What Does a Woman Have to Wear to Get Attention at a Luxury Car Dealership?

Thursday was one of those days where I had to fight to not get sucked into Twitter.  I love reading the feed, seeing what people are up to and finding out about new things.

Then this caught my eye:

@Nylons: Apparently I look too poor for the Benz sales guy to talk to me. Nice.

And the conversation began!

• @Fabuliss: @Nylons Hmmmm….what are you wearing? (Appearance counts for 55% of our communications.)

• @Nylons: @fabuliss He really shouldn’t care. He should care about my bank balance. If a guy was wearing what I am right now they’d notice him.

• @Nylons: @fabuliss jeans. Chukka boots. Black jacket.

• @Fabuliss: @Nylons Agree w/ “shouldn’t.”

@Nylons: @fabuliss also – lets call a spade a spade.With men it has more to do with whether women are attractive to them- THAT is how clothes matter.

• @Fabuliss: @Nylons We are naturally drawn to people who are attractive. I define “attractive” as putting our best foot forward :)

• @Relaxadaisical: @fabuliss @nylons Make sure the foot going forward has a well polished and fashionable shoe ;)

• @Nylons: @fabuliss I get you. My clothes are not my best foot. I am. And I put my best energy and thinking and enthusiasm forward always.

• @Fabuliss: @Nylons That is AWESOME for ppl who know you…but doesn’t work as well for ppl who don’t know you.

• @Fabuliss: @Nylons Women don’t need to be bombshells…but when they prioritize image, AMAZING things happen! #IHaveProof

• @Nylons: @fabuliss Thankfully I know how to dress and generally dress appropriately for the occasion. But my point is – sales should not assume.

@Relaxadaisical: True. Where does comfort come in?

• @Fabuliss: @Nylons @Relaxadaisical In all honesty, I rarely feel uncomfortable in my clothes!

• @Nylons: @fabuliss @relaxadaisical agreed. I am almost always comfortable in my clothes and my skin.

• @Fabuliss: @Nylons P.S. Very glad you’re comfortable in your clothes and skin :)

@Kjtten: Interesting convo… thing is, ACCORDING TO WHOSE STANDARDS?

• @Fabuliss: @kjtten Agreed re good convo. Whose standards do you think you/we should dress for?

• @Nylons: @kjtten Boom! cc: @fabuliss

• @Kjtten: @fabuliss cc:@Nylons That is the $64K question. (Whose standards?). If ur interviewing, take into account the org’s culture… to a point.

• @Fabuliss: @kjtten My perspective on style standards is wear what makes you feel confident & like you can conquer the world…then do it! cc @Nylons

I completely agree that sales people should not judge people based on gender or clothing.  And from personal experience, I can say they should also not make assumptions tied to race.  But they do.  And it’s why I do what I do.

What do you think?  Extend the conversation here on with me (@fabuliss) on Twitter.

{ Fabuliss helps women and men learn how to create and shop for outfits that align with their personal brand.  Color, fit, closets and shopping.  Fabuliss.com or 612-554-4629 }

9/5/2010 #Stylechat Recap

Below is a slightly modified recap of Sunday night’s #stylechat on Twitter.  The modifications affect the order and groupings of tweets, not the actual tweets.

It was wonderful to have a great crowd and as you can see, it was a lively hour of great conversation!

Welcome!

• @DatingCoachKK Thanks! I am new to the whole Tweetchat things so forgive me if I am quiet
• @MNGurl1183 Thanks so much. I am excited this evening.

All right…let’s get started! Q1 What does Smart Casual look like to you?

