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I'm in a serious style rut & need some nestie help.
When I shop, I have two problems: one, I buy cheap clothes. I don't know why...but I have no problem taking home something cheap that's nothing special or doesn't fit all that great. Two, my clothes look like they should be worn by a much older person.
A girl friend talked me through a style intervention tonight as I weeded through a ridiculous amount of new (cheap) clothes to decide what to keep and what to return. Now, I need some inspiration for what I *should* buy. I think a part of the problem is that I know what's too young for me, and I know what's too old for me. I have no idea what's "right" for me.
So here's where I need the help of the fabulous nesties. I'm 28. I work as an on-staff PR person and occasional spokesperson for a large government-related organization. I need to look professional and credible - most of my male coworkers wear a suit and tie - but I want to look my age and show a some personality. What websites/stores/magazines do you turn to for style inspiration/outfit ideas?
Re: I'm in a serious style rut & need some nestie help.
I highly recommend checking out New York and Company and the "Style & Co." line at Macy's. I'm 28, a high school teacher, and look the same age as my students! I was constantly running into the problem of needing to
"look the part" of a professional but on a teacher budget. I find that NY&C has some great "business staples" and basics (there camisoles are unbeatable!) at nice prices and the Style&Co. line at Macy's is good when you just want something new but don't want to drop a lot on it......we're talking anywhere from $15.00 to $25.00 for a new fun top (cheaper if you bring coupons or use your Macy's card) or pair of pants.
I too run into the problem from time to time that something is "too young" or "too frumpy." Unfortunately, that is just where "style" is at right now for women in America. However, I've been pretty successful so far with these two stores. I hope this helps!
I'm kind of in the same boat - I turn towards Anthropologie for ideas and inspiration all the time. It usually works, and I end up buying a couple of key pieces from there and similar pieces that are less expensive elsewhere. Check it out! They've got good flare.
I'd be willing to shop with you at some of the downtown boutiques if you'd like
I always want to go in but my friends like to stay up north.
My advice is that first, you need to look at your clothing as sort of an investment, especially clothing you wear for work. Pick clothing that is classic, as in tailored pieces in classic colors.
I'm a big fan of places like Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, J. Crew, and Anthropologie (though I can't wear their clothes! lol!) for classic styling that is young and fresh.
I totally second the suggestion about finding a personal shopper. I've used one a few times and always came away with clothes that I loved, wore, and felt good end.
Third, Stacy London, Clinton Kelly, and Tim Gunn are totally my style gurus!
I think they have great advice about dressing for your body shape, personality, and age.
I think the key is to pick classic pieces (think Ann Taylor) for pants, skirts, jackets, and mix it up with some younger, trendier, fun pieces for tops and accessories (think Forever 21 or Target). A cami or tank that wouldn't be work appropriate on its own can look professional and age appropriate when paired with a classic trouser and cardigan.
Seriously, though, What Not To Wear is not a bad idea for inspiration!! It has a lot of great pointers on color and accessorizing.
<a href="http://www.thenest.com/?utm_source=ticker&utm_medium=HTML&utm_campaign=tickers" title="Home D
For ideas/inspiration, If there are any celebrities whose style you really like, google for pictures of them or try here: http://forum.purseblog.com/celebrity-bags-and-style/ - or for magazines try Lucky and InStyle.
Victoria's Secret makes a line of dress pants called the Marisa fit and they're amazing. I know there's a lot of talk about how VS clothing is cheap, tacky, doesn't fit well, doesn't hold well, etc. and for the most part I actually tend to agree, BUT I put everyone - literally every single person I style - in at least one pair of them and they're always flattering and I've never had any complaints about them not holding up.
http://www2.victoriassecret.com/collection/?cgname=OSCLOFITMAR&cgnbr=OSCLOFITMAR&rfnbr=2235
Other than that, some other good basics are some tissue tees for layering, a cropped jacket (think Chanel - obv doesn't have to be Chanel, but think that shape), a black blazer, a pair of trouser jeans, and a wrap dress (DVF). You need a foundation of classic, basic pieces that can be mixed and matched - don't worry about things like cute tops right this second.
Anthropologie has gorgeous stuff but it's expensive and it's not really basic wardrobe foundations. For the look you have in mind it's definitely where you could head in the future, but for what you need right now it's definitely not where I'd start.