Do’s and Don’ts of Summer Dressing in the Office

Posted on May 3, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

Summer is almost here and some of you, we won’t name names, have a pair of flip flops or two planning to accompany you into the office. Before you don this accessory, please read our tips! It’s our goal to help you Flaunt It without losing your professional image during the work day. Let’s get ready for summer in style!

Office Don’t – Flip Flops by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring floral pattern shoes

We’re going jump right into it with the flip flop issue. It’s thrown around every year and at Élan Image Management we say NO to flip flops! There are too many chic alternatives that will keep you comfortable during your commute and even during the day in the office. Many shops like DSW and Payless have very affordable ballet flats perfect for summer. Instead of getting two pairs of flip flops get a pair of ballet flats and keep your professional image intact this summer and be just as comfortable.

The next issue is short skirts. In the winter months you may be able to get away with a slightly shorter hemline since you are most likely wearing opaque nylons. In the summer when it’s HOT, HOT, HOT it’s important to be even more mindful of our skirt lengths over bare legs. Style your summer skirts to hit at the knee if they are A line or flared or no more than an inch or two above the knee if the style is straight or pencil. Full cotton skirts will still be airy and breathe without showing off more than you bargained for. Both of these styles are from White House Black Market. They are made of natural materials like cotton and silk and hit at the knee. Style them with a button up blouse or sophisticated shell for the office and couple with a light blazer for a more tailored look.

For more tips on finding the perfect A-line skirt read our post on the New 50′s Style Skirt.

Not in the Office by fortheloveofblueshoes on polyvore.com

We are not letting you off the hook until we discuss bare arms. Depending on your office a sleeveless shirt may be okay; but spaghetti straps, racer backs, one-shoulder, and strapless styles are NEVER office appropriate. Going to the gym or a cocktail party these silhouettes can be very stylish. Save them for just that and invest in professional pieces more suited to your work environment.

This Ann Taylor Pleated Colorblocked Shell is a standout piece for the office. Sophisticated color palette can be worn with black, navy, charcoal, or white bottoms. This shell is very summery yet still covered up. A cap or short sleeve shirt is another option. This Pleat Neck Top, which comes in an assortment of colors, would look great tucked into those two knee length skirts.

Other (we hope!) obvious Don’ts for the office: shorts, distressed jeans, metallic or shiny fabrics, sheer fabrics, overly revealing necklines, exposed bra straps, logo’s Tees, any dress that can pass for a beach cover up, and any item that you don’t feel confident in if you were to bump into your company’s CEO or your most valued client.

When shopping for your summer wardrobe plan out different pieces for the workday and weekend. This time of year you will probably have a bit less crossover than in other seasons. When in doubt, err on the side of caution. Another option is to walk with a light jacket so you always look like you mean business.

For more summer dressing 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.

Transition your Wardrobe from Winter to Spring with Ease

Posted on April 25, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

Those few weeks in-between seasons can be the toughest to dress for. You’re always too hot or too cold. Add in your office temperature, which will probably be the exact opposite of the temperature outside, and your outfit will feel doomed before you even put it on. We’ve got a few pieces we think will make this transition a little easier.

Of course lightweight scarves are a no-brainer this time of year. Check out our post a month ago on Layering With Scarves for ideas.

For comfort on top go for layers. Cardigans will be your best friend this time of year. We especially love short sleeve styles. They give you an extra layer of warmth that isn’t to heavy if the temps rise midday. You can easily style a cardigan over a bold print or simple cami to work it into your wardrobe. For everyday layering, select a classic style like this Caslon® V-Neck Elbow Sleeve Cardigan. We found it at Nordstrom in 13 different colors! To get that pop of color everyone wants this time of year, a colorblocked cardigan is the way to go. We love the mix of pink and orange on the hem of this style from Lauren Hansen.

We would say it’s safe to pack away the heavier wool and fully lined pants, though you probably don’t need to pull out capris just yet. Summer weight wool is perfect for this time of year. This pair of black trousers from Banana Republic is a nice option for the office. They are made of a light weight wool and elastine blend, sit at the waist with a classic mid rise, and are a straight leg. The perfect pair of black trousers can make your wardrobe transition.

For days with a nip in the year you may want to pair your slacks with a trench. Check out Our Favorite Trench Styles of the Season in this past post.

Shoes are also tricky. You’re ready to pull out the open toes, but then your feet are freezing. Try a peep toe pump instead. You can show off your pedicure without exposing your entire foot. Nine West Flute Peep Toe Pumps look great for spring with light canvas and tan piping. These can easily be worn with trousers, skirts, and dresses all season long. We also really like these Movit Pumps to wear with those black pants.