• @MNGurl1183 Smart casual means nice buttoned down polo shirt and a black pair of pants and closed toe shoes.
• @365daygirl Q1: mixing it up: either something pro on top casual on bottom (blouse + jeans) OR elegant bottom casual top (boy beater + skirt)
• @Fabuliss Q1 Smart casual def can have jeans as a basis. Two layers on top are a must and accessories are key :)
• @365daygirl smart casual is comfortable with chic touches.
• @MNGurl1183 Also I think Smart casual depends also on the weather/season as well
• @mrobin032009 smart casual: For me it’s a trouser jean & a cotton top nicely accessorized with a chunky necklace & a tailored shoe/low boot.
• @sweetweetak smart casual = nice pullover or cardigan with a pair of grey slacks or dress jeans, pumps and nice layered pearls Chanel style
• @Fabuliss I love all the trouser jeans available in different cuts now :)
• @Fabuliss Great description! RT @365daygirl: smart casual is comfortable with chic touches.
• @sweetweetak @MNgurl1183 @fabuliss I agree depends on where and what but pearls and heels keep it polished and slacks, casual
• @Fabuliss Great descriptions of Smart Casual! Sounds like you all understand the concept :)
• @mrobin032009 #stylechat My favorite trouser jean right now is made by Lee believe it or not & it doesn’t look old lady. It’s a nice dark wash.
• @Fabuliss Thx for sharing! RT @mrobin032009: #stylechat My favorite trouser jean right now is made by Lee…Its a nice dark wash

Shoes/Heels Discussion

• @sweetweetak @MNgurl1183 I consider heels cause I hardly wear flats except in a boot maybe but flats can be snazzy too
• @MNGurl1183 @sweetweetak true. I never really learned how to walk in heels
• @Fabuliss @MNGurl1183 I’ll teach you :) Need to get a good quality pair of heels first though…
• @MNGurl1183 @fabuliss well I like platforms. Boots are great too. I have a pair of Uggs I love.
• @mrobin032009 The only flats I wear are sandals & cross trainers
• @sweetweetak @fabuliss @MNgurl1183 I live in Alaska and wear boots (with heels) a lot but snow doesn’t deter my fancy footwork in heels
• @MNGurl1183 @sweetweetak interesting. Ya I like boots and flats. I have had chunky knee high boots and that has been fun.
• @365daygirl @sweetweetak I hear you there! #slc chicks are known for daring the snow in heels too :) just like knowing how to drive in it
• @mrobin032009 I love heels – all types – at 5′ 4″ I always feel short without them on. Love the nice elongated line it gives my legs too.
• @sweetweetak @365daygirl indeed. Watch out for girls in heels with slick driving moves and smartly, casually dressed
• @Fabuliss @mrobin032009 Me too…I am more petite than you and heels are a MUST for height and to make me slimmer.
• @bradwellman Sounds like @KaceeMaree, ha :) RT @mrobin032009: The only flats I wear are sandals & cross trainers

Q2 Where do you wear Smart Casual?

• @mrobin032009 Q2: Fridays at the office, out for dinner & drinks with girlfriends, to Mass on Sunday – All appropriate for me.
• @MNGurl1183 @fabuliss I would say I would wear smart casual at work, church, and when going out with my friends.
• @sweetweetak Smart casual is flexible. It depends. But it can work for meetings, school events w/kids – happy hour with the girls
• @MNGurl1183 @sweetweetak happy hours rock :D
• @365daygirl Q2: meeting a guys parents, getting coffee w/ a new colleague, client, dinner after work, etc. :)
• @365daygirl Q2: and of course any day at the office when I want to dress down a little.
• @skinnerjones hi – sorry i’m late! i wear smart casual to drinks with the girls, dinner with the hubs, floral meetings w/clients!
• @MNGurl1183 I agree @365daygirl casual dress can work almost anywhere I would say. But I know there are certain guidelines in places
• @sweetweetak @skinnerjones you piped in with the right answer and smart casual is always …smart

Q3 What stores do you shop for Smart Casual pieces?

