The Perfect Sheer Pieces for Your Body Type and Your Authentic Personal Style

As a personal stylist for women I am always on the hunt for new trends. Sure, there are shifts on runways that don’t translate to real life and yes, there are ready to wear movements that, while popular, aren’t super flattering. So, when we see trends that work on a runway and in real life, I’m all over it.

Sheer pieces are one of those trends. Considering wearing see through or semi-see through pieces tends to evoke a strong emotional response. You are likely either in the “no thank you” camp or in the “intrigued to yes, please world.” Most often, sheer pieces are one of those, “I’d love to if I can pull it off” trends. And my Dear Reader, I’m here to show you how you can absolutely pull it off.

Specifically, knowing which sheer options are right for your authentic personal style and your body type will give you the confidence to rock them on the regular. A few years back, I gave a friend a sheer grey long sleeve fitted top for her birthday. I’m guessing she was in her late forties then and she was surprised by the gift. Her initial response was gratitude and a clear message that she was unlikely to ever wear the item. But now, in her early fifties, she told me she was wearing the top for her birthday dinner. Few things have made me so happy.

The right sheer pieces can be timeless, age appropriate and still super sexy. (As an aside, if you’e been with me for some time, you likely know my stance on “age appropriate.” Essentially, just imagine you are living to 90 and be sure you aren’t wrapping up one phase too soon only to be left with the same four items for a good thirty years. Anyway, I digress.)

Don’t be afraid to embrace sheer pieces. Below is a collection of some of my favorites organized by body type. After all, if you know what flatters your shape, you are able to filter out all of the noise and start to build a sustainable, authentic collection that will be with you for years. Off we go!

When is the Last Time I Wore This? 5 Strategies to Make the Best Use of Your Existing Pieces

As a personal stylist for women based in Seattle, I have had a hybrid work situation for over a decade. Some days, I’m out and about meeting with partners and colleagues, other days I’m with a client at her home and still other days, I’m at home with or without Zoom meetings throughout the day.

Now that a much larger percentage of the population is in a similar situation, I find that my learnings from years of choosing what to wear while walking this tightrope are more relevant than ever.

5 Easy Ways to Transform Your Closet and Your Life Right Now

I don’t know about you, but I’m absolutely determined to have a great 2024. If not great, at least not awful and thanks to the election in November, I know the second option is very real. As a personal stylist for women, I see firsthand the impact that a fresh perspective can have on clients. For me, a space free of clutter with only pieces that are beautiful and functional has an extraordinary impact on my life. Really. And I bet you feel that way, too.

I also know that with the New Year comes new motivation and new expectations. We want to do it all: change our food habits, move more, volunteer and so on. Often by week two we discovered we were overly ambitious. With that in mind, this post isn’t how to do an exhaustive Closet Edit. Though trust me, I’m here for that! Instead, we’re focusing on five easy steps that will have a disproportionate effect on your life. Less effort and more payoff. Here we go!

Forget Panic Shopping: Get the Perfect Last-Minute Gift Now

An essential component of being a personal stylist is listening. It’s vital that I really see my client then we create a strategy to harness her authentic personal style using that information. Buying the perfect gift takes the same skill. It can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t need to. Really, it’s about paying attention to the recipient AND having a list of potential gifts so that you can match his/her/ their desires with something you can deliver.

As someone who takes a lot of pride in my gifting abilities, I can assure you that giving the right gift feels SO good for the both the recipient AND the giver. So, let’s give you some ideas, shall we?

Shop Black Friday Sales for Your Hourglass Body Type

We’re finally here! This is the last installment of Black Friday Sales organized by body type. Our annual “Shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale by Personal Style Key Words” is so wildly popular, we decided to try something different this Black Friday.

We’re organizing Black Friday Deals by Body Type to simplify your life, streamline your shopping and bring a spark of joy to your week. Here’s what you need to know.

10 Brands, Retailers and Causes: Shop Your Values & Maximize the Impact Now

As a personal stylist for women and evangelist for all things that excite me, making the periodic lists of My Favorite Things is one of my great joys. This one, in particular, is focused on brands and retailers that are not only exciting for their visual design but also because of the values that each brand and/or retailer supports. Ideally, all of our purchases are aligned with our values. For some, those are a willingness to spend more in order to support up and coming designers or those who pay people a living wage. Others prefer sustainable brands that limit materials to biodegradable items, those that take up fewer resources or choices that reuse existing items. And for others, brands that align with her values may mean finding the best deal which leaves more of the budget for other items. My role is not to impart my values on anyone else.

Above all, I teach each of my personal styling clients to shop using clear filters: body type, personal style key words, color palette, lifestyle and when possible, values. So, keep those in mind when you dive into this list of my very favorite brands and retailers right now. I can’t wait to hear what you think!

