A Well Dressed Make Up Tip ...

by: Béke Beau, Make Up Artist

Have you noticed the average age of the customers in stores like Sephora? That’s right, about fourteen; unless you factor in their mommies. The mature beauty consumer is more often relegated to the beauty outback of department store counters staffed with amateurs and drugstore aisles staffed with—that’s right—no one.

For the fully-bloomed, solace is to be found in products with names like Cover Girl Age Defying (rhymes with death-defying), Revlon Advanced Radiance (never say the word “advanced” to an old person), Olay Regenerist and Estee Lauder Futurist (how about “Denialist?”) and, in a stroke of marketing genius, L’Oreal Visible Lift (and I thought that the goal was to look rested). It seems that well-intentioned labeling doesn’t guarantee a look that’s age-appropriate; grown women everywhere admit that they still don’t know how to choose products that are right for them.

Even on younger women, bright eye shadows, sparkly glosses and metallurgical powders are not necessarily attractive, especially in the hands of the untrained, and these party-in-a-compact cosmetics can make a grown-up appear as though she’s desperately clinging to youth instead of celebrating her ripeness.

Your personal goal should be to achieve a look that is timeless; learn to purchase functional neutral eye shades and bolder but believable shades of rose, coral and pink for lips and cheeks. And remember that finding appropriate make-up has less to do with your numerical age than the condition of your skin. Frost and shimmer don’t sit well on skin that is losing its smoothness and elasticity, and this can happen to women in their early thirties if they’ve had TMS (Too Much Sun).

Once you have mastered the art of buying the right make-up, you’ll have a ball pushing aside the wee ones at Sephora as you knowingly reach for products that are appropriate for your exalted station in life. More “purchasing power” to you….

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Keep Your Pants Up!

Who doesn't want the look of a slender waistline? Chunky belts used strictly to hold up ones pants creates the same unnecessary bulk as a pair of pleated front trousers (sidebar - if you have yet to purge your closet of these, do so now and come back to finish reading). We're not talking belts as an accouterment of personal style, placed correcting at your smallest point, creating a sexy and sophisticated silhouette. We're talking the heavy leather belt circa 1992 with over sized metal buckle, strung through the actual belt loops. The problem? It adds about 2 extra inches to your waistline. Plus, you can see the buckle under your tops. So super unattractive!

The solution? Invisibelt!

We love these for clients who need a little extra hold with no bulk. The thin plastic belt disappears under you tops, keeps you pants up and gives you a sleek and smooth finish. They offer a few options in colors, but we recommend the clear - or "Naked" as they call it or basic black. The original fits from 0 -14, and plus fits up to a 4x. Cost: $19.95.

"It's not my fault, I love beauty."

Valentino - The Last Emperor, recently out on DVD, is a must have for every fashion buffs library. This deep and often times moving documentary follows the legendary designer and his partner in business and life, Giancarlo Giammetti, over the course of their final 2 years in business, all leading up to the most spectacular fashion retrospective and final runway show in the history of haute couture.

In our world today, where every celebrity with a love of skinny jeans and Birkin bags can magically become a "fashion designer," there are only a few true designers left - ones who actually sit down with their own unique vision and create art. This new flux of "designers" are simply the brand names, with teams of other designers creating the collection for them to stamp with their logos. Is there a place for this in retail? Yes. Will we wear it? Of course. Should we call them designers? No way - they're marketers. What Valentino and his generation of master designers do is completely different and should not be compared to the same process of someone like, say, J.Lo. These fine craftsmen should be honored in a class all by themselves.

The film goes behind the glitz and glamour of fashion - though there is plenty of eye candy - to show just how much work goes into building, maintaining and growing such a revered brand. From Valentino sketching and approving every detail of every garment, to a studio filled with the most hard working Italian seamstresses, hand sewing thousands of beads onto one 1/2" strip of fabric, to Giammetti negotiating and mediating the set up of the retrospective honoring Valentino's lifes work ... it's a fascinating, intelligent and at time hilarious 96 minutes.

We get a glimpse at the private life of Valentino and Giammetti, peek inside their decadent lifestyle and see how two people have learned to live, love and work with one another for over 50 years (inspirational whether you love fashion or not). The love Valentino has for his clients and beauty is also apparent as he so sincerely, yet comically states when asked why he designs these sorts of creations, "I love beauty ... it's not my fault."

