Whenever I’m paying for something at one of my fave stores and the salesperson asks for my e-mail address, I always politely decline. I don’t need more subscriptions clogging the old Hotmail account I started in 1999, let alone more perfectly styled, cutely designed HTML messages taunting me to buy things on a daily basis. But last time I was at Kate Spade, I was feeling inspired by their adorable aesthetic and handed the girl my card. I’m happy I did, because last week the most inspiring little parcel arrived in the mail for me. Kate’s new promotional materials for their new fall bags are worth sharing (even framing, according to Jaimi). Plus – whether or not they intended to do it, each card totally represents a different Fashion Feng Shui personality.
{ fire }
{}
{ water }
{}
{ wood }
{}
{ metal }
{}
{ earth }
{}
{}
Metal + Fire
Because the character of Carrie is meant to be the every-woman of the group, her essence is not so heavy in one element. She’s a Metal for her love of all things top of the line, and the meticulous perfection of her imperfect life. She’s a Fire for being the star of the show by any definition, and immediately owning every room she walks into. This is largely due to her impeccable statement-making wardrobe and zest for life in The City. No matter where she goes, she’s always dressed to attract conversation and her outfits are either impossibly perfect for the time and place, or divinely imperfect which in turn redefines perfect. You with me?
{}
Carrie’s Rules to Style
1. Every outfit starts with the shoes.
2. Always make sure you’re wearing at least one piece that only you can pull off.
3. When you think you’re ready to walk out the door, stop and replace the most predictable part of your outfit with something unexpected.
4. Your style comes down to what makes you giddy. If you’re uninspired by what you have on, it’s time to change.
5. Each day is a new opportunity to reinvent your style… and yourself.
{}
At the Movies
Carrie could literally wear a paper bag and we’d all be running to the nearest grocery store to stock up, which means her perfect outfit possibilities are endless. If she were going to see Sex and the City 2, she wouldn’t be deterred by the casual setting of a movie theatre; she’d use it as an opportunity to create a borderline kitschy version of the perfect outfit. She might sport something like this Alexander Wang frock in the quintessential comfy fabric, and clearly far from unfabulous. Add some one-of-a-kind, edgy designer accessories, a gasp inducing pair of shoes, and all she needs are her girlfriend and popcorn.
Sex and the City 2 – Carrie by thelifestyled
{}
All Fire Baby!
It’s safe to say that Samantha Jones is one of most fiery Fires ever created in pop culture – especially when it comes to her philosophies on men, and that sailor mouth of hers. We’d all love to have even a fraction of the guts she has, which is why she’s an icon and an inspiration to us all. When it comes to Samantha’s style, no outfit is too loud or skimpy. Her look is fearless and ageless. I mean, what other woman in her 50′s would show up to a red carpet event wearing the exact same outfit as Miley Cyrus?
{}
Samantha’s Rules to Style
1. Always dress for men, not for women (if you get cat calls from the construction workers on Canal St., that means you got it right).
2. Your best staple pieces are the ones that are most easily removed.
3. Never bring a fake Fendi to the Playboy mansion.
4. Wear it, and never apologize for it.
5. The bigger the jewels, the better… if you know what I mean.
{}
At The Movies
Samantha’s a “go big or go home” kinda gal. So even if she’s just going to the movies, that’s certainly not stopping her from sporting her most obnoxious duds – sparkles, chunky jewelry, and blatant brands in tow. Samantha is the last person to care about whatever whispers she may be attracting from the row behind about her tranny-like corset. In fact, the more whispers she attracts, the better.
Sex and the City 2 – Samantha by thelifestyled
{}
Kara by Kara Ross Gold and Lizard Skin Cuff, $361
{}
{}
Metal + Earth
Charlotte’s the girl we can always count on to be loyal, nurturing, proper, and classy. Her Metal makes her the queen of all things elegant, while her underlying Earth contributes to her motherly, traditional, and domestic tendencies. We love her for the squeaky clean all-American girl that she is, and her perfect wardrobe to match. You’ll always see Charlotte in pieces that are delightfully easy on the eye with no surprises, in recognizable styles reminiscent of the idyllic 50′s.
