If you are uncomfortable, you aren't fashionable

It's true. I do spend a good amount of time trying to motivate my fellow Seattle-ites to up their games. I also have this conversation with myself on those especially wet Winter mornings. But, let's be clear, EVERY stylish person has two elements: a smile and a look that say's, "I'm comfortable in what I'm wearing."

Missing a coat when it is freezing outside? Not fashionable. Wearing crazy high heels when you need to walk across the city? Not attractive. You get the idea. The struggle is that when we try to find that happy medium, we often discover that crazy comfortable clothes are, well, crazy comfortable. And, it's hard to break free.

Might I suggest a few key directives before you get dressed:

Style TipsmelliciaOctober 16, 2014 Comment

It's Like Your Very Own Wishlist

Body Types, Style Tips, Women's fashionmelliciaOctober 12, 2014Comment

Fashion & Function: Essentials for the New Parent.

Our son recently turned four and I'm continuously amazed at the evolution of maternity clothes over the last five years. Lucky for me, I have the opportunity to work with pregnant women and women who've recently gone back to work.

Both of those life stages can be especially challenging for a number of reasons. But, clothes, should not be one of them. So, I thought you (or someone you know), Dear Reader, might enjoy hearing about some new developments for new parents. FYI- That means moms AND dads.

Essentials for the New Parent

Are You Playing the Comparison Game?

I used to feel guilty every time I purchased a new piece of clothing or pair of shoes. Until, one day my husband said the most amazing words to me. He said, "you shouldn't feel guilty. That's your art form."

Magic.

Some people paint, others sculpt, I create outfits in my mind. That is my art form.

As a personal stylist, having the opportunity to create while helping to teach someone else is incredibly gratifying. Why am I bringing this up?

In casual conversations people often share with me their admiration for a style guru in their lives. Perhaps it's someone at the office who always looks incredible, a friend or family member. Looking fashionable seems effortless to this guru. She (or he) is always put together, stunning, current. I love hearing about this style guru because that person can be a helpful inspiration during the style transformation process. Seeing someone else's success can inspire us to work toward our own goals.

The danger is when you start playing the comparison game. When looking at that style guru again and again makes you doubt your own look, feel insecure about attempting a riskier approach to style, or give up all together, we have a problem. That's when I need to step in. So, here I am, stepping in.

Gut Check: Are You Playing the Comparison Game?

body image, Pick Me Ups, Style TipsmelliciaOctober 3, 2014Personal stylist, Seattle, Women's fashion Comment

Yes! YOU Can Wear a Jumpsuit.

Poplin: "I've been meaning to write a blog post about how to wear jumpsuits for months. Personally, I'm obsessed with them."

Blog reader Carly via Facebook: "Indeed. The people are clamoring for it. We need to know how to wear them, Mellicia."

Give the people what they want... especially if what they want is what you are dying to tell them. And, I AM dying to tell you how to wear a jumpsuit. After all, they aren't just for the uber cool woman you aspire to be. They are for you. You are that uber cool woman.

How to Find the Perfect Jumpsuit for You.

How do I wear this? Plus Size Edition

Note from the Editor:

Two things: 1. Below you'll find another blog post from Poplin contributor and plus size fashion guru, Jordan Richardson. Like what you read? Jordan's research on Sizeism was recently featured in an article in the Everett Herald? Check it out! Love her and you will, too. 2. I had a vintage inspired lavender coat with a lavender faux fur collar that I rocked with pride for years. Although, it happened to be the only coat I had with me on my initial move to NYC several years ago. I would not recommend opting for that when riding in a sea of black on the subway for the first time in the middle of February. Luckily, a personal stylist always has solution. On that day, mine was H&M.

This will mean something to you, Dear Reader once you reach the end of the post..... Enjoy!

plus size fashion, Style Tips, Women's fashionmelliciaSeptember 18, 2014fur coats, how to wear---, over the knee boots, Plus size retailersComment

Seattle Sunday: Embrace Your Inner Tomboy (and win!) with TomboyX

If you, Dear Reader, embrace the TomboyX lifestyle, the brand sells itself. Quality pieces with an edge.

But, if you love it, and aren't sure how to wear it- that's where your very own personal stylist comes in. And, now is certainly the perfect time.

TomboyX and Poplin Style Direction are joining forces to help YOU win up to $250 worth of clothing from the brand, a styling session with me at the showroom AND lunch with the team. Make sure you are entered to win by liking TomboyX and Poplin on Facebook as well as signing up for our newsletters. See more details here.

Now, where were we? Oh, yes, styling.

Ways to Wear My 3 Favorite Pieces from TomboyX

It's Time for a Smaller Bag.

For years, I was a fan of a large bag. I like compartments. As a frequent user of public transportation, I REALLY liked having the daily essentials accessible to me at a moments notice. I was not alone.

Several months ago, I had the good fortune to be invited to the Zara opening downtown. The press preview included a lovely giveaway- a light blue and white leather mid-size clutch. As someone who LOVES both white and light blue (if you add in lavender you've pretty much covered all my favorite spring colors), I started using it the same day. To my surprise, it is still my everyday bag.