Not his fault indeed, and the timing of his retirement is in alignment with the changing industry. At times, the feud between Valentino and the private equity group, Permira, is like watching the generations in battle, the old world , art focused Valentino combative with the young, bottom line driven stakeholders. I found myself sympathetic to Valentino but understood that at the end of the day, a business needs to make money. For his time, Valentino created glamour and beauty and maybe everything isn't always about the money. Perhaps, his dedication to his craft, admiration for women, and commitment to excellence is the lesson learned.

You'll find a little something for everyone with glamour, history and humor at the top of the list. So invite your most fashionable friends over for a fancy viewing at la sua casa, don your Valentino red and serve up some champagne! A little glamor never hurt anyone.

The open toe bootie phenomenon

The crisp fall air in Philly has fashionistas across the city happily packing away their flip flops for the newest trend in footwear: the phenomenon that is the open toe bootie. Fall 2008 teased us with the idea. Fall 2009 will introduce it across the board, from Neiman Marcus to Payless. Meaning, love them or hate them, this trend will be rampant for at least the next season. Personally, I am surprised by my enthusasim for them and how many of our clients are interested in giving them a try.
The key to wearing this particular trend ... if you would like to, is to keep the peep toe on the small side. Only expose a hint of toe, after all, this is still a cold weather shoe. Look for details such as croco embossing, patent leather and studding. Keep the color basic so it creates more outfits, stick to black, brown and dark grey. The picture above is a fabulous option by Steve Madden, with stud detail that just slightly winks at the 80s inspired looks of the season.

The boot itself should be substantial, with a solid stacked heel and sole. While the weather is still warm enough, go barefoot. (A proper manicure is as important now as it is with summer sandals but choose a dark polish). As the weather cools down, a thick, opaque tight will add dimension to your look. For the daring, a contrasting tight in plum or dark green will add a pop of color, the rest of us conservative babes can keep it monochromatic. These look best with a skinny pant, and long chunky sweater or keep it stream line with a slim cut suit, light blouse and layers of long necklaces. It can also be done with a flowy dress as it creates an interesting contrast.

Keep your price point low with this one, this is not a life long friend, but a fun visitor to your closet always up for a good time. You will have tons of options under $100 (and well below) to satisfy your own curiosity while not breaking the bank. There is a fantastic grey option under $30 at Target and a black alternative at the same pricepoint available at Payless.

Fashion should be fun and all looks are not for all people, if you have walked past these in the shoe department and gazed upon them wondering if you too can pull them off - you absolutely can! If you feel fabulous in them, chances are you look fabulous too! Happy Fall ...

The Latest Kristel Closets, Inc. Newsletter

Take a peek at Kristel Closets, Inc.'s latest newsletter. This is a supplement to our monthly newsletter, which will be back in a BIG way in September.

http://tiny.cc/AYtwY

To sign up for our monthly newsletter and style tips, visit our website at http://www.kristelclosets.com/contact.html

The September Issue - Anna Wintour and the Making of Vogue

I have been reading Vogue since I was 10 years old. Back then, I barely understood what I was reading, but I loved the language and elegance of the magazine. As a shy little girl growing up in Philly, it gave me a much needed escape and opened my eyes to a world I didn't know existed. I very clearly remember wanting to know who was in charge of such a masterpiece, what was she like, how did she get there and could I, maybe, be a part of it.

Now, with a business of my own, I am fascinated with other successful business women. I study their philosophy, style and work ethic. They inspire me, so much so that I often find stamina I never thought I had, or a brilliant idea will magically come to mind. Anna Wintour is one such inspiration.

While my approach to management differs greatly from hers, I'm also not running the most revered publication in the world of fashion. Her decisions alone make or break designers, and her instincts have launch the careers of some of the most successful, young American designers to date. I often laugh when critics dismiss the fashion industry as a frivolous and unessential. Do we sometimes take ourselves a bit to seriously? Of course, that 's the fun of it! Let's not forget, though, this is a billion dollar a year industry, responsible for more jobs and economic growth then these "I'm better then fashion" naysayers can wrap their heads around.

