I call our first meet/talk time the "Style Vision Session", during which we will discuss... no surprise... your vision!  Together we will dig into how you personally envision your wardrobe or home, the real reasons why this is important, how you'll feel when you're able to get to that place, and how I may can help you in your journey! This complimentary chat usually runs about an hour, and can be scheduled in person or via web chat, whichever your preference.

Your signature style is unique to you and comes from your style personality and certain styles that you know that you wear well.

It doesn't mean looking the same everyday! Instead, people will begin to positively associate you with a particular look that is just "you." For example, you may like to experiment with different types of accessories like belts, hats, or scarves. Or you may prefer bright colors instead of more muted tones, or vice versa.

To go a step further, your signature look could eventually evolve into your personal brand. Your personal brand should stay consistent over time, for the most impact. (Imagine if Nike changed their "swoosh" symbol - after all these years!)

So what is your signature style? It may be something so subtle, that you don't even realize that you're doing it. And remember: Ideally, your signature style should work for your image, not against it!

Successful layering for Fall is essential for the transitional weather outside. Here is the key to remember about layering pieces. They should be warm enough for your preference, without adding too much extra bulk.

Your inner most layer should be able to wick moisture away from the skin, made from cotton, lightweight wool, or other breathable fabric.

Layering pieces after that, depends on your schedule for the day. Work wear may call for a lightweight scarf, or jacket. For weekend events, you might wear a loose weave cardigan, with a light waterproof jacket on top.

Don't forget: Layers are meant to be taken off, if needed, while still sticking to your personal style.

Stay warm, but don't bury yourself!

If you need extra layering pieces for Fall and don't have the time to shop for the perfect pieces, go sign up with me at www.keatonrow/stylist/tonyaspeaks.com. I will send you a free, digital, made-just-for-you Lookbook with no obligation to buy anything. But I have a feeling that you won't be able to resist! :)

What's your best layering secrets for Fall?

Ladies, I know that some of you live in heels! Now, don't get me wrong. There's nothing wrong with it, if that's your preference. But I just want to talk briefly, though, about the versatility of flats!

The re-introduction of the "ballet flat" a few years ago, made the flat shoe a wardrobe staple once again. Cute flats can instantly add polish to an outfit (especially if you're not a "sneakers" gal!) for running errands around town, going to the mall (who wants achy feet?), with the kids, or even at the office.

You can also find them in a variety of styles, colors, patterns, and textures - to match your style personality and budget. And here's a practical style tip: Build an outfit around a colorful pair of flats as the focal point. Pair them with a coordinating neutral top and bottom (or jeans) and let your shoes take the spotlight!

But please remember- a good flat shoe should still have adequate arch support for maximum COMFORT.. After all, that's the whole point right?

As you probably know, this is the very exciting time of year when Fashion Capitals and cities around the world host their Fashion Week. Designers are now showcasing new duds and hot trends- some that we will see"trickle down" to stores in the months ahead.  We also see designs that have made a comeback or is now being worn in new and fresh ways.   While it is part of my job to observe and take note of all of this, (which I love to do for my clients by the way), I was just wondering - why should the designers have all the fun? Here's how to have a "Personal Fashion Week" of your own.

Want to try it? One weekend, pre-plan like this for the next 7 days (Monday- Sunday):   Pull out 7 different items that you really like, and looks good on you , but for some reason you haven't worn in a while.  Try to pull at least one item from each of the following categories:  shoes, tops, pants, skirts, and eye-catching accessories.  Now,  the challenge is to pair it with something from your closet that you have never worn it with before.   You are basically "shopping"  your closet for fresh combinations.  Not only will you see the versatility (or lack thereof) of your wardrobe, you will also see how to avoid falling into a style rut!   Remember, the purpose of this challenge is to have fun experimenting with new looks and hidden gems in your wardrobe.  Then, proudly  show off your Personal Fashion Week to the world!

