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

 

 

 

Marc Cain at Fashion Night Out!

Marc Cain’s Spring 2019 designs illuminated the cat walk at Serendipity Magazines charity fundraiser, “Fashion Night Out!” held at The Loading Dock in Stamford, CT.  The fashion event pulled in a stylish and enthusiastic crowd who mingled in the modern space while enjoying a DJ and a delicious assortment of small bites and cocktails.

After introductions by Serendipity Founder and CEO, Suni Unger and SVP/Editor, Lisa Meipala Kennedy, as well as, Model and Founder of Every Mother Counts, Christy Turlington Burns, the fashion show began!   Serendipity’s, Suni Unger announced the Marc Cain fashion presentation featuring Greenwich, CT and local area residents as models and, who represent and raised money for their favorite charities.

All of the Marc Cain looks featured are currently available at the Marc Cain store at The Westchester in White Plains, NY.

Kicking off the show and representing The Cos Cob Fire Police Patrol, wearing a gorgeous Green Monochrome look with double-breasted blazer and tuxedo pant.

Neoprene bodycon dress with side details to accentuate the feminine shape worn with turquoise and white accessories.  Proudly representing the Greenwich Hospital Foundation.

Plaid dress with stretch and black side paneling to create a flattering silhouette.  Worn with red, block heeled sandals for a pop of color and Marc Cain’s white monogram bag accessorized with a lily of the valley print silk scarf.  Supporting Family Centers.

Shining bright for The Tiny Miracles Foundation in a head-to-toe trendy neon double-breasted suit worn with nude accessories.  Creatively wearing a retro print silk scarf as a head wrap.

Wearing on trend green and paired with red accessories for contrast.  The knit top has a super lux feel and the peplum is flattering and feminine.  The pants, with a tuxedo stripe add a corporate flare. Accessorized with an edgy white bag with silver hardware and the lili of the valley print scarf around the neck for a classic touch.  Smiling brightly for Every Mother Counts.

Highlighting the versatility of Marc Cain’s pieces by mixing and matching this look combines a tweed jacket with embellished buttons and lace detailed sleeves with a comfy neoprene black and white cropped pant.  The bag with stitching details bring the look from office to evening.  Happily representing the Greenwich Arts Council.

Wide-leg see through trouser (with inner shorts) worn with a linen jacket with a feminine camisole which has the Marc Cain motto, “Marc Cain Loves You” on the straps.  The nude saffiano bag with silver hardware studs and black suede statement pumps finish the look.  Glowing for Opus for Person to Person.

Who doesn’t love black and white?!  This a great day to evening look worn with a the red saffiano bag with gold hardware and black mesh booties.  Standing tall for Food Rescues Us.

This is the ideal brunch outfit – neoprene pants offer the ultimate comfort and flatter the figure. The denim jacket with peplum and jewel buttons add a girly flair.  Elegantly representing Greenwich Land Trust.

Marc Cain Collections and Sports labels cater to every age group.  This rocker look includes neon yellow denim and the jewel embellished top is layered over a leopard print tank. And, the finishing touches, a leopard scarf and black patent bootie.  Rocking it for the Greenwich Hospital Foundation.

Lilac, White and Denim combined in this soft palette for Spring.  Add the transitional jacket or wear it as a dress.

The ultimate weekend look combining soft pink suede sneakers, floral pants with racer stripe, a striped tee and a techno jersey jacket.

A perfect transitional outfit for Spring combining statement neon yellow accessories, a fashionable sneaker, a trendy transparent backpack with applique flower and pearls.  The down puffer is a great layer especially over this leopard print neoprene jacket.

This techno and pinstripe blazer with matching tapered trouser paired with an edgy silver booty is a hit worn with a long tank and lace cap for a feminine touch.

This leopard dress accentuates the figure with a tie at the waist.  The bottom of the dress is a ribbed cotton and the top is light and flows – great for office or otherwise.  Paired with red pumps and a nude bag.

Dress it down with a denim jacket or wear this champagne colored shimmering sequin dress on its own to a party or special event.

This white pant with black racer stripe down the side pairs beautifully with a cozy, soft printed sweater. Add statement accessories like this lace cap, pink and silver sneaker and great silver leather cross body bag.

This fashionista is wearing an impermeable parka with techno material pants.  Worn with mesh white boots and colorful printed scarf.

Hot pink, black and white are a great combo to transition into Spring.  The puffer is worn over a floral print top and techno stretch pants with a utility strap detail at the side – edgy but comfy!

The final look was a stunner with it’s metallic jacket and embellished top worn over faded, tapered denim with a black patent booty.

 

The Fashion Show was superb filled with color, trends and covetable looks.  The Models were fabulous and did a great job representing their fine and important charities.

Marc Cain is located at The Westchester – 125 Westchester Avenue, White Plains, NY

914-460-5051

Store Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-9pm,  Sun 11am-6:30pm

 

Thanks for stopping by…Cynthia

 

Red Rocks – JCrew Event – Looks 3 and 4

Red Rocks!!  It’s great as the main event or the perfect accent color.

I will be at JCrew New Canaan, CT – TOMORROW, Wednesday, December 12 for a Special Color Style Focus Event:   10:30-2pm/24 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT.  I would love to assist you putting together a great look using color or a thoughtful gift!

Be sure to :  “Mention Cynthia Hudson and in addition to promotional discounts get another 20% off your purchase of $125 or more and a FREE JCrew tote bag”

Red Rocks as the main event in the first JCrew look here.

I styled it as an outfit which could be worn any cold day, as a really great sport spectator look or heading to cut down the Christmas tree outfit.  Layered with a cozy and trendy sherpa toggle coat over a classic wool fair isle sweater with red accessories, curvy toothpick jeans and awesome Nordic boots (love the red laces).  Of course, you need your cool sunnies too!

SHOP THE LOOK – below pics of this look.

 

 

Sherpa Toggle Coat

Crewneck sweater in vintage fair isle

Curvy toothpick denim

Ribbed beanie with faux-fur pom pom

Glitten glove in cashmere blend

Nordic Boots

Sunglasses (similar)

 

The following JCrew look started out as a dressy look with the burnout velvet leopard skirt and sequined cable knit sweater with chandelier earrings but then by pairing it with the silver bootie (my own) and camp socks it went much less serious – I love it for a party but also as a unique day look too.

Red Rocks here as the accent color in the sunglasses, the coat and the socks.

SHOP THE LOOK – below photos

A touch of whimsy with the camp socks.

Wear a beret and the look goes French chic!

 

The sweater has beautiful details – the sequins make it a sweater you can dress up.

Cable-knit sequin sweater

Slip skirt in burnout velvet leopard

Daphne topcoat in Italian boiled wool

Loopy stitch oversized cable-knit scarf

Camp socks

Beret (similar)

Crystal and pearl chandelier earrings

Seaside Round Cateye Sunglasses

Harper continental wallet in metallic Italian leather

 

Remember RED