The 30 Best Pieces to Communicate Your Effortless Style from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2023

As a personal stylist for women, few events are as impactful as Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale. Yes! Seattle is the home to Nordstrom HQ and that alone makes us love this sale. But, what truly sets anniversary apart from the others is that the sale consists of items for fall that are on sale first. When the sale is over, the prices increase. So, we have the opportunity to stock up on items that we’ll be wearing as the weather changes, rather than items that are from last season.

As a member of the Poplin community, you know that seeing something you like that is within your budget and available in your size is not reason enough to purchase it. The most important factor to determine whether or not you make a purchase is confirming that this piece communicates your authentic personal style and is available in a color that works for you. This color can bring you joy or be in your color palette. Ideally, it will do both.

Every woman has a unique authentic personal style and our goal is to help her harness that style and have the confidence to wear pieces that make her feel like the best version of herself. Anniversary is a great place to start that journey. The Poplin Pinterest Boards are another resource to get you there.

So this week, we’re combining the two. Each day we’ll share a blog post featuring my favorite items from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2023 organized by style key words. You’ll see incredible finds in a range of price points and sizes for your Effortless, Minimalist, Edgy, Boho and Classic Style. So, get ready to shop and as always, let me know how it goes!

Featured Client: Bridget

As a personal stylist for women, sharing client stories with the entire Poplin community is one of my very favorite things to do. Personal styling is an intimate business and I have been extraordinarily fortunate to work with hundreds of truly inspiring, kind, brave women who are beautiful on the inside and out. They say that things will happen when you need them to and Bridget was the perfect client for me at exactly the right time. A Creative who exudes generosity and strength, Bridget lives with intention soaking up every day. She went all in with the Amplified 360 Package. It includes the traditional services: Closet Edit, Uber Wishlist, Tailoring, Virtual Styling and Outfit Creation PLUS an Intimates Wishlist and a Photo Shoot. This is my attempt at making you feel like you were with us along the way. If you find half as much joy as I did, it will be a success.

Finally! Pinterest Decoded

As a personal stylist for women based in Seattle, I’m all about teaching my clients how to dress themselves and leveraging technology to make getting ready as easy as possible. It’s true, technology can be a blessing and a curse sometimes. But, it’s all about how (and how much) we use it. Is it making our lives better? My goal is to ensure that when it comes to harnessing your authentic personal style and getting ready every day, the answer is a resounding, “yes!”

Each Poplin client has a password protected webpage just for her. It tells her instantly what pieces flatter her frame, what colors make her look her best and more. Her profile defines her authentic personal style, shows photos of outfits made from her new and existing pieces and is a vast resource for her moving forward. It includes a list of brands a retailers that are ideal for her and a collection of Pinterest boards that can inspire her when she’s ready to dream or to shop. Sure, the online profile is only available to Poplin clients, but if becoming a client isn’t in the cards for you right now, you still have access to those magical Pinterest Boards. They are organized by body type, personal style key words, values and a few bonuses just because. (I’m looking at you undergarments and loungewear boards.)

If you check out the Poplin Pinterest Boards regularly, you may think you’ve seen it all. But, with 45 boards, it’s easy to have missed some. So, here’s your chance to find some inspiration, outfit ideas, product options and just all around eye candy. And remember to pin from the blog to help drive more traffic to Poplin. Every action makes a difference, my friend. Thanks very much for being here and have a great time.

How do I Know What Brands I Should Buy?

As a personal stylist for women, I get lots of questions about style from clients, readers, friends and members of the Poplin community. Recently, someone shared with me her struggles about brands. Here’s her question:

For people like me who have never really paid attention to brands but are now starting to get pricier/nicer clothes, I'm super curious about brand ethos and what it says if I wear that brand.
For example, I was out shopping for a winter coat to replace my beloved Michael Kors one that I got at Costco before I knew anything about the MK brand. Now I'm trying to replace it and wondering what an "Eddie Bauer" logo says about me vs... I don't know, a Kate Spade or a Eileen Fisher or a Canada Goose logo.
I'm starting to learn some brand ethos (Kate Spade is young but classic but colorful! Eddie Bauer is for people who actually go outside, Mark says!) but I have no idea about so many of them, and I'm hesitant to buy anything with any brand identifier in case I accidentally wear something that is not the vibe I want to convey! I envision myself going to a business meeting with the equivalent of JUICY on my butt and not realizing it ha! But so many clothes, especially outerwear, have some kind of identifier.

Excellent question! Fortunately, there are answers. Off we go!