• @sweetweetak Shopping….depends where I am but do plenty online and at Nordy’s here in town
• @365daygirl Q3: Express has some great basics – good lines & cuts. I can find something smart just about anywhere tho.
• @MNGurl1183 @fabuliss Macys, JCpennys, um Ann Taylor Loft, um I can’t think of any others off hand.
• @mrobin032009 Q3: For smart casual tops – I find good stuff at TJ Maxx. DSW is a staple for shoes/boots.
• @MNGurl1183 sometimes its hard to find smart casual clothes for a size 16 girl (well I think)
• @DatingCoachKK Q3: I believe like any item in your closet SC pieces can be purchased anywhere but choosing the right cuts and look is important
• @skinnerjones @fabuliss i love Gap for pants, and a mix of nordtsrom (cardigans), h&m, urban, anthropologie & f21 (fun prints & tanks) 4 tops!
• @Fabuliss Q3 Great answers. I agree – mix and match from different places. That’s what makes your style personal/unique.
• @sweetweetak @mrobin032009 love TJs too but only when I’m out of state we don’t have one here :(
• @MNGurl1183 F21 is totally great! But its like its for like all skinny people (not like I am hating) Its just a statement
• @mrobin032009 Once in a while I find cute things to layer with at Gap or Old Navy (thanks for the reminder @skinnerjones)
• @fabuliss Q3 That second layer on top is really critical…don’t skip it! And don’t forget to wear at least 1 visible accessory.
• @365daygirl @skinnerjones Gap and Forever 21 are awesome. Anthropoligie has great feminine romantic items too :)
• @sweetweetak @datingCoachkk agree. Pick what you love w/best fit and style – heard @kirstiealley had great finds @target
• @DatingCoachKK I find ppl tend to buy bcs it looks good on the hanger hoping they can work it into their style vs buying w/ intent & their style
• @WhereitBlooms Francesca’s Maple Grove for inexpensive accessories @hm great basics, @jcrew @bananarepublic for sweaters, Len Druskin Outlet!

Q3b What are essential items for Smart Casual style?

