Savvy Shopping!

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: one needn’t spend a tremendous amount of money in order to look fabulous.

Of course, if you’ve got it to spend, go for it; the rest of us, however, must remain mindful of our money and where it all goes. I’ve been a bargain shopper all my life, and base a good portion of my business showing women how to spend their style dollars wisely. So, with that in mind, I’d love to pass the savings on to you:

1.Shop the sale racks. Stores and boutiques have marked winter items down tremendously now (you can save up to 60% in some places).

2.Know where to go. Not every store has something for everyone. Know what your particular style is, and shop only those stores. Too many stops along the way could lead to confusion, and you may run the risk of buying something you don’t truly love.

3.Shop Resell. Consignment shops are a goldmine! You’ll find high-end, quality goods for a fraction of the cost.

4.Join Customer Rewards Programs. Stores such as White House Black Market, New York and Company, and Express offer fantastic rewards programs. Get on the mailing list and they’ll send you coupons!

5.Quality over Quantity. You really only need a few basic pieces. Mix and match those, and update seasonally with trendy accessories. Take good care of your clothes, and they’ll last for a very long time!

I’ll have more savvy shopping tips Wednesday, January 19 on Great Day Houston (www. http://www.khou.com/great-day). Happy shopping!

Beth Newman
Image Consultant/Life Coach/Author
Newman Image
www.newmanimage.info
Look, feel, and LIVE your absolute best!
Online consultations available!

Successful Shopping Strategies

Over the last few years, I’ve spent many an hour with women inside various boutiques and department stores, searching for those outfits that will make them feel like a million bucks. As the aforementioned stores have officially begun their peak season, I want to take this opportunity to share with you some thoughts on making your next shopping spree a true success for you – and for them:

1. Wear the right undergarments. If you’re in the market for a silky, clingy cocktail number (and you should be, by the way, for party season is quickly approaching) don’t show up in a jogging bra and cotton underpants that are two sizes too big (or small, for that matter). Wear, or at the very least bring along, what you’d normally wear under an evening ensemble.

2. Look your best. It’s hard to get excited about trying on clothes when you’ve not a hint of makeup nor have taken the time to fix your hair. These little things truly make a difference.

3. Know what to expect. Cost-wise, boutiques are generally mid-to higher range, so be prepared to spend a little money. Don’t complain about the prices, and don’t have the audacity to ask for discounts. If you’re looking for steals, visit the well-known discount places, but do so with this in mind: most of what they carry is from last season. Develop an awareness of the shops before you hit them!

4. Be mindful of returns. Know the store’s return policy (it’s most likely printed on the bottom of your receipt). Don’t buy a boatload of clothing with the intention of returning a portion (or all of it) – not only does the store take a hit when you do, the stylist who sold it to you does, as well. Yes, most stylists work on commission, and most of them spend hours sorting out things just for you, so be mindful of that if you should start to have second thoughts about your purchases.

5. More on returns. I find it incredibly tacky when someone has obviously worn a garment and then has the gall to return it. Trust me, the boutique’s staff knows what you’re up to; they see the makeup on the collar, and can smell your perfume on the garment. They also know that wine stains were not prominently featured on the item when you left with it. Don’t try to pull one over on them, please, for they do remember – and talk about – these things.

6. Customer service. Boutiques pride themselves on hiring actual, trained stylists who are more than happy to assist you in fitting rooms. You won’t find that in department stores or the discount places, so don’t expect it. I also encourage you to take to heart what the stylists tell you. They’ve a trained eye, and those with integrity sincerely have your best wardrobing interest at heart. (Side note: if you’ve no intention of buying, don’t waste the stylist’s time. One stylist friend of mine once spent two hours in a fitting room with a woman, who claimed to love everything, yet left empty-handed. Seek attention elsewhere, please).

7. Refrain from including your teen-aged daughter in your fashion decisions. Nothing baffles me more than a woman who will hold off on buying something new for fear her teen-aged daughter will disapprove. You’re the adult; she is still a child. Even if she’s fashion-forward, she doesn’t know what works best on your 40-something frame. Parents who constantly seek approval from their children worry me; but I’ll save that for another blog.

So there you have it – my little spiel on successful shopping strategies. My intention is to guide you on the art of seeking out new clothes. Enjoy the experience, and remain open to new, gorgeous things!