{}
Charlotte’s Rules to Style
1. Always make sure your outfit ties together through one repeating color.
2. If it would attract judging stares on the upper east side, do not wear it.
3. A classic a-line dress is suitable for any occasion.
4. Bows, polka dots, and florals are your best friends.
5. When vacationing in Mexico, do not drink the water… and always have a backup outfit on hand.
{}
At the Movies
If Charlotte were seeing Sex and the City 2 this Friday, she’d likely don a cutesy casual (well, casual by her definition) frock like this one by Alice + Olivia. She might wear flats to stay comfy, but they’d have to be sufficiently feminine and graceful. Most importantly, Charlotte would be sure to bring her hanky for the inevitable waterworks during the film’s most touching moments.
Sex and the City 2 – Charlotte by thelifestyled
Everywhere you turn this spring, it’s hard not to come across one of the season’s hottest pieces – the nautical striped top. Whether short sleeved or long sleeved, woven or knit, classic or edgy, a variation of this top seems to be in every store right now.{}
Future Classics Striped Cotton Top, $285
{}
J. Crew Vintage Bateau Top, $36
{}
T By Alexander Wang, $113
No matter what floats your yacht, this style is an essential staple for any spring wardrobe. Here are five different ways to wear it – one for every Fashion Feng Shui essence. For these sets, I used the DAY Birger et Mikkelsen Striped T-Shirt from Net-A-Porter.com, which I learned is unfortunately is no longer available. But the looks would work with any naut-y striped tee you can find!
{}
{}
{}
{}
{}
{}
{}
{}
{}
OK, I know I can’t have all five essences, but I seriously want every single one of these outfits for all my intention setting needs during these fresh and fun months. Happy Spring!
The 82nd Academy Awards were predicted to be unpredictable, and certainly turned out some upsets with winners on and off the red carpet. Key trends in Oscar fashion this year were voluminous gowns, bright pink lips, and messy updos (or maybe those were accidental, given the rain). Here are my favorite looks from an elemental perspective…
Sandra Bullock in Marchesa
There’s no doubt that this was Sandra’s night. As Carson Kressley said on Oprah’s After Oscar Special yesterday, “her stylist knew she was going to win,” and chose her dress accordingly. This dress is a complete embodiment of Metal energy with an extra spark of Fire, making it the perfect choice for her to win the gold in!
Demi Moore in Atelier Versace
Demi sure knows how to wear nude. How Metal of her! Even though this dress feels like a bit of deja vous from previous years (I’m thinking Penelope Cruz), I gotta hand it to Rachel Zoe for nailing Demi’s look. It’s sleek, sophisticated, and most of all, sexy – which is just so Demi.
Zoe Saldana in Givenchy
I think this is one of those dresses you either love or hate, and I absolutely love it. If there is anyone who can carry it off, it’s Zoe. I love that she went for something so fantastical for the year of Avatar. While there’s a lot of Fire going on in all the drama of sparkles and ruffles, my favorite part is the ombre effect – the Water to cool down the Fire, if you will.
Miley Cyrus in Jenny Packham
I know Miley has been getting some negative press around her “bad posture” and whatever else on Oscar night, but I think she looked stunning. This gown had everything a young star would want for the Oscars – girly sass in the bustier top, but an element of youthfulness in the tulle skirt. I can’t think of a better person to wear this gorgeous Metal/Fire dress. Just like last year, Miley got it right.
Nicole Richie in Reem Acra
Nicole Richie definitely deserves some points for honoring her essence on the red carpet this year. This elegant Metal Reem Acra dress with a Watery/hippy twist was made for her. I cannot see anyone else rocking it like she did, and that’s when you know someone played it right. I also loved the sleek hair (perfect to combat the rain) and smoky cat eye – it all just screamed “Nicole Richie”, and that’s what I love to see!
Meryl Streep in Chris March
As much as we all love Meryl, sometimes she doesn’t quite nail it with her fashion choices. But this dress, to me, was such a perfect choice for her. I loved the pure white Metal look, with touches of comforting Earth in the boxy shoulder and ample arm coverage. It was classic, yet trendy in all the right places. Best of all, it was far from over-the-top. You can tell she is genuinely comfortable, which is something I love to see on an Earth like herself!
A Fire New Year
Some of us need a little fun in our lives. Maybe you worked too hard last year or went through a tough time, and have forgotten to live it up from time to time. Or perhaps you’re just looking to make a connection with those around you, whether they be old friends or a potential to-be-determined soul mate. Either way, you need to get noticed. Allow me to show you how you can use Fire to help you seek some pleasure this year.
Your Look’s Key Words: Dramatic. Fun. Captivating. Flirty. Alive.
