New Year 2023 Resolutions: A Fresh Take on Style and Shopping

This year I’m feeling a little tug to modify my annual tradition of sharing new year style goals. 2022 proved to be a springboard year, jumping full fledge into a Post-Covid work year and gathering with loved ones in person.

This year I am feeling an itch to change things up a bit not just with my style but also the business. I’ve been running Canvas for going on eight years and how I work with clients has naturally evolved with time. However, this year I’m craving something fresh and new. Whether that is adding to my offering or exploring a new framework I don’t know, but check back with me later this year to see what sticks.

1.) Fine-tuning my colors

There has been a growing trend and renewed interest in seasonal color analysis in the past five years. I have always guided clients toward colors that look great on them but perhaps a refreshed framework would help. This year I’m revisiting these frameworks—more on that to come!

2.) Fine-tuning my shape

Knowing what your basic geometry is can be intimidating but very helpful in building a wardrobe that is flattering and timeless. Trends ebb and flow, and bodies do change over time. Keeping tabs on your geometry and how far you can push it with current trends is an important touch point. Similar to a growing renewed interest in color analysis, body morphology has also come up more in conversations with clients. While this is something I speak to when working with clients I am also exploring different frameworks to help guide clients. The traditional shape, fruit, and, Kibbe method all have their strong points and shortcomings.

3.) Let go of what’s not working—-

One of the good parts (and bad) of being a professional stylist is I feel like I’m held to a higher standard with my wardrobe. I too want a wardrobe that works for me and not against me especially when I have a day of closet cleanouts ahead of me. I’ve acquired a few test pieces that I really love in theory, but the quality or style has not held up as expected. It’s time to learn from these lessons and let them go.

Stay Stylish,

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Summer Style: A Travel Capsule Wardrobe that is Bébé Friendly

This spring I took a bit of a hiatus from blogging—while I’ve missed our quarterly touch bases my time helping clients navigate post-pandemic wardrobes online and in person took priority.

This summer I thought it may be fun to revisit the blog in a fresh way and expand it beyond my voice. We all have such wonderful insights to share by way of our personal experiences!

I reached out to one of my clients, Tarah, who recently had a sweet transition and welcomed a little one during the pandemic (brave lady)! I was curious about how life was going and how she was navigating motherhood via her wardrobe. I work with a number of women who have gone through this transition and everyone shares a desire to have an easy wardrobe that still looks cute or fun. Finding that balance between self-expression and functionality takes time, but is worth the investment in yourself.

This transition is also not unique to new moms. One of the common asks among all of my client's coming out of the pandemic is “I want to be comfortable!” So, read on for a few great style tips from Tarah that may resonate with you too.

Stay Stylish,

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 Happy weekend all! And thanks, Kimberly, for the introduction and for offering me the space to share my perspective as a new mom trying to work out what clothes give me joy now.

Tarah and her darling little guy!

What Tarah is wearing: The top is a button style from Maje. The jeans are from L’Agence. The earrings are old and from Madewell.

Last weekend we took our first vacation with the baby, and it went great.

While I was getting ready for the trip, I had to stop and think about “what do I wear on vacation?” After two years of working from home – and then momming from home – in a uniform of yoga pants and cozy shirts, I honestly couldn’t answer immediately.

It felt like so much had changed since our last getaway. Prioritizing how I looked during Covid felt trivial, and in 2021 I was pregnant – so it had been two years since I reflected on what I enjoy wearing.

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Tarah’s Summer Travel Capsule

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On the trip, I gravitated toward packing things I already owned and had missed wearing.

●      Linen button-downs

I thanked my past self for following Kimberly’s advice of rotating and packing my clothes each season. When I opened my summer clothes, I found two of my favorite linen shirts from J.Crew. They are oversized and familiar and make me so happy. I loved these for vacation because they are lightweight and endlessly adaptable. They are always an easy layer piece over a swimsuit or under a light jacket. I wore my white linen button-down with denim jean shorts like these and a leather sandal. My second linen outfit featured my blue linen shirt, black linen shorts, and black sandals. I also just found these shorts for Moms to be, and they are so cute.