Beth Newman
Image Consultant/Life Coach/Author
Newman Image
www.newmanimage.info
Look, feel, and LIVE your absolute best!

An Age-Old Conundrum

A couple of weeks ago, as I tarted myself up for a night on the town, I discovered an old tube of lipstick in the back of a vanity drawer. Ruby Red Rush, it was called. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d rushed for ruby-red lips, but I thought, ‘what the heck, let’s give it a shot’. Once applied, I gave myself a good long look in the mirror, and realized something: I looked like my father...in drag (the thundrous whirring noise you hear is him spinning in his grave at the very notion).

I realized that evening, as I wiped Miss Ruby Red from my lips, that I’ve reached the age in which I can’t pull off just any old thing. I once loved sporting the reddest red of lips, but alas, thanks to the fine lines Mother Nature keeps imbedding around my smile, I can no longer sport a loud mouth (this refers only to lipsticks and glosses, by the way…I’ll still spout off when I shouldn’t , most likely).

That, in addition to September’s focus on the new fashions, got me thinking about age-appropriateness. It does exist. It does not, however, mean that those of us who’ve reached a certain age must reach for the elastic waist-banded trousers and blue hair rinses. It merely means we must become cognizant of what we can and cannot get away with anymore.

Makeup: Go lighter with lipsticks, and pay very close attention to eye makeup. I, personally, prefer a dramatic eye, and thanks to Nova Lash eyelash extensions, the focus remains up, up, up rather than down, down, down, where years of sunbathing and heaven- knows- what -else have dragged the rest of my face toward the floor.

Hair: Bangs rule, and are much cheaper than Botox. A face-framing cut does wonders for a gal’s look and psyche.

Clothes: We get into trouble here. Just because we still have it in certain areas doesn’t necessarily mean we should flaunt it. No matter how tight your tummy is, it’s still no match against an ab-solutely toned belly of a 22-year-old. (And for you younger girls: please don’t flaunt anything less than a perfect stomach. Crop tops are really not that flattering on anyone). Long legs don’t give us license to wear the latest minis if we’re over the age of 25. If you’ve got the cleavage, go for it, but only if your skin is impeccably smooth.

Word to the wise: Form fitting is much more flattering than overly exposed skin – at any age.

The Venue: Keep in mind the importance of the setting. Those outrageous, dominatrix-inspired boots have their place. Visiting the folks back home is not that place. Cocktail attire does not consist of spandex. Flip-flops do not fall under the dress code of church.

Think about proportion and silhouette. I love the marriage between classy and funky, and with a little homework, we can all find the right look that’s not only flattering but exudes a youthful vitality. It’s all about confidence, baby. Find your look and rock it!

Beth Newman
Image Consultant, Life Coach, Author
www.newmanimage.info
www.firststyle.webs.com
Online consultations available!
Look, feel, and LIVE your absolute best!

September's Good Buys

Dear friends, I cannot stress to you enough just how much I love the month of September. The lazy, hazy days of summer have disappeared, and now we look forward to reviewing, reenergizing, and revamping our look. Even if you’re still suffering sweltering heat (as am I here in Houston), it’s wise to store the warm-weather wardrobe and bring out the Autumn-inspired outfits that will carry you into the cooler months ahead.

And in order to ready oneself for the seasonal transition and ultimately the change, it’s now wise to buy:

Pocketbooks and wallets – a great fall or winter bag will carry you through an Indian summer, a prolonged fall, and the whole of winter until spring springs forth. You may carry it for some months, so choose carefully; now is the time for the indulgent bag you’ve been craving.

Party dresses – although you may not feel like it at the moment, it’s the best time to snag a couple of to-die-for dresses to see you through the holiday party season. Channel your inner-Audrey: keep it classic and elegant, and store it properly for use in years to come.

Winter separates – Again, high temperatures in your part of the world may tell you otherwise, but most likely the stores in your neighborhood are already stocked with winter wear. Trousers, skirts, sweaters, and long-sleeved tees await you. Take advantage of their presence now before they disappear.

For more information on the season’s best, I invite you to read Elegant – the little ‘zine dedicated to fabulous living – at http://newmanimage.info/Elegant.html.

Here’s to falling beautifully into September!

Beth Newman
Image Consultant/Life Coach/Author
Newman Image
www.newmanimage.info
www.firststyle.webs.com
Look, feel, and LIVE your absolute best! Online consultations available!
Beth's book, 'Become a First Style Fashionista' now available through Amazon!

