Whimsical, quirky, fun, one-of-a-kind, fashion forward, and flamboyant…all words to describe Carrie Bradshaw’s style. I mean who else would wear a teal feather sticking straight up out of her bridal veil?  Oh, and I should add that she’s all of the above tied up with a bow. Carrie always has a soft feminine quality to her style. (If you’re a Sex and the City fan, you’ll recognize Carrie and the gang's style. If not, click here and you'll be easily caught up.) Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, exudes personal style that is enviable but also a little over the top for most of us in the real world. Perhaps her head-to-toe looks won’t work for you, but don’t let that stop Carrie from inspiring you! For example, for a special occasion, you might pair the (pictured) vintage inspired, bustier dress with a heavy, studded, leather belt. It might be tempting to pair the dress with demure black pumps, but Carrie would yawn at that combo. Instead try black studded stilettos or at the least a chunkier, sky-high style. Either shoe style would fit the feel of the ensemble with the heavy black belt without being too matchy-matchy. Perhaps (Read more...)

Dear Dana, My husband recently bought me a pair of black leather boots with a shiny finish and a serious stiletto heel. I’m delighted to find I can somewhat walk in them! How can I incorporate these into my wardrobe? Are they okay for business or are they strictly casual? What a great gift! A question for you… are the boots patent leather? Patent leather has a high gloss, mirror finish. Very chic right now.  Whether they are patent leather or have a glazed leather finish, you can easily work them into your wardrobe. As long as they don’t have heavy detailing such as heavy chains or heavy buckles, they can be worn with almost anything except a very traditional business skirt suit.  Another point of consideration--if you’re doing a presentation (and they are indeed patent) you’d want to avoid wearing the boots with a skirt or dress. The shiny finish will be distracting to your audience. How to showcase your new boots? They would be super cute and modern with a wrap dress. They are a natural with skirts—almost any style as long as it’s not overly casual. Certainly they will work well with nice black pants. The caveat (Read more...)