New mom bonus: I recently learned (linen button-downs) they are perfect for breastfeeding and more stylish than many other nursing tops out there. I also find that oversized linen tops are great for hiding stains (like baby spit up) and sweat.

●      Wrap dresses

I brought my favorite wrap dress from Modern Citizen on the trip. Wrap dresses are easy to pack, flattering and versatile. I appreciate this dress even more after pregnancy, and my body has changed – maybe yours has too during Covid– and a wrap dress gives me the flexibility I need to feel happy, confident, and a little more dressed up.

In addition to wearing my favorite wrap dress to dinner, I’ve also worn it as a swimsuit cover-up and feel extra chic walking around the pool.

In addition to wearing my favorite wrap dress to dinner, I’ve also worn it as a swimsuit cover-up and feel extra chic walking around the pool. I also highly recommend wrap dresses if you are a nursing mom and are out and about. I love that I can wear my wrap dress, a nursing tank or bra underneath, and cover myself with this wrap, all while feeling pulled together and doing the things I enjoy.

●      Pool things

This is where I bought a few things for the trip. I wanted a new pair of sunglasses that were festive and fun. I landed on these sunglasses with this hat. I love that the hat isn’t precious, protects me from the sun (up to UPF 50), and is practically uncrushable. I also bought this cover-up for its length and ease, but I considered a cover-up that cinched in at the waist and looked more elevated for when I wanted to go from the pool to the restaurant without having to return to the room and change. I like this one in black.

●      Some Learnings

I tried on a swimsuit before we left on our trip, but I didn’t realize until I was at the pool and swimming around that it was super uncomfortable. It was a good reminder that even though I had only worn it once before, it was time to upgrade to something I love and feel great in. I found there are lots of sales on swimwear right now.

I like this one piece and love Johanna Ortiz’s overall brand. I also love the wrap effect of this suit, and I love a red swimsuit. I also wore this swimsuit every day during my pregnancy. Swimming was my main form of exercise, and this suit offered support and coverage and grew with my belly. I was able to wear it until 39 weeks!

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New Year 2022 Resolutions: And the Beat Goes On...

With every new year comes a Canvas tradition of sharing style resolutions. It’s historically been a light way to be intentional with my own style when I spent so much time helping others with theirs.

I don’t know about you, but when thinking about what I want for 2022 it all gets a little hazy. It’s hard to hold a clear vision when we have lived that past few years with a lot of unknowns and false starts. Maybe you are feeling that emotional fatigue too? It’s okay if you are and I encourage you to take the time to rest, recoup, and be kind to yourself. It took me a week into the new year until I was in a place where I could write this blog with authenticity and sit with resolutions that felt right to me…and that was after binging on the latest Queer Eye.

This year I am looking to further refine my ethos and thoughts around style by asking the below questions. Maybe these are questions you’ve been asking yourself too? Or perhaps they may help guide some dialog between you and your wardrobe. I included my answers below as examples, but don’t let them influence your own. These questions ended up pointing me to bigger style resolutions. These are also sticking points I find hold myself (and often my clients back).

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—Why is style important to me?

a.)To help streamline my mornings and have an easy/flexible esthetic

—What is the purpose of my style?

a.)To create and enjoy beauty (for me first) and share that with others (second)

—How can my style evolve this year?

a.) Focus on being true to myself and block out more of what society says is beautiful, trendy, and/or important

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-Canvas 2022 Style Resolutions-

1.) Embrace Progress Over Perfection

Style is a journey and something that I coach clients to play with. It’s okay if you don’t hit the mark 100% of the time, but if you never try you never learn. Sometimes this means saying yes to the t-shirt full of attitude that isn’t the perfect fit because it unlocks a part of who you are that needs to be shared. This year I want to embrace more of this in my wardrobe (and life in general). It’s a concept beneath a few of my prior year’s resolutions and one that I struggle with because I feel the pressure to show up on point when I am with clients. This year I want to give myself the space to have parts of my wardrobe in progress or key items devoted to experimentation.