Simplify Your Wardrobe with these Cozy Pieces that Align with Your Values

As a personal stylist for women based in Seattle, few things come up in conversation as often as comfort. Feeling good about how you look does not have to mean being uncomfortable. The key is finding pieces that communicate your authentic personal style, flatter your shape, align with your values AND work with your lifestyle. Sound like a tall order? That’s what Poplin is for. We’re here to create a strategy for you to get dressed with ease everyday.

A client recently reached out to me about packing for an international trip. She wanted to look as amazing as she does each day, but be comfortable enough to fall asleep on the plane. She also likes to support brands and retailers who care about equity and inclusion. So, we like to opt for brands that have female women of color founders, give back to applicable causes and/or include models of color and all body types.

I was ELATED to share my latest obsession, LEZÉ THE LABEL.

Founded by two women of Asian decent, this brand has a limited number of silhouettes that are flattering on most body types and feel fresh. All the while, they are insanely comfortable as they are made from super soft fabrics. Pieces are sustainable, size inclusive and even Oprah recognized the brand by crowing a handful of items amongst her “Favorite Things.” If Oprah’s on board, it’s time to take notice.

Below is a collection of my go-to’s. While you are on the site, enjoy the gender neutral options and travel sets.

Before you dive in, you might be asking why it matters that a brand has women of color as founders, and that’s a fair question. Historically, women-led startups receive just 2.3% of Venture Capital funding. Every purchase you make from a brand with a female founder or a founder of color communicates to funders that there is a market for these ideas and that these founders should receive investment. Brands that are size inclusive are also sending a message to investors. We can’t do everything and it’s pointless to try, but when you are able, shopping your values (whatever they are) really does make a difference. Okay, to the clothes!

5 Ways to Ensure You Feel as Good as You Look at the Holiday Party

Being a part of a community of driven, kind and philanthropic women is a true gift to me. One of my favorite members of that community is realtor, connector and all around community bad ass, Cassie Walker Johnson. The content below was shared with Cassie’s community first as part of her amazing monthly newsletter. I read it every time, not just because she’s a friend, but because I love the content ranging from trends in the housing market to giving back and tips for the family. Sign up now and be entered to win a gift basket filled with items from her favorite local businesses including a $50 gift card to my ideal retailers for sustainable hosiery, Swedish Stockings. And hey, have fun at that holiday party!

As a personal stylist for women, I spend a great deal of timing helping each client ensure that her overall look not only communicates her authentic personal style, flatters her shape and reflects her values; but also that her pieces are functional for her life. Here in Seattle, it’s easy to sacrifice style for comfort, but that’s really not necessary.

If it’s time to shop for your upcoming holiday party, be sure to opt for pieces that flatter your frame and communicate your style. Now, let’s dive into how we’ll make sure you are comfortable, too.

The Most Flattering Jeans for Your Body Type

As a personal stylist for women, I know what struggle it can be to find a great pair of jeans. They should make you look and feel your best, celebrate your shape and communicate your authentic personal style. The ideal denim is comfortable, flattering and makes you feel like you.

Balancing all of that can be tricky and with evolving trends, it may feel daunting. Not to worry! We’ve got you covered. Here are the most flattering jeans for every figure. Start with your body type then choose a pair that aligns with your styles and values. Enjoy!

The Top 20 Obstacles to Great Style and How to Overcome Each One

As a personal stylist for women based in Seattle, I’ve spent nearly a decade listening to women talk about their struggles with style. These are among the most common challenges I hear from women. What resonates with you?

Identifying your problem is only the first step. Rest assured, there are solutions. As a Poplin client, we take a deep dive into creating a strategy and providing tools to solve your problem on an ongoing basis. For now, here are some approaches you can take right now. Looking for even more perspective? Most also have a client testimonial that is applicable. Enjoy the resources available and as always, let me know how it goes. I always love to hear from you.

The Top 20 Obstacles to Great Style and How to Solve Each One

My Favorite Things Right Now

As a personal stylist for women based in Seattle, I spend a great deal of time helping women to ensure that they feel like their authentic selves. I also chime in with tips and tricks pretty much constantly. Every once in a while, that means that it’s time for a, “my favorite things,” blog post. Honestly, I have so much I want to share, that putting everything in one post is the most efficient way to give you maximum impact. The goal here is to improve your style AND your life. Enjoy!

What Can I Wear Besides a Traditional Puffer Jacket?

As a personal stylist for women based in Seattle, I see fleece jackets and puffer jackets in nearly every client closet. Most of the time, we have a hilarious conversation about why she needs one or several of these and in many cases, I agree. But, this isn’t without caveats.

