Home for the Holidays…literally!

Over the past COVID months,  I made the effort nearly every day to go for a walk, do some weight training and stretching, get dressed wearing clothes (not sweats) and put makeup on even just to go wait in line at the grocery store.  I know, for myself, it would have been a downward spiral if I didn’t make some sort of personal effort.  But, how I miss really getting dressed!!!  Now that the holidays are here I am excited to share some great looks!

My last post was a collaboration with Marc Cain and my “return” post is with them as well!  There clothing makes me feel great!  Great fabrics, amazing color, the ability to mix, and for me, fantastic fit!!  If you like standout pieces Marc Cain is also worth checking out…

This holiday season is truly looking like we will all be Home for the Holidays…literally!  Styling is by Marc Cain The Westchester’s Manager, Virginia.  We’ve put together many looks  – some are more casual, but still pulled together.  Some are dressy.  But all are unique!!  Additionally, we wanted to highlight the mix and match capability of the clothes and Marc Cain’s approach and passion for color.

COZY COLOR:

Unexpected holiday color, this blush floral print is the foundation.  Mixed with a cream faux fur vest, black leather fanny pack and black booties.

Mixed with a shiny black top and sneakers…this is ideal as a comfortable, festive holiday look, especially if your the hostess of a casual holiday meal.

Amazing reversible faux fur grey outerwear piece

The flip side

 

REPTILE PRINT MANY WAYS:

These reptile pants are incredibly versatile!!  Worn with a baby pink cashmere sweater, bright pink coat and patent leather hiking boots.

For fun, add a hat and a fur collar…

Pair them with a printed sweater, white patent booties and a soft fleece handbag.

Take them simple and classic with a silk top, classic pump and clutch.  (BTW – the classic black coat in the background is stunning.  Has removable ostrich feather pocket detail!!)

BURGUNDY!!

Burgundy leather leggings with a cozy burgundy turtleneck sweater, fleece bag and classic pumps.  Love this easy look for an at home gathering. Works great with an ankle boot too.

Going more casual…Same burgundy legging worn with a silk blouse and soft plaid cape.  The gold booties are lined with the softest fur – no socks needed!!

 

CHIC LEATHER:

Machine washable faux leather wide legged culotte worn with a sheer sequined top with white underpinning.  The houndstooth coat is embellished with a soft blue faux fur collar accessory. Dress down look – pair the culotte with a cashmere sweater and bootie.

 

UNIQUE JACKET:

Having a unique jacket in your closet makes getting dressed so easy! This velvet-like embellished fabric with removable burgundy faux fur collar is paired with a simple striped tee and skinny jeans and white western style boot.  The cobalt blue cross body adds another pop of color.  This jacket reverses to black patent leather!

BOLD COLOR:

Wearing hunter green leather leggings with a bold, colorful floral print scuba jacket and chartreuse scarf and bag.

Hunter green leggings worn with a stunning emerald green velvet blazer, chartreuse carry-all and scarf worn around the wrist.

SURPRISING COLOR COMBO:

Coral and baby blue – a surprisingly beautiful combo!  The printed scuba cropped pant and coral turtleneck are a natural pair.  Mixed with baby blue pieces – sumptuous faux fur jacket, booties, hat and leather gloves.  The scarf picks up all of the colors.

CLASSIC SUIT WITH A TWIST:

Menswear-inspired black classic double breasted wool suit with soft pink windowpane and cropped pant.  No shirt – just a feminine scarf balances the masculine.

Windowpane suit worn with a beautiful soft pink faux fur coat.

WHY NOT GET DRESSED UP:

Even if your staying home for the holidays, why not get dressed up?!  This stunning separates outfit is embellished with Swarovski crystals on the tuxedo striped skinny pant and the bell sleeve of the belted top has beautiful crystal buttons.

MRS CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN:

A super comfy stretch jersey suit with herringbone pattern combined with baby blue accessories… Who would have thought??  Added twist, burgundy shoes and bag!!

 

Have fun with fashion!!  Combine color and pattern; masculine and feminine and you’ll have an unexpected, chic look!  All pieces in the post are Marc Cain and available at their store at The Westchester in White Plains, NY.

Wishing you the happiest holiday wherever your home may be!  I bid farewell to 2020 and welcome renewal and all happy, healthy things for you in 2021!!

Thanks for stopping by… Cynthia

Marc Cain Collaboration

Marc Cain is a German brand that has been in my local mall, The Westchester in White Plains, NY for a few years.  I am huge fan of the brand – love the fabrics, the styling, the tailoring, the mix of color and pattern that are trademarks of the brand.  Additionally, I love how they put a twist on the classics to make them more modern and feminine.  I now own a number of Marc Cain pieces (not everything shown in this post unfortunately) and I love taking my clients and friends to the store.