Just Stuff

I spent last night – well past midnight, mind you -purging my closet.

It’s that time of year, I suppose, in which I’ve grown absolutely weary of my summer wardrobe, and am none too keen on my current fall offerings.

Something inside simply won’t allow me give the stuff away, even though I know darn good and well that there are many women in my area who could use it. So I shall compromise: mark each piece down to an almost sinful price and sell, providing me with a little extra cha-ching for the new clothes I’ve been coveting in boutiques all over town.

As I sorted through my stuff, I got downright sentimental about a few things. Could I possibly say goodbye to the fabulous little white Calvin Klein all-weather jacket that protected me from inclement weather during my trip to Italy? Could I bear to part with what I affectionately refer to as my ‘Mary Tyler –Moore’ wrap dress that my wonderful husband bought me a few years back? And what about those bright yellow stilettos that turned oh-so-many heads back in the day when I actually wore them?

The answer, sadly, is yes. Though I hate to see some things go, I realize they must. They’ll hang neglected in my closet, eye-balling any new wardrobe editions, and become jealous. Some may grow depressed, others may riot, and I just don’t have the time to deal with any of their drama.

So here they sit by me in my office, stacked up, bearing little stickers that read $1, $2, and so forth. Signs for my afternoon ‘Patio Boutique Sale’ have been placed throughout the neighborhood. I’m hopeful each will go to a good home, to be worn with pride by someone who cherishes them as much as I once did.

Each piece really does have a story to it: the awful suit I bought last year because I simply felt I must have an actual suit. I wore it twice, and felt like Hillary Clinton each time I did. The long satin skirt – an EBay find – that made me feel like movie star. The cropped jacket with ¾ sleeves reminiscent of one of my fashion idols, Jackie Kennedy. I wore it quite a lot during my teaching days, and it will always remind me of the girls in my class who raved about it each time I did. Oh, and my favorite travel bag, the one I just found over twenty euro in, that was by my side throughout France, Spain, and Greece…if that bag could talk…….

But the fashion beat goes on, and I must dance along with that beat. Such is life: change is inevitable, and when we recognize that change is in order, we must take action. We must let go in order to make room for new, beautiful things to enter.

Beth Newman
Image Consultant/Life Coach
Newman Image
www.newmanimage.info
www.firststyle.webs.com
My book, 'Become a First Style Fashionista' now available through Amazon!

August's Good Buys

The time is now to fall into….well, fall.

Yes, dear friends, I realize the last thing on our minds right now is finding fabulous fall jackets and the perfect winter coat. With summer’s sweltering heat, all we really want to do is lounge by a pool with a refreshing frosty beverage in hand. But think about it, we must, for it’s the best time to score wonderful wardrobe additions for cooler months ahead. You’ll find many stores stocked for fall already.

When shopping for jackets, go for fitted – nothing boxy or oversized. Try to snag a few that are lined on the inside for an ultra-chic look. Your winter coat should provide warmth, obviously, but don’t let it overwhelm you. One can’t go wrong with the classic trench; camel will be the hot color for the season.

It’s also a good time to shop for jeans (select sophisticated, darker denim), flat shoes (DSW carries incredibly cute ones), and load up on big costume pieces and textured tights - they are still all the rage, and are trickling into stores right now.

There’s no need to buy an entirely new wardrobe, so before embarking on a shopping frenzy, take inventory of what you already have. Get rid of anything that doesn’t fit or that you haven’t worn in a couple of years. You can probably donate most items, but do throw away anything with rips or stains.

The best part about the upcoming fall and winter season is that we continue to see a return to a more classic, refined look. Let’s make the cooler seasons ahead our chicest yet!

Beth’s Pick for Fab Fall Finds:
White House Black Market (www.whitehouseblackmarket.com)
New York and Company (www. NYandCompany.com)
Charming Charlie (www.charmingcharlie.com)

For details on the 80's trend that's not going away soon, check out the August edition of Elegant - the little zine dedicated to fabulous living - located at www.newmanimage.info

Beth Newman
Image Consultant and Life Coach
Newman Image
www.newmanimage.info
www.firststyle.webs.com

My book, 'Become a First Style Fashionista' will be available through Amazon next week!

A Fashionable Sneaky Peek!

