As a personal stylist for women, I’ve seen a lot of stripes. There’s something comforting about the perfect striped Breton tee that is really the symbol of spring. But this print can go well beyond your horizontal striped shirt. This season we’re seeing an array of pieces- some familiar, some groundbreaking, all just right for warmer weather. If you’re looking for some inspiration, we’ve got you covered.
Read MoreAs 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!
Read MoreAs 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!
Read MoreThe Vixen Collection and I go way, way back. If I didn’t already adore owner Courean Napolitano, I truly fell in love when she supplied the location for the Poplin Microsoft ad a few years back… after all, as a personal stylist for women not tied to any retailer, I don’t have a storefront.
If you haven’t been to Vixen, or you haven’t been lately, it’s unlike any other boutique. Vixen isn’t a store, exactly. It’s a community. Anyone in Magnolia knows it well. Pop in to see what’s new and you’ll likely walk away with a few pieces including jewelry, a hat or even that adhesive strapless backless bra you need for tonight’s dinner. Or perhaps you’ll stock up on gifts or the array of delightful dishtowels. So many options.
It’s not just clothing, accessories and home goods. Vixen also has a FULL range of spa services from lash extensions to nail services, massages and the list goes on. And when I say it’s a community, I mean it’s a full on community. Courean and team track client birthdays, offer personalized holiday shopping experiences for partners and hold unexpected events like palm reading and parties. My husband and I went to the friends and family pre-opening of the brand new store in Queen Anne and were greeted by a lively, fun, packed house that also included margaritas, tacos and a DJ.
I know it’s challenging to find new spots to pop in and do some shopping and self care, so I’m happy to send you over to either of the Vixen locations for your next outing. The prices are really reasonable and Courean personally curates the inventory.
The vibe is effortless, beachy, a little boho. Essentially, when you are shopping at a Vixen location, you feel like you are planning for your next vacation, even if it’s in Seattle. Can’t make it in? You can shop online! Here are some of my favs. Enjoy and as always, LMK how it goes.
Read MoreAs a personal stylist for women, I’m always on the lookout for valuable recommendations for my clients and my community. At Poplin, we are all about simplifying your life and making getting dressed a stress free experience. Plus, we like cool stuff.
So here’s my download of all the things that are making my life better right now. Let me know what you think!
It’s FINALLY happening! Lots of folks are coming up on their two weeks post 2nd shot and that means we can, wait for it, socialize. Woah. We’re not just hanging outside anymore. It’s time to actually cross the threshold into a friend’s home.
I don’t know about you, Dear Reader, but I’ve found lots of my social skills have deteriorated over the past year and a half. So, it feels like the right time to take a good hard look at what steps need to be considered before committing to dinner at a friend or family member’s home. Feeling anxious? No need. I’ve got you.
I don’t know about you, but I haven’t worn a heel since February of last year. So, the idea of spring fashion trends seems wildly out of step with my everyday life. That being said, as the sun has come out, I’ve found myself gazing at a dress or two online and only coming up for air hours and several websites later. President Biden’s announcement that there should be enough vaccines for all Americans by May put a major spring in my step. Sure, having “enough vaccines” for everyone doesn’t mean we’ll be wearing heels again in May, but at least there’s light at the end of the tunnel. And, I, for one am ready to bring that fresh enthusiasm to my wardrobe.
So, here we are. Most of us at home in the softest pants available, both dreading and dreaming of the day when putting together a full outfit is not a special occasion of its own. To get you started, I thought I’d offer up Spring Fashion Trends that actually mean something to you, right now, and in the coming months. This is a big list, so we’ll break it into a few posts. Enjoy! And, as always, let me know what you think.
