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!

Are you confused about all of the "rules" of Business Casual attire? No worries... you’re not alone!


There are often questions about what is appropriate and what is absolutely not. While I could go into much more detail about it, I think that it may be helpful just to list what is usually not acceptable for Business Casual. (Sometimes knowing what "not" to wear can help when you're trying to pull together that perfect outfit.)
Abide by this list of no- no 's and you will not only keep your business image intact on Business Casual Day, but you'll also avoid being 'Business Sloppy'! (Not good)

General Rules of what NOT to wear when the situation calls for Business Casual:

• Jeans (of any color)
• Athletic wear or workout clothes/shoes of any kind ( sweatshirts, hoodies)
• Leggings
• T-shirts
• Bare midriffs or lowcut front or back
• Hats, caps
• Ripped or tattered clothing
• Extremely tight fitting blouses, short skirts, or other suggestive clothing

So does the list above coincide with your own?

We all have our definition of being "dressed up." To some it means putting on career wear and going to work. To others, dressed up is wearing cute heels with some dark wash jeans and a chic blazer. Whatever your defintion, we all know how it feels to have everything (hair, nails, make-up, etc.) all done up and feeling ready to go conquer the world! 
 
What a feeling, right?

BUT... is it possible to have that same feeling when you are rushing the kids out of the house to make school on time, making a quick run to grocery store down the street, or even going to the gym to work out?

Good news! It is!  After all, why shouldn't it be? 

In this post (and the ones that follow), I will briefly talk about some simple things that you can do to look polished EVERYDAY!

Why is this important, you may ask? Well, let's say that your goal is get that job promotion everyone's been talking about. One day, you run into the bank ...and almost run smack into your boss's wife! You greet her hurriedly as you think "uh oh", while taking a quick glance at your hair rollers and black faded out tee in the mirrored window. 

First impressions last.

I mean, who wants to be known as "the lady wearing the hair rollers?" And as in the above example, you never know who you could run into to! 

Yes, I am an Image Professional, a Business Owner, and realize the importance and know-how behind personal style.  But I am also a busy wife and Mom who has a very hectic schedule on most days!

In light of this, I wanted to write about some day- to- day tricks and tips that I use, because as an Image Professional, I am expected to look presentable at all times. You know, I have to "practice what I preach! 

Admittedly, it can definitely be tough at times, even for me.  Like you I have some days that I don't feel my best, my kids are whiny or I'm just running late, etc.

Despite this, I push through---mainly due to my ingrained passion for fashion and style, but mostly because I have prepared for those inevitable days beforehand! Besides,  I never know when I come may face to face with my next client!!

If you've been following my posts or receive my newsletters, you should know that I try keep things simple. One of my mottos are: Complicated style is just not practical! So I will cover just one to two simple tips per post, so that you can "digest" it easier. Of course, I welcome your comments and your sharing some tips that you use. We are here to help each other!

In addition, since this is just a blog where time and space is limited, the BEST way to really "get" this advice, is to schedule your own personal consultation and style appointment that will be totally catered for you and your lifestyle. Everyone is different! 

Now having said all that, let's get started!
 
Advice #1 -- Figure out what your weak areas tend to be when you are pressed for time. Is it hair or makeup? Or is just trying to figure out WHAT to wear a problem?

For me, I have formulated routines and outfits that I can do in a jiffy. One example is my personal "5 Minute Face". I don't want to show anyone my undereye circles first thing in the morning!

For hair that won't seem to behave sometimes, my hats come to the rescue. This works especially well in the winter when people are all wrapped up anyway! Not my husband's ball caps, but fedoras or cute knit caps that reflect my style personality.
Tip: Find great deals and stock up around late February during the Winter Clearance Sales.

Now for clothing. When I'm really pressed for time but don't want to LOOK that way, I reach for three key pieces: a great pair of jeans, an EASY fitted jacket or tee, and comfortable ballerina flats. That's it. There are 2-3 jeans that I know that I can grab in a snap that look presentable (no holes!) and fit comfortably.

My point is to always have a plan. And even when you are rushed or just don't feel like "dressing up", you will still be presenting yourself well. 

My last bit of advice for this post is RELAX and don't put too much pressure on yourself. Once you have done your research and have your plan, remember that the goal is not to look "perfect" all the time. Even celebs, with their fleet of stylists and such, do not look show ready 24/7. After all, they're human!

Well, guys, that's all for now. But don't worry, we will be talking more about this--so stay tuned.

Meanwhile, I'm curious... What's your "pull it together" plan for those harried days?