I’m sweltering in the Houston heat and humidity, so I must confess, Sweeties, that I wasn’t too terribly interested in opening any of the many fashion magazines I subscribe to, all of them proclaiming
“What’s Hot for Fall!”

But open them I did and found myself in for some truly delightful and inspired reading.

My goodness gracious, we’ve got ourselves a regular popourrie of new styles coming up, and I couldn’t be more thrilled! My fave five fall looks are as follows:

Fur-bulous! (faux or real): an explosion everywhere on the runways, from vests to jackets to fur-lined collars.


Dare to Drape: Draping will be HUGE this season! We’ll also see a lot of ‘cut out’ looks as well.




Leggy looks: skinny and slim-cut pants reign supreme. Don’t be afraid to try a pair on – you’ll love them! Panty hose are still out, but brightly-colored tights are still in.




Bye-Bye Bling Bling: Fall’s accessory must-have is the fantastic layering of pearls or beads.



Color Story: We’ll see a lot of burnt sienna and camel. Other big colors for autumn include gray, lipstick-red, teal, and purple. Michael Kors covered it beautifully!You can catch his fall fashion show here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inkRKFWpbUI

Boutiques everywhere are already bringing in a bit of fall, so hop to it, my friends!




Beth Newman
Image Consultant/Life Coach
Newman Image
www.newmanimage.info
Look, feel, and LIVE your absolute best!

My book, Become A First Style Fashionista, will be available through Amazon in August!

July's Good Buys: The Beach Emergency Kit

‘Tis the season when many of us – including yours truly – set sail for sand, sun, and perhaps starlight soirees by the sea. Don’t you dare do it, though, without your Beach Emergency Kit (henceforth known as the BEK).

Most of this applies to the ladies, but gents, there are a few little items you, too, could afford to take along (in your own bag – hers is already full!)

A spare swimsuit: in the event you’re invited to a pool party or dinner aboard a handsome stranger’s yacht, you’ll want to wear something different…something not covered in sand and seaweed.

A pair of cheap lightweight earrings: to go along with the spare swimsuit should either of the above occur.

A baseball cap: it will keep the glare off you whilst riding the waves. Your regular sun hat won’t do – save it for when you’re lying on the sand sipping a frosty beverage.

Refillable spritzer bottle: Fill it up with water for a quick refreshing face or body spray or to wash off the salt and sand.

There’s more I’d like to place into what I’ll refer to as the “Well, Duh” category.

Honestly, I’m surprised how often people turn up at the beach without the following: sun block, lip balm, sun glasses, a small mirror, a comb, a tiny pouch of tissue and baby wipes, travel-size deodorant (please), hand cream, a big bottle of drinking water , and money (a few bills and maybe some change – nothing major)

Of course, you should personalize your BEK with other products that you can’t live without (hair gel, extra pair of contact lenses, etc.)

Now, should you have an inkling that the day’s beach activities will lead to a little night action, remember the following, and add accordingly to your BEK:

In addition to the small earrings, throw in a cheap, beach-inspired necklace or bracelet for added pizzazz.

Create a new evening look from what you’ve already got in your BEK. Perhaps your bikini top stayed dry. If so, pair it with the bottoms of the spare (be sure they coordinate, though), or you could simply put on a pair of shorts. A sarong utilized as a swimsuit cover can easily be transformed into a halter top. Play around with it until you get it just right.

Pack the jeweled flip-flips. They’re much more suitable for evenings.

Of course, it’s vitally important that before you reach your evening destination from the beach that you put your comb, baby wipes, tissue, and deodorant to good use.

Do right at the beach without looking too done-up. Have fun, remain flexible, and strive for a truly fabulous fun-in-the-sun summer vacation!

Ps…if you have any other additions to the BEK, I’d love to know about them!

Beth Newman
Image Consultant/Life Coach
Newman Image
www.newmanimage.info
Look, feel, and LIVE your absolute best!

online consultations available; my book, 'Become a First Style Fashionista' will be available in August through Amazon!

Heavy Handed

Summer has officially dawned, and I think an attitude of ‘lightening up’ is in order, particularly when it comes to our handbags.

My darlings, if you’re still toting the black leather number you bought last November, I implore you to open your eyes and take a look at the wondrous warm-weather bags ripe for the picking:

Color is essential. Shades of blues, yellows, and even lovely summer-reds line boutique shelves, just dying for you to take them home.