Never underestimate what a pop of color can do to your wardrobe. Even a long sleeve blouse can instantly feel summery with a bold print. This yellow stripe is versatile enough to be worn with jeans on the weekend and grey trousers during the work week. Floral poppies from DVF provide the ultimate spring palette. Always have a lightweight jacket on hand to layer on top this time of year.Either of these shirts can be paired with a jacket, for warmth or extra formality. Choose a grey or tan jacket for optimal versatility. For more ideas, read our post on Layering with a Jacket.

It only takes a few strategic layering pieces and the right basics to transition your pieces between seasons. Don’t be afraid to embrace color to help with the transition. We’d love to hear your ideas as well!

For more tips to help you style your summer, 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.

Thanksgiving Wardrobe Tips

Posted on November 18, 2011 by Natalie

Thanksgiving is right around the corner. And whether you’re inviting company to your home or visiting friends and family, you want to be sure you look great—especially when it is the perfect occasion for a photo opp! Here are 6 tips to ensure your wardrobe is on point on this special day.

1. You want to make sure that you’re dressed appropriately for the company you’re with. So for example if you’ve visiting with your significant other’s family, it’s probably best to err on the side of modesty and try a look that is classic and timeless. Pair a sweater or cardigan and shirt with a wool blend skirt (or sweater dress) and tights for a look that will ensure everyone falls in love with you. Add a scarf in a fab color for instant oomph.

Knit dress with leggings and scarf

2. Comfort is important. Especially so when you’ve eaten way more than you needed to and are apt to feel bloated. If your chosen look requires that you have a flat stomach you may want to think about an alternative. Tight fitting jeans—probably not the best idea. Instead why not pair leggings with an interesting tunic top (embellished perhaps?) and a sporty boyfriend jacket or sweater coat. You will be comfortable, stylish and have enough room for any extra belly bulge not to show. This outfit from Banana Republic may do the trick.

Tunic and legging combo

3. Hanging out with your friends and want a more fashionable look? Consider a knit dress or tunic length sweater in an easy drape and a color that makes you look amazing and pair with tights and hip boots to keep your look modern.

4. If your crowd is a bit more upscale you may amp up your sophistication factor by opting for a great tailored jacket with pizzazz paired with a great pair of slacks and killer bling. Consider a great pair of shoulder duster earrings or a fabulous necklace. Skip the arm candy for another occasion.

Look smart in tailored jacket and slacks

5. Walk with an extra layer as you can’t be sure if you’ll be too hot or cold. I love a colorful scarf or wrap for exactly that purpose.

Be casual and comfortable yet polished

6. If you’re going to be helping with the food preparations you need to have on hand comfortable shoes. Ballet flats are a winner as are flat riding boots. Sorry, no sneakers please!

All outfits are available at banana republic. Have a comment? I’d love to hear from you.

Natalie Jobity, Image Consultant and President Elan Image Management. Author: Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It

My Fav Swimsuits for Top Heavy Women: Elan’s Picks

Posted on June 26, 2011 by Natalie

Without much ado, here are my top 5 swimsuits for top heavy women

Bikinis
Women with large breasts really need proper support. Bikinis are fine once the top has the proper underwire support to keep the bust lifted. This full coverage bikini from Victoria Secret is a winner.

Asymmetrical one piece
If you are a busty woman with broader shoulders than your hips, you’re going to want a swimsuit that visually narrows your top half so it balances out your lower half. This one shoulder is excellent because the asymmetrical shoulder is very supportive, the ruching at the waist is very figure enhancing and the print is very alluring. Go for it! Available at Victoria’s Secret.

Deep plunge one piece
With one pieces, you absolutely want to look at a deep V neck or wide U scoop necklines which enhance your bust. To avoid? Little itsy bitsy tops or stringy halters that look at odds with your proportion and provide zero support. Also any top that adds bulk to your breasts. This bathing suit, from Miracle Suit hits all the right marks. Figure flattering to your décolletage, side ruching to enhance your waist and great support at the bustline. Available @ Bloomingdales.

Halter swimdress
This halter swimdress is great for a top heavy woman with wide shoulders and narrow hips. The halter top provides support for the girls while the ruffle skirt adds balance to your wider top. Plus it’s so darn cute! Plus if you have a hint of a tummy all the ruching in the middle will cinch you in comfortably. Suit from Juicy Couture @ Bloomingdales.

Convertible tankini
I love this tankini for a top heavy woman with broad shoulders. The suits neckline highlights the shoulders while the neck wrap tempers them at the same time. The top can also be wrapped in multiple ways depending on your style preferences. It’s a two piece tankini so you have complete coverage with the flexibility of a two piece. And the print is a great camoflager (if needed). Available @ Shape FX.

