Da Fashionista.com

The Scene


Got my nails did this morning for a very special date in the afternoon. A wardrobe consultation with a new client named Kelley.








Kelley is a bubbly, SWEET twentysomething who hearts her job, her husband and her adorable little boy. She's at the top of her game - professionally and personally. Her only issue: a serious fashion slump she's slipped into since her pregnancy.

Kelley has yet to define her style partly because she's determined to shed a few pounds. Having a baby fundamentally changed her shape. Consequently, she doesn't really shop any more. She doesn't want to invest in this new body. I get it. But schlepping around in preganacy clothes when your baby is almost two? Not OK for pretty kitties who read this blog.


Realized this consultation was going to be a little different from my other ones. This one would be about encouraging Kelley to work with her transitioning figure. Helping her come out of hiding in a way. Embrace what was, is and will always be beautiful. Negotiate her new identity as a mother. Feel feminine and confident again.

Tall order, but I knew she was ready. I knew she was tired of blending into the background and not feeling like her SELF. I also knew she didn't have to lose one pound to start feeling more empowered about how she presents herself to the world. Not on my watch.




Was pleased to find an assortment of fun and affordable shoes in Kelley's closet. She said she bought these two with me in mind - What Would Diabolina Do style. Love.
















Kelley also had a handful of dresses and tops that worked beautifully for her shape and lifestyle. When she put them on, her body language literally transformed. Must get her into more of these styles.

















However most of the rest of her closet was filled with casual and work separates that were just plain jane meh. I think it will be best for her to invest in tops and dresses and accessories that will carry her through her weight loss.




















Ended the session by forcing Kelley to break up her half a dozen sweater sets. Want her to stop wearing them matchy matchy boring boring style. I want her to start creating contrast in her outfits. I want to teach her how to layer and have fun accessorizing and create easy mommy sophistication ala Reese Witherspoon.

My goal for Ms. Kelley will be to create the foundation for work and play outfits that better complement her beautiful skin tone. She needs more prints and more sexy. She needs interesting pieces that draw attention to that great bustline, tiny waist and even better smile. Cannot wait to share the results in later posts.












Devoured a late lunch with my momma in the afternoon. Tried Comme Ca for the first time. Finally!


We arrived at such an odd hour that the restaurant was completely empty. Except for one other couple.










Taye Diggs and Idina Menzel!!! I die. Wasn't sure it was them at first. But then he took of his fedora and I heard her say she was pregnant and swollen. Realized that's why I hadn't recognized her. Can you beeeeeelieve the talented gorgeous creature these two are going to spawn?



Spent most of our delish meal peeping their blissful beautifulness over my mom's shoulder.














The food at Comme Ca was, as expected, exquisite. Highly recommend the Salmon Tartare and the pineapple tart with black pepper ice cream. Can't wait to bring Mr. D.


















After our meal, my mom ran to the mall before it closed to do a quick peep for Kelley - found pretty accessories, interesting tops and cute little jackets at Forever.


















Then we hit Macy's. Found some amazing and affordable tanks. All the detailing and feminity and versatility are exactly what Kelley needs more of in her wardrobe.




















If she insists on sweaters, I found her a few better fresher ones that will really breathe some pop to her wardrobe.




















When I noticed my mom was feeling neglected I pulled this expensive looking top at Forever 21 for her.






Very Marc.




















And figured I could try on a little something for me too







Very similar to this Thread Social bouchy dress except Forever's is under $25. Alas they didn't have it in my size.





















The Forever dress print was similar to this Tibi skirt print, no? LOVE. On sale but still too pricey.




This swingy zippery Forever skirt was the right price but the shape only works on the hipless. Wah!








These bubble skirts on the other hand could work. Just wish they were a smidge longer for those of us who are longer in the tooth.



But my fave piece of the day was this blue leopard dress. Can you say Lanvin lawsuit?



















Fun fun weekend filled with fun fun fashion. Do I really have to go back to The Office?











The Outfit
Thrifted vest
Forever 21 top
People Like Frank shorts


The Accessories
Marc by MJ bangle
Fashion District ring and bangle
Me&Ro necklace
Chanel bag
Prada shoes

The Grade
B+







The Commentary






Phllip's favorite girl Rachel Bilson was the inspiration behing today's look.






















Wanted to create a shorts look that still felt professional and pulled together for meeting with a client.




















Decided a vest would be a cool way to create a kind of suit and that a floral top would make things summery instead of severe.


































Really digging the potential of vests right now to transform simple separates.
































The add great texture and structure to an outfit. Especially something flowy and flowery.














Bought today's tank in Hawaii





Reminded me of a Stella McCartney print













Remember the jumpsuit version?






Think the dress version was infinitely more wearable.





















The floral print also felt a bit Chloe today. LOVE these dresses.





























Almost bought one of these matching Chloe bags on several occasions.
























Recently I found a Thakoon version of the print on Shopbop




And there was even a little number at Macy's today. It was priced at twice what I paid at Forever 21. Seriously, your wallet is begging me to be your stylist. Email me.