Time for Spring Cleaning...Your Closet

It is spring cleaning time again, and your closet deserves the same attention as the rest of your home. You know there are clothes, shoes and accessories in that black hole of a closet that you can part with. Or rather, need to part with.

Now, I know not everyone is as organized as me, but, I promise this step will make it easier for you to evaluate what you have in your closet. Plus, once it is organized, it will be easy to keep it that way. Hang your clothing in categories and colors: jeans, white pants, khaki pants, black pants, other, and then tops in descending sleeve length and by color (white, black, pink, red, peach, orange....lilac, purple).

Did you see things in there that you forgot that you had? Or, how about things that you haven't worn in 6+ months? I bet there are even things that are worn out, do not fit, and that you simply do not like. Perhaps you even have some unworn clothing with the tags still attached.

This will never be back in style, audios!

This is the hard part: being honest with yourself. Get rid of everything that no longer fits (do not save it for "after the diet"), that worn out (faded, holes, stains) and that you no longer enjoy wearing. Now, look at the clothing that you have not worn in 6+ months. If you haven't worn it in that length of time, you probably aren't going to start anytime soon. Don't think about it for too long, just get it out of your closet before you try to reason with yourself that you will wear it next week. Get rid of things that are out of style; you know that message t-shirt and linebacker shoulder pads should never be worn again.

Don't be Miss Muffin Top and get rid of too tight clothes

Do the same with your shoes, jackets/coats, accessories, bags and clothing in your drawers. You know that bra that doesn't fit right, those socks with holes and those shorts with the elastic wearing out- yeah, see ya!

Good bye, shoes!

You probably have some shoes and clothing that needs to be taken to a shoe repair or tailor. Shoe repair shops can fix heels, toes, soles, straps and buckles. Taking clothing to a tailor to fix hems, buttons, zippers and beading. This is not an excuse to save things that are too far worn, do not fit, that you don't like or haven't worn. Those things still have to go.

Now, you should be able to better evaluate your wardrobe to see what you need to replace and update. Plus, start wearing those things with the tags still on them!

Take your bags and boxes of clothing to a donation center and do what comes after spring cleaning...spring shopping!

P.S. Next week do the same in your bathroom with makeup, tools and accessories, styling products, body products, shower poofs, etc.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Spring/Summer Bags

Time to ditch the dark brown and black bags and add some spring/summer style to your purse collection. Lighter colored clothing calls for lighter colored bags. Think true white, cream, beige/khaki and even light grey and silver.

Treesje Parker Hobo, Bluefly $369

If you are on a budget, and who isn't, choose one versatile bag that can go from day to night. Also, don't buy a bag that is too trendy. After all, you will want to keep it for next year and the year after. If you really want a trendy studded bag, do not spend a lot of money on it. Splurge on timeless pieces, not trendy ones.

Cole Haan Bailey Pocket Hobo, $298

If you have the dough, there are some great casual totes. Fendi's straw and canvas tote, available on Bluefly, is perfect for a day of shopping. Yves St. Laurent also has several great totes for spring/summer. For evening, clutches are simple and sexy; Fendi has an irresistible silver leather one that will carry you through fall.

Yves St. Laurent Large Bowler, Bluefly $1,436

A light colored bag will be your go-to bag for months to come, so choose wisely! Remember, a good quality, timeless bag will last years and you will enjoy carrying it every time.

To order online, visit Cole Haan and Bluefly.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Cole Haan and Bluefly.

The Fashionable Dog

Maybe you can't afford a Burberry trench coat for yourself, but that doesn't mean that Rover can't have one. As dogs become more integrated into families and even thought of as kids, dressing up your dog in a t-shirt, sweater, coat, or Halloween costume for that matter, is not that abnormal. But, what about giving your dog luxury items normally reserved for people? Perhaps items that you would not even buy for yourself?

Burberry Coat from Uptown Pets $90-145

If you want your dog to be the envy of all the other dogs at doggy day care (or, more likely, if you want to be the envy of other pet parents), splurge on some designer duds. You are sure to elicit tons of "awwws" when your pride and joy prances around as if she was on a runway.

If your dog doesn't like wearing clothes, you can opt for accessories. Collars, leashes and "hair" clips are available for your furbaby.