Mixing prints can sometimes be a challenge! Here are a few tips for mixing prints (for the look shown here), without creating a mess! By the way, this picture also showcases the popular menswear look, which is really on trend for Fall this year.

These basic tips can also be used to coordinate prints in your home.

Consider two things: Color and Scale. For color, look for one that the prints have in common. In this case, it is the grey. In addition to grey, the pants also have an aqua color, which can serve as the ACCENT.

Next, look at the scale and type of prints that you want to match. One should be more dominant (to create a focal point), while the other(s) should be more subdued. That way things don't appear too busy! In the picture, the print on the blouse definitely takes the forefront, while still balancing nicely with the slacks. Lastly, an over jacket in the accent color pulls it all together! Voila!

While clicking around online, I came across this eye-catching picture of an stairway. Now this is a way to make an entrance!

As you can see, the monochromatic color scheme (the use of varying shades of the same color), can be stunning for both wardrobe and home decor.

Would you try this look in your home?

It's that time of year when students are heading back to school! As you know, more and more schools are now going to school uniforms, more so than when I was in school.

Admittedly, it can be a little easier when our children are in uniform those five days of the week. Let's just say that it makes school shopping for them a LITTLE easier! But what are some ways that we can help their individualized style to shine through-- without breaking the rules?

Here are some quick tips for helping your students with their "School Style":

First of all, be perfectly clear on what's allowed (colors, styles, etc.) and what is absolutely NOT... This is a very simple foundation to establishing their school wardrobe.

Next, it may help to understand, from your child, what styles they like and which ones they don't-- and why. Like us, they may feel better, and often perform better, when they are wearing what is most comfortable (and appropriate) for them. Whether you oblige or not is up to you, but at least you will know what their personal opinion is.

Finally, use the liberties that your child does have in the dress code to play up their style. For girls, that may mean searching for different types of coordinating head bands, socks, or tights. Boys may choose to establish their style by "prepping it up" with sweater vests or even bow ties, if allowed.

So brainstorm a little! Remember, school uniforms shouldn't always have to be BORING.

What have you done to help your children still be able to express themselves, even in school uniform?

Let's help each other out... Comment below!

I don't know about you, but when things around me in my everyday life are generally organized and clean, I feel less- stressed and a lot more relaxed. It seems as though I can even think a little clearer.

However, I recently heard that one misconception of doing a closet audit, is that you will be forced to throw everything away and start from stratch. (like on "What Not to Wear") Not true! Yes, it probably will involve parting with some things, but there is usually a lot that you can do with what is left. That is one of the reasons that they are left. They work for you and are versatile. So don't be afraid to get your closet audited. Trust me, at the end, you'll be so glad that you did.

Now if you're a self-starter and are determined to get organized, once and for all, there's help for you. I can walk you through four easy steps to organize that closet or any other room in your home. Read more here (www.practicalstyleandspaces.com/online-consulting-programs.html)

Begin the path toward a little more relaxation!

So do you notice a difference when the surroundings around you are calmer?

Are you calmer?

Yes, we love shopping for new things, but it's also good to be able to mix up what we already have too, right?

As a matter of fact, remixing your wardrobe is quite easy when you have the right things in your closet to begin with! Here are just a few wardrobe staples that can make "remixing" easier:

1. A great-fitting white (or off-white) collared shirt-- Can be dressed up or down. The key is that you would look equally polished pairing it with jeans as you would wearing it with a cute skirt.

2. Nude shoes-- Elongates the leg and adds a certain "chicness" to an outfit when a regular brown or black shoe just won't do. Typically, they are best with outfits that you could wear a darker brown shoe with--not a black. I have a nude shoe in every style (pumps, flat sandals, wedges, boots), by the way!

3. Versatile Accessories-- Belts, Statement Necklaces, Scarves, etc. in your best neutrals and color palette makes it very easy to create outfits for days! Also, don't be afraid to mix things up. Just because a dress was bought with a belt, doesn't mean that belt has to be worn with THAT dress all the time.

What are some of your wardrobe "remix" tips?