2.) Wear the Good Stuff Today, don’t hold it for the future

If I worked with you in 2021, chances are you heard my mantra—” the only limitation I have in what I do is inventory.” This has been a pain point for stylists, retailers, and shoppers alike through the pandemic. Web sales have been strong and shipments have been delayed which makes for a tough market to shop. If you have a few pieces that you have put to the back of the shelf for someday—pull them to the front and enjoy them now!

3.) Really let go of the things not serving me

Whether it’s poorly fitting pre-pandemic leggings or a long-time staple sweater that has lost its shape, it’s time to let them go. I purged a few items from my wardrobe this year that I’ve had for nearly a decade. They were tough to let go of because I had so many memories in them that they had become part of my identity. The thought of not having a few easy uniform pieces was a little disorienting, but I’ve found in the month since I’ve been pushed to create fresh new uniforms with the newer items in my wardrobe—and that feels great!

Are there any things you are looking to switch up in your style for the new year? Drop me a note or add a comment below, I’ve love to hear about it.

Stay Stylish,

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The Canvas Fall 2021 Trend Review: What shades and styles are in stores

Hello! It’s been a long stretch since my last blog. With things opening up again more of my time has been spent on the road or in stores that the blog has fallen a bit by the wayside. Luckily the long weekend provided a little more downtime to write and reflect on what I’m seeing in stores and on the street.

I’m excited for the change of season this year, and cannot wait for the temperatures to dip so I can pull out more layers. I flipped my wardrobe last week and packed up my spring/summer pieces and brought out my sweaters and fall dresses from storage. It was the perfect time to take inventory of what needed to be retired and what I wanted to wear for the next few months.

So, a few of you have asked, what is exactly “happening” right now in fashion and what should I be wearing? Don’t worry the skinny jean hasn’t been wiped from the face of fashion. Top brands are still offering this silhouette but read on for a quick overview of the market.

Others of you may ask, why should I even care about trends and what is “in”? While trends come and go it’s important to ask yourself, is this trend representative of my style? Trends also reflect current inventory in stores. If you know you need fresh sweaters this year, having a handle on what can be found is very important. It will save you time and frustration in the long run.

Stay stylish,

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1. Theory Clairene Double Face Jacket $595

   • A simple jacket that plays with many styles, this piece is perfect for Bay Area temps. It also works well when layering

2. Reiss Alyssa Open Back Stretch Cotton Dress $320

   • Basics are back a la 90’s and this dress offers a little more with a twist in the back. The midi length is hot right now and looks great with sneakers or booties

3. Maje Vottam Belted Jacket $595

   • Similar to the Theory Clairene this jacket offers a clean line for your outerwear. This piece has a little more structure in the shoulders (Katherine Hepburn would approve) and a synched waist to balance it all.

4. Alice+Olivia Leo Strech-Wool Knit Pencil Skirt $275

• Classic, clean, and can be easily dressed up for down. This sweater skirt is perfect for Zoom meetings if your leggings need a break. Pair it with a puffer, oversized plaid shirt, and sneakers -or- a cropped sweater and heels.

5. RAG & BONE Eco Donegal V-Neck Sweater $365

• If your wardrobe needs a little texture, this is your sweater this season. The nubby knit plays well with leather leggings or a refined silk skirt.

6. Love the Label Smocked-Yoke Flutter-Sleeve Top $175

• Smocking has seamlessly moved from summer to fall this year. Feminine details continue to dominate the blouse category, but the understated ruffle means it can pair well with a heavy cardigan and jeans for an easy fall look.

7. Rebecca Taylor Short Sleeve Silk Charmeuse Blouse $225

• This color is not for every skin tone but is a brilliant neutral for fall. The soft shimmer adds a little bit of lux to any look and could be a great option for holiday dressing without going overboard.

8. Dolce Vita Zina Sneaker $100

• These sneaks have been a standout for the season and come in a mix of shades and sparkle-free options. They are high on style and low on price compared to Golden Goose. They will not last forever, so I would treat these as your fashion sneaker, not your everyday sneaker.