Style Elements: Sharp shapes. Sparkle. Bright colors. Body con. Animal.
Get Noticed With Fire by thelifestyled featuring Lee Angel jewelry
Tips to Fire Up Your Life
1. Throw a party. You don’t need a reason. Just a bunch of your friends, some great munchies, and libations for all. Whether you’re in the mood for a game night, girls night, or Jersey Shore night, hosting a party will put you in your Fire element. No matter what, laughs and hugs are guaranteed.
Valentine Dinner Party Invitations, $35
2. Join Twitter. If you haven’t already, this is a must. At first glance, it may feel a bit like a way dumbed down version of Facebook, but it’s actually a super fun way to stay connected with friends (and celebs), and stay abreast of their daily musings.If nothing else, it’s another way to procrastinate from that boring work you’re supposed to be doing.
3. Do something daring. Go skydiving. Take a strip tease class. Get a Brazilian bikini wax. Drive a Vespa. Doing something you’d normally be too scared to do will get the adrenaline flowing, and make you feel like you’re on top of the world.
Vespa GTV 250, $6,900
It’s hard to imagine a year without Fire energy. It’s the element that allows us to connect in a meaningful way with our favorite people, and makes it OK to be all about you every now and then. It’s what keeps us sane, and gives us things to look forward to, like those fabulous studded heels you’re going to wear to Friday happy hour. Speaking of, gotta go…
An Earth New Year
Perhaps 2009 was a year of big changes for you. You got married, moved into a new home, had a baby, or experienced any other detours from your usual norm. If you’re feeling like you need to ground yourself and settle into your life a bit more, Earth is your intention for 2010. Here are lots of fun ways to nest during hibernation season.
Your Look’s Key Words: Comfortable. Cozy. Classic. Warm.
Style Elements: Texture. Earthy tones. Warm fabrics.
Get Grounded With Earth by thelifestyled featuring Miss Selfridge
Tips to Earthify Your Life
1. Get into the kitchen. There’s no better way to get comfy than with delicious food! So throw on an apron, dust off the stack of cookbooks, and get some yummy smells circulating through the house. Not only is it a fun way to “connect” with your home, but it will produce a tasty reward for you and those around you!
American Fashion Cookbook, $30
2. Learn to knit. I’m convinced this craft was invented to bring Earth energy into our lives. You work with nubby textures to create a cozy blanket or scarf, perhaps that you might give as a gift to a friend or loved one, and you do it as your settle into your favorite chair and sip a cup of tea. Please!
Organic Cotton Knitting Yarn, $9.50 per ball
3. Better your home. You’re going to be spending a lot of time there this season, so why not take the opportunity to do a few of the projects you’ve been hoping to get to for months? Paint and distress a side table. Bring in some seasonal greenery. Add a cute doormat. It’ll make you feel that much happier when you walk in the door.
Monogram Coir Doormat, $25
With our crazy busy schedules and long daily To Do lists, it can be easy to forget to stop, take in our surroundings, and enjoy the little things that make our routines great. If you can make steps towards feeling more stable this year, you’ll be all the more ready to take on whatever future changes life throws at you.
We all love holiday shopping… except when it’s stressful. And let’s face it – it’s almost always stressful. This time of year, many of us have two mental lists going: the list of all the things you would like to buy your friends and loved ones, and the much smaller list of things you can afford to buy them, the latter of which is usually much less inspiring. And some of us just don’t know where to start. Whatever your budget, you want to feel like you are really getting them gifts they would be excited about – gifts that were handpicked just for them. This week, we’ll be taking an elemental look at holiday gift giving for everyone on your list. I’ll be showing you my picks in all price ranges for all the archetypes in your life!
Today, it’s all about Wood. We all know one: the busy bee who’s always on the go, and loves to tackle new things. The adventurer. The pioneer. Woods like things that are practical, allow them to move, and are often times sporty or outdoorsy. Whatever their hobbies, they’ll love anything that will support them in their jam packed schedule. So, nothing too floofy or restricting.
Here are some of my gift picks for Woods:
Holiday Gift Guide: Wood by thelifestyled featuring Frye boots
Topshop Tucked Jumper Dress, $57
Dorado Riding Boot by Frye, $498
Converse Silver/Navy/White Women’s Jack Purcell Ltt Ox Shoe, $87
American Apparel Nylon Pack Cloth Gym Bag, $17
ToyWatch Large Watch with Plasteramic Strap and Silver Dial,$228
Carrera Machu Aviators, $95
Tanya Aguiniga Rope Cuff, $70
Little Birch Jewelry Stand, $28
KOR ONE Hydration Vessel, $30
J. Crew Men’s Camp Socks, $16.50
Tomorrow, we’ll be shopping for luxury – for the Metals in our lives!