For the Marc Cain Collaboration photos, the outfits are styled by myself and Virginia, the stylish, helpful and knowledgeable Manager of the White Plains location.  (She’s also the photographer) All accessories are Marc Cain as well.  Our hope is to show that Marc Cain clothing looks great on regular women!

Marc Cain’s iconic leopard print is in the following 3 photos where we are showing the versatility of how one pair of wide-leg  trousers with a racing stripe can be worn 3 different ways.

1. The classic power suit worn with a scarf, classic black pump and smart handle, satchel bag.

2. Wide-leg trouser worn with an amazing second skin button-up turtleneck, black cashmere coat and black patent bootie.

3. Wide-leg trouser worn with a playful and practical double-zip windbreaker and a safari style shoulder bag.

The easy, leopard print tunic with pockets is a great addition to anyone’s wardrobe.  Here it’s paired with a black cashmere coat, and a gorgeous suede, block heel boot. But would also be great with a sneaker, ankle boot or heel.  The collar turns up to reveal a zebra print pattern.

This comfortable neoprene fabric mixed with sheer prints create an elegant look.  Pair with a classic cashmere coat and classic pump and handbag for a dressy look…

…or worn with over-the-knee boots and a vest for a chic, casual look.

Marc Cain offers a variety of dresses…this jersey maxi dress made up of semi-chromatic colors paired with diagonal stripes is a fun piece!  Worn with white patent booties, but can easily be worn with sneakers, knee-high boots or a heel.  The ultra lightweight puffer synches to compliment your shape.

The tunic dress synches at the waist and the floral print is inspired by the amaryllis belladonna flower of South Africa.

A Plaid coat in the same colors perfectly compliments the dress and easily transitions to Spring.

Modern suiting is a Marc Cain specialty!  This is a trouser and vest worn with their fabulous second skin turtleneck.  The pieces are great as separates as well!

If your looking for chic sportswear check out Marc Cain.  These neoprene joggers are flattering and can be worn super casual with sneakers or could be worn with the suiting vest above as an unexpected pairing.

An example of a great classic – Camel trousers, paired with a camel cashmere top coat worn with classic burgundy accessories, a leopard print silk scarf and white blouse.

Marc Cain offers beautiful fabrics, excellent tailoring, a modern take on suiting, a variety of dresses, great color options, fabulous outerwear, stylish sportswear, super essentials, gorgeous accessories, bags and footwear in a beautiful, full-service boutique setting.  Check them out at The Westchester Mall in White Plains or at a few other locations in the U.S.  Tell them Cynthia sent you…

Thank you for stopping by….Cynthia

 

 

FALL FASHION 2019

Cooler Temps! Autumn Colors! Halloween Decorations!  All add up to Fall and that means it’s time for Fall Fashion!  Dressing in layers, wearing heavier fabrications, deeper colors, outerwear….all the things I adore.

Fall Fashion 2019 trends I am loving follow.  Below the inspiration photo are photos and links if you are interested in learning more or purchasing.

LEATHER on LEATHER

Leather is classic but sexy and layering it is super chic!

Image: marieclaire.com

http://ZARA Faux Leather Jacket

http://ZARA Faux Leather Legging

 

SMART SUITS

Always a fan of a power suit – a great investment that you will feel super confident wearing!

Image: Marie Claire.com

http://Marc Cain Blazer and Trouser with subtle check

 

JEWEL TONES

Exude confidence wearing bold, bright color – easily done in an outerwear piece.

http://Blank NYC Colour Block Faux Fur Coat

 

CAPES

So many style options to choose from.  If your lifestyle is casual choose a casual style.  If your classic choose a trench style.  You can’t make a wrong choice.

Chloe – Image: Marieclaire.com

 

http://Ellen Tracy Faux Fur Cape

 

ANIMAL PRINTS

These are never out of style…but this season animal prints are showing up on everything from lingerie to sneakers.  Add a piece to your wardrobe.

Image: Marieclaire.com

http://Zara Faux Suede Coat

 

 

Best Wishes for a Fall Season filled with good health, good times and leather or faux leather, jewel tones, animal prints, a cape and a sexy, power suit!

Thanks for stopping by…. Cynthia

Central Park Conservancy

On this special May Day, I had the pleasure of being a guest at The Women’s Committee of the Central Park Conservancy’s 37th Annual Frederick Law Olmsted Award Luncheon held at The Conservatory Garden in Central Park (at 105th Street and 5th Avenue). Three women were honored with the Award this year for their hard work and dedication to the organization.  The Women’s Committee, a powerful team of fundraisers and Park Ambassadors, raises an incredible $10 million of the $80 million annual budget and over $175 million to date.  Now with a membership of 1,000 women strong, their programs enable anyone to make an investment in the Park.  The Central Park Conservancy – a not-for-profit organization founded in 1980 – is to restore, manage, and enhance Central Park in partnership with the public, for the enjoyment of all.  The Conservancy raises the Park’s nearly $80 million annual operating budget and is responsible for the work essential to keeping Central Park beautiful.