Tarina Tarantino Queen Alice Cameo Necklace and Leash Set from Glamour Dog $124.95

Don't forget any fashionable dog must also be well groomed. Pet Head by TIGI offers several shampoos, sprays, brushes, conditioners and a couple of accessories for dogs with a variety of coats. Pet Silk has even more options when it comes to grooming, including cologne, gel, "hair" spray and more shampoos and conditioners than you. The SPA collection reads like an upscale human salon with color brightening shampoo and facial scrub.

Pet Head by TIGI Life's an Itch Skin Soothing Shampoo from Glamour Dog $14.95

Now that you have your best furry friend dressed, accessorized and groomed, you have to replace that old dog food dish. Your Burberry clad pooch doesn't want to eat out of a regular bowl, and you surely don't want the dog food bowl to stick out in your well decorated home. A variety of dog bowls, combination food and water feeders, and even treat jars look like little works of art that will blend in to any interior decorating style.

Acacia Bowls from Glamour Dog $35-95

Finally, after a long day, your dog will sleep like a [fur]baby. Soothe his or her aching joints with a memory foam bed from Buddy Beds. If you live in a cold climate, make sure your dog never gets too cold at night with a heated bed- some even come with a massage option! An entire bedroom set from Pamper Me Puppy is too adorable to pass up if you have the extra space. If you don't have the room, a lounge area will make Rover happy as well.

Catnap Vertigo Dog Furniture from Pamper Me Puppy $172.95

Of course you will be travelling with your dog, so get a carrier and any additional travel items, like a car seat. If you crate your dog, there are plenty of stylish options for that as well. Your puppy may even eat better than you with organic, human-grade dog food.

You don't want Fluffy to be left out, so grab a few cat items so you aren't playing favorites.

For more products and to order visit Pamper Me Puppy, Glamour Dog and Uptown Pets.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Pamper Me Puppy, Glamour Dog and Uptown Pets.

Spice Up Your Manicure

Plain nails are well...plain. With Sally Hansen's Nail Art Pen you can do a colorful French manicure or let your creativity take over and try stripes, dots, flowers, or anything else you can think of. The pen is the size of a Sharpie marker to allow for maximum control; the tip is fairly fine, but may be too large for intricate designs. The pen, $7.99, comes in white, black, red, light pink, pink, gold, blue and silver. The colors are saturated enough to color over dark polishes, such as gray, black, dark purple and maroon.

After you paint your nails, and let them dry completely (very important or the nail art pen does not go on well), start designing your one of a kind manicure. If you mess up, simply wipe your nail off immediately and the color will easily come off. When you are satisfied with your art work, let your nails dry completely and add your top coat. The top coat is important to keep the design from chipping off quickly.

Tip: Do this with a friend, because when it comes to painting your dominate hand with your non-dominate hand, things can get messy and your friend can do it for you.

People will definitely notice your unique nails and ask where you got them done. Watch their surprise when you say that you did it yourself.

To purchase Sally Hansen's Nail Art Pen click here to find online retailers and local stores.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website.

Picture from Sally Hansen

Molly Sims' Jewelry Line Launches

Model and actress Molly Sims launched her jewelry line Grayce by Molly Sims on March 23 at Henri Bendel. Molly, inspired by her travels, cited Mexico as the place where she got the purples and turquoise from. Fashion icons through the decades also inspired the Grayce collection: Sarah Jessica Parker, Brigitte Bardot, Audrey Hepburn, and Jackie O.

Grayce Deco Ring, $45.95

Grayce features gold, silver and jeweled cocktail rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. If you are looking for a statement necklace, look no further. You can choose from heavy, roped necklaces in silver, gold, or rose gold or go for an art deco necklace that will put your little black dress over the edge.

Grayce Metal Braid Necklace, $129.95

A cool cocktail ring can pump up a day look or grab some bangles, which are big this spring. Molly designed a variety of earrings, so if you are looking for fun day earrings or elegant chandeliers, you will find them in the Grayce line.

Grayce Modern Bangle Set, $129.95

The line's name, Grayce, comes from Molly's mom who always told her to be graceful and greatful. Also, her mother was a jewelry collector, so Molly was surrounded by beautiful, unique jewelry growing up.

Grayce Crystal Point Drop Earrings, $59.95

Prices range from $75-250.

If you aren't in New York and want a piece of Grayce, the jewelry line is on sale through Molly's site or visit HSN.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from HSN.

One Dress, Many Ways to Wear

Times are tough and our fashion budgets aren't what they used to be. But, we still want that feeling of slipping on a new dress and feeling great. With Victoria's Secret convertible dress collection, you can make one purchase, get multiple styles and get that new dress feeling over and over again. Plus, with all the money you saved by only buying one dress, you can get a new pair of shoes!

