Make the Most of Your Closet - Megan

Next up on the list for making the most of their closet is Megan. She was one of the first people I became "Flickr Friends" with when I first joined Flickr's Wardrobe Remix Group about a year and half ago, and I am fortunate that our friendship has grown to much more. When she signed up for this I was shocked that she would want my opinion considering how stylish I think she is. But she was winner, and I am truly honored to give it a go!

Megan shared 18 items from her closet along with some style profile info, including:

Height: 5'9"Size: 10/12
Body Shape: Hourglass
Favorite Colors: Blues and purples
Accessories I love/would like more of: scarves, tights - need more hats!
My style: mixture of vintage/preppy/hippie
Outfits Desired: Business Casual (oh, who am I kidding?) Casual

Based on the items she sent and ideas swirling around in my head I picked out the following ten items to help round out her closet (and I'm pretty sure she has a few of these things already) which total under $240.

I'm a firm believer that cardis are an essential part of every gal's wardrobe regardless of her style, so I added a yellow cardigan.
Cardigan - Old Navy, $25.00

Megan said she needed more hats and scarves in her wardrobe so I picked one of each.
Beret - Forever 21, $4.50
Recycled Patches Scarf - Shop Ruche, $24.99

Houndstooth and cropped swing jackets are everywhere for fall and will help Megan take an outfit or two from casual to business casual just by slipping it on.
Houndstooth Jacket - Charlotte Russe, $34.99

I think a long pendant necklace is a great thing to have especially when you have longer proportioned tops in your wardrobe. As an added bonus this one has an Alice in Wonderland theme.
Oh Dear! "I shall be too late" charm necklace - Shop Ruche, $16.99

Graphic tees can get a bad wrap as so many notoriously have stupid sayings or obnoxious pictures on them, however, there are several tasteful ones that can add a bit of fun and whimsy to your wardrobe. I chose this one because I happen to know Megan adores owls!
Owl Tee - Forever 21, $13.80

I love prints and flowy tops and this tunic seemed like a winner when paired with Megan's other wardrobe items.
Chiffon Tunic - Alloy, $29.90

Hello, an hourglass figure - then a belt is definitely needed!
Belt - Jessica Simpson/Zappos.com, $42.00

Fun flats are all the rage and with Megan's height she can definitely pull them off!
Embellished Flats - Target, $24.99

You can never go wrong with a black top.
Pintuck Tunic - Old Navy, $17.99

One last thing, Megan said she wanted more tights, and I didn't use any in the looks below. However, fun colored and textured tights could definitely be incorporated with many of the looks below.

With these 28 items I created 44 looks and honestly could have kept going! With these looks the jeans could almost always be swapped with the denim skirt and visa versa, the jeans with leggings, the denim jacket with the vest and visa versa and more - - lots of options here!

TL - Toss the button-up over the dress, tie at the waist and you can never go wrong wtih adding a fun, floral statement necklace.
TR - Wear the skirt as a top and belt it so the volume isn't overwhelming and pair with a cardi and jeans.
BL - Use the purple tunic as a top and tuck into the skirt and top off with a cardi and necklace.
BR - Tie the scarf around your waist as a belt and go casual with a comfy denim jacket and flats.

TL - Tie the scarf around your neck, belt the dress and toss on a neutral cardi and shoes.
TR - Pair the white top with the floral skirt and top with a denim jacket.
BL - Go casual with a tunic and leggings paired with a denim jacket, long necklace and embellished flats.
BR - Top your white button-up by wearing the scarf as a shrug or belt with jeans.

TL - Button up the cardi over the dress and use the scarf as a belt - the pop of primary color will be fantastic!
TR - Use the Circle Scarf as a belt with the white blouse and full skirt.
BL - Be cute and comfy with this vintage blouse and neutral cardi and shoes.
BR - Tuck the white blouse in, use the scarf as a belt and be laid-back cool in the beret.

TL - Create a great neutral look with pops from the beret and necklace with this jeans and cardi combo.
TR - Use the dress as a shirt with the vintage skirt and keep your shoulders warm by using the circle scarf as a shawl.
BL - Belt the blouse to control the volume when paired with the full skirt and toss on a simple long necklace.
BR - Play with proportions by pairing the shorter cardigan with the long tunic and jeans.