9. Hugo Boss Veilla Midi Skirt $398

• Color! Post-Covid fashion is embracing color like we haven’t seen in years. Chocolate brown is back on the scene after a long hiatus and vibrant shades like this red are making a statement. The simple silhouette and elastic waist give this skirt extra ease. Pair it with a similar shade of red for a powerful monochromatic look or mix it with a white sweater and sneakers for modern holiday charm in December.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2021: The Canvas Edit

It’s that time of year again when many bloggers release their top picks from the Nordstrom Anniversary sale. While I don’t really consider myself a “blogger” I am a stylist who holds some strong opinions on what is worth the hype and what isn’t worth the investment. We are coming off a strange year of dressing and if you are like many clients your wardrobe feels a little uninspired or things are not fitting the same way they used to.

If you feel like sprucing things up, now is a great time to freshen up your basics. I’ve said this in past years, but perhaps this year it feels even more true. Purchase your staples now because many of these prices you will not see again for another six months or more. The 2021 version of the Nordstrom Anniversary sale feels a little bit dejavu—some of last year’s all-stars are back, so if you missed them you are in luck. There is also a heavy focus on jewelry, loungewear (not a big surprise here), and travel items. What I really like about the assortment this year is that there are many pieces that can be purchased now and easily transitioned when temperatures dip in the fall (October for us in the Bay Area).

For my selections this year, I focused on these key transitional items and included a few wardrobe splurge-worthy items. Curious what trends you will see this fall? This sale can be a great indicator of what is to come. This year, Nordstrom buyers embraced a strong 70’s vibe as you will see reflected below in shearling jackets, tall boots, and feminine dresses. If I missed any categories you really wanted more of, feel free to comment below and I may just add them as items sell out. Cardholders have early access this week and the sale will be open to the public starting July 28th.

Stay Stylish and Be Well,

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Womenswear Sale Picks

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Menswear Sale Picks

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Home Essentials

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Kids Sale Picks

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The Spring Denim Debate: Are Skinny Jeans Dead?! And if so, what now?

One question that I’ve been getting from clients this spring is in regard to skinny jeans. If you have missed the buzz, a series of TikTok takedown videos announced that the denim silhouette that so many of us have relied on for years is facing extinction or worst yet, according to some Gen Z-ers, makes you look like a dinosaur.

The offending jeans in the TikTok videos are true skinny jeans with elastane (aka that magic fit) that disbars the denim from future recycling. While there is a point for the concern, comfort continues to be an in-demand wardrobe quality so I don’t see denim with stretch disappearing anytime soon.

While I don’t support anyone dictating what is “in” or “out” by shaming someone’s style, there is a silver lining of truth to behold here. Firstly, there is no universally flattering pant shape, skinny or otherwise. Depending on your build, there are certain silhouettes that will naturally accentuate your best features. Secondly, the “it” jean styles TikTok teens are offering up are equally problematic and trendy. This may be a little harsh to read, but having a one silhouette wardrobe lacks authentic style and usually is not trend resistant. What is a trend-resistant wardrobe? That is the silver lining I am talking about today!

Stay Stylish & Be Well,

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Denim Silhouettes To Have in Your

Wardrobe Today (and tomorrow)

A good trend-resistant and stylish wardrobe is built off of pieces that look great on you! A small portion of those pieces should be classic styles that are aways “en vogue” and a few trend-forward pieces (that also look great on you) that keep you relevant. If the trend doesn’t work for your style or body type skip it or reinterpret it with a style that works for you but has trend elements (ie wash, fabric weight, detailing etc).

Another tip for creating a trend-resistant wardrobe is what I call interval buying but essentially it means intentionally buying a few pieces in waves to keep things fresh. Otherwise, you may end up needing to replace all your jeans at the same time which can be costly, but more importantly, is limited to current inventory/trend. Below are a few examples of “classic” denim styles that synch up with current fashion trends.

The Skinny/Straight Leg

Most people define a skinny jean as a pant that tappers in from the knee to the ankle. A straight leg is a pant that is cut straight from the knee to the ankle (no change in circumference). To be fair many “straight leg” jeans on the market right now are borderline skinny.

Natural Fit: These pants look great on Petites, those with a slim silhouette, or those with a lean and shorter/mid inseam. If you love skinny jeans but have a more athletic build try a straight leg for a slim cut that skims your thighs and calf.