Daytime A-Line, $59

The Daytime A-Line dress can easily transition from day to night, and from beach casual to date night. Out shopping and running errands when that special guy calls? Just transform your dress and you are ready for anything! The Daytime A-Line dress is cotton modal jersey, has five style options, comes in seven solid colors and blue animal print for those wild ladies.

Daytime A-Line Dress, $59

If you are looking for something a little more dressy, go with the Ruched Convertible dress. With ten ways to wear it and twelve colors to choose from, this dress is for everyone. Go to work in the v-neck style and come home from a cocktail party in the strapless style all in the same dress.

Ruched Dress, $79

It can't get any easier than this! Plus, how many cocktail dresses are machine washable?! Not to mention $79!

Ruched Dress, $79

If you like longer, more flowy dresses, the Flirty Convertible dress will be for you. Perfect for everyday and vacations, you will love this dress that can even become a skirt!

Flirty Dress, $79

This extremely versatile dress can vary in length from above to knee to maxi and has so many top options from twist front halter to braided back that you will never wear the same dress twice. Pick one of nine colors and start trying all the ways you can wear the Flirty Convertible dress.

Flirty Dress, $95

If you aren't a dress type of girl, good news for you, jumpsuits are still in. The Convertible Jumpsuit is stylish and you can go from the office, to happy hour, to a date without a worry.

Convertible Jumpsuit, $105

There are seven colors to choose from; pick a darker color for work and fall and don't forget a bright color for summer and all the outdoor parties, vacations and fun that come with the season. Add a jacket, brooch, or layer necklaces to dress up the Convertible Jumpsuit.

Convertible Jumpsuit, $105

To order any of these fabulous convertible dresses or the convertible jumpsuit, visit Victoria'sSecret.com.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Victoria's Secret

Cole Haan: Walking on Air

I love 'em and hate 'em: heels. I don't go a day without wearing some sort of heels- flats are my enemies. But, so are sore feet. So, what's a girl to do? Cole Haan.

Cole Haan teamed with Nike to create the most comfortable, and cute, heels, wedges and boots you will find. The soles are cushioned with Nike Air, the same Nike Air in your boyfriend's basketball shoes. This makes you feel like you are walking on air.

Air Milano Sandal, on sale $129.95

Besides the shoe being super comfy, Cole Haan also comes in sizes 4-12 and widths AA to C , so you are sure to get the perfect size. Ladies that wear narrow and wide widths know how much of a difference this makes.

Air Jocelyn OT Wedge, $198

I loved my Air Miranda Pumps 90 so much, that I vowed to switch over all my shoes to Cole Haan. I am staying true to my goal have gotten ankle boots, peep toes and several handbags (what? can't just buy shoes and not look at the bags).

Nancy Air Tall Boot, on sale $349.95

I can go to work, walk all over downtown, stand at parties and dance all in one day, without blisters or soreness.

Go to Cole Haan to order. Photos from Cole Haan.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Lindsay Lohan to Design Bags for Ed Hardy?

Remember Lindsay Lohan's attempt at Ungaro? Yeah, I tried to forget too.

Lindsay also has a line of leggings and fake tanning mist. It is rumored she is now set to add handbag designer for Ed Hardy to her list of non-acting jobs. Along with a team, she is set to work on three collections.

She and Ed Hardy designer Christian Audigier have mutual friends that thought Lindsay would fit with the Ed Hardy brand.

Right now there are conflicting reports whether she got the gig or not, so we'll just have to wait and see if LiLo bags will be hitting the stores in the future.

Spring Clogs

The runways have deemed that clogs are in. But, most people seem to be bit hesitant on donning these clunky shoes (Crocs are never okay).

Free People, $248

Chanel's clogs signaled the return of this style of footwear. Since then Steve Madden, Lucky Brand, Jessica Simpson and more have made affordable clogs. If you want to go designer, and I recommend you do if you are going to pull this trend off, look for Stewart Weitzman, Gucci, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Prada, Miu Miu, Elizabeth and James or YSL.

Miu Miu, $495

Clogs can anchor light, flirty dresses or give you some height while wearing shorts. Look for clogs that are made from high quality leather, have detailing on them (buckles, studs) and that have a thinner, taller heel to avoid looking like a Dutch farmer.

Stewart Weitzman, $345

Go forth and clog!