TL - Layer the tee over the dress to create the look of a skirt and add the denim jacket to keep you warm as temps drop.
TR - A vintage plaid pearl snap shirt paired with a denim skirt creates a great combo of sexy casual.
BL - Another great look is pairing the floaty tunic with the denim skirt and fun flats.
BR - Go all black with neutral accessories and wear the circle scarf in big loose circle.

TL - Flannel, denim and a beret - great casual combo!
TR - Leave the blue button up unbuttoned and tied at the waist layered over the owl tee with a cute skirt.
BL - Pair the vintage blouse over the dress and add a cute necklace and flats.
BR - Make this skirt pop by pairing with a black top and leggings and finished off with a denim vest.

TL - Layer the purple tunic over the black shirt with leggings and add a pair of fun flats.
TR - Leave the denim vest unbuttoned over the flannel and leggings.
BL - Keep the cardi buttoned up and belted with the floral skirt.
BR - Go all black with pops from the houndstooth, red beret and fun flats.

TL - Layer the tunic under the sleeveless dress and belt the look.
TR - Pair the leggings with heels and a jacket for a polished somewhat rockin' look.
BL - Either wear the scarf at neck or as a belt with this polished primary look.
BR - Layer the printed tunic over the owl tee and leave unbutton so you can see Mr. Hootie peeking through.

TL - Use the circle scarf as a belt with this button up and skirt.
TR - Try the printed tunic under the purple tunic and pair with leggings.
BL - Layer the denim jacket over the flannel and pair with leggings - use the circle scarf at neck or as a belt.
BR - Tuck the tunic into the skirt and grab some flats and a necklace.

TL - Black, Houndstooth, Red Beret and Denim - Check!
TR - Take this sleeveless dress right into fall by topping with a cardi.
BL - Yellow goes with almost anything so feel free to toss on with this patterned tunic.
BR - Layer the owl tee over the black shirt - the fullness of the sleeves will be fun poofing out from the slim tee sleeves.

TL - A white blouse and jeans can be perfect for almost any occasion.
TR - Green and blue are such a great combo and the flower necklace finishes off this combo perfectly.
BL - The short jacket over the longer tunic paired with leggings will create a fun, casual look.
BR - Tee, cardi and jeans = perfect casual outfit

To see all of the outfits in more detail, click here.

Megan, though we are hundreds of miles apart it was fun "looking in your closet". Hope you see a couple of combos you like!

Daily Outfit - 09/30/09

A co-worker said this morning "my jacket from yesterday grew". Yep, this dress is pretty similar and I didn't do anything too exciting with pairing it with red but it works. As for my shoes I usually pick fashion over comfort and am willing to put up with a bit of discomfort from time to time for a cute pair of shoes. However, a couple of weeks ago 6pm.com had their Aerosoles on sale for $25. I knew I should be sensible and give them a look to get a pair or two with rubber soles for the upcoming winter. I was pleasantly surprised when I saw this pair.

Red LS Tee - NY & Co, on sale + coupon for $5 (Jan. 2009)
Cowl Neck Jumper Dress - Lane Bryant, online sale + coupon for $28 (Sept. 2009)
Belt (I swapped out the one the dress came with) - NY & Co, sale for $10 (2009)
Heels - Aerosoles/6pm.com, on sale for $25 (August 2009)
Necklace - NY & Co, on sale + coupon for $15 (July 2009)
Glasses - compliments of GlassesUSA.com Read more about this great company here.

Just a reminder if you live anywhere near Columbus, OH you need to check out the Swap N Shop going on this Saturday, October 3 in Galloway, OH!! One of my favorite bloggin' buddies, KT, is the genius behind organizing what is going to be a truly amazing event.

Now, how does this Swap N Shop Work???
1) Bring your still cute items items you are no longer using
2) This includes clothes, purses, shoes and accesories
3) Receive "swap bucks" good during the event only
4) Use your "swap bucks" to "purchase" items brought by other swappers
5) Have fun! Don't forget to tell your friends!