The event is a spectacle of fashion and creativity!!  My girlfriend Kimberly, a member of the Women’s Committee Board, advised all of her guests to wear a hat or hairpiece to this unique event.  I had no idea the Fashion, Flowers and Fascinators (and hats) would be so fanciful, imaginative and gravity-defying!!

Following are photos from this very special day… My girlfriend and generous hostess is the stunner in marigold!! (That’s me in the polka dots – chilly day so wore my fur stole)

 

Puppy topiary topper with leash

A forest in a hat with an owl on top

The Conservatory Garden – sadly you can’t see the gorgeous tulips surrounding the area

I heard Brooke Shields and Martha Stewart attended but did not see them.  However, I did see Mayor Bloomberg who was also sporting a hat! (Below)

After the cocktail reception in the garden we headed inside the tent which held over 1,300 guests!

What an unforgettable event!  Thank you to all that generously give their time and money to keep Central Park spectacular! I loved seeing all of the enthusiasm, creativity and effort put into the fashion and the hair pieces! When you walk through Central Park look around, appreciate and think of all of the effort that goes into keeping it beautiful. Thank you to my dear friend Kimberly for having me!!

Thanks for stopping by….Cynthia

 

 

 

Valentine’s Day

St. Valentine’s Day dates back centuries and contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. There are many stories about who is Saint Valentine. * One story depicts a Roman priest who performed secret weddings against the wishes of the authorities in the third century. Imprisoned in the home of a noble, he healed his captor’s blind daughter, causing the whole household to convert to Christianity and sealing his fate.  Before being tortured and decapitated on February 14, he sent the girl a note signed, “Your Valentine”.

No matter the history, it continues to be the day lovers express romantic gestures through cards, chocolates and gifts.  This Valentine’s Day treat yourself (or your Valentine) to the gift of lingerie. The gift of lingerie is so personal and special and there are so many beautiful options, no matter your taste, preferences or confidence 😉  There is nothing quite like wearing feminine undergarments.  Leave something to the imagination and find a style or a piece that suits your figure and makes you feel fabulous!

Here are a few options by Intimissimi, an Italian clothing label which specializes in bras, briefs, lingerie, vests and pyjamas for women and men. (Intimissimi for Men)

Intimissimi L’Amour You Tulle and Lace Babydoll

Sexy Mesh Balconette Bra

Sexy Mesh Cheeky Panties

Sexy Mesh Lace and Microfiber Cheeky Panties

Viscose Satin Kimono

Full Bloom Viscose Satin Kimono

Full Bloom Elena Balconette Bra

Full Bloom Cheeky Panties

Intimissimi Sexy Mesh Viscose Satin and Lace Petticoat

Nordstrom offers complete sizing for everything they carry.  Here are a few plus-size lingerie options at Nordstrom.

 

Natori Luxe Shangi-La Nightgown

Oh La La Valentine Lace Teddy

 

Oh La La Cheri Adelle Teddy

Valentine’s Day/Evening is a few weeks away.  Plan ahead and treat yourself or the one you love to something personal and special!

Thanks for stopping by…Cynthia

*History.com

Men’s Holiday Style

The holidays are creeping in quickly so now is the time for you to be thinking about stepping up your holiday style game!  The key to looking put together is wearing clothing that fits you properly.  The minute you step out in properly fitting clothes you will feel SO much more confident and carry yourself taller!!

Tips for Men’s Holiday Style: Wear classic pieces with a twist like a blazer styled as a tuxedo, velvet sportcoats, monochromatic combinations.

Here are a few ideas for dressy and casual holiday looks, as well as, formal occasions:

Navy blazer styled as a tuxedo with a black silk peak lapel and flap pockets.  Worn here with a custom black stretch cotton button down with smoke buttons.  Can wear this with dark jeans, a black 5-pocket or with matching trouser.

A grey velvet blazer worn over a black button down with black trousers. Pop of color with a pocket square.

Navy tuxedo worn with classic black bow tie and clean front formal white shirt and silver studs.

Casual look for a holiday get-together.  Custom Gingham shirt over a cashmere v-neck with our custom Tech Field jacket.

Layering looks great!  Custom henley underneath a custom casual shirt topped with our custom Reversible Vest.

Casual holiday shirting – looks great with sweaters, denim, vests…

Grey velvet double breasted blazer styled with a peak lapel worn with a custom classic plaid button down.

A less formal tuxedo look:  Classic black tuxedo paired with a custom stretch navy cotton shirt and bow tie.

