. It is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.

5 ways to Revamp your Look for 2012

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As we head into the New Year and you’re planning out your New Year’s resolutions, are you considering your image? We’re not talking about weight loss or major transitions. We have 5 quick and fun ways to revamp your look for 2012.  Try 1 or give all 5 a go. A New Year is a great time to try out a  new you.

1- Try a New Hairstyle!
Emma Watson Emma Watson Pixie haircut
A new color, highlights, or cut will give you a fresh perspective. Just like Emma Watson put her Hogwarts school days behind her with a swift pixie.

2- Add Color!
Nordstrom.com Remain Twisted Trim Cardigan
It’s so easy to get stuck in a rut of wearing all black. Especially for city dwellers. Give your wardrobe a kick start with some fresh hues for 2012. Even layering in a cardigan, like this tangerine example from Nordstrom, can give your wardrobe an added punch. It’s supposed to be a THE color for the coming year.

3- Add Pattern!
DVF Spring 2012 RTW DVF Spring 2012
As long as you are adding color, why not play with some bold patterns. This is going beyond a tweed pant or houndstooth jacket. How about paisley, brocade, or animal print! These two graphic patterns were on the DVF runway for Spring.

4- New Makeup Routine!
Makeup trend to try in your thirtiesTired of the applying the same old eyeshadow and lipstick? It’s time to switch things up. Ginnifer Goodwin tried out these teal accents for the Costume Institute Gala at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

5- Wear Heels!

We know it can be tough when you are on your feet all day. But a great pair of heels instantly makes you feel and LOOK taller and thinner! Who doesn’t want that for the New Year? If Kelly Rippa can run in them, along with a few hundred other ladies, what’s an 8 hour day?

However you decide to usher in the New Year, these quick changes could give you the motivational boost you need to land those other resolutions.  Happy New Year!

Runway photos courtesy of Style.com.

Stylist Secrets for Disguising the Holiday Pounds

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It happens to all of us, a few extra pounds tend to line our waistlines this time of year. Between the good food and cozy weather, it’s hard to beat the bulge. Don’t worry, you’re a quick New Year’s resolution away from getting back in shape. Until then we have a couple stylist secrets to help you disguise those holiday pounds.

Hiding Holiday Pounds

Hiding Holiday Pounds by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring black pumps

Layer with structure! Cozy sweaters are nice, but a structured jacket or blazer will do much more for slimming your physique. Play with color, texture and silhouette. We’re showing you two different blazers (which both have very forgiving shapes!) and an on trend lace top in this look. As you can see there is no need to button the jacket. A polished look with a pencil skirt and high heels will have you standing taller and naturally making those holiday pounds disappear. Plus you’ll look chic!

Avoid satin or shiny materials and belting on the outside of garments when you’re feeling a little bloated. These two things can draw attention to your tummy area which you are trying to minimize.

Stylish Tucked In Blouse

Instead, thread your belt through your belt loops and tuck in a loose shirt. (Just be careful the belt doesn’t add more bulk to your middle). The light billowing nature of your top will give an easy distraction to any tummy bulge. Not that Miranda Kerr has anything to hide, but it gives you the idea on how to pull this look off. We paired our top with jeans for an easy weekend look.

Most importantly dress comfortable. Not sweatpants comfortable, now. But wear something you won’t be trying to adjust all day long. Feeling good in what you wear gives you the confidence to pull any look off, extra pounds or not!

Even models have ‘frumpy’ days

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We revere models. We want to look like them. We think they have close to perfect bodies. Perhaps? Well I’m here to say hogwash! Find me a model who isn’t dependent on her stylist to look pulled together, and I’ll  show you a woman who struggles to get her look down pact like everyone else. What we often forget when we drool at glamor shots in magazines or watch celebs on the red carpet or being interviewed on TV is that 9 times out of 10, that woman (or man) has had a lot of help and time to look fabulous. There are glam squads behind the scenes, makeup, hair, wardrobe stylists, you name it, to ensure that person looks polished from head to toe.