• @sweetweetak Essentials for smart = some kind of knit top and polishing off with accessries (like pearls) and other funky stuff
• @sweetweetak don’t know why I’m stuck on the Coco Chanel look but I am and she wore nice textured clothing and I love knit looks good all day
• @365daygirl @fabuliss Q3b: cardigan, suit jacket, knits, modern but clean looking jewelry styles, wrist cuffs, boot cut jeans
• @mrobin032009 A basic v-neck lighterweight long sleeved sweater in a charcoal gray plus I’m into hip length v-neck cotton tops w/embroidery now
• @365daygirl Q3b: and def some opaque tights like from Hue.
• @skinnerjones @fabuliss Q3b cardigan or jacket, statement accessory, great fitting pants
• @sweetweetak I forgot to incorporate the blazer, of course #stylechat thanks @365daygirl
• @DatingCoachKK Q3b: access, shoes, jackets, layered tops & color I think play key in this look they can dress it up or down
• @mrobin032009 I love Silpada Jewelry – I had 1 party & earned like $750 worth of their jewelry. I agree w/ @sweetweetak blazers are a staple.
• @sweetweetak @mrobin032009 me too love the embroidery and have to incorporate the vees into wardrobe for sure
• @sweetweetak any particular colors that stand out in smart casual picks ?
• @sweetweetak @mrobin032009 Just heard about Silpada and I looove my silver layered jewelry = smart, casual, fun.
• @MNGurl1183 oooh question what color(s) are popular for this fall?
• @sweetweetak @skinnerjones great fitting pants are key for smart style
• @365daygirl I think it’s important to choose your statement piece & harmonize the rest: artsie graphic tee w/ clean jewelry OR dynamic bling
• @mrobin032009 My basics are brown, grey & black & then I add pops of color. Silpada uses nice wood & earthy stones in their pieces too.
• @Fabuliss Q3b Essentials: dark wash jeans (no crazy embellishments/rips/shredding), shells, top layers, stmnt necklace, pointy-toed shoes
• @sweetweetak @fabuliss oh there you are! :)
• @Fabuliss Hi, sorry, had to take a quick call! I’m back…
• @Fabuliss Re colors. If you have brown hair & brown eyes, browns are ALWAYS perfect for you!
• @365daygirl @mrobin032009 I agree – work with the palette of the season – dark earthy tones and then add striking color here and there.
• @Fabuliss If you have blue eyes, greys and most blues will ALWAYS be perfect for you.
• @lostplum @MNgurl1183 orchid, chocolate, red (as always), nude, and jade ( colours for fall #stylechat)
• @Fabuliss If you have cool green eyes, go with greys. If you have warm green eyes, go with browns.
• @sweetweetak @fabuliss I think that textured slacks also or skirts like tweed crisp white shirt, cardigan and chunky bracelets + pearls
• @MNGurl1183 @lostplum Hey Kate. Thanks for joining in
• @Fabuliss Try to pick 2 neutrals – 1 dark, 1 light & 2 pops of color to simplify shopping/dressing each season.
• @365daygirl grey is so sexy smart and sophisticated – I think it’s an under appreciated neutral.
• @365daygirl @fabuliss for sure – but you can wear just about any color below the waist :)
• @sweetweetak @fabuliss yes browns mixed with paprika colors, tans fall-feeling can you tell I’m ready for winter?
• @mrobin032009 I have like only one pair of navy shoes. I find that Black & brown are much more versatile.
• @Fabuliss @sweetweetak My only caution re texture is to keep it in check with your texture (hair) and proportion (body size).
• @sweetweetak @365daygirl @fabuliss – by George, she’s right! below the belt dressing, go for it.
• @MNGurl1183 @lostplum glad you can participate in #stylechat
• @skinnerjones colors…always love black, brown, grey and lately loving more taupe/nude colors
• @fabuliss If you have big hips go with dark colors on bottom & light/patterns on top. Small hips (broad shoulders), flip equation.
• @mrobin032009 I’m not afraid of texture in a jacket though – think it looks great in the fall/winter.
• @DatingCoachKK Agreed re: texture, you don’t want to be a big women in small text and visa versa
• @Fabuliss But in general, more color options on bottom is a go @36gdaygirl!
• @Fabuliss @mrobin032009 Re shoes…love dark reds and purples. They go with everything too! Brown, black, navy, grey…
• @mrobin032009 @fabuliss Agreed about the dark red shoes. I have a couple of go-to pair in my closet now.
• @WhereitBlooms I’m having a hard time breaking from black! I feel drab in browns but do love grey. Also really into plaid shirts these days
• fabuliss @WhereitBlooms What color is your hair/are your eyes?
• @sweetweetak Ck out my grey flannelish pumps w a bit of red #stylechat http://twitpic.com/2lpmij
• @Fabuliss @sweetweetak Wow, they let you wear those in Alaska? H-O-T :)
• @MNGurl1183 @sweetweetak thos are totally cute
• @mrobin032009 @sweetweetak Love those pumps!
• sweetweetak @mrobin032009 me too got them at Dillards in TX 4 yrs ago and wore them in Jan this year

Discussion About the Color Grey

• @MNGurl1183 I always think of Grey as dull though?
• @365daygirl @MNGurl1183 no way! grey is strong but soft – think mountain slate or granite. & the color often has great texture to it already
• @sweetweetak @MNgurl1183 greys with magenta or indigo. Not boring – love greys with white too.
• @mrobin032009 I’m with @365daygirl @MNGurl1183 I love charcoal gray.
• @Fabuliss @MNgurl1183 Spice up grey with pops of color if it feels too dark/boring. It is practical and very classic.
• @MNGurl1183 @sweetweetak @365daygirl thanks. Will look out for gray clothes. CC:@mrobin032009
• @sweetweetak @mrobin032009 @365daygirl yep, greys are waiting to be popped with color and I like texture of a fabric here and there
• @365daygirl @mrobin032009 I use grey a lot in my “smart casual” makeup designs too :) wonderful eyeliner or shadow.
• @sweetweetak grey has many possibilities like black only friendlier
• @Fabuliss I think we’ve convinced @mngurl1183 that grey is a-ok :) Nice job, ladies!

