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.

What to Wear to a Spring Wedding? Your Personal Shopper Has Ideas

Posted on April 19, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

Wedding season has commenced and will be in full swing before you know it. With June being the biggest month for nuptial bashes, you might as well start planning your summer wedding wardrobe now.

Luckily this is the season for the feminine floral dresses. They are perfect for day and afternoon weddings. Plus they can even make an appearance at those lovely bridal showers. If you prefer to keep your arms covered, a long-sleeve dress like this floral wrap number from Maggy London is simply fabulous. The draping, length and bold floral print are perfect for virtually any figure type. Stick with the neutral heels and demure jewelry to keep it all about the dress. Nic + Zoe Blue Blossom dress simply blooms in a mix of aqua flowers. With a simpler silhouette like this, a bold statement necklace or cuff bracelet wouldn’t be out of the question.

If you’re planning to attend an evening wedding, you may want to splurge and glam it up a touch more in a long gown. Something like this Roberto Cavalli Geometric Print Gown still showcases bold print. This is a statement-making gown that is quite sophisticated for evening, even in jersey fabric. With a simple updo and diamond stud earrings, there is something very glamorous about this look for an evening wedding.

Want something more classic for evening but still on trend? This black lace Eliza J dress is just perfect with ruching on the side to whittle your waist for optimal figure flattery!

For more formal eveningwear styles we just love lace and embroidery! A neutral shade is a nice alternative to black for a summer wedding. As long as the bride has opted for white or ivory over champagne shades, you are in good shape with a lovely look like this 2-piece set form J Kara. We also found another nice alternative if you prefer sleeves. The lace bolero styling on this Navy Blue Tadashi dress is very sophisticated and pretty timeless.

To get the maximum mileage out of your summer wedding wardrobe, a well made convertible dress can be a great option. The more ways you can style it the more weddings you can wear it too! We all appreciate being able to wear the same dress to more than one event. This Twobirds Convertible Jersey Dress in lavender can be reworked 15 different ways! They even have a video on Nordstrom’s to show you how.

Any one of these styles would be a beautiful choice for a summer wedding. Select a style that fits and flatters you. The more detailed the silhouette, or bolder the print, the less you need to accessorize. Neutral shoes make for an easy add on and a simple clutch will hold your necessities. Have a little fun shopping for your summer wedding wardrobe!

Stylist Tips to Make a Colorful Handbag Work for You

Posted on April 9, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

Have you employed a little spring cleaning to your handbag? It’s probably time to ditch the spare gloves in favor of a compact umbrella. While you’re at it, why not ditch the boring black bag too? Opt for a pop of color in the form of a colorful handbag. We’ve got three looks to show you how easy it is to incorporate a bold bag into your work day ensembles.

Add Color! by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring leather tote bags

Neutral outfits are an easy place to start. Any one of these bags could be worn with any one of these outfits. Which means they could probably also be worn with just about anything in your closet.

Mix and Match Green Messenger BAg by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring kate spade handbags

Professional outfits, like suits, can make playing with fashion daunting. We’re here to show you a bold messenger bag can work with your business attire. Follow the inspiration and mix and match your suit right along with your bag for a bold look. A boxy messenger is a great way to tote your laptop, ipad, or paperwork to and from the office.

Coral Bag Office to Casual by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring pointy toe flats

A pretty coral bag can easily go from the work day to the weekend without skipping a beat. What’s more, it can be paired with bright colors or in a more coordinated way. Let’s break this down. For the office, we picked a bright yellow striped cardigan and paired it with a full skirt and neutral heels. Yellow and Coral are both warm shades that pair nicely together. So don’t be afraid to wear bold with bold. Then on the weekend we did something we seldom showcase, matchy-matchy. It works here because it doesn’t feel overdone. Flats are casual as are the jeans. We picked a short sleeve woven blouse instead of a t-shirt and finished the look with a matching statement necklace.

See, a bright colorful handbag isn’t as impractical as you imagined. In fact, it’s a pretty fierce alternative that kicks up your look for spring/summer. Treat a handbag like any accessory and don’t be afraid to play with color.

For more fashionable tips to help you flaunt it, 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.

Business Casual Style Using Colored Denim

Posted on March 28, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

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 by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring bdg jeans

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 by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring ballet shoes

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.