I figured it might be time for our next lesson in Fashion Feng Shui 101. I know I keep talking about honoring your essence with your clothes, but I haven’t exactly told you how to do that. I talked about the 5 elements and their archetypes. Now, I’ll tell you how the elements manifest themselves through fabrics, colors, and style concepts.
There are countless ways we can dress our essence and bring the other elements in to honor our intentions (what we want to bring into our lives), our environment (what our lives demand of us), and our appearance (our features that we want to flatter). I’ll get more into those details in later posts, but in the meantime, I’m going to show you the basics of the elements through clothing and accessories.
WATER – The Philosopher
Mantra Words: Unique. Creative. Offbeat. Intelligent.
Fabrics: Flowy or sheer fabrics like chiffon, sheer silk, and organza.
Colors: Deep cool tones like black, deep blue, or dark purple.
Styles: Asymetrical shapes like a one shoulder design, ethnic prints, gathering or rouching, reflective touches, and anything that goes “against the grain.”
Designers/Brands: Urban Outfitters, Marc Jacobs, Prada
WOOD – The Pioneer
Mantra Words: Move. Grow. Activity.
Fabrics: Anything movable, non-fussy, and plant based, like cotton, jersey, linen, gauze, and denim.
Colors: Fresh bright colors like marine blue and kelly green.
Styles: Sporty, preppy, hippy, floral prints, or vertical stripes.
Designers/Brands: J. Crew, Patagonia, Missoni, Polo Ralph Lauren, Martin + Osa
EARTH – The Peacemaker
Mantra Words: Nurture. Grounded. Comfort. Classic.
Fabrics: Cozy and comfy, textured fabrics, tweed, raw silk, piqué.
Colors: Earthy tones like brown, khaki, sage, and warm colors like yellow and orange.
Styles: Boxy shapes, traditional or classic styles, plaid prints, “school girl.”
Designers/Brands: Gap, Burberry, Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch
FIRE – The Pleasure Seeker
Mantra Words: Fun. Captivating. Dramatic. Attention Getting.
Fabrics: Anything that comes from an animal (or the faux versions) including wool, silk, and leather, attention getting fabrics like lamé, spandex, or sequin.
Colors: Reds, purples, pinks, and anything really bright like neon, or jewel tones.
Styles: Triangular shapes, dramatic trends, animal print, v-necks, anything that reveals your assets.
Designers/Brands: Versace, Roberto Cavalli, Alexander McQueen, Zara, Topshop
METAL – The Perfectionist
Mantra Words: Luxury. Elegant. Class. Perfection. Details.
Fabrics: Anything high quality and luxurious like cashmere, polished fabrics with a slight sheen, metallics.
Colors: Ivory, white, silver, gold, creamy pastels.
Styles: Anything classy, elegant, polished, and luxurious. True metals tend to stay away from prints, but round shapes like polka dots have a lot of metal energy. Nothing flashy or cheap.
Designers/Brands: Chanel, Gucci, YSL, J. Crew, Banana Republic
Now, let me make a very important disclaimer: if you think you’ve decided which essence you are, but wouldn’t wear all the clothes I’ve shown for that element, do not feel like you have to second guess your essence. The reality is most pieces do have more than one element present, and each one of us has different motivations for our personal style because of our intentions, environment, or appearance. For example, maybe your essence is Earth but you don’t like to wear the Earthy yellows and oranges. Maybe it’s because your body coloring is more cool, so your appearance come into play and steers you away from warmer colors. That’s totally OK. In that case, you would use one of the other ways to make sure your Earth is present, like a classic style or boxy jacket and wear it in shades that flatter you better. You don’t have to have ALL of the aspects of an element present in order to honor your essence. It might just be in the fabric, color, style, or print.
You know those outfits you put on and just feel like a dud in, or something’s not right – chances are it’s bescause your essence is missing. When you remember to honor who you are on the inside with what you wear on the outside, that’s how you will be most comfortable, happy, and in your element!
Thanks for stopping by! I'm Catherine Sheppard, a fashion stylist living in Los Angeles...
4