Straw is also a viable option: I discovered the most deliciously elegant straw bag at Charming Charlie’s earlier this season (Yes, Charming Charlie’s – I’m not snob, when I find something fabulous and affordable, you can bet your sweet bippy I’ll grab it). This bag is, without a doubt, my ‘go-to’ favorite of the moment. It’s huge (which I need for lugging essentials like wallet, lipstick, magazines, candy bars, and such), chic (works well with my ‘taking care of business’ attire), and versatile (doubles as a shopping bag when they’ve run low at CVS).

Too often, we forget that the little things really do matter when it comes to our wardrobe. The bag, the shoes, the belt, the bracelet….although small details, really, they make a tremendous impact on our overall look.

Store away that lovely black bag for a while. It’s simply too heavy for summer’s light-and-easy looks. Time passes quickly, and very soon you’ll be able to haul it out once again.

Beth Newman
Image Consultant/Life Coach
Newman Image
www.newmanimage.info
Look, feel, and LIVE your absolute best!

online consultations available
my book, 'Become a First Style Fashionista' will be available through Amazon in August!

Dress The Part!

I’ve often heard (and have always preached) that in order to get ahead in the workplace, one must dress for the job she wants, rather than for the job she currently holds. I think the same philosophy rings true for life, too: if we want to convey a certain something, and to get ahead personally, it’s vital that we dress the part.

As shallow as it may seem, my friends, society does judge us by the clothing on our backs. As Clinton Kelly from TLC’s What Not To Wear says, “How you dress tells the world how you expect to be treated.”

And honestly, don’t we feel better about ourselves when we’ve put forth a little effort? It’s a great little mind-trick. When you know you look fabulous, you’ll walk a little taller. You’re more willing to make eye contact with others. Heck, you might even smile at a stranger. Others will view you as confident, intelligent, and generally far more interesting than the Croc-wearing woman standing next to you in check-out line.

Now, I’m not saying we must don our Sunday best for mundane errand-running; I’m telling you, though, that an oversized t-shirt and baggy shorts simply won’t cut it.

With the onset of summer’s heat, I constantly hear, “It’s too hot to dress up”. Hogwash. Plenty of cute, casual, and comfortable clothes hang in shops right now, begging you to take them home and wear them!

I realize money might be a concern, and it really needn’t be. Get on the email list for affordable places such as New York & Company and Express – they’ll send you loads of coupons and are notorious for sales. Join the Black Book Club at White House Black Market and save 5% on each purchase (in addition to regular sales, coupons, and birthday bonuses). It’s a rare occasion in which I’ll pay full price for an item, so I certainly don’t expect you to do so. (Side note: a gal does not need a ton of clothing. Get a few separates for mixing and matching)

“But I just really don’t care what I look like, or what other people think of me.” I’ve heard this one before, and I can’t help but think that an underlying issue exists with this way of thinking. Why are you afraid of getting noticed?

Also, given the overload of information we’ve access to these days, there are those who still aren’t quite sure what suits them, wardrobe-wise. They don’t realize the power of color. They’ve no clue about the importance of fit and proportion. My advice is to find a role model and emulate her style. Be realistic, though: if you’re not built like Jennifer Aniston, chances are you won’t look as snazzy in some of the numbers she wears. Pick up a copy of Vogue, Marie Claire, or Lucky to discover the current, hot looks. Enlist the help of a trusted, honest friend. Take the plunge and hire someone to help you (I just happen to know of a fabulous woman whose job consists of the very thing we’re discussing……)

The point of it all is this: we must develop an awareness of the silent message we’re conveying to the world. In order to attract good friends, good times, and good vibes, we’ve got to dress the part!

Beth Newman
Image Consultant/Life Coach
Newman Image
www.newmanimage.info
Look, feel, and LIVE your absolute best!
online consultations available!

Beth's Seal of Approval

Okay, I realize I cover a great deal in the Product Watch section of Elegant (the little ‘zine dedicated to fabulous living, located at www.newmanimage.info) each month, but so many amazing things have been stirring within my head and filling my closet that I simply have no choice but to share them with you!

New and Fabulous on the Wardrobe Front!
The slim-cut pant is so in vogue right now, and I love it! The best trouser, hands-down, that I’ve recently discovered comes to us from the new Ecru line. Fast becoming an important presence in the marketplace and in the closets of stylish women everywhere, Ecru has quickly established itself and developed a following among fashion-aware women (I own three pair already!) They’re a double-stretch cotton/poly/spandex blend and run true to size. They do not bag…they do not sag. Comfortably chic and oh-so-cool, you’ll find them in quality boutiques, such as JoAnn’s in Sugar Land and Houston.