I've made it to the mountain. And, may I suggest that it's time for you to join me? You're back will thank you.

5 Simple Steps to Downsize Your Bag

Wearing Works of Art: The Watercolor Print

Below you'll find another blog post from Poplin contributor, plus size fashion guru and resident watercolorist, Jordan Richardson. Read on!

Ever since I was a little girl I have loved art. The creativity, freedom and challenge of expression have always drawn me in. I got to taste even more of the art world when I entered college and took art history classes. I was enchanted by the work painted along the gilded halls of Versailles, spooked yet intrigued by the ever darkening works of Goya, and palpitated at the supreme artistry of Bernini's sculptures. So it would make sense that I would gravitate towards clothing that had some art influence woven in.

Watercolor is my medium of choice when doing fashion illustration. The fluidity and dynamism of the suspended color in water is, to me, sort of magical. So when I noticed that more and more watercolor-printed pieces were showing up on the market I knew I wanted to share them with you, Dear Reader. These colorful and fluid pieces are easy to incorporate into a wardrobe since they are usually great patterned pieces that can draw the eye to wherever you please, and disguise other bits. So I've pulled together a few pieces that I felt worked nicely with some style keywords. Enjoy!

Style TipsmelliciaAugust 29, 2014plus size fashion, Plus size retailers, Seattle Personal Stylist, Women's fashionComment

My Top 10 Favorite Things Right Now

As you can imagine, I spend an extraordinary amount of time shopping. Shopping for me, for clients, for friends, for imaginary people (see the Poplin Pinterest boards for evidence). When it comes time to write blog posts, I struggle with narrowing it down. After all, there is so much to share!

Therefore, every once in a while I decide that the only just thing to do, the only course of action that ensures that I'm giving you the level of service you desire, is to give you a laundry list of all my favorite things right now. Perhaps some of them are your favorites, too? My hope is that you'll find something new and exciting. Enjoy!

My 10 Favorite Things Right Now

Baby Steps: The Evolution of my White Clogs and What this Means to YOU

You might remember last month's post featuring some of my early summer obsessions. At the top of the list: my white patent leather platform clogs from Chloe Sevigny for Opening Ceremony.

They were bold. They were free. I wanted them. I got them. I had to figure out how to wear them. Then I did.

My Wackadoodle Clogs Over Time & Applying this Strategy to Your Purchase

Having Fashion Envy? Time to Add Some Color to Your Life

When you look in your closet today what do you see? My guess is that you’re going to find that there is absolutely no variation when it comes to color. I have definitely been guilty of this, finding myself always drawn to blue pieces when I shop because I’ve found it to be my most flattering color. First of all — how boring. Face it, the people whose fashion sense you envy are the ones that aren’t afraid to be bold or try something new with their wardrobe.

Let me be the one to tell you that you need a little spice in your life. When you start to venture outside your comfort zone, you’ll find that there are multiple colors and different styles of prints that actually will look fabulous on you — but first, you just need to give them a try.

Finding the Right Colors for YOU

Style TipsmelliciaAugust 12, 2014Am I warm or cool?, Colors for your skin tone, Personal stylist, Seattle, Women's fashionComment

The Plus size Coordinating Set- Not just sweaters anymore

Below you'll find another blog post from Poplin contributor and plus size fashion guru, Jordan Richardson. This time, she teamed up with Poplin Style Direction Intern, Ellie Emoto to bring you up to speed on this summer's Must Have. This week's Poplin newsletter includes Ellie's take on the LWD for straight sizes and Jordan's perspective for plus size women is below. If you aren't receiving the newsletter, make sure to sign up!

Also, did you know that Jordan's research on Sizeism was recently featured in an article in the Everett Herald? Check it out! Love her and you will, too. Enjoy!

Dear Reader,

Although I usually try and stay away from flash trends, opting instead for more classic pieces, sometimes I get roped in. I struggled against the coordinating set but then finally gave in to the matchy matchy patterned sets that felt fun and funky. Well, my jumping into this trend was my best fashion decision of the past six months. After acquiring a matching monochrome patterned sweater and skirt set I found a dozen ways to wear each piece separately, and another dozen ways to wear them together with various accessories and shoes. Even better, I felt powerful, stunning and oh so cool every time I put them on together.

So I want to share that feeling with you. I've found some coordinating sets or co-ords that align with some keywords; making this trend accessible no matter what you are seeking to communicate.

Co-ords

The Secret to Beautiful Hair: Connect with your Hairdresser on LinkedIn

Apparently, life goes on whether I'm there or not. And, I expect I'm not the only one.

Last weekend, my son and I ran into Brenda, the lovely woman who flawlessly colored my hair for years. She was also Kim Jong Il for Halloween one year, which is amazing. Needless to say, I'm very fond of her.

When I became pregnant, I took a hiatus from coloring my hair. It was intended to be temporary. But, when I learned of the cost of child care, I discovered that brown hair was just fine. Well, fine for at least 6 months, anyway.