Makeup & Hair Discussion

• @mrobin032009 @365daygirl A smokey eye is a nice touch to the smart casual evening look.
• @365daygirl @mrobin032009 absolutely! you can even “soften” black to grey by applying it very lightly.
• @MNGurl1183 ah yes makeup. I feel like I never know what colors for eyeshadow looks good@WhereitBlooms Ditto!
• @MNgurl1183 on the eye make-up. Feeling like now that I’m getting older I should do more matte on the eyes.
• @WhereitBlooms What are makeup trends? I love my NEW Chanel polish http://www.stylelist.com/2010/06/18/chanels-fall-2010-makeup-paradoxal/
• @MNGurl1183 anyone here good with makeup tips? that coincides with fashion?
• @365daygirl @MNGurl1183 sure do – hit me up with your questions! need help w/ basics, trying new colors, designing, etc?
• @365daygirl @MNGurl1183 getting good at doing your own makeup is necessary – makeup artists are cool but only for special occasions I think.
• @MNGurl1183 @skinnerjones oooh and @beautybets is Minnesotan YAY
• @sweetweetak @365daygirl makeup is an art for sure
• @MNGurl1183 @365daygirl I wish I had an extra me who could do my hair and makeup everyday #justsayin
• @365daygirl @MNGurl1183 lol, I hear ya – though I am ok w/ the makeup part (always under 30m) – hair help would be awesome.
• @mrobin032009 @365daygirl @MNGurl1183 Agree doing your makeup takes practice & time. Learned some great tips from the artist who did my wedding
• @MNGurl1183 @365daygirl I always feel like I can’t style my hair much. Just always use my GHDs to straighten it.
• @mrobin032009 @365daygirl @MNGurl1183 I admire women who have the time to do their makeup perfectly every day #NotMe
• @MNGurl1183 @mrobin032009 same here. Or I just feel rushed so only do blusher.
• @365daygirl @MNGurl1183 what’s the texture of it? my is super fine so I style carefully – otherwise it gets loaded down or super tangled.
• @MNGurl1183 @365daygirl my hair is thick. I tend to get it thinned out at salons at times.
• @365daygirl @mrobin032009 time is certainly an issue – but getting smart products & have good skin helps a lot. 15m to design is the usual :)
• @365daygirl @MNGurl1183 you still have a lot of options – esp. if it takes curling well. braiding, twisting, using hair accessories, etc.
• @mrobin032009 @365daygirl I always do foundation, lipstick, mascara & regular blush. On a good day I add contour to cheeks. But eye shadow=rare
• @MNGurl1183 @365daygirl I want to braid my hair just don’t know how.
• @365daygirl @MNGurl1183 really? how interesting…hmm…I’m sure there’s a tutorial on youtube out there somewhere :)
• @MNGurl1183 @365daygirl I am more the can you do it instead girl haha…..
• @365daygirl @MNGurl1183 lol, yeah…I can’t do a proper French braid to save my life.
• @MNGurl1183 Sad. I should head to bed soon. But onje last question!
• @mrobin032009 @MNgurl1183 That’s what those websites are that let you virtually try on different hair styles are for.

Q4 How much do trends drive your Smart Casual looks?