Welcome to the New Elan Image Management Website. Celebrate Our Launch With us!

Posted on October 19, 2011 by Natalie

I’ve been quiet lately I know. But it’s been for good reason. I’ve been hard at work rebuilding my website and now I can finally announce that it has officially launched! The new Elan Image Management web site has the same URL but a totally new look and feel. From my updated Services page, to a new Resources section to a Press page that highlights where I’ve been featured, the new site has so much to help you on your quest to fabulous. More videos, more articles, more ways to serve you! Please visit. I promise you will be inspired.

To help celebrate my site makeover, I’d like to help you with your own personal one so you have “Presence with a Purpose” TM. The kids are back to school, and we’re smack in the middle of the fall season which means the holidays will soon be upon us. Now it’s your time to shine! There is no better time to polish your image so you look fabulous for all your holiday functions. For a limited time we’re offering a 90-minute Holiday Makeover Special to help you find the right outfits for your upcoming office parties, family gatherings, holiday galas and more. To find out more send me an e-mail at Elan@ElanImageManagement.com and put Holiday Makeover Special in the subject and your contact information in the body. Also write a sentence describing what you need most help with.

October is breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is the perfect time to schedule that mammogram and to start practicing healthy self-care practices. Read this self-care article on Amazing Women Rock for some more ways you can take care of yourself so you look good and feel fabulous too.

Here’s to Purposeful Presence!

Natalie

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

Natalie Jobity’s Joins College World Reporter with Fashion Statements Column

Posted on April 6, 2011 by Natalie

Little Rock, AR – January 11, 2011 – The College World Reporter (CWR) is proud to announce the addition of fashion expert and certified (AICI) image consultant, Ms. Natalie Jobity, to our team of professional writer advisors. Ms. Jobity will assume the responsibility for writing our CWR Fashion Statements column.

Ms. Jobity is president of Élan Image Management and founder of "Mission 1 Million Makeovers: Change Your Image, Transform Your Life," and she is a sought after image consultant based in the Washington, DC metro area who provides services to both women and men nationwide. She is also the author of Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style.

Natalie conducts workshops and seminars on a variety of image topics for organizations, companies, women’s groups, teens, and college students, including ‘Dress for Success’ seminars and workshops. Ms. Jobity works with young women and men individually to coach them on how to dress to achieve their highest image potential which facilitates their future success.

"As America’s premier online student empowerment and career transitional magazine, The College World Reporter has the responsibility to help readers understand the importance of dressing appropriately in today’s highly competitive marketplace. The addition of a quintessential fashion expert and image consultant such as Natalie Jobity provides our readers with a resource that we feel is unequaled in the industry," said CWR publisher Donell Edwards.

Natalie is a graduate of Rutgers University (B.S. in Accounting and Economics), Cambridge University (Masters in Finance), and City University of New York-Baruch College (MBA in Marketing).

Edwards says "Anyone with an interest in learning how to improve their skills in dressing professionally will benefit greatly from reading CWR Fashion Statements and learning from Natalie ."

For more information contact The College World Reporter at TheCWR@CWRMagOnline.

About The College World Reporter: The College World Reporter (CWR) is the premier online student empowerment and career transitional magazine in America. The magazine provides information and expert advice to students and all readers, and also has a number of outstanding student reporters in many foreign countries who participate in the magazine’s Virtual Cultural XChange (VCX) Program. The magazine is at the forefront of a growing student empowerment movement and is evolving into a full fledged student empowerment organization.

Look Stylish and Feel Great as you Drop the Weight (Part 2)

Posted on March 17, 2011 by Natalie

We blogged about the challenge of dressing a changing body back in January and gave you 4 concrete tips to help you look and feel great during weight loss. Weight loss is a time of change and any change is a little scary. Modifying your wardrobe to adjust to your smaller frame is one more change many women find hard to grasp mentally and emotionally. Weight loss is so deeply tied to our self-image and that get’s so personal doesn’t it? These tips are meant to ease you into these changes with less frustration and angst. After all, you are in the midst of achieving an important milestone that is all about you—getting to your ideal, healthy weight. So awesome for you!! Here are a few more tips to help you look as good on the outside as you are feeling on the inside!