Reader Question - Transitioning Sundresses into Fall & Winter

Hello fellow Naptown resident! Love your blog. I have an a-line sundress I bought at the beginning of summer, and didn't get as much wear out of it as I wanted. I'm trying to find a way I can wear it into fall, but I'm not sure how to. I'm thinking of tights and maybe a sweater? But I don't want to do something too predictable and wonder if you might have any other exciting ways to wear it. I am not normally a dress gal, so it's hard for me to know how to pimp it up for the cooler weather. Thanks for any suggestions you might have. -Aimee

Well, hello, Aimee - love it when local readers drop me a line. You can definitely take sundresses from summer to winter just by layering under and over them. Since I love to layer I am all about taking "summer" pieces and making them work year-round.

First, as you said you can layer a sweater over the sundress, but don't forget this is a great time to add in a pattern or some type of embellishment like embrioidery. Also, by belting the cardigan over the dress it will help emphasize the a-line shilouette. Lastly, before the temps get too cold you can rock a fun combo of knee socks and boots to keep your legs warm.

Corset Bust Dress - 15 Dollar Store, $15
Floral-Embroidered Cardigan - Old Navy, $24.99
Knee Socks - Juicy Couture/Zappos.com, $40
Belt - Fossil/Zappos.com, $44
Kahsha Tall Cuffed Boots - Target, $35.99
Striped Knee-High Socks - Charlotte Russe, $4.99

Secondly, you can layer a slim sweater under the dress and add some tights and boots to keep rockin' the dress.

Gathered Bust Floral Chiffon Dress - 15 Dollar Store, $15
Rib-Knit Turtleneck - Old Navy, $19.50
Cage Sphere Chain - Forever 21, $6.80
Two Buckle Riding Boot - Shilouettes, $79 (sign up for their emails and receive a promo code to save 15% off
Tights - Old Navy, $5

Thirdly, you can layer a long sleeve tee under the dress along with some leggings and flats. Add a scarf for an extra pop of color and texture.

Paisley Print Sundress - 15 Dollar Store, $15
Brown Leggings - Target, $6
Waffle Knit Tee - Old Navy, $14.50
Ruched Gauze Scarf - Old Navy, $12.50
Odell Ballet Flats - Target, $12.99

Other cool things to layer over sundresses is a motorcycle or bomber jacket, oversized blazer, or hoodie sweater/sweatshirt.

Another key thing to keep in mind when layering cotton skirts with cotton tights and leggings is the that the skirt part can ride up on the tights/leggings as you walk and static cling can be an issue. A good way to get around this is by wearing a slip or pair of pettipants between the tights/leggings and the sundress.

Classic Non-Cling Pettipants - Amazon.com, $5.49
Classic Half Slip in 18" & 24" Length - Antistatic Non-Cling Fabric - Amazon.com, $4.99 & $5.99

Daily Outfit - 09/29/09

I had a different outfit in mind when I went to bed last evening, but it required ironing. I decided I would rather watch the news about the SWAT/Stand Off Situation happening downtown than iron this morning. With that I went with an old standby! Some days you just need those.

Black Dress - Target, clearance for $12.50 (Jan. 2009)
Jacket - NY & Co, w/ coupon for $40 (August 2008)
Heels - Nine West.com, clearance for $25 (Jan. 2009)
Necklace - NY & Co, sale + coupon for $15 (Summer 2009)

Etsy Shop Update

My Tuesday Outfit (whatever it might be) will be up a later in the day on Tuesday. In the meantime, I wanted to let you know that I spent some time on Monday evening while getting my Gossip Girl fix to add some great new stuff to my Etsy shop. Check it out!

Make the Most of Your Closet - Kimberly

Last week I offered five chances to my readers to have me "take a peak" in their closet and help create some new outfits by mixing and matching up some new combos. In addition, I promised to make a few suggestions as to what to buy during future shopping trips to get the most out of their current wardrobe.

Winner Kimberly uploaded pictures of her 16 core wardrobe pieces for me to work with and gave me some insight on her "style profile".

Style Profile:
Height/Size: 5'8", Misses 8-10, Hourglass Figure
Loves Colors: Rich Blues, Yellows and Purples
Not such a fan of Red
Style is a mixture of preppy (especially for work) and a bit of boho on more casual days.
She stated she really struggled with making choices for accessories and would love more statement necklaces and to learn how to use scarves.

After assessing Kimberly's current pieces and the tidbits she shared I focused on picking out 10 items totaling less than $200 that would offer a lot of bang for the buck with her current wardrobe.

