How to Update Your Headshots

Headshots are not what they used to be. We have many more uses for them now....business, all platforms of social media, publications, etc. All of which may require a different style/look to evoke the desired perception.

I recently styled my Orlando client with whom I've been working for 11 years. She had not done a headshot since the beginning of her career which has vastly escalated. After our recent update to her wardrobe, it was time to arrange a photo session that better reflects who she is today as a professional.

Gary Hughes of Hughes Fioretti Photography in Winter Park, FL captured the many sides of Marina who wanted to portray a strong and confident professional. Mission accomplished.

Here we are in action....

BEFORE

AFTER

Bra Department

Bra selection/fit is something I've never addressed in Be-Coming Attractions, but it is always the first stop when I work with my clients. Though I've collected dozens of quality bras through the years - that all fit at one time or another - last week it was as if I were going to the bra department for the first time. I felt like my own client! All of my own collection have underwires and that isn't an option now as I'm healing. Not to mention that I didn't know what size to try!

Come to find out, there were other customers there who had gone through the same procedure and confirmed that I had made the best choice in the "TRUE" brand.

Discover True & Co Bras

Apparently, this line was designed for women in mind who had undergone surgery. Whether you have gone through this kind of experience or not, I highly recommend this product line! After trying numerus non-underwire styles, this one hit the mark...for fit, softness, lift and shape! It is not only extremely comfortable, but supportive. They come in a wide range of sizes, colors and styles for any strap style that may suit your needs. For everyday wear, I may never go back to an underwire again!

The Adjustable Triangle Bra is the style I chose....

I love the wide back!

Trail Blazers - Updating the blazers in your wardrobe

In an era where trends cycle in and out at an alarming rate, understanding personal style is the key to presenting a self-image that stands the test of time. Most trends simply don't apply to many of us, but we can always take what works for us and leave the rest behind.

This season, the Blazer is literally blazing trails - in all styles and fabrications for every aspect of your life - from oversized to very fitted. I highly recommend adding this timeless, classic piece to your wardrobe to elevate your game on every level. Choose a style you can wear with multiple combinations. This is an investment piece as it's likely you will keep jackets for several years, so buy the best quality you can afford.....especially in black or navy.

Ralph Lauren

This oversized blazer gives a more casual vibe. PRO TIP: Be careful if you're petite!

Another favorite. This jacket offers so much versatility....it can be worn with nearly anything. I would love it with black leather-like leggings! Veronica Beard is also known for adding optional dickeys to her jackets which look like shirts - and it changes the look completely!

Ralph Lauren

Perfectly gorgeous, classic and timeless, and updated in leather.

This was my choice for the season. The light weight crepe is appropriate for a warm climate and it can be worn multiple ways - dressed up or down. I love the ruched sleeves - a signature style of Cinq a Sept that adds a touch of casual elegance.

New Lifestyle, New Recipe

Last month a new client contacted me who had recently retired from her corporate job and had moved to Hilton Head, South Carolina. She had traveled the world with her executive position with Estee Lauder in charge of airport retail globally. (What a great job!) Most of you know that I began my career with Estee Lauder so it was great fun to connect with one of somewhat similar commonality.

Now that Robyn is no longer in the corporate world and is leading a very different life playing golf and socializing with new friends, she sought me out for a new style. The old look wasn't working anymore!

Since many of my clients are reluctant to publicize their "before" pics. I have honored that wish from Robyn, so this is the result of her re-invention.

Discovering Robyn

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work! With Hair Pro, Vinny at Cosmo & Co, West Palm Beach

Mask of An Artist

It may very well be that masks will be with us for some time. As we adjust to this new way of life and relent to wearing masks as part of our public dress, why not choose those that make a statement and exhibit the work of an artist?