1. You may be used to ‘hiding’ your figure in big, bulky or baggy clothing. No more! Hiding actually makes you look bigger and definitely frumpy. Avoid boxy, baggy, loose, bulky clothing or anything that adds the appearance of unnecessary weight on you. This means thick fabrics, too many layers, and designs such as double-breasted jackets, flared baloony skirts, cargo pants with flap pockets where you don’t need them and elastic waistbands. We don’t want you to look like a boxy rectangle or an oval anymore. We want you to revel in your curves and flaunt them. Your new goal is to accentuate, enhance and highlight. Start looking at yourself objectively. What do you like about your new body? Find at least three things. Focus there. Look for details in clothing including vertical seaming, empire waists, ruching, pattern or print to highlight your best features and truly embrace them while camouflaging areas that still need work.

2. If you have a tummy (or remnants of one), try slightly longer tops with some contouring or cinching near the waist. This is critically important so you avoid a square silhouette. A peplum style jacket in a soft fabric is your best friend; it can camouflage your tummy and is very figure flattering. Steer clear of elastic waist bands or front pleats which only make your tummy look bigger. Flat front pants with side or back zips are wonderful and have the added benefit of flattening out your tummy.

3. Many plus size women feel they must wear black because it’s a slimming color, and typically restrict themselves to an all-black wardrobe. I want you to embrace color ladies. This is your time to shine! If you want to start with baby steps, know that any dark color is flattering and slimming, so consider, cranberry, grape, forest green, magenta, navy, brown or plum, which all look fantastic if you choose the shade that best suits your skin tone. But don’t be shy to experiment with bright colors either. Hues like turquoise, yellow, orange, salmon, coral, fuchsia and kelly green have a fun, playful, free vibe. These shades can add spice and sass to your wardrobe and much needed variety. Bring it on.

4. No one’s shape is right or wrong, good or bad – they are just different. As you get close to your ideal weight, learn to make friends with your body, and like any friend, love it for its positive features and be compassionate towards those that may still need work. If you are a good friend to your body it will return the favour in kind. Suddenly you’ll realize it wasn’t the enemy after all—that was just in your head. Your body loves you. Love it back. Get very clear on your figure type and how best to highlight your assets and minimize flaws. All women have to do this. Once you master the art of figure flattery, you will be unstoppable. Take my word for it.

Look for part 3 of this series next month!

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

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Your Style Your Way: White Shirts, You New Best Friend

Posted on February 24, 2011 by Natalie

Every woman needs a few white shirts in her closet. It is absolutely a Wardrobe Essential. White shirts are forgiving, easy to wear, easy to wash, comfortable, classic, can be dressed up or down and (my favorite) are great layering pieces. What’s not to love?

But so many women opt to get the plain old white shirt—you know, the one with no flair, no detailing, no shape that in effect looks like a shirt their boyfriend or hubby would wear. That is not the white shirt I want hanging in your closet ladies! The boxy, menswear inspired plain white shirt is blah, is boring. We want you looking fashion forward, to show you have a waist (or pretend you have one if you don’t), to look sophisticated and classic yet fashionable. And it’s so easy to do. It’s the difference between choosing a shapeless shirt versus one with style. What to look for? Details such as princess seaming (for fit), an unusual collar, ruching (for shape), pleating, puffed, balloon or flared sleeves, spandex to ensure the shirt fits and is not baggy.

This cute safari shirt from White house/Black market is the ticket. Can also be worn as a jacket

These little details make the difference between looking tired and stale and looking stylish. How you wear your white shirt is also important. If it is tunic length it can be belted for a hip look. If it is more cropped (hitting right at hip bone) and very fitted this is a great look to pair with pants that are belted or skirts that have a waistband you want to show, or your favorite pair of jeans. Wear a fitted longer length white shirt under a fitted short jacket for a trendy look. Or wear your white long sleeve shirt with a vest for an up-to-date look–like I am rocking in the photo below

Like I said the versatility of the white shirt is what makes it so great. You can never have too many—seriously. And the options available this season are SO cool you will by multiples because you won’t be able to pick just one.

Natalie Jobity, Elan Image Management, image consulting. Author: ‘Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style’

Flaunting It with The Image Diva

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

Category Archives: wardrobe, closet, what to wear