Kimberly said she loved rich yellows, so I zeroed in on this graphic tee and cardigan. The rich golden mustard color will work great with the blues, purples and grays already in her wardrobe.
Rose Graphic Tee - NY & Co, $19.95
Long Cardigan - NY & Co, $39.95

The black and purple plaid long sleeve can be dressed up or down and will be a great wardrobe building block.
Simply Vera Vera Wang Plaid Tee - Kohl's, $20.40

Also, I noticed that her two pairs of shoes were pretty basic black pairs - why not add in a fun gray pair and also a pair of leopard flats, which are truly a neutral and can be worn with browns and blacks.
Simply Vera Vera Wang Jardine Dress Heels - Kohl's, $44.99
Cheetah Ballet Flats - Target, $12.99

You all know I am a fan of belts and with Kimberly's hourglass figure I thought it would be a great accessory for her also. The belt I suggested I actually have, and it is super comfortable and goes with a ton!
Elastic Braided Belt - NY & Co, $13.96

Lastly, I added two scarves and two necklaces to use in accessorizing many outfits.
Peace Sign Scarf - Kohl's, $14.99
Wired Heart Necklace - Forever 21, $5.80
Flower Burst Necklace - Forever 21, $8.80
Chiffon Paisley Scarf - Forever 21, $6.80

With these 26 pieces I created 36 unique outfits. Keep in mind the gray pants, black pants, and trouser jeans are interchangable in almost every outfit which expands the number of outfit choices to almost 90!

The Outfits:

TL - Add a fun scarf looped around your neck and a long simple pendant with this casual jeans and tee look.
TR - Don't be afraid to take your blazers to the weekend by layering over a graphic tee with a scarf and leopard flats. Notice you are combining three prints without it being overwhelming.
BL - For a casual look wear the cardi open over the dress with a scarf and flats.
BR - Jazz up this suit look by using the scarf as a pocket scarf and tucking it into the jacket's pocket. Also belt over the top, but under the jacket to add dimension.

TL - For a great date look, toss on a great statement necklace with the plaid tee, blazer and jeans with a great pair of gray heels.
TR - Layer the cardi over the blue shirt and leave unbuttoned and add the long pendant necklace for an extra touch.
BL - Layer graphic tee under the dress and leave the top portion of the shirt dress unbuttoned and add the belt with flats.
BR - Jazz up the patterned dress with the blazer, statement necklace and gray heels.

TL - For a fun professional look pair the floral statement necklace with the plaid tee and black suit.
TR - Slip on the gray cardi and leave unbuttoned over the dress. If the dress has ties, criss-cross them on the outside of the dress and tie.
BL - Layer the cardi over the graphic tee and belt with the floral scarf. Pair it with black pants (or don't forget you can interchange the jeans or gray pants as well).
BR - The purple jacket will add a fun pop of color with the neutral print top and pants.

TL - The mustard cardi will be a great contrast with the blue top and belt it!
TR - I love the look of short layered over long and this tee/jacket combo is no exception.
BL - Layer the blue top under the patterned dress to add a bit of visual interest at the neckline.
BR - Layer the solid long-sleeve blouse under the patterned top and belt the look. Don't forget many of your sleeveless tops can be carried into fall and winter by not only layering them under jackets and cardigans but by layering under them and wearing them as "vests".

TL - I love combining purple and mustard yellow together and combined with cool gray will create a winning look.
TR - Layer the blue shirt over the dress and belt the top - you will create more options by turning your dresses into "skirts".
BL - Layer the purple short sleeve jacket over the long sleeve jacket, swap out the belt that came with the jacket and belt the look with the scarf - it will add a fun pop of pattern.
BR - The short sleeve cardi will add a fun layer with the plaid tee and peace sign scarf.

TL - Pair the long cardi over the shirt dress and belt the look to keep it looking professional (don't be afraid of mixing navy blue and black together either!).
TR - The short sleeve purple jacket will be striking over the plaid tee paired with the floral statement necklace.
BL - Make a graphic tee office worthing by layering a jacket over it and sporting some great heels.
BR - Yellow and Gray is such a great color combo and this cardigan will add some spice with the cool neutrals.