Winter white tuxedo jacket worn with a white button down.

Hope you are you inspired to step your style up for the holidays?!

I want to help you PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD.  If you live in Westchester County, NY, Fairfield County, CT or New York City I can assist you with my concierge-style personal shopping service.  In addition to pulling from stores if desired, I carry the largest custom, lifestyle menswear brand, JHilburn.  We offer everything from t-shirts to tuxedoes with the finest Italian fabrics and superb quality all at a great value.  Will visit you at home, office or NYC showroom and you can avoid the hassle of shopping in a store.

Wives and significant others – give your guy a gift card to get him started.

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy and healthy and happy holiday season!!   Cynthia

Summer Beauty

With summer quickly approaching, now is the time to purchase your new summer beauty products.  Less is more is my summer beauty philosophy.  I prefer a more natural look and I don’t like wearing heavier products in hot, humid weather. My key everyday summer beauty items are a lightweight sunscreen or tinted moisturizer with SPF, mascara, bronzer and a lip gloss with SPF.

Sunscreen replacement every season is important as they become less effective and expire.  If you use Waterproof mascara mainly in the summer, don’t start using an opened one as bacteria can form, get a new one for the season.  Be sure to use a moisturizer with SPF.  And, keep in mind, moisturizers should be replaced every 6-12 months.  For everyday, choose a lip product with SPF.

Here are some of my favorite summer beauty products:

Trish McEvoy Beauty Booster SPF 15 Lip Gloss

NARS Bronzing Powder

By Terry Terrybly Waterproof Mascara

Supergoop Setting Mist with Rosemary

Supergoop Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40

 

Deborah Lippmann rich Girl hand cream SPF 25

I leave this product in my car and apply when driving.  It soaks in immediately so it is not slippery.

 

 

Link below for important tips about beauty products suggested by BlueMercury

Tips for longevity of beauty products

Take care of your skin and enjoy a wonderful summer!!  Thanks for stopping by…Cynthia

 

 

Fall Fashion 2017

Summer 2017 is coming to a very quick close.  Kids are heading back to school, I’m getting back to my regular routine and thankfully, the Fall Fashion season is upon us!!  It’s like an annual ritual for me – gather the September Fashion magazines, check out Pinterest, and browse my favorite clothing stores for inspiration.  I gather, I contemplate and then I narrow down my favorite fashion trends for the season.

I like a lot of what is out there, however, these are my four favorite trends for Fall Fashion 2017:

 

I love outerwear and a cozy and stylish shearling is a simple way to look on trend.  Throw on over a top and jeans with great footwear and you are set!

 

I always seem to lean toward a plaid/check – classic for sure, but if you are willing to mix prints – super stylish.

 

Loving Burgundy – always have – and happy to see it “in” this Fall season.  Burgundy is beautiful head-to-toe, but it also compliments blue, black, grey, white and metallics, and is a chic accessory.

Gucci Medium GG Marmont 2.0 Matelasse Velvet Shoulder Bag

 

After a dress, what is easier than a pantsuit to look pulled together?  Slim or slouchy – go with what looks best on you.

Hope these images and trends provide you with a bit of Fall Fashion inspiration.  If they appeal to you, try to find something to add to your wardrobe and help you put together your own updated style for the season.

Thanks for stopping by….Cynthia

 

Images:  stylecaster.com

What to Wear for Thanksgiving

Considering the horrifying terrorist attacks in Paris and the uncertainty these acts bring, it is important while we pray for others, we reflect on the good in life and all we are thankful for.  With Thanksgiving a week away, I am thinking of and thankful for my family, my husband and four children and my friends old and new, near and far.  Among other things, I am thankful for my children’s teachers and coaches – particularly those that have influenced them in a positive way or have made a difference in their life.

With the abundant Thanksgiving meal ahead and gatherings being organized, the personal stylist in me is naturally thinking – What to Wear for Thanksgiving?  What comes to mind is casual, cozy and comfy (big meal means expanding waist) but also, stylish and current.

Our Thanksgiving gathering is casual so a comfy cashmere tunic and leather leggings will likely be my choice.

All links for more information on pieces (or similar) at bottom.

Carola_Muis (10 of 11)

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Carola_Muis (5 of 11)

Carola_Muis (2 of 11)

Carola_Muis (8 of 11)

Click on highlighted items in blue (or red) for more information:

Tipped Handkerchief Hem Cashmere Tunic

1969 leather pull-on legging jean

Lucky brand black wedge ankle booties (similar)

Rebecca Minkoff ‘Moto’ Hobo bag

beaded and tassle necklace (similar)

Burberry sunglasses (n/a)

Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain

 

All photos by Carola Muis.

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy a relaxing, safe and Happy Thanksgiving…Cynthia