First, you dress for yourself above all else and you are the same person whether you are at work or at play. This means, that it’s as important that you feel good about how you look when you run into the neighbors while walking your dog as when you step into the office. Of course, the attire is not the same, although here in the Pacific Northwest, it often is. The goal for each situation is to feel comfortable, powerful and like your authentic self in all situations. Your clothes are just the leverage you need to achieve that.

In general, I’m an advocate for your main coat not being a puffer or fleece. Ideally, it’s a wool blend, leather or some other option that makes you feel elevated without sacrificing functionality, and communicates to the world that you are here to be seen.

But let’s face it, puffers are useful. So, if you are ready to pick up a new one, let’s make it cool, shall we?

25 of My Favorite Midi Skirts for Your Unique Style and Values

As a personal stylist for women, I’m all about style that is values based and embraces inclusive sizing, whenever possible. From my perspective, choosing pieces that communicate your authentic personal style, flatter your frame and are functional for your lifestyle are essential. Pieces that reflect your values are ideal, but not always possible. When I find those options that are all the things, I’m ready to shout it from the rooftops.

One of my favorite things about my job is my commitment to the individual. Her values may or may not be my values. Her style may not be my style. But, working together we create a wardrobe that is authentic to her and one that we both see as beautiful. Personal values can range from preferring companies run by woman, those that offer sustainable pieces, perhaps a company that only uses ethical practices with workers and is committed to avoiding slavery. Other folks prefer companies with commitments to LGBTQ+ rights, empowering women in developing countries and so on. It’s all about what feels important to her and how we can integrate her values into her purchasing decisions.

With that, I also love to stay on top of trends and see what current trends align with her style. And the trend of the moment is midi skirts. Skirts that hit mid calf are midis. I love them because they are modest enough to be super functional for life and also look lovely with boots or (often) with sneakers. In the Pacific Northwest, a midi skirt is a dream because it doesn’t get wet from touching the ground in the rain, yet provides more warmth than a shorter skirt as the weather cools.

Yes, they can be unflattering as a midi skirt does have a tendency to cut off her legs and make them appear shorter. First, two essential style tips when rocking a midi skirt. If it appears that her legs aren’t looking their best, keep two things in mind.

Opt for hosiery or boots of the same or similar color to elongate her legs.
If she’s short waisted, embracing the midi can actually balance her vertical shape, giving the impression that her torso is longer in proportion to her legs.

Feel ready? Let’s dive into 25 of my favorite midi skirts including some with inclusive sizing, others made from BIPOC designers, some sustainable choices, others committed to fair labor practices and some made in the US or sold at local boutiques. Congrats on using your power for good. Remember look good. Feel good. Do good. Let’s go!

Hack Her Style: Client #5, Ella

Hack Her Style: Client #3, Chandra

7 Days 7 Clients. Countless Ways to Hack Her Style

As a personal stylist for women based in Seattle, I’ve spent nearly a decade working with hundreds of women to elevate their style. At Poplin, every client is different, but the structure is the same. We identify her body type, personal style key words, color palette, budget, lifestyle and values to create a strategy for her authentic personal style. Each client has a password protected webpage that gives her the tools to get dressed every day. We call that her online personal profile. Next up, we use her personal profile to guide every decision as we edit her closet. Does this piece communicate her personal style? Is it flattering for her figure? Does it communicate the level of success she’s achieved? If not, it’s out. Those questions and more are integral to the Closet Edit experience.

During the edit, I make a shopping list of items that would supplement her existing wardrobe and use that list to create her Uber Wishlist. An Uber Wishlist is a list of up to 40 items from a variety of retailers that work in tandem with her existing pieces to create a cohesive wardrobe that is functional for her life and helps her look and feel her best.

After ordering from her Uber Wishlist, we collaborate to ensure each piece is an essential piece to accomplish her style goals. I show her how to style it, how it should fit, when she’ll be wearing it, and more. Often, we also tailor a number of pieces both from her Uber Wishlist and from her existing wardrobe. After all, why buy something new if your existing piece can simply be tailored to do the job?

The styling process all comes together with her outfit session. This is when I create images using her new and existing pieces (including accessories) that she can view each morning on her phone, empowering her to understand what to wear in less than 5 minutes. I know. Right?!

Whether you are an existing client, a member of the Poplin community or new to Poplin, it’s both fun and helpful to see how another woman is harnessing her authentic personal style. That’s why we’re doing 7 days focused on 7 different clients. You’ll see the Uber Wishlist and Outfit photos for each. You won’t see photos of the clients. If you’d like those, check out the client stories page.

After all, we don’t do photo shoots with every client. But, this shouldn’t keep you from the opportunity to hack a client’s style. So, enjoy the next 7 days and please let me know what you think, how these are helpful to you and any exciting discoveries. From items to retailers to pairings, it’s time to hack her style.