On September 10th, Vogue, because of Ms. Wintour's dedication to growing fashion - as an industry - created "Fashion Night Out." A night long extravaganza organized to "reinvigorate the industry and boost consumer morale." In these economic times, what a fantastic idea! The event will take place in 13 other fashion capitals across the globe and has trickled into the Philadelphia area. King of Prussia mall, our very own local shopping mecca, will host an evening of fashion and fun. They have been quite about the details but rumor has it that Tiffany & Co. will have Audrey Hepburn's little black dress from Breakfast at Tiffany's on display. So make it a point to come out, have some cocktails and maybe buy a new dress for fall. Lord knows the economy will thank you.

If that isn't exciting enough, at least to me, on September 11, "The September Issue - Anna Wintour and the Making of Vogue" will be released in limited theaters. We hear, locally, the Ritz and Bala Theaters may be showing it. The trailer alone sends my heart a flutter and I find myself with a big goofy grin on my face by the time it is over. I feel like I will finally get to see everything I wanted to know when I was ten. Gather the girls, plan a dinner and get lost in the glamour and excitement for 90 minutes. We'll be there, hope to see you too!

What you really need to know, before you shop

Over coffee this morning I caught a segamant on the Today Show featuring O Magazines Creative Director, Adam Glassman. Adam discussed the 6 questions you should ask yourself before go shopping. For the most part, they are great tips, based in common sense. However, they could use a little more explaining and clearing up. To view the segmant click here.

Only spend what you have. Basically, if you make $25k per year or are in debt over your head, skip the Burberry trench. Over spending and leveraging credit consumers really didn't deserve is how we got into the current economic mess. If you buy what you can afford, retail will eventually adjust and provide better priced items - we are already seeing the response from stores like Dress Barn and Kohls, items are fashionable and extremely budget friendly.
Look for the lowest price. This doesn’t mean heading to your local super store and stocking up on pants for $16.99. If you only shop at Target, you will have a wardrobe filled with disposable clothing. Gain an understanding of quality, which doesn't neccesarily mean the most expensive option. Take advantage of department store sales and coupons. The concept of "price per wearing" is not a new one. Base your math on owning the garment for 2-3 years. If you get more than that at the end of the garments life cycle, consider yourself lucky. It definitely happens, but too many factors come into play to expect to get 20 years out of all your clothes. (I am, over course, not talking about true couture, which you should and would have your entire life.) Use discount stores to stock up on trendy items you want to try and dispose of them guilt free when you move to the next. Also, make sure you can wear each new pieces at least 3 different ways, and know the combinations before you purchase the item.
Shop with a list. You have to, otherwise, you end up with shopping bags filled with mismatched items. We recommend keeping a small note book in your closet or on your night stand so as you get dressed and realize you are missing something – even as simple as hosiery, jot it down and grab the book before you head out. Before the beginning of each season, take some time to review your wardrobe, bring in a friend as a second eye, do a quick purge and see where the holes are, this keeps you on point and organized.
Dress your Body. Amen! Every time we work with a new client and begin preparing their clothes for our tailor, you would think we discovered the Holy Grail. They are shocked that "regular" people get things tailored. Yes, you need a tailor, because, as Adam affirms, every garment needs something – and it makes a tremendous difference. We recommend setting aside 10 – 20% of your budget to cover alteration fees as they add up quickly.
Longevity. I understand what Adam is saying here, a smart purchase is one that you should be able to live with for a good long time. Where I disagree is in the length of time he illudes a garment will last. Clothes, even the most classic of pieces, have an expiration date. If you are wearing these items regularly, taking the price per wearing challenge, with frequent cleanings, garments will eventually show their age. Additionally, styles change, so if you are still sporting a “classic” black suit from the early 90s, it’s time to repurchase - you look out dated. Fabrics, cuts and most importantly, silhouettes change. In order to look modern, the cut of your garments need to be current. Speaking of changes, let's not forget our bodies, the shape of a 40 year old woman will be much different than her future 60 year old self. So, think to yourself if you will like it for 10 years, but don’t expect it to still be around.
Only pay in cash or debit. Sure, or practice self control and put it on a credit card that gives you points or cash back. I personally use American Express, not only are you protected … there have been occasions where I was charged twice, I called Amex and they removed the duplicate transaction – no hassle on my end, but they also offer a great rewards program. We paid for almost our entire holiday list last year with our points; it’s a great way to make your money work for you. Amex is the same as cash since you have to pay it off at the end of each month anyway.

The bottom line: take the time to prepare, shopping haphazardly will lead to nothing but a mess of a wardrobe. Make considered purchases, respect them, and you will look and feel amazing - without the stress for years to come.