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The Flare/Bootcut

These cousin styles play with volume in a fun way! A flare is typically snug or higher-waisted and has a distinct expanding line from the hip or knee. A boot cut is similar in that it can be fitted in certain areas and then flares out from the knee or mid-calf to a full opening to accommodate a boot (hence the name).

Natural Fit: These styles are great for elongating the leg if you have a shorter inseam, longer torso or have more athletic calves. These pants are best worn with a heeled shoe or platform to further elongate the line.

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The Wide Leg/Relaxed

These cousin styles boast more fabric across the pelvis, and maintain that shape through the hips and down the leg. A wide leg will maintain its fullness throughout the leg and may gradually flare ever so slightly at the bottom opening.

Natural Fit: This silhouette works easily if you have an athletic/curvy shape, are taller or prefer easy movement.

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The Distressed

While dressed-down denim is not a silhouette, this detail continues to be a staple in many closets with its playful, edgy nature and therefore makes my list. I personally am not a big fan of the deep cut distressing because the jeans don’t last as long. Everyone wears jeans differently and some wear out the knees or seat first. Know how denim ages as you wear it and purchase distressing locations that optimize for longevity and sustainability.

Natural Fit: Anyone looking to add a little edge to your wardrobe. Simply find a silhouette above that works for you. Rule of thumb-purchase this style knowing that distressing will increase so buy with the intent it will get better with age.

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Menswear: Spring 2021 Trends to Update Your Wardrobe

We are overdue for a good menswear blog so, Gents today is your day! We are fully in spring and with several retailers having promotions (Bloomingdales, Saks, Neiman Marcus, and Nordstrom) it’s a great time to pick up a few new pieces or sale items from last season that can still be worn.

Menswear trends seem to last longer and occur in less frequency than womenswear. This year there are a few repeats notably, the jogger pant, which is nowhere near its last leg. To keep things fresh, designers are exploring new fabrications and colorways. Comfort dressing is the focus thanks to the pandemic and the realities of a continued work-from-home lifestyle.

Are things are feeling a little stale and have you noticed your daily uniform is looking a little threadbare? If so, below are three key categories you can focus on to infuse the fresh hope of spring into your wardrobe.

Stay Stylish,

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These recommendations are a reflection of what I see to be some of the best styles in the market this season and are my own opinion. By purchasing through the affiliate links below I’ll receive a small commission, it’s a nice way to say thanks for the styling advice :)

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1.) Spring Joggers

If you have sadly missed the jogger train or need to update the pair you lived in last year, it’s the perfect time to purchase! Look for lighter-weight technical fabrics or try a new color to mix things up. How to wear it: Pair with a nice tee, polo, or lightweight sweater and sneakers (see sneak ideas below).

2.) Spring Sweaters

Last year the sweater polo made a return debut to designer runways near and far. This modern take on a 70s classic is a fair match to the above-mentioned joggers or to polish up a pair of jeans. Below are our favorite designs, but make sure to take into account your own preferences (sweat-wicking fabrics like linen and merino and conservative designs with shallow vnecklines. If you keep scrolling I included a few cardigans for those more inclined to keep it classic. How to wear it: This versatile piece can be worn with slim chinos, jeans, or shorts for a sporty look. Pair with sneakers, loafers, or sandals and a belt depending on the level of formality.

3.) Spring Shoes

To my sneaker friends out there, don’t worry there are plenty of gems this year but with a quieter sleeker silhouette. Loafers are also owning a supporting role in many spring wardrobes given their easy wear anywhere attitude. Bonus points: both of these silhouettes are great with shorts when the temperature rises or paired with a spring sweater for now. If you are feeling the need for sandals already—or if laces are too much of a committment I threw in a loafer and sandal for good measure. How to wear it: ANYWAY you like! These silhouettes are pretty foolproof but look best with slim-fit chinos, jeans, or shorts. The one word of caution is to keep the pant length around ankle-length or limit the break for a clean and modern look.

