How To Wear A Pop Of Color In Your Shoes

So they say Spring is arriving soon (still a high in the 40s on April 11th ugh) and we're all going a bits nuts waiting for warm air...   so adding some excitement with color is really on my mind.  I can still be in jeans and chunky layers but add a pop of color with my shoes.    

Color can be intimidating for a lot of ladies so a classic red sandal is MUCH easier for adding color to your wardrobe than a bold red dress.  

On the left, blogger Rachel Martino, adds the slightest pop of red to black jeans and a striped tee.  I added the perfect little strappy red sandals in the catalog.  

Ever since Oliva Palermo wore cobalt shoes on her wedding day, I've been rather obsessed with that for a pop of color.

As seen below at VivaLuxury, cobalt doesn't need much else going on.  It looks so nice with a dark navy outfit, dark jeans, or an all-black outfit to make them pop.   

Cobalt, or any colorful shoe for that matter, doesn't need much of anything besides jeans and a white blouse like MimiGStyle does it here.  

And seriously, what's NOT to love about hot pink suede AND a bow all on the same shoe?  Pair these with a colorful, printed dress to go all out or go with the classic reference above, jeans and a white top.  

Rather than a pop of solid color, how about a cute printed shoe???

These Nine West pumps can be used casually with jeans and a solid top like the Banana Republic eyelet top above or you can try a little pattern pairing and use them with a striped tee! 

As always, be sure you feel comfortable and remain true to your personal style.  

I have so many more cute options in the catalog so be sure to take a look. 

Can't put all of this together on your own?  Think about hiring a Personal Stylist.    Email me today!  Jaime@jaimediehlstyle.com

Xo, Jaime

Cute Shirt Alert! Create That Cute Mom Style Here

It's stylish, it's versatile, comes in a few colors, and can be dressed up or down...

what's not to love???

Look at just a few ways you can style this Twist Front Cozy Fleece Pullover by Gibson. 

They have basic black, heather grey, a pop of coral, and quite a few more!  

If you're a Mommy who is just beginning to work on her Personal Style, this top has a trendy front twist that is a nice little update to your basic tee but it's not over-the-top trendy.

I promise this is that top that can be dressed down with some leggings and sneakers, you can step it up one notch with boyfriend jeans and stylish flats, then go "elevated casual" with skinnies and a blazer or cool moto jacket, and finally- style it for work just like the adorable Jessica from Petite Style Script. 

Add your favorite chinos or trousers, blazer, and pumps, and be sure to add a statement necklace to complete your look.  

I hear from Moms often, "I would love to buy that but I have no idea how it will fit my body!"  I hear you ladies.  For this top (especially if you're debating the petite), I have a few tips.

• Use the reviews!  There are over 800 of them!  Find someone who is nice enough to give their measurements and which size they went with.  Seriously, why ever leave a review that says, "Love it! The medium is perfect".   Ummm.... who exactly is that helping ladies?  So side note, be a little thoughtful to the next lady and say, "I am x lbs and x height and the large was too loose or the medium worked perfectly."  Anyway...
•  Use the measurement in the product description to your advantage.  Seriously, run to your closet and pull out that favorite tee shirt or basic top you wear all.the.time.  What's the length?  Compare that to the measurement of the online item to make a purchasing decision. 
• Retailers are beginning to catch on that they could at least help us out a little by giving the model's measurements but not all retailers have caught on.  
• Shop online at places that offer free shipping/returns and take advantage of trying a few different sizes.  "Over pull" for yourself like I do for my in-person clients.  Keep the ones with a perfect fit, return the rest.  Your credit card will survive the few days it takes to do this.  

A few more styling ideas...  now go give it a try!  

This purple option below is a great way to add some color to your wardrobe as we all want to bust those Winter blues...  now!  

So many cute colors here.

If you decide to give it a go, be sure to drop a line here in the comments and let me know!  I would love to hear from you. 

And as always, if you are ready to step out of that style rut and work on your Personal Style, you can email me here.

Xo, Jaime

My posts often contain affiliate links.  I may earn a small commission if you purchase an item I linked but it will not affect your cost of the items.  It helps support a small portion of the time I take to create a post to share with you.  Thanks!   

Moms: Rediscover Your Style

You can do it.  You can recapture a sense of style!