Ecru 'Simone' Pant

Can you believe the vest has made such a smashing comeback? I’m thrilled, and it brings me great joy to tell you that New York designer Bob Tapp is back – on a limited basis – with his fantastic creations! These little works of art, available only at JoAnn’s, are the perfect addition for anyone seeking a little something outside of the box, wardrobe-wise. I proudly own two Tapp Vests, and receive loads of compliments each time I wear them. Enough said, I think!

Tapp Asian Derby Vest

(Side note: Should you not be in the Houston area, email me and I’ll gladly send you more detailed information and pictures regarding Ecru, Tapp, or any of the fantastic lines carried by JoAnn’s (Alberto Makali, Zanilla, Boho Chic, AZI, etc.) JoAnn’s ships all over the country, so give me a shout and I’ll gladly set you up!)

The Eyes Have It!
The must-have accessory of the moment? Eyelashes, my friends! I’m out and proud about my Nova Lash eyelash extensions! I don’t wear mascara anymore, and the upkeep is minimal. Tish Wolter is the certified go-to gal in Houston. Shoot me an email and I’ll provide you with Tish’s contact information.


Bronze Beauty!
I always take heat this time of year (no pun intended) regarding a suntan. A healthy glow, I feel, is a must right now, but should you not have time to ‘get your tan on’ the old-school way, I encourage Sugar Land residents to pay a visit to my friends at Sunny Beach Tans (16525 Lexington in Sugar Land). Under new ownership, you’ll find state-of-the-art equipment, including the VersaSpa Skin Care System (www.VersaSpaSystem.com). Sunny Beach Tans is super-clean, super friendly, and has an incredibly knowledgeable staff. Be sure to tell them Beth sent you!

I feel so fortunate that part of my job includes trying out and trying on the latest. I love sharing this information with you, and always love hearing about the clothing, products, and places that work for you!

May's Good Buys

Let’s see…

Sunglasses? Check!
Denims? Check!
Spring and summer shoes? Check!
Dresses? Check!
Tanks and tees? Uh….won’t mine from last year work?

The answer, my friend, is ‘no!’ As we enter the month of May – the last official month of spring – we must insure that we’ve our warm-weather wardrobe intact, and that includes the little, lightweight things.

We must purge our tank and tee collection right now. Sure, those white t-shirts purchased a year ago might look okay, but hold one up to a shiny, bright new one and you’ll see the difference. Some tees lose their shape after a few spins in the washing machine. Trust me, you’re better off saying ‘sayonara’ to them all and welcoming in a new batch.

Tees and tanks reign supreme as the most versatile items in our wardrobe and the most affordable. (Personally, I go with Hanes Her Way – the three pack – that I can easily pick up at my neighborhood Target for around $10). We can wear these little miracles just about everywhere and with everything: Pair one with a jacket and skirt for the office; get rid of the skirt and jacket and put on a pair of jeans or lightweight trousers – viola – you’ve got your weekend look together!

Layering t-shirts and tank tops is also a really good styling trick and a great way to get different looks. Open yourself up to colors you normally wouldn’t choose: Layering two colors that pick up the print in a skirt make for a visually interesting look.

Do consider your bras when shopping for tanks and tees. Calvin Klein’s T-shirt bra still reigns supreme, in my humble opinion. The smooth texture and extraordinary fit are the only way to go underneath your t-shirts.

Gals of a certain shape will benefit from a Lycra cami with a built-in bra and adjustable straps. Wear it under anything, and notice the support and smoothness you’ll get in return. Word or caution: Lycra fits snugly, so it won’t be as cool on those sweltering summer days.

The temperature is rising, so stay cool, my friends – literally and figuratively!

Beth Newman
Image Consultant/Life Coach
Newman Image
www.newmanimage.info
Look, feel, and LIVE your absolute best!
online consultations available!

My Dad's Belt

I’ve absolutely fallen in love with the Boho Chic look that’s currently all rage. I tend to lean a bit more classically when it comes to my wardrobe, but there’s something to be said for playing with new colors, discovering easier fabrics, and incorporating bolder patterns and accessories. Really, that’s what style is all about, in my humble opinion: knowing what works for you while not fearing the addition of new twists.