Want proof? I want to use this post to share photos of two models who are having off days (in my esteemed opinion). Clearly the wardrobe stylist or image consultant had the day off. The first is the usually fab Selita Ebanks at a recent Prada event. Two words: School Marm! I mean really, this looks out of date, out of proportion and simply not well executed. Yes her makeup is pretty, but not loving the hair. Yes there is a necklace but the top washes her out and is so baggy and then  paired with the overly long ‘granny’ skirt, that it ages her by 10 years at least. And sorry, not digging the shoes either which could easily pass for running shoes. Thumbs down on this ensemble!

A better interpretation of this look keeping skirt intact? A more fitted, body contouring top in a color that pops with her skin (let’s say bubble gum pink). Then a belt at the waist to give further definition. I would change the necklace to one that had an edgier vibe. Finish off with nude tone strappy heels so there is no mistaking that she is young hip and gorgeous. Can you picture the difference?

I present next, popular model Christy Turlington. That boxy black jacket with a white lace summer dress? Really? This simply does not work-the black overpowers her face and is just too heavy for the white lace. Her hair pulled back with minimal makeup does nothing to hide the starkness of the jacket. I feel like I want to see a necklace to break up the drab. And again the shoes–ick! This looks like she was trying to be comfortable yet stylish but so did not pull it off.

What would have made this look work? Lose the black heavy jacket and instead opt for a cute cropped number in blush or even light denim. Hair needs to be down so the look says feminine casual. Drop earring and an elegant necklace would be great compliments. No black bangle but instead maybe a collection of skinny silver ones stacked together for a relaxed vibe. And the shoes? A wedge sandal in nude (still comfortable) or a cute ballet flat with a bow or other accent. Better!

 

I am being overly harsh in my critique of these models, yes. It is just to make you, average woman reading this post feel emboldened to know that ‘perfection’ is just an illusion. And even those we hold on pedestals can fall from grace quickly…without the help of their glam squad

Natalie Jobity, Elan Image Management, image consulting. Author: Frumpy to Fabulous, Flaunting It

Elan Image Management, in Cinematique! Film Inspired Fashion sponsored by The Art Institute of Washington

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I was delighted to participate in the Cinematique (film inspired fashion) gallery exhibit, presented by the Art Institute of Washington, created to help celebrate female film fashion icons by creating a contemporary look inspired by one of their iconic style scene stealers.  Stylists chose classic film icons like Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady to more recent stars like Angelina Jolie in Salt, providing a diverse and eclectic perspective of fashion in film.

All exhibits were displayed on dress forms with associated accessories and props with posters and profiles of the film and leading lady and a bio of the stylist/designer’s inspiration  prominently displayed on each wall. The presentation is superb and views like any museum class exhibit. I only wished there was more space to feature even more designs.

Natalie Portman/ Black Swan

As the most experienced professional stylist participating in the exhibit I created two looks:  The first from perhaps one of the most leading film fashion icons of all time, Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Audrey as  Holly is the epitome of classic elegance. I played with the idea of using the many black dresses she wears in the film as my muse. But instead of an LBD I wanted to do two pieces, a skirt and a top that gives the illusion of one piece. I also wanted to make it more dramatic while still keeping it sophisticated by playing with the idea of varying textures.

Audrey Hepburn/ Breakfast at Tiffany’s by Natalie Jobity, Elan Image Management

The top here is intricate, with a ribbed texture and a peplum like silhouette that upps the glam factor. The skirt is a pencil skirt with a fluted back and  I styled the outfit with the skirt worn reversed so there was more drama in the front . Again there is the play on texture, this time with an African lace fabric. The skirt is a collaborative creation by L~Shandi (a local designer who uses African lace as her signature) and I and the reversible skirt idea was birthed from dressing ‘Holly’ for this exhibit. This ensemble is a more modern silhouette that still pays homage to Holly’s style, while making her more obviously alluring. The texture adds creativity and drama to the look, in keeping with Holly’s character. The texture also reinterprets the pairing of black on black, but the look is still sleek and upscale. Accessories add panache and also remind us how much Holly loved her pearls.

One of my favorite exhibits was Foxy Brown in the movie by the same name. This outfit was styled by a faculty member and it is simply fabulous. Mod print in an empire waisted floor length jump suit is SO now and reflects perfectly the sensibilities of the Diva that was Foxy Brown. We all wanted to grab that jumpsuit off the mannequin!