As I've mentioned in the past, I have become a fan and friend of artist, Dena Lyons, who resides and paints in the south of France. As a color specialist, I've so enjoyed choosing her designs for my clients based on their personal color palette. She is now creating masks that are designs from her paintings, which I am now offering as one of her exclusive retailers. I've chosen several beautiful options so that each client is sure to wear colors most flattering to them. The bonus is that these beautiful multi-wear cotton masks are washable and reasonably priced at $10.00. (I just paid $25 recently for a mask from someone who wasn't even a designer or artist!)

Here are the choices:

Fiery Maple

Maya Turquoise

Sunday Funday

Girl from Ipanema

Pink Puppies

The New Bohemian

Every design house from Chanel to Ralph Lauren is featuring Bohemian styles this summer. It’s a look that’s certainly not for everyone (I personally could never pull off the hippie look) but there are some pieces that may have the influence rather than the total look that you may enjoy for the summer…

Tops, tunics and accessories are a universal way to add Bohemian style to your look if you'd like to feature a piece, but not the whole caravan....And anyone can wear these loose, longer styles! Remember...the beauty of style is that we each have our own!

Summer of Covid-19

People are asking me what I see for our future in the context of what we will wear. It's nearly impossible to predict right now, but after so many months of leisure and workout wear, we've become spoiled - and maybe a bit lazy. My belief is that we will continue to want to be comfortable and less confined, which is what I'm seeing in new designs.

That said, this summer most everything I see has a Bohemian twist - even Lilly Pulitzer! Maxi dresses continue to be a popular choice and of course, anything with white jeans. Lilly is not for everyone - or everywhere! Fashion is cultural after all, but as I live in south Florida,the brand is a popular choice and the variety of styles addresses everyone - from maxis to cover-ups. My personal preference is a selection of loose, colorful dresses that can take me anywhere....which are cool and comfortable in the soaring heat.

Tips for Wedding Season

Wedding season is upon us, and finding the perfect ensemble for those "I dos" can be challenging for any guest. But when you are in the spotlight as mother of the bride or groom, the pressure can feel even greater. 

Finding the perfect dress for a mother of the bride or groom can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack.  Not only does it need to be appropriate and respectful of the situation and all family members involved, but it needs to be right for pictures and complementary to you, your shape - and who you are.  Clients have sought my advice lately because the task is so daunting - and difficult! Here are some of the selections I found that are on trend, but appropriate for many wedding venues.

This sandal is the perfect style and neutral metallic color to go with just about anything.  The height of the heel is comfortable for standing at receptions and dancing until midnight.  The back of of the shoe covers your ankle so your dress won't get caught under your foot.  Note:  Your bag should compliment your shoe.

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April 2017 Trend Watch

GARDEN PARTY

Continuing the theme of spring flowers, floral prints are everywhere this season....big, small and in between.  Prints are a personal thing - you either like them or you don't.  For me, they have to be colors that I enjoy and a print that appeals to me.  Bear in mind, bold prints are memorable and you can't wear them as often.  We also tire of them more quickly.  That said, here are a few ideas....

BLUSH NUDES

Blush is the new neutral for spring - especially for weddings.  Choose a shade that flatters your skin whether it be a peachy or pinky tone.  It's an ultra feminine look, very soft and lovely....

EARN YOUR STRIPES

Throughout time, stripes are a classic favorite...worn traditionally as seen on Princess Kate or worn with a more modern twist.  Stripes are everything from casual to boldly dramatic and glamorous. A black and white striped top goes in every suitcase I pack. I'm an addict, I confess....

DO: Most of us should wear a long sweater or top over a striped skirt to elongate the line. DON'T: Tucking a blouse into a striped skirt only accentuates the fullness here.
And don't mix patterns - it's too tricky!

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Annual BallenIsles Charity Fashion Show Luncheon

It was my honor on Saturday to be the celebrity host and stylist for the annual BallenIsles Charity Fashion Show luncheon. It was a privilege to partner with The Gardens Mall in this event. Fashions from Saks, Bloomingdales, J. McLaughlin, Ferragamo and Jimmy Choo were all featured in this fun, lively show. This sold out event was met with rave reviews and a standing ovation! What a fabulous team effort and a huge success!  

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