As I researched the Boho Chic trend, I visualized what I already had in my closet that might work for me. The first item that occured to me isn’t actually mine, though; it’s an old belt that belonged to my late father. It’s a tobacco-hued leather – nothing fancy or expensive – and bears a pewter buckle that reads Prairie Cattle Company, Tulia and features a little engraved prairie dog right in the center.

I only recall my dad wearing the belt a few times when I was a small child. He worked at the cattle company for a short while before becoming the grain lord of Castro County (that’s in the Texas Panhandle, by the way; it has nothing to do with Cuba). I’d actually forgotten all about the belt until after he passed. I discovered it while sorting through his things and grabbed it without giving it much thought – just a keepsake, something to have that was his. It never occurred to me that five years later I’d sport the darn thing as my ‘newest wardrobe acquisition’. Of course, I had to get it fitted, and I’ve absolutely fallen in love with it.

I wore it the other day as I assisted an older woman in putting together her spring wardrobe. We were inside a local boutique sorting through belts when she looked at mine and asked, “Where can I find one like the one you’re wearing?” I explained the story behind it. Tears welled up in her eyes as she proclaimed, “Honey, that’s the sweetest thing I’ve ever heard!”

I never considered that my wearing it would ever be ‘sweet’. ‘Cheap’ actually came to mind first because I didn’t want to go out and buy a new belt. ‘Unique’ crossed my thoughts because, after all, nobody else has a belt like this. ‘Comical’ also popped into my head because I know that my dad is somewhere getting quite a kick out of it, laughing and shaking his head, wondering why on earth I’d want to wear that old thing.

Well, Daddy, I wear it for three reasons: a) it’s cool and works smashingly well with the new boots I just got, b) it really falls into fashion right now, and c) it was yours. I appreciate you for not tossing it out on one of your rare tossing-out binges. It’s awesome beyond words – just like its original owner.


Beth Newman
Image Consultant/Life Coach
www.newmanimage.info
Look,feel, and LIVE your absolute best!

Comfortably Numb

I'm comfortable right now, dear friends. As I sit cross-legged on my couch, lap-top at my fingertips, I glance down at my 'knocking around' outfit of choice: dark-washed, straight-legged jeans, a charcoal-gray fitted T-shirt with the words Rick Springfield emblazoned elegantly across my back, and a blue and gray beaded necklace dangling from my throat. This isn't something I'd normally wear out in public, but I could if I had to - therein lies the difference between casual chic and casual catastrophe.

The 'C' word comes up repeatedly when I'm helping someone pick out a new outfit. "I just want to be comfortable!"..."I could never wear those shoes - what's wrong with the flip-flops I picked up at Walgreen's? They're so comfortable!" It seems that many of us use comfort as an excuse for sloppiness. This stems, I think, from living in a visually-numb society: we've become so accustomed to seeing track suits, ragged shorts, and ratty shirts that it's now acceptable to show up in just any old thing.

It's time for change, don't you think?

Now, I'm not saying every occasion is a black-tie one. It's not; we must, however, be aware of our surroundings and dress appropriately for them. Pajamas are great for bed, but not for the grocery store. Swimsuits are perfect for the beach, but not in the restaurant located across the street from the beach. Get the picture?

As we transition into fall, I'd like to offer some tips to take you from comfortably numb to comfortably nice:

Dark wash jeans - be they straight-legged, flared, or skinny, a dark wash is far more visually pleasing than a faded one. They're slimming, too.

Fitted T's and knit tops - do insure, though, that they're wrinkle and stain-free.

Ballet flats - perfect for running errands. Save the tennis shoes for the gym

Accessories - nothing over- the -top for casual outings, but a little something is necessary.

Jackets - structure is essential for pulling your look together.

I'm a firm believer that when we make an effort to look our best, we're actually doing society a favor. That's really how my fashion passion emerged: I realized early on that no on wants to see me make-up free with my hair carelessly piled atop my head. No one wants to see just how much I resemble a twelve-year old boy when I wear a baggy shirt. No one wants to see my big hips balance on my scrawny legs through the power of spandex shorts.

All we must do is realize that our clothing does, in fact, send a message about who we really are. Let's do our part to beautify our surroundings!

Beth Newman

www.newmanimage.info

Look, feel, and live your absolute best!