Foxy Brown/Foxy Brown

Another stylist created a very girly/edgy version of Uma Thurma in Kill Bill. She chose to take creative license and styled a ballerina inspired dress (Tulle and all) with a belt with a real sword in a holster. So the ultimate in femme fatale—dangerously girly and completely unexpected. Dressed to kill is an understatement!

Uma Thurma/ Kill Bill

 

My second exhibit is inspired by one of my favorite movies of all time, The Sound  of Music with Julie Andrews as Maria. My inspiration for my ensemble is the heartwarming scene where Maria and the kids are out and about and she is teaching them to sing ‘Doe Ray Me’. She is shown wearing jumpers and full skirts of varying lengths in many of the outfits from this scene, and she is appropriately casual yet still so ladylike.

Julie Andrews / Sound of Music as styled by Elan Image Management

I wanted to update Maria and dress her in a casual, fun ensemble with the same sensibilities. My foundation garment is a pretty, polka dot, brown and white skirt with embroidery and eyelets at the hemline.  I paired the skirt with a fitted brown cotton/Lycra top and a white blouse, so the outfit had the feel of a jumper without being one. The blouse plays to the romantic sensibilities while the sleek top gives off a slightly alluring vibe—just enough, because after all, she is a former nun.  The straw hat and bag are well appointed to give her a polished, yet still effortlessly casual look. This is Maria, but a modern Maria, dancing and singing in the park with the kids, all girlish and coquettish…in 2011.

Natalie Jobity’s wall in Cinematique

The Cinematique gallery exhibit, presented by the Art Institute of Washington and organized by Tanisa Sharif, held its opening reception on Thursday April 21st showcasing the styling and design work of professionals, up and comers, faculty and students .  The small but very impressive exhibit will run through May 28th at Gallery 1820 at The Art Institute of Washington and is a must see for fashion and film lovers alike.

Natalie Jobity in front of Cinematique entrance

Natalie Jobity, Elan Image Management, professional image consultant

Recent survey reveals startling findings on women and their perceptions of self image

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Times are really changing. Gone are the days when women view their biggest ‘looking their best’ day as their wedding day (for better or worse) but instead their first job interview. What? Yes!

A survey conducted in December 2009 by The Florida Department of Citrus released findings of the “Grapefruit Guide to Glamorous Moments Poll” recently, which reveals American women’s true confessions on their diet, weight loss, and beauty regimens.

Results show the extreme measures women will take to look their best at key events and the relative importance they place on weight, fitness, and conventional beauty. Topping the list?

  • Apparently, the value women place on looking good appears to be skin deep. Nearly four in ten women would choose wrinkle-free skin over the gift of a new car.
  • Two-thirds (66 percent) of women who try to lose weight for a glamorous occasion admit that they have followed a fad diet in an effort to generate quick results   rather than a long-term healthy eating plan.
  • Nearly seven out of ten (67 percent) women have avoided being photographed at special events because they felt unhappy with their appearance.
  • If given the choice, 81 percent of women would rather lose two dress sizes than meet a celebrity they admire, and a shocking 44 percent of women would rather lose $5,000 of their income than gain 20 pounds (what recession?).

 

A full list of results can be viewed on our multimedia site: Florida Grapefruit

Also on the site are healthy eating and lifestyle tips from our new partner, celebrity nutritionist Carrie Latt Wiatt, who currently works with Fergie of the Black Eyed Peas.

So what do these statistics tell us? That we need to start taking better care of ourselves from the inside out and stop looking for quick fixes. More importantly, if we really want that flawless complexion and that toned body for our ‘red carpet’ like moments we have to work consistently at it. Proper eating habits, exercise and healthy beauty regimens are the way to achieve our outward image goals and to feel great about our appearance regardless of the event.

The Image Diva, Elan Image Management, image consulting

 

Look Stunning with These Tips on fit, color and accessorizing

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The Oscar red carpet is the crème de la crème of red carpets and we all wait in anticipation to see what our favorite celebs would wear. For me, as an image consultant I’m always curious to see who I think nailed it and who missed the mark. Definitely a lot to learn from the fashions at this year’s event.