Photos from Saks Fifth Avenue and Free People

Holly Aiken: A New Kind of Bag

Holly Aiken is a North Carolina native making bags and purses her way. Inspired by vintage racing jackets and unique, retro color combos, Holly makes chic vinyl bags that seem to be indestructible. This is great news for the woman on the go that carries her life in her bag.

Turbo Jr- Daytona Small, $112

Besides standing up to wear and tear of daily use, the bags are also anti-bacterial and anti-microbial, and mildew and oil resistant. Care couldn't much simpler- take a damp, soapy cloth and wipe. Even tough spots won't stain this super bag- just take a bit of rubbing alcohol or mild abrasive and put a little elbow grease into it.

Paspartou, $122

Holly's bags come in a variety of designs, including large clutches, messengers, doctor style, and a lots of totes. With so many color combinations and designs, there is one to suit everyone.

Turbine Jr-Dove Triangle Tote, $69

Shop online at http://www.hollyaiken.com/ or at her store front, Stitch in Raleigh. Contact Holly Aiken Bags at info@hollyaiken.com. Princes range from $44-136.

Tarina Tarantino: Makeup

Tarina Tarantino is a fuchsia haired artist that makes unique jewelry. But, before she was a jewelry designer, she was a makeup artist. Tarina has come back to the beauty world with a line for Sephora.

If you are familiar with her jewelry, you know Tarina loves all things girly, especially pink and sparkles! Her makeup line, exclusive to Sephora, stays true to her loves. This full makeup line ranges from $17-69 and is available at Sephora stores and online.

For the face, Tarina has a primer, pressed powder in eight shades (including color correct and translucent) and a luminzer to highlight.

The eye collection includes a waterproof eye pencil (in twelve colors), mascara, pressed eyeshadow (in twenty-four colors), cream shadow/liner (in three colors), dream hypershadow pressed eyeshadow (in five limited edition colors). You can find your favorite neutrals, plus vibrant teal, pink and purple.

Victorian Punk Dream Hypershadow, $19

Every girl needs luscious lips, and Tarina's collection includes lipstick (in twelve colors) and lipgloss (in thirteen colors, and five limited edition colors), plus five lipgloss cameo rings.

Lipgloss Cameo Ring, $35

To get that perfect glow, try Tarina's pressed blush in five shades. In order to get that perfect blend of blush and powder, be sure to pick up either the Kapinki brush (her version of the Kabuki) or the five brush set.

Remember, Tarina loves sparkle, so she was sure to include body and hair glitter. The sparklicity shimmer dust is a spray on glitter than you can wear from head to toe. This is perfect for the pool, beach and summer nights.

Shop Tarin's makeup line at Sephora stores or online. Compliment your flawless face with funky jewelry from Tarina. Browse and buy her jewelry online as well.

Tarina Tarantino: Jewelry

Tarina Tarantino is a makeup artist turned jewelry designer. Tarina is a self proclaimed lover of sparkle and incorporates lots of sparkle into her work. She currently has several lines that include bracelets, rings, necklaces, brooches, earrings and headbands.

Acid Alice: Just as it sounds, Alice in Wonderland on Acid! Neon orange, green and pink are fun, and the pale blue, pink and brown are more subtle. Flowers, feathers and hearts are everywhere, along with Alice and the Mad Hatter.

Small Pendant, $70

Black Cameo: Old fashioned cameos in black make them modern. Any of these pieces will add an unique twist to an outfit without being too bold.

Beautiful Wickedness Earrings, $75

My Pretty: Inspired by "The Wizard of Oz," this line is all about rainbows, good witches (and evil) and Dorothy's trip through Oz to reach the Emerald City. Pick up a piece to pump up your spring wardrobe.

Emerald City Necklace, $75

Barbie: She always has the best clothes and her hair and makeup are always perfect. Plus, she has a mansion, a Corvette, a multitude of jobs and a boyfriend she can boss around. This girly line is fun for all ages.

Supersize Mod Ring, $45

Pink Head: Tarina has fuchsia hair, so this line is appropriately named. Hello Kitty with fuchsia hair is the pink head on this jewelry. Feeling a nostalgic for childhood? Here is your solution.

Bride Bobby Pin, $55

Liberty Loves Company: This patriotic line can be worn year around to show your pride for the USA or grab some pieces for the Fourth of July. Dressing for the occasion has never been so much fun!

Uncle Sam Drop Earrings, $80

Visit www.tarinatarantino.com to view all the pieces and to order.

Tarina's makeup line for Sephora is now available.