TL - Keep things simple with solid pants and top, but use the floral scarf as a belt for extra pizzazz.
TR - Belt the plaid tee and toss the long cardigan over - it will be a comfy yet polished work outfit.
BL - Leopard is such an extra fun element to almost any outfit and pairing them with this tee and cardi is a winner!
BR - Layer the long sleeve blouse under the shirt dress and either use the floral scarf as a belt or tie it in the classic "bandana" style at the neck.

TL - Tie the scarf at the neck or line the inside of the cardi's v-neck with, add the belt if you wish.
TR - This outfit may not have any pops of color, but the the pattern elements keep it interesting.
BL - Layer the shirt dress over the patterned dress and leave the bottom couple of buttons unbuttoned to add a little flash. Belt the look to keep everything in place.
BR - Plaid, Peace Signs and Leopard help complete this winning combination.

TL - Tie the floral scarf at the neck in the bandana style, use it as a belt or tie on your wrist to add a pop of pattern with the casual combo.
TR - The hint of yellow flowers showing from underneath the cardigan's gray and black tones will be a fun flash.
BC - Layer the purple jacket over the blue dress to create a fabulous "burple" combo and accessorize with black.

To see all of the outfits in more detail, click here.

I hope this is helpful, Kimberly!!

Daily Outfit - 09/28/09

Wow, it actually feels like fall today! Temps in the high 50s when I woke up and only getting into the high 60s. Also, I swapped out our soap at home in the bathrooms and kitchen to the "Leaves" scent from Bath & Body Works, so its like instant fall everytime I wash my hands. If I still have energy this evening you might even see a more fall festive look to my pictures tomorrow!

Today's outfit inspiration comes from a picture of Olivia Palermo I saw a few weeks back. In honor of The City premiering tomorrow evening for its 2nd Season I decided to sport some stripes myself!

Striped Shirt - Old Navy/Church Rummage Sale, 50 cents (Summer 2009)
Black Jacket - QVC, sale for $23 (Summer 2009)
Necklace - I made a couple of years ago
Skirt w/ Pockets - Old Navy, Promo Code + Coupon for $6.75 (Jan. 2009)
Blue Shoes - Lela Rose for Payless, $35 (August 2009)

Now, I know my overall look is very different from Miss Olivia's, but I am wearing a large crystal necklace, stripe shirt, full black skirt with pockets and shoes that tie at the ankle. I could have tossed on my khaki trench, but as soon as I got to the office would have felt like I should take it off, so opted for a casual black jacket instead.

Speaking of Outfit Inspiration the October Calendar was posted last week! Click here or check out the link in the left hand column.

Reader Question - Trendy Ten Year Reunion

I am in desperate need of suggestions for an outfit to wear to my 10 year class reunion coming up in a couple weeks. It is being held at a private room in a trendy restaurant/bar downtown. Obviously I want to look good, but I don't want to look like I'm trying too hard. Any suggestions would be helpful! - Susan

Susan, I definitely understand the need to look good at a 10 year reunion. I had mine a couple of years ago - luckily, it was so casual (it was held outdoors and was BYOB - ha!) that there wasn't too much pressure.

With the setting you described you can really take your look lots of directions - sexy sophisticate, party dress, trendy denim or skinnies with a tunic. Check it out:

Left Outfit - Pair a fun top with a high waisted skirt and peep toe pumps to look chic and sophiscated.
Dana Buchman Leopard Crinkle Blouse - Kohl's, $37.50
Pencil Skirt - Kohl's, $29.99
Linked Jeweled Necklace - Forever 21, $14.80
Jelena Slingback Pump - Forever 21, $18.80

Right Outfit - A pair of black skinny jeans can be the perfect with a bright tunic and sequin pumps.
Lauren Conrad Watercolor Dolman Top - Kohl's, $34.00
ELLE™ Skinny Jeans - Kohl's, $21.99
Pretzel Knotted Bracelet - Forever 21, $6.80
Erin Sequin Pump - Forever 21, $19.80

Left Outfit - A fun "party dress" paired with a casual black blazer, tights and shooties is a great, fun look without being over the top.
Dark Beauty Necklace - Forever 21, $8.80
Valma Pumps - Target, $29.99
Lauren Conrad Watercolor Ruffled Dress - Kohl's, $60.00
Eliza Knit Jacket - Target, $29.99

Right Outfit - If you want to go more low key pair a satin top with dark washed trouser jeans and accent with a red belt and shoes.
Dot Cowlneck Satin Top - Kohl's, $24.99
Premium Denim Crisscross Jeans - Target, $29.99
Snap Strap Belt - Forever 21, $6.80
Reta Platform Pumps - Target. $32.99
Jeweled Faux Leather Teardrop Earrings - Forever 21, $8.80

Most importantly, have fun and be confident in yourself. I had a fantastic time at my reunion, and I am sure you will too!