What makes stunning?
I have two favorites for who just looked amazing from head to toe. First, Meryl Streep. Simply sublime. Kudos to Project Runway alum Chris March who designed this figure flattering drapey shawl collar creation. Meryl is a vision in this classic white tuxedo inspired gown which fits her impeccably. And every detail works, her hair, makeup, silver clutch and diamond earrings, bracelets and ring all by Fred Leighton. She looks fabulous.

Steve Granitz/wire.

Demi Moore, looks so stunning in a very feminine diaphanous salmon gown designed by Atelier Versace. Silk ruffles cascade down the skirt with a fitted strapless bodice on top. The color looks amazing on her, it fits her like a glove and her gorgeous drop earrings and diamond cuff are just the details that make for a slam dunk.
So what makes these two stunners: Gowns that fit them and suit their personality. Colors that work for their complexion. Accessories that punctuate and enhance. And hair and makeup that finish off their looks .

Jason Merrit/Getty

The Importance of getting color right
I am a big proponent on women wearing colors that make them shine because it can have such a huge impact. I am always amazed when some celebs walk the carpet in a beautiful dress that just is not the right color for them. At Sunday night’s Oscars, Penelope Cruz in a deep wine dress got her color right—she radiates in her dress because her dark hair and eyes and skin are enlivened by that color. Gabourey Sidibe also rocked her cobalt blue off-the-shoulder dress by Marchesa.

/ Frazer Harrison/Getty

AP photo/Matt Sayles

Who got color wrong? Julianne Moore just disappears in her white dress. It does nothing for her. A snooze. Diane Kruger, also missed the mark with a creme dress with black accents. Not crazy about the dress’s design (Chanel) and the color does not help. Washes her out and the black is just too jarring.

Kevork Djansezian/Getty

 

Ap/ Chris Pizzello

On the Flip side, I love fuchsia and I love that Vera Farmiga dared to wear that color in her very constructed Marchesa ruffled gown. But if you look long enough you’ll realize you are staring at the dress and not her face. Why? Because the color is too strong for her skin eyes and hair. In other words, the color is wearing her- not such a good thing.

Jason Merrit/Getty

Lesson, if your dress is not the right color it does not matter how gorgeous your gown is, you just won’t nail it. Read more in my article on 6 ways to wow with color

The Image Diva, Elan Image Management, image consultants

Fashion Trends, Hits and Misses at the 2010 Grammy Awards

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Like the other award shows this month, the Grammy’s red carpet is a platform to showcase the trends that are sure to flourish in spring. One trend I am really digging is the bold  pop of color. At the Globes we saw a lot of purple (Sandra Bullock) and cobalt blue (Maggie G). We also saw some stunning white gowns—no one looked better than Kate Hudson at the Globes! At the Grammy’s, Fergie gives us a taste of color in her Pucci colbalt blue mini. She looks stunning and stands out from the pack because there really wasn’t a whole lot of color on the Grammy red carpet. But there was plenty white, black and other neutrals.

Steve Granitz/ Wire Images

White: Lada Gaga made her entrance in a white Armani Prive dress. Read my critique on Lady Gaga at the Grammys.

Stunner Rihanna, mixed it up and wore a long Elie Saab gown that pretty much covered her up head to toe. This gown is overly worked and not flattering on the singer. Feathers, chiffon armored looking cap sleeves—we can’t see her youthful frame and it’s just TOO much. Sorry Rihanna not a winner.

Steve Granitz/Wire Images

Carrie Underwood also strutted on the red carpet in a white gown. This one I loved for her. Simple yet elegant. Fresh and fashion forward. Ethereal and angular at the same time with its one shoulder design. All in all a lovely balance of aesthetics. This is a feminine look with an edgy side, which pretty much describes Carrie.  Her accessories add a beautiful finishing touch. Carrie looks like she can float away on a cloud—so easy and effortless. Kudos!

Larry Busacca/Wire Images

Black was also a theme at the Grammy’s just like the Globes. Singer Ciara probably wore the most risqué design with her lacy peek a boo black Givenchy haute couture ensemble. I loved how she kept her makeup clean and simple and accessories minimal—the outfit had enough going on!

