"West Coast vs East Coast Style" "Dressing for the Occasion"

Growing up in New Jersey, in the 60's, I remember how excited I was to "dress up" when going out for a special
occasion. Dressing appropriately and following the various rules for each season was quite important during those years. We were more formal in our attire during that time.

Is the East Coast more formal in their dressing, and the West Coast very lay back or are we just lazy about taking the time to get that "special " look?

Living in Southern California since 1965, I have seen how the different trends have come and gone. We live a more relaxed, casual way of life. We have no hard and fast rules regarding our choice of dress.

"Dressing for the Occasion"

Attending my husband's 50th High School Reunion, which was scheduled as "Cocktail Attire",
I was stunned as I walked into the room seeing almost all the women wearing pants, and some of the men dressed for the beach. What is wrong with this picture? My beautiful husband and I were dressed to the "9's".
Was it because we were both raised on the East Coast where people take pride in looking their best, or is it the West Coast lifestyle?
Working in the Fashion business, I was disappointed, but had a good time anyway! 

"Creating Your Special Image"

What is an Image? An Image is an Attitude.

When we look in the mirror, what do we see? We see ourselves looking a certain way. If we are happy with what we see, that is great. If we want to change our appearance, then first we must change our mind set. For our thoughts create our reality.

What we think and how we feel also plays a part in how the world views us.
Creating a new outward image is similar to playing a role.

We must first visualize how we want to look and then must follow through.
If we do not have the capacity to do this alone, sometimes we must ask for help. Whether it be to lose weight, get a complete makeover, or help us with everyday challenges, never be ashamed to ask for help.

"LA Style"

Los Angeles fashion captures our different lifestyles. From the Pacific ocean to the downtown club scene, our looks can vary from casual beachwear to the hard edgy rock and roll club scene, to Valley chic.

We definitely have our own special fashion sense in Los Angeles. Whatever look one chooses, we can certainly do it with flair.

The styles of the moment include leggings, which are a staple in every wardrobe. Pair that with a long tunic top, a faux leather jacket, and high heel Platform shoes, and you are good to go anywhere.

Accessories include large hanging earrings, bracelets up the arm, large rings, perhaps a scarf, and you have the
"LA" look.

Be it day or night, "We love LA".

"Signature Style"

As an Image Consultant,when a client is interested in a makeover, the first question I ask is "What is your Signature Style"?  Most people have no idea what that means. We basically know what we like to wear and usually choose the same styles in clothing every time we shop.

Knowing the style we like, and one that looks best on us, can help us find our best look.

I break it down to several different looks. Classic, Tailored, Sporty, Trendy, Sexy, and Edgy.
Not every style works well with very body shape. It makes all the difference in selecting one that enhances your figure.

The next area I concentrate on is that of Color. Certain colors lift us up, bringing light to our face.
Beginning with a great hair color, brings out your features and frames your face.

Follow that with beautiful makeup which will enhances your skin tone.

All of these aspects go into helping you create your best look.

To reiterate:
The best hair color, makeup, and your signature style according to your body type and coloring work together in bringing out the "Best You".

"Age Appropriate"

Age Appropriate, what exactly does that mean?

Do we reach a certain age and decide that we can no longer wear our hair long, or wear our favorite bikini?

Why do we have the preconceived notion that when we get older we must conform to a conservative mindset and change our love for style?

Doesn't that limit us of our choices, activities, and life style? I believe that restricts us of a joyous life.

As long as we dress in good taste, according to our body shape, coloring, and our favorite style, we can still enjoy being open and looking our best. Most people gravitate towards the same look over and over again.

We project our image through our dressing, and most of us know our limits.

Take pride in yourself, ask for help if you are not sure about your selections, open your heart, and yourself to all the possibilities!