The last time I had spoken to Brenda, she and her husband were hoping to have a baby. When I was ready to start coloring my hair again, she was gone.

And it happens to so many of us. For whatever reason, we aren't in the know when our favorite esthetician, massage therapist, hair dresser, tailor, insert essential life supporting service here, person moves on. Even worse, we can never find them again. Therefore, I propose this:

Connect with Your Life Changing (Insert Occupation Here) via LinkedIn

Menswear, Style Tips, Women's fashionmelliciaJuly 31, 2014Comment

The One Piece that Saves You Money & Heartache

How many times have you put the final touches on your outfit only to discover that your shoes don't match your jewelry? Or, the buttons on your coat are gold while the buckle on your shoes is silver? Perhaps your wedding ring is white gold but you really want to wear your new yellow gold bracelet?

I would venture to say more than once.

A client sent me a text the other day asking about this issue and how to solve it.

Is it a Fashion Faux Paux to Wear Gold with Silver?

Seattle Sunday comes early: I went KitchenSurfing and so Should YOU

In all of our lives, there is a pivotal moment when we officially move up in the world. Well, officially to ourselves, anyway. When we graduate from generic ice cream to Dryers and then to Ben and Jerry's and beyond. Or when we buy our first items at full price from a boutique or perhaps our very first designer purchase (even if it is at the Rack).

Once you've crossed the threshold, everything changes. Suddenly, you wouldn't consider glancing at generic anymore. And shopping at a boutique becomes a regular occurrence. If you have yet to make any of these leaps (hello college), don't worry. You will. But, if you have moved beyond level one and even level two in the game of life, I have something for you: Kitchensurfing.

Just over a week ago, Kitchensurfing launched in Seattle. It's already established in larger cities and thank goodness it finally arrived at our foodie mecca. The concept is simple: a chef prepares a meal for you and your guests at your house AND cleans up afterward. Yes, that's what I said.

A few weeks ago, we hosted a Kitchensurfing dinner party. Our very generous friends, Steve and Lauren, offered to share their home with a group of friends to try it out. Our conclusion? Kitchensurfing: It's a must have.

Four Reasons Your Next Adventure MUST Include Kitchensurfing

Summer Staple: LWD

Below you'll find another blog post from Poplin contributor and plus size fashion guru, Jordan Richardson. This time, she teamed up with Poplin Style Direction Intern, Ellie Emoto to bring you up to speed on this summer's Must Have. This week's Poplin newsletter includes Ellie's take on the LWD for straight sizes and Jordan's perspective for plus size women is below. If you aren't receiving the newsletter, make sure to sign up!

Also, did you know that Jordan's research on Sizeism was recently featured in an article in the Everett Herald? Check it out! Love her and you will, too. Enjoy!

Dear Readers,

As we hit the warmest time of the year, with long sunsets and backyard parties, you may find your social schedule filling up. It's easy and necessary to have a piece that can go from cocktail mixers to bridal showers and then to visit in-laws. In the colder months an easy piece to pull on and go is the LBD: The Little Black Dress. A seemingly universal dress that is easily changed with accessories or layers, this staple is given a summer update in white.

As follows are some great choices to flatter different figures, and make your summer dressing easy as 1,2,3.

LWD for the Plus Sized Woman

Feeling Overwhelmed? Life Just Got a Little Easier

I've said it before, we all have a little Seasonal Affective Disorder in us. If for no other reason, but because our calendars are on hyper drive this time of year. Every day has a zillion commitments and even though the days are technically longer, we still can't do it all. So, if this time of year has brought you a feeling of overwhelm, you are not alone. I thought you might enjoy some streamlining from your very own personal stylist.

Here we go!

5 Ways to Take Control of Your Style

body image, Style Tips, Women's fashionmelliciaJuly 23, 2014Comment

Seattle Sunday: Jill Griffin Handmade Jewelry

Over the last few weeks, I've had a number of clients use words like, "earthy," and "natural" when describing their personal styles. You, Dear Reader, know how essential style keywords can be. Along with the do's and don'ts for your body type, style keywords can help you ensure that your clothes are communicating exactly what you want them to.

Lucky for me, the lovely and talented Jill Griffin was just a click away to empower me to offer up locally hand made jewelry for the earthier set of my client base. I met Jill last year when one of my clients hosted a trunk show for her. (I went home with a black leather cuff.)

And, because I think of you, Dear Reader, as my virtual client, I wanted to make sure I share her pieces (and the client discount) with you.

What You Need to Know Now About Jill Griffin Jewelry

Normcore. I've been Trying to Avoid it, but.....

A number of months ago I started hearing about Normcore. Chatter on the inter web turned into real media attention and an official trend. We can thank the good people at New York Magazine (one of my VERY favorite mags, by the way) for updating the rest of us earlier this year. Opening up the newest issue of Lucky today, I see that Normcore is now a topic for Main Stream America.

With that in mind, I feel obligated to give this trend some attention, though, truthfully, I'd prefer to give it as little attention as possible. However, my first obligation is to you, Dear Reader, so it's important that you can discuss Normcore at a dinner party or the office and sound like you know what you are talking about.