For more figure flattery tips, I highly recommend picking up a copy of my bestselling book: Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style. Full of tips, advice and motivation to look great regardless of your size and empowering you to Flaunt It.

Natalie Jobity, professional image consultant, AKA The Image Diva, Elan Image Management

Visit my Facebook Community page for ongoing tips and expert advise!

The Truth about Style Transformations

Posted on June 11, 2011 by Natalie

I want to talk to you for a moment about the transformation that results when a woman takes the time to refine, revamp or revitalize her image.

For some women, it just takes one style consultation session with me at the right time, when they are primed and ready to take action to achieve quick and life changing results. This group is a lucky minority! For some women, transformation is slower, more paced, more trial and error, but successful nonetheless in the long run. I would say this is true for a third of my clients.

Still other women need multiple ‘sessions’ to make it ‘click’, for all the pieces to come together before they start to see the results they seek. This is probably true for the majority of women. For the rest it is a lifelong refinement, a continual tweaking, an ongoing quest and desire to shine as brightly as possible. I have a special passion for the ladies who recognize the value in investing in themselves this way and continually seek to up their style game. Some of the most fabulous women I know fall into this category!

The point is the journey is unique and individual to each woman, pretty much like in life. I was a ‘late bloomer’ in most facets that give meaning to that phrase. I survived a very gawky teenage phase, endured a very self-conscious 20′s, and really only started to realize my brilliance physically and in totality much later in my life. Our journeys to self -acceptance and embracement are as unique as we all are and I wanted to take time to acknowledge and celebrate THAT!

Regardless of where you on your own journey, be present, be authentic and really go for it. Reach for the stars and push yourself to be as brilliant as you can. If we collectively take that approach, think of all the twinkling, shining, magnificence that we’ll manifest. Awesome!

Natalie Jobity, Elan Image Management, image consulting

Oprah’s Finale Dress: On brand and On Point

Posted on May 26, 2011 by Natalie

Oprah has evolved into a style icon in her own right. She has found the perfect hairstyles and makeup to complement her features but more significantly understands how to dress to flatter her killer curves. If she has taught viewers anything about style is how to be comfortable in your own skin and look fabulous whether you’re an 8 (her smallest size) or a 16+. What I have always loved about Oprah is how she showcases her feminine sensibilities in understated ways and embraces color in its full glory. Who can rock yellow and hot orange better than Ms O? She wears every color under the sun and looks amazing.

For her show’s final episode, her complete look was a slam dunk. The well coiffed hair flipped up at the ends, the makeup to perfection (subtle smoky eye), her nude heels and THE dress. It was the perfect choice in my opinion. She chose a soft pink, silk dress from designer L’Wren Scott that was custom designed for her. Every detail from the chiffon belt off to the side, the wide scoop neckline, three quarter length sleeves, nipped in waist and just to the knee length, worked to enhance Oprah’s curvy figure. The fit–sublime. The effect–stunning!

The color choice was perfect. Pink as a color conveys softness, femininity, approachability, and warmth. This was perfectly aligned with her core message in her final show-a show dedicated to her fans. She thanked them for their lessons and for letting her share in their journey’s but she also uplifted and inspired by using her own journey as an example. "There are no coincidences" she underscored. She shared that the past 25 years have been a divinely inspired master plan (led by God) that allowed her to use her stage as her platform. She wanted her fans to takeaway simple truths and the things she knows for sure from 25 years helping people live their best lives. Her look, her message, her persona were all aligned. I listened to every word.

Oprah, you are loved and your show will be missed.

Natalie Jobity, Elan Image Management, image consulting

What to Wear? Comfortable yet Stylish Shoes for Work

Posted on May 13, 2011 by Natalie

As an image consultant and personal shopper one of the questions I get asked most often is where to find comfortable yet stylish shoes for work. It amazes me that many women will forgo wearing skirts and dresses because they do not have the right type of shoes that give them the comfort they desire yet not frumpy. My answer is typically that options now are so much more plentiful than they used to be. Designers like Naturalizer, Aerosoles and Cole Haan have made comfort a priority in their shoe designs.

Naturalizer has a whole line–the N5 comfort series designed for women with these challenges in mind. There are also brands like Sofft shoes, Born, Dansko and Munro Italian that can be found in major department stores that offer designs that are a more fashion forward than your grandmother used to wear, while still keeping the ‘comfort first’ mentality in tact.

I typically advise women to look for a shoe with at least an inch and half heel to wear with skirts and dresses because a slight heel will be more flattering than no heel at all (in other words ballet flats really can’t be worn with a sheath dress!). Also examine the type of heel. A kitten heel with a narrow base on the bottom is infinitely harder to walk in than a block or wedge heel. Some platforms can also be forgiving in the comfort department.