• @Fabuliss Q4 I try trends now and then and embrace what works for me. For example, metallics and ruffles are now staples.
• @Fabuliss Q4 In general tho I don’t chase trends b/c most won’t ever work for me…
• @mrobin032009 Q4: I don’t always jump on the trends immediately because I don’t like to see myself walking down the street.
• @365daygirl Q4: I look to trends for dynamic pieces – it’s easy enough to have the classic staples but I like getting accessory inspiration.
• @mrobin032009 I bought an argyle sweater last season that I never wore, so I’ll pull it out this season & wear it.
• @sweetweetak guess my flannel shoes were kinda trendy :)
• @365daygirl Q4: or there might be an intriguing trend in texture or color that I can add to my basics.
• @sweetweetak Trends are meant to be just that – a flash in the pan fun thing so If I must go there I don’t invest too much in it
• @skinnerjones i like to add one more trendy piece & keep the other pieces more classic.
• @WhereitBlooms I spend less on the trends but more on my basics. Also, shoes I spend more on. Always heard that bags/shoes you should spend
• @Fabuliss @WhereitBlooms Yes, if you heavily use something like bags (daily) and shoes (change out at least every other day), INVEST!
• @mrobin032009 Trendy accessories for me also means my purse. I have a huge collection of bags that I pull in & out of my wardrobe.
• @Fabuliss Fab! RT @skinnerjones: i like to add one more trendy piece & keep the other pieces more classic.
• @Fabuliss @365daygirl Love it…”accessory inspiration”
• @sweetweetak My trendy peep toe boots from this year. But will use them again sometime #stylechat http://twitpic.com/2lpo1p
• @sweetweetak I love classics but sometimes the devil makes me do it and it makes me happy for awhile.
• @Fabuliss @mrobin032009 So what’s the best kept secret for changing out bags? Always forget something important…
• @mrobin032009 I have a hot metallic Fossil bag that I’ll wear a few times this fall, since metals are back in.
• @365daygirl @fabuliss thanks! the way I see it a trend can be a breath of fresh air, a new take on something. just don’t chase them all lol!
• @skinnerjones yes – a fab bag can b enough of a statement! RT @mrobin032009: Trendy accessories for me also means my purse.
• @fabuliss @sweetweetak Thx for sharing your shoe pics!
• @sweetweetak @mrobin032009 I’m afraid of metallics not sure why.
• @365daygirl @skinnerjones totally! I just redesigned my own bag to make more of a signature style statement: http://ht.ly/2zTFk
• @mrobin032009 I can’t say I have a secret for switching the bag except do it the night before instead of in the morning when you are in a rush.
• @sweetweetak I”m a shoe freak and a #stylechat
• @mrobin032009 @sweetweetak I picked a light bronze metallic bag that goes with a lot of basics.
• @sweetweetak Almost 2 yrs old and still love it. Trendy, I know #stylechat http://twitpic.com/2lpq08

OK ladies. Thanks so much for joining/following/participating! Tonight’s winner is @skinnerjones. CONGRATS :)

• @mrobin032009 Great conversation tonight ladies!
• @365daygirl @fabuliss woot! love #stylechat, always awesome to chat with you gals! :) thanks! & hope to hear some great things from new girls
• @Fabuliss @365daygirl I love your DIY style. Still need to see a picture of your closet!
• @365daygirl @fabuliss lol, TY! perhaps I put the closet up next on my tumblr ;)
• @skinnerjones No way! So excited. luv your style chats! Thx!
• @sweetweetak @fabuliss are the closets the windows to our soul in your book?
• @Fabuliss @sweetweetak That’s a fun way to think of closets (windows to our souls). For me, window to my personal style…
• @MNGurl1183 @skinnerjones congrats on the win.
• @sweetweetak @fabuliss windows to who we think we are ,….more like it.
• @sweetweetak My fav classic accessory #stylechat never gets old http://twitpic.com/2lpry1
• @Fabuliss TY to @MNgurl1183 @DatingCoachKK @365daygirl @mrobin032009 @sweetweetak @skinnerjones @lostplum @whereitblooms @moarinternets
• @MNGurl1183 @fabuliss I had a blast! Thanks to u! *claps hands*
• @sweetweetak @365daygirl fun fun…thanks @fabuliss and MNgurl1182 @skinnerjones (the winner jones) @datingcoachkk @whereitblooms
• @moarinternets @fabuliss thanks for #stylechat!
• @sweetweetak so much fun in such a very short time with #stylechat now I’m late to finish getting ready for dinner ! oops!
• @365daygirl alright #stylechat chickas! it’s been fab – will chat again soon! gotta run & get some food :) happy styling!
• @fabuliss And remember, #stylechat is every Sunday at 9 PM CDT. The more the merrier!

You can look up all of these participants on Twitter by searching for them by their handle (i.e., @Fabuliss).