I've been asked about reunion attire before - here are some quick links:
How to accessorize a dress for a Reunion
Summer Dresses and Accessories for a Reunion

Reader Question - Wide Calf Boots

I've got a tough question for you. I have been dreaming of a pair of black or brown boots for this winter. Preferrably ones with a chunky heel and that can be worn with jeans, tights and dresses, tights and long shirts (I'm preggo, so I can do that)! Here's the only catch, I have large calves that stem from being a child gymnast. Do you have any advice or know where boots can be ordered?

Thanks for your time,
Alexandra

Alexandra, wide calf boots can seem near impossible to find, but there are some options available. Plus Size Clothing Retailers are usually good places to check out and also boots made of a faux, stretchy suede are a good options also (I so miss the pairs that Isaac Mizrahi use to do for Target!).

It's especially tough to find pairs that fall under the $50 mark, but I gathered up some of the most reasonably priced pairs I could find. Hopefully you will find a pair that suits you.

Wide Calf Boots by dddgirl79 on Polyvore.com

Clockwise from top left:
Two Buckle Riding Boot - Silhouettes, $79 (17" calf diameter)
Jackie Belted Riding Boot - Avenue, $46.90* (18.5" calf diameter)
Dana Wide Calf Button-Trim Boot - Avenue, $64.99* (17-20" calf diameter dependent on shoe size) (Center)
Val Multi Strap Boot by Step Up for Comfort - Avenue, $49.99* (designated as wide calf, but no specific measurements given)
Wedge Boots - RSVP/6pm.com, $55.20 (adjustable lacing at top of boot)

* Take an additional 30% off with promo code JLE4501 now through 9/27/09

October Inspiration Calendar

I recently bought the book Who What Wear: Celebrity and Runway Style for Real Life and was pleasantly surprised when the first chapter was titled "Style by Inspiration". A Coco Chanel quote was shared stating, "Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening."

With that I was inspired to pull outfit inspiration ideas from a multitude of sources for October's Inspiration Calendar, including Fall 2009 Designer Collections, Celebrities, Fall Trends, Movies and Nature. Check it out!

Thursday, 10/1: Fall 09 Designer Collection - Rebecca Taylor
Friday, 10/2: Celebrity - Beyonce

Monday, 10/5: Trend - Houndstooth
Tuesday, 10/6: Celebrity - Anna Wintour
Wednesday, 10/7: Fall 09 Designer Collection - Nanette Lepore
Thursday, 10/8: Movie - The Notebook
Friday, 10/9: Nature - Great Barrier Reef

Monday, 10/12: Celebrity - Rachel Zoe
Tuesday, 10/13: Fall 09 Designer Collection - Jean Paul Gaultier
Wednesday, 10/14: Movie - Bonnie & Clyde
Thursday, 10/15: Trend - Draping
Friday, 10/16: Nature - Storm Clouds

Monday, 10/19: Celebrity - Whitney Port
Tuesday, 10/20: Trend - Menswear
Wednesday, 10/21: Fall 09 Designer Collection - Tibi
Thursday, 10/22: Nature - Sunshine & Trees
Friday, 10/23: Movie - (500) Days of Summer

Monday, 10/26: Fall 09 Designer Collection - Fendi
Tuesday, 10/27: Movie - Sex and the City
Wednesday, 10/28: Nature - Red Dawn
Thursday, 10/29: Trend - Fur
Friday, 10/30: Celebrity - Jessica Biel

Don't forget in the left hand column you can access the past months' inspiration calendars along with the Flickr Group which you are invited to join and be an inspiration to others!

Have a fashionable October, lovely readers!

Google Calendar below is syncable with iPhones, Blackberries and other PDAs for quick reference!