So you don’t just have to take my word for it, here are a few stylish options for work that keep your foot comfort in mind (all available at Nordstrom).

Anyi Lu Dainty pump

Sofft Napoli III

Cole Haan Lainey pump

Munroe Odetta pump

Anyi Lu Soul pump

Naturalizer Verstood Mary Jane

Paul Green Faith pump

Trotters Jaden sling back

ECCO Coventry pump

Softspots Sherise pump

Colre Haan slingback

Natalie Jobity, image consultant, Elan Image Management

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

Posted on April 27, 2011 by Natalie

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

Dress to impress: 5 tips to dressing like a winner

Posted on April 13, 2011 by Natalie

We’ve all heard the phrase “dress to impress” but when you get to the nitty gritty what does it really mean? Dressing to impress is more than just the clothes you wear. It is your total image presentation, including your clothing, how you accessorize, how groomed you are, your poise and posture, non verbal cues, and more. Because research has proven that people make first impression judgments about us primarily based on how we look, the “dressing” part of dressing for success is very critical.

Dress like a winner and you’ll find that the way the rest of the world interacts with you will change for the better. So how does a winner dress? Here are five tips.

1. They own their signature style. Your style is an integral part of who you are—it is your personal stamp. A woman of style has a particular way they carry themselves–it stems from confidence but its more than just that. It’s perhaps the ultimate physical manifestation of their self expression.
2. They understand the benefits of investing in high quality clothing. High quality is not mean the same thing as “expensive” or designer brands. You can find quality clothing at many price points. But the common denominator is that the clothing is manufactured well, holds up to multiple washings and wears well over time. Moreover it fits well because it is made with better fabrication and attention to detail.
3. They ensure their clothing fits them impeccably whether they are wearing a suit or a sheath dress. Have your clothing altered by professionals as needed or pay attention to the designers and brands that work well for your figure and proportions. When your clothing fits you well you feel better in it and are able to exude mire confidence.
4. They pay attention to the accent pieces that impact their image and make them a stand out. Accent pieces are like the bow around the wrapping of a present—it makes the gift look more pleasing to the eye, more polished. It is the same with your ensembles. Accents your shoes, handbag, jewelry and scarves punctuate your look and takes your image up several notches.
5. They look fabulous regardless of the occasion and know that the way they dress speaks loudly about the type of woman they are. They choose classic or timeless designs. They don’t follow fashion trends but instead invest in clothing uniquely appointed to reinforce their style, lifestyle and preferences. In many cases they are the type of women we all look up to and admire.

Natalie Jobity, Elan Image Management, an image consulting firm

Flaunting It with the Image Diva Blog Turns 4 Years Old

Posted on April 7, 2011 by Natalie

Time sure does fly!

I started this blog three years ago to get me in the habit of writing consistently. As an added benefit, I discovered it was a great way to share tips, advice and resources to my clients and visitors of my web site. That added benefit is perhaps the main reason I continue to blog. I am SO inspired by ways I can educate, inform and empower through my posts. But perhaps even more profoundly, my book "Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style" was written ‘almost’ effortlessly because I had such great content I’d written over the years in this very blog that I could use as muse. It’s been awesome.

Over the years I’ve written posts about dressing to flatter your figure, the impact of color, accessorizing with ease, wardrobe do’s and dont’s, new fashion trends, celebrity red carpet critques, great brands I love, how to wear/what to wear almost every item of clothing for women, dressing to impress, professional presence, expressing your unique style, style deal breakers, dressing the pregnant body fabulously–I can go on and on. I’ve covered so much ground in three years that this Elan Blog truly is a go to resource for women seeking to enhance their style, image, fashion sense and wardrobes while staying true to themselves. It’s been a privilege sharing with you!

My goal this year is to raise the bar higher. To share more real life transformation stories with readers and to provide even more advice that can truly impact the way you look and the way you feel about how you look. I started blogging before many fashion bloggers and in the beginning I was REALLY on a roll. The frequency of my blog posts have slowed down in the past year but not my passion for my work as an image consultant. There is so much I want to share with you about being the brilliant, magnificent light you already are. My mission will be to continue to elevate women the world over by empowering them to show up as ‘their highest, finest vision of themselves’ as stated in my new book. Look for more ‘yes you can!’ types of posts in the months to come.

Thank you for your continued support! It is because of you I get to live my passion and leave my fingerprint on this earth.

Natalie Jobity, The Image Diva, President Elan Image Management, an image consulting firm

Flaunting It with The Image Diva

A Style, Image & Fashion Blog: so you can look Fabulous for all your occasions

Category Archives: style, elan, flaire, fashion sense