{ Fabuliss helps women and men learn how to create and shop for outfits that align with their personal brand.  Color, fit, closets and shopping.  Fabuliss.com or 612-554-4629 }

Fabuliss Helps Brooke Accessorize for Girls’ Night…a.k.a. a Bachelorette Party

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Brooke won one of my July consultations and opted for advice styling an outfit for an upcoming bachelorette party (not to be confused with a party to watch The Bachelorette!).

Because I haven’t met Brooke in person, I pulled several looks together to inspire ideas for shopping based on the Express dress she bought.

She had mentioned possibly purchasing red heels to go with this dress, so these looks are based on the assumption she’s not too shy.

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1. Vintage

The ruffles on this skirt inspired the vintage look, made up of pieces that will add sparkle and shine to a dark dress.

• Kate Spade Faceted Floral Accent Necklace, Nordstrom – This pretty necklace adds a soft sparkle to the dress.  It’s an investment piece (on sale during Nordstrom’s Anniversary sale – ends 7/31/10) that can dress up a number of different looks.
• Merona Bow Clutch Dark Red, Target – You don’t have to pay a lot for clutches if you reserve them for special occasions.  This clutch reminds me of one that could be from the 60s (think Mad Men).  The deep red color has sophistication written all over it.
• Mossimo Payge Platform Bronze Peep-Toe Pumps, Target – A pair of bronze shoes finishes off this romantic look without overpowering the other accessories, while elongating the legs.

I recommend a black belt with dark sequins or beads to draw attention to a cinched waist while ensuring Brooke looks as tall as possible.

2. Rock ‘N’ Roll

Another angle to take on this black dress is to contrast with the ruffles.

• Silver Bauble Cluster Necklace, Ann Taylor LOFT – The layered chains are edgy and are mixed with a just-enough balance of the shiny baubles.  The length of this necklace should fall below the dress neckline so it doesn’t get stuck or compete.  A longer length will also make Brooke taller and thinner.
• Hollywood Intuition Beaded Clutch, Target – This is a great texture to add dimension to the look and the color will keep it from fading into the dress.
• Merona Melba Black Patent Peep-Toe Pumps, Target – A shiny, two-tone shoe in silver and black gives a solid finish to this edgy look.

I recommend a black or dark silver leather belt with stud-like details.

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3. Glamour

To give an elegant spin to this dress, it’s all about sparkle and shine.

• Gem Cluster Necklace, Ann Taylor LOFT – A jeweled look combined with a grosgrain ribbon makes a stunning statement for this look.  Wear this necklace above the dress neckline to ensure it will shine.
• Xhilaration Reptile Bar Clutch, Target – Don’t let the “reptile” description scare you off.  This dynamic texture in silver is a great match for this look and will be visible against the dark dress.
• Merona Melba Black Patent Peep-Toe Pumps, Target – The shiny, two-tone shoe in silver and black easily works with this glamorous look.

I recommend a black ribbon-like belt with a small bow or flower detail.  It could be velvety or satiny to add texture to the look.

4. Flirty

Well, it is girl’s night so if you want to turn the flirt on, these bold and fun accessories.

• Teardrop Bib Necklace, Ann Taylor LOFT – A big pop of color and sparkle, worn above the neckline, guarantees you’ll get noticed.
• Apt. 9 Bar Harbor Leopard Clutch, Kohl’s – I don’t recall a lot of animal print on my trip to Bar Harbor, Maine, but it’s been a couple of years.  That said, this is a cute way to incorporate a fun animal print.
• Mossimo Virginia Faux Snakeskin Pumps, Target – A blush-colored shoe prevents this look from going overboard into Cougar territory.  And a hint of metallic adds a sheen that will not be ignored.

I recommend a simple skinny belt with a little sheen to minimize a look that says “too much.”

See also: Brooke’s blog Hick Life for the City Chick where we’ll be checking back for photos from this weekend’s party, or follow Brooke on Twitter.

{ Fabuliss helps you discover and express your personal style for camera-ready confidence with personalized color, fit and shopping services. }

{ Fabuliss.com, hello@fabuliss.com, text or call 612-554-4629 }