Larry Busacca/Wire Images

Jennifer Hudson wore head to toe black (literally) in a Victoria Beckham design. I don’t mind the dress, really. I like that as a curvier, larger size girl, Jhud goes for it. She shows appropriate cleavage and dresses to enhance her assets. But I think the dark black hose, shoes and hair with the straight long black bangs makes her look too somber though. Its all too serious—in stark contrast to Carrie. Jhud I love you in color—embrace it girlfriend!

Larry Busacca/Wire Images

Dark blue was also a hit at the 52nd Grammy awards. Taylor Swifts looks so glamorous and sophisticated in her off the shoulder, glittery navy gown designed by Kaufman Franco. Her dress fits her impeccable. Hair and makeup perfection. Authentic as usual. Wavy hair her signature . Love her long dropped diamond earrings. She looks so beautiful.

Steve Kranitz/Wire Images

Glee actress Lea Michele made her Grammys debut in a navy minidress from Romona Keveza  that was both sexy, stylish and fun. Accented with a full shredded chiffon skirt, one shoulder design and cinched waist she looked gorgeous.

Kevin Mazur/Wire Images

Neutral shades were also popular on this red carpet. Beyonce wore a blush colored gown. Read my article on Beyonce’s look . Singer  Katy Perry looked exotic in an Indian inspired,  nude, floor-skimming. flower-embellished Zac Posen dress. I like the idea of the dress but I’m not crazy about it on her. The color doesn’t work, the styling does not enhance and its forgettable. Snooze.

Larry Busacca/Getty

Pink whose performance was the hit of the night won my award for best neutral toned dress and contender for best dressed period. I love the scalloped tiers, the ombre color design from silver to blush to gray to black. Her body never looked better and this dress flaunts it. Way to go Pink!

  Steve Granitz / Wire Images

The 52nd Annual Grammy Awards live  Jan. 31 at 8 p.m. ET/PT, on CBS.

The Image Diva, image consultant and President of Elan Image Management

Grammy Award Style Icons in 2010

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It’s red carpet awards season and one of my favorites is the Grammy Awards. This is one award show that holds my interest, especially on the fashion front. The styles on the red carpet tend to be more avant garde , bolder, more dramatic than the other shows and the outfits worn by the performers can be jaw dropping. I can’t wait to see what singers like Rihanna, Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Fergie and Kate Perry will wear.

First Lady Gaga. Lady Gaga makes a statement—but do we expect anything less?  Practical, of course not! But it makes us all go ga ga that she dares to pull it off. And so she does. I’ve been writing about personal style and Lady Gaga is the quintessential Diva. What makes a Diva? The Diva seeks attention and that ‘star quality’ by being overly dramatic in her choice of cut, silhouette, color or design. The Diva is all about standing out so she will break rules and march by the beat of her own drum just to command attention and create shock value. 

Describes Lady Gaga to a ‘T’. Tonight she wears a white  Armani gown that looks like a pop up hamper was the inspiration. Ultra short in the front and completely impractical. Poker face (pun intended). Crazy heels, wires, sparkles, glitter all make up her ensemble. I’m not sure how she’s going to sit down in it but it’s all about making an entrance, right?

Beyonce: Beyonce looked more demure than usual  in a blush satin gown from Stephane Rolland. The neutral fishtail gown with train  showcases her bronze complexion. The dress features  contoured details and construction emphasizing her famous curves. True to style, she is rocking oversized earrings this time in bold gold to match her nail polish.

There is a lot going on in this dress; construction, design and texture are all competing for our attention. The seaming details, longer sleeve and plunging neckline are other accents. I like this dress but I don’t love it on her. It’s a little too much. I much preferred her in Ellie Saab at the 2006 Grammy’s. Beyonce’s sense of style is dramatic and in that sense the dress does not disappoint. But the earrings are overkill and jarring to me.

She may not have won my award for best dressed but the singer has already won song of the year for ‘Single Ladies’ tonight. Up for 10 awards she is sure to take home many more Grammy’s.  Congrats!

The Image Diva, image consultant and President of Elan Image Management,