Moms, I have something to say to us all.  Staying stylish as a busy Mom is NOT that hard to do. Eek!!  Mad at me for saying that?  I know.  But keeping a sense of style isn’t hard, per se…  it’s just that losing your style (losing your whole self, really) is sooo darn easy!   

Mothers since the beginning of time have placed themselves second, third, last, and we don’t even think twice about doing it.  We have a million other things to do before we can even begin to focus on ourselves.  

Moms are freaking rock stars…

in the beginning of Motherhood, we're just trying to keep helpless little humans alive while cleaning their butts and running on very little sleep and very little sanity.  They grow a bit and we become the snot rag, the boo-boo healer, miracle worker… all the while still wiping butts.  

Here are my guys, of course in fun matching sports outfits.  I am behind the camera, likely  wearing days-old sweats.  That's just the way it is for most Moms in the beginning.   

This is the oldest photo I could find for this "Mommy post" that I wasn't too embarrassed to have on the internet.  The boys are 3 and 4!  What the heck?  Why did it take so long to get in a picture?

They grow a little more and we become taxi drivers, the cook, the therapist, maybe we become a semi-decent spouse again but we’re still the housekeeper, the coach, the sideline cheerleader, we work, and so much more.  And if all goes as planned we’re probably not wiping butts anymore.  

But for such a long stretch of time, it’s easy to lose yourself.  You're focused on their happiness, not yours!

It’s easy to put your personal style on the back burner.  

Heck, we don’t even think twice to put hair washing on the back burner!  So forget a sense of style, the easiest thing to grab is the yoga pants (that I didn’t actually use for yoga) or the comfy over-sized sweats.  They were my favorite, to me they were like the giant hug I needed in order to make it through the day (second only to the other giant metaphorical hug we need to start the day, COFFEE).

At some point in early Motherhood, lots of us adopt a Mom uniform.  Or at least I did! The uniform consisted of the same old sweats on rotation and the 2 pairs of yoga pants I would reserve for playing in our front yard in case the neighbors were out.  Those pants were the go-to pairs for stroller walks throughout the neighborhood because that’s when real people might see me.  Semi-clean black lounge pants were the best I could do.  My dirty hair screamed “crazy lady” enough, old oversized sweats would have made it worse!

But we’re so hard on ourselves, I guess.  I love what Leena says over here about yoga pants and the Mom uniform stereotypes,

"it isn’t because we aren’t stylish. It’s because we’re exhausted! We’re so busy dressing everyone else that by the time we reach ourselves, we’ve given up on making an effort."

Amen!  I think I lost my sense of style the most in my boys’ toddler/preschool ages (those photos above that I am not in).  Those were the days when they went to preschool only 3 times a week.  Every. single. time I would wrestle my 2-year-old into clean clothes so he could attend the 3-hour preschool program I NEEDED them to go to so I could maintain some semblance of sanity!!  It was a crazy phase he had for about 8 months.  There was full-on wrestling while he was screaming and I was sweating.  Just to get the kid to wear some fresh clean clothes!  

So you bet I didn’t give a sh*%t what I was wearing when I got my 3-day-a-week, 3-hour break! And you Moms know how fast that “break” goes, right?  After a long battle or two, you finally get the kids into their car seats and complete the drop-off.  After a quick trip to the grocery store, put groceries away, throw in a load of laundry, clean up from breakfast, it’s time to go out and get them again.

So I didn't care at all how I looked.  I cared the most about creating moments like this.  God, I was proud of myself for making this moment!   Edited to add: I pulled them over to the computer to share this photo and they're making gagging sounds and going "blechk"!  Boys...  

I didn't really make the time for self-care.  At least once a month for a couple years there, my husband would say, “Do you think you’ll change out of those sweats at all this week?” Or, “Isn’t it day 4 for that sweatshirt?”  And one time, “Jaim, um, your hair smells”.   Sidenote: I’ll know that he actually reads my blog when he calls and says, “Hi, I read that article about the 4-day-old sweats.  That wasn’t just years ago, you know I still stay that right?”  Busted.
 

And then there are Moms who did all of this morning wrestling with a toddler while simultaneously getting themselves ready to be present at their outside jobs!  In real grown-up pants!! Can’t even imagine.   

But eventually, low and behold, the kids grow and you have a few more minutes to yourself and you might begin to think about your own self and your needs.  By now we all know the whole “put your oxygen mask on first” thing, right?  