FIT Presents Delman Exhibit

The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York is hosting an exhibit featuring Delman shoes. "Scandal Sandals and Lady Slippers: A History of Delman Shoes" shows the evolution of the shoe from 1926 to the present. The exhibit is open until April 4, 2010

Gypsy Coins, 1937

When dress hems started to become shorter, and shoes started to become visible, women desired beautiful footwear. Herman Delman realized the market potential and started a shoe line in 1919. Department stores began carrying the Delman line; Delman was the first line department stores carried besides their own.

Platform, 1939

In 1926 Delman opened a shoe store on Madison Avenue that was more of a gallery than the typical shoe store. Delman's creations were works of art; he used materials such as frog skin and monkey and zebra fur. During World War II leather was rationed, so Delman was forced to use other materials in his work.

Pineapple Heels, 1956

Besides ready-to-wear shoes, Delman also made custom shoes for celebrities and socialites. Delmanette, with a lower price point, was designed for young woman. Delman said that people could judge a woman by the shoes that she wore. So, he strived to make statement shoes for every woman.

Comma Heel, 1993

To buy Delman online, visit www.delmanshoes.com.

Photos from Fashion Wire Daily

Must Have for City Girls

You get all glammed up in a cute dress and tall heels and head out for the night. Walking to your destination is a little slow, but not too bad. You stand at the bar, dance, walk to other places and then head home. At this point, you know that you are not going to make the walk home in your heels, and, of course, walking barefoot in a city environment is just plain gross.

Flats and flip flops are much too big and bulky to fit into your chic bag. Luckily, I found roll up flats. These soft flats easily roll up and fit into their own pouch. Slip off your heels for the trek home and walk in comfort in flats. Not only will your feet love you, but so will your boyfriend or husband that complains about your slow walking. I bet you can even get him to buy them for you!

FootzyRolls are so tiny they can fit in a clutch. These flats come in many different colors, including wedding white, metallics and even a pair with red soles. FootzyRolls start at $25.00.


Click here to order FootzyRolls.

SpareSoles fold in thirds to fit into a pouch. These flats come in several different styles, including plain and embellished with bows. SpareSoles come in several solid colors and even animals prints. These flats are $25.00 and from now until August 31, 2010 when you buy six pairs, you get one free.


Click here to order SpareSoles.

Fit in Clouds is another option for high heel wearing ladies. These flats have a split sole in order to allow them to fold in half to fit into their pouch. You can snag a plain pair for $18.95 or go for a sequined pair for $24.95.


Click here to order Fit in Clouds.

Yosi Samra is the most expensive option, but they are definitely cute enough to wear during the day as regular shoes. To carry these flats in your purse, simply fold them in half and tuck the heel into the toe. Yosi Samra's flats come in a variety of colors including red, purple and gray; you can also choose if you want suede or leather. These shoes are $55.00.


Click here to order Yosi Samra.

Now, there is no excuse for blisters and sore feet!

Transition to Spring

We just set our clocks to spring forward, so, we should start getting our wardrobe ready to spring forward as well. We can't wait to wear strappy sandals, sun dresses and florals, but it is still chilly enough for long sleeves, light jackets, and cotton scarves. It can be tricky to transition from winter to spring, but it doesn't have to be.

Layer

It may be cool in the morning when you leave your home, but the afternoon sun warms things up quickly. Layer thin long sleeves with a light jacket, or a camisole under a cardigan. You can even wear the two of the same long sleeve top over one another in different colors. Switch your dark leggings to sheer tights and wear them under tailored shorts. Go for pastel tights if you are bit more daring.



Photo from JJill.com

Floral Accessories

It may be too soon to wear floral sun dresses, but you can still incorporate floral patterns into your wardrobe to make it feel fresh for spring. Scarves, belts, shoes, tights, purses and headbands in florals can add a spring punch to your look.



Photo from StyleHive.com

Pastel Monotone

You don't want to look like an Easter egg; mixing pastels in the same shade, but different tones will help you to avoid this. Sage, blush pink and lavender are colors that you can wear from head to toe. Try a camisole, cardigan, light jacket, silk cargo pants and sandals all in varying tones of the same color.



Photo from Polyvore.com

Peep Toe Booties

Peep toe heels and strappy sandals are waiting patiently in your closet, but heavy boots are too much. Chunky sandals and peep toe booties and boots lighten your look without your feet getting too cold. Save these to transition from summer to fall.



Photo from ElizabethandJames.com