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Womenswear: Simple Ways to Refresh Your Bay Area Wardrobe with Spring 2021 Trends

Spring 2021 Runway Trends are up for a challenge this year! While many of us are ready for change and are eager to switch up our daily uniforms, comfort will remain a key factor in buying decisions. Comfort is priority number one for most of my clients followed by looking “cute” and “put together.” How do this year’s trends measure up to our Bay Area demands? We have a few easy hits—trends that are simple to integrate or pull out of the back of your closet. However, I’ve purposely omitted a few trends listed in fashion magazines to keep you from looking like a passe Instagram feed and something translates closer to Bay Area living. Enjoy and pick up a few trends in your next shopping trip to make them your own! If you find you need help I am always here for a closet check-up or virtual shopping session.

Stay Stylish and be well,

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1.) Florals, Florals, Florals

Whether you are a print person or looking for subtle embroidery detail, florals are the motif of choice this Spring. Why not bring in a little new life into your wardrobe? If you are feeling a little overwhelmed by a feminine feeling statement, opt for an abstract reinterpretation that captures bold color and avoids too much frill. How to Wear It: Pair a smocked floral top with a wide-leg pant or pair a floral dress with understated modern sandals.

2.) The Sweet Cardigan

Bridging style guidance from fall/winter the shrunken boxy cardigan has gotten a spring update with a pop of color and sweet softness. Stores are stocked with button-down ribbed styles (thank you 90s revival) and relaxed cropped cashmere designs. How to Wear It: Style these cardigans as a lightweight layer or wear them as a top and tuck in for a dose of Parisian Chic.

3.) Lux Linen

It could be originating from our shelter-in-place lifestyle, but comfortable linen is hot this season. ProTip: While linen is a natural fabric loved for its texture and cool feel, it stretches, wrinkles and loses shape with wear. Look for structured details like back pockets, darts, or facing in styles to maintain a flattering silhouette. How to Wear It: Take your park day to the next level with a linen sundress and espadrilles or dabble in a cute linen topper with a pair of distressed jeans.

4.) Wide Leg Pants

Give your joggers and jeans a break and explore this ever-revolving silhouette. This style has been making its way to mainstream for the past six years and this year there are a variety of interpretations. Many brands are offering petite-sized versions of this style so anyone can play with this style. How to Wear It: Pair with a slim-fit tee, bodysuit, or cardigan sweater.

5.) Sheer Delight

If you are looking to show a little skin this spring but tone down the chill factor (thanks Karl the fog) this trend may be for you. Neutral colors are longer-lasting investments and easier to integrate into your wardrobe but if you are feeling bold try Bubble Gum Pink or another bright hue. How to Wear It: Pair a sheer-sleeved bodysuit with a wrap skirt (also on the hotlist) or a lightweight jacket for a fun layered look.

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Spring Women's Workshop: Cultivating Your Personal Style

Last Fall we announced that we were working on the curriculum for weekend style workshops. As we continue to pause our in-person styling services, we want to explore new ways of connecting with clients and offer an opportunity to teach the basics of our styling method and how to curate a wardrobe over a lifetime. We are excited to announce that our workshops are officially launching at the beginning of March!

To share a little love for the Valentine’s Day Weekend we are offering a $25 discount to the first 10 women who enroll in the class. There will be two dates the classes are offered, Saturday, March 6th, 10-12pm PST and Saturday, March 13th, 2-4pm PST.

Click here for a link to sign up and confirm your spot.

Cultivating Your Style Workshop Details

This two-hour introductory workshop will cover the basics of personal style and how to cultivate a wardrobe you love. Each workshop is an intimate gathering of 10 participants with time for questions and everyday styling scenarios. The workshop is designed to be interactive with personal reflections, exercises, and group activities that will illustrate learned concepts.

By participating in the workshop you will:

• Develop your understanding of the basics of personal style

• Gain a better understanding of the difference between trend and personal style

• Discover what colors look best on you

• Define what silhouettes best suit your shape

• Get a better handle on your wardrobe and what may be missing

The two-hour workshop cost is $185 and includes a printable digital workbook to practice your skills at home. Sign ups are granted on a first-come, first-serve basis.

If this sounds like a nice way to jump-start or reboot your style journey or a gift for someone you love sign up here.

Stay Stylish,