Allow yourself some focus on your style.  It will make you feel good!

If you do come up for air and notice that your personal style took a backseat to everything else in life, you are not alone. Every single week a Mom reaches out to me to get her style groove back.  We all do it! 

And look, that makes sense for a period of time.  It really does.  But there will come a moment where you can breathe a little and shift some of the focus back on yourself.  That's where I come in to help.  

Is this you today?  Do you have a few minutes of sanity and you’re noticing that your style took a back seat for a few years?

Who else better to ask for help than me?  A trained listener, a Mom in transition myself, and a trained Personal Stylist.  And if somehow you need permission to care about fashion and personal style, I give it to you!  You are allowed to buy a new pair of jeans or a pretty “going-out” top without feeling guilty.  ~Insert oxygen mask analogy again~

But where do I start? 

If you feel a little lost and unstylish since you’ve become a Mom, you are not alone.  I know personal style can feel a bit elusive when there are more important things going on in your world….  but the good news is, you can put forth just a little effort to get back on the right track.    Make one little purchase.   How about a great dress or a flattering jumpsuit?  

Probably my first, and favorite, self-focused purchase was a versatile jumpsuit.  I was a SAHM at the time with absolutely no events on the calendar and no date nights in sight.  I really had nowhere to wear any real clothes.  But I came across a People Style magazine ad and a coupon for “officially the most flattering jumpsuit ever” so I gave it a chance.  It worked out great.  I have had it for 4 years now and I still use it!  

I first wore it first to a friend’s baby shower 4 years ago.  I’ve used it for date nights since and even a friend’s casual house party for the launch of her business.  I just used it a few months ago for my dear friend’s 40th birthday, again just last week for networking, and that jumpsuit is not going away anytime soon!  

Using it with layers here. booties

Out with the girls.

How many pieces have been in your closet for that long that you actually use, over and over?

If the answer is zero, I can help you.  I can teach you how to buy for longevity and versatility.  Unfortunately, the exact one from years ago that I'm referring to is old and sold out.  But you should keep this brand in mind as they're always adding new pieces.  It's Veronica M and this link takes you right to their jumpsuits page.

I recommend a jumpsuit as one of your first purchases when you’re fighting the Mom style rut because they can easily be dressed up or dressed down.  Even the almighty LBD (as much as I LOVE one) isn’t my favorite staple piece because I’m not always in the mood for a dress with legs all exposed. 

How to choose a jumpsuit.  

You should focus on some key features:

• Make sure it’s a knit (aka stretchy to accommodate changing bodies)

• Machine-washable because someone is going to wipe something on it eventually- could be baby snot, could be Mommy’s cocktail, who knows?

• I recommend black or navy since those colors usually make us feel our slimmest

• V-neck, a universally flattering neckline

• A faux wrap-style or surplice top (very flattering without the wrap/tie annoyances) for a few reasons like breastfeeding access; creates a deep v to flatter most body types, accentuates the natural waist, and with the v-neck you can vary between a flirty/flaunt of the breast area or you can pull it closed more or add a cami for a more modest look

• And maybe find a style with pockets which offers a comfy vibe!

This Vince Camuto is an excellent option, I have it in the blue but it comes in black as well. And you can wear a regular bra with this one! It's another option that stands the test of time. I bought it a few years ago and I still use it. You can try this if you're not ready to go for one with spaghetti-straps.

What do you think?  Ready to buy for yourself yet?  

What to do about style if your littles are still really little?  I remember the snot-wiping days Moms, I really do.  I remember the exhaustion all too well.  And if it’s too much to think about right now, I get it.  Bookmark this page and come back later.  I’m not going anywhere!  

I remember the days when the only accomplishment you could make all day was to keep the little 2-foot maniacs alive!  Trust me, mine are 9 months apart and I remember but it will get better…  now my kids are finally both school-age and I am just beginning to come into my new sense of style and re-focus on my own next steps in life.  Just some food for thought…

Don’t wait for an occasion to buy a great piece.  

Especially if you are a stay-at-home Mom.  I used to say it all the time when I was home, “where the heck am I going in this?”  Or “I never leave the house, I can’t buy this”.  And then you know what happens?  An event appears on the calendar and before you know it you’re left saying, “I have nothing to wear!  Help, Jaime!  I can’t find anything in the mall!”  Believe me, I have the weekly SOS texts to prove it.  

Tell me, has your style changed since you became a Mom?  In what way?  Maybe your style hasn’t changed at all, good for you!  Either way, tell me in the comments below.  What phase of Mommyhood are you in?  What can I help you with regarding personal style?  I’d love to hear your thoughts and answer your questions.  

"Looks alright? Thanks, babe."

Xo, Jaime

Disclosure: some links are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This is a small amount that helps support my time spent on the hunt for stylish pieces, these are NOT items sent to me for free. I have created these posts on my own to share with you.

Why Hire A Personal Stylist?

Why Hire A Personal Stylist?

I can hear some of you now.  “Me?  Hire a Personal Stylist?  Stylists are for celebrities, right?”   I get it.  It sounds too fancy for you.  I am “just” a Mom, who am I to hire a stylist?  I’m just a busy, working, “average” woman and hiring a stylist is for famous people.   

Not true anymore.  No matter who you are, no matter your stage of life, no matter where you’re working… in the home, out of the home for someone else, launching your own business;

You have goals in life; places you see yourself going.

   

Even if it’s just surviving into tomorrow!  We all know that putting on a great outfit can boost our mood and our energy.  We know that a great-fitting pair of jeans helps us feel good on date night.  We’ve all been told to dress to impress when we’re going to a job interview, reentering the workforce after years at home (heck, I’ve been there) or aiming for a promotion.

A Personal Stylist will work with you to determine your body shape, your image desires, and your personal style…  even if you don’t really have one.   

I understand that discussions about clothing can feel superficial, that focusing on your image can feel shallow, even selfish for some.  But the truth of the matter is this:

people will form an opinion about you within seconds of your encounter with them.

I know this sentiment is not ideal but it IS reality and I can help.  A Personal Stylist can make this all so much easier to manage by teaching you about the shapes and cuts that will flatter your body.    

A personal stylist is trained to help you find the clothes that look best on you and will help you coordinate outfits for different occasions.  When we think we look good, we feel good. It’s as simple as that and you know you’ve heard this all before so please know that  

feeling your very best isn’t a luxury reserved for fashion bloggers and the rich and famous.

Just as you let a hair stylist cut your hair and just like a personal trainer would develop a workout routine, I will help you build a wardrobe that makes getting dressed easier.  I will help you find clothing that reflects your personal style and lifestyle.  Perhaps putting a good outfit together doesn’t come naturally to you.  That’s where a stylist comes in.  I started this business because I really enjoy showing people how to “put it all together”.  I am good at translating fashion inspiration and current trends into a REAL woman’s closet.  I am good at putting your style thoughts and desires into words and into your closet.   

If you’re intimidated because you think a Personal Stylist is going to cost a lot, not only can I break down my services into stages for you…  you’ll save money in the long wrong if you’re taught to purchase pieces you know you love and fit well.   You’ll save time and money when you STOP buying pieces that are good enough just so you can get out of the store….and even worse if you never end up pulling them out of the closet.

If you’re intimidated by the presence of a personal stylist… you should know that my approach is as warm and friendly as it is honest.  I truly enjoy helping other women feel great about themselves, simple as that.  It does not serve you or me to be judgmental about your current looks.  

This is not What Not To Wear and I will not strong arm you into getting rid of pieces that you can’t let go of.  

But I will balance that with truthful assessments on what’s working in your closet and what isn’t.  You should read more about my philosophy on personal style here.

You deserve to let a trained eye translate the current fashion trends (as well as the tried and true classics) into your closet.  Let me tell you one thing I have heard over and over again with clients     

________________

“I never would have tried

that on if you didn’t recommend it.

And now I love it!”

________________

Getting dressed is easier, starting the day is easier... when your closet is filled with clothes that have been specifically chosen for you, your shape, and your lifestyle.  And I am ready to help. 

  

My services might be right for you if:

You have a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear.

You are currently using only 20% of the clothes in your closet.

You have some cute pieces and NO IDEA how to put them together.

You’d like to make the most of what you already own.

You need help identifying your personal style.

You’d like to understand your body type and how to buy clothes that flatter.

You’re facing a life transition; reentering the workforce, promotion, career change, just graduated.  

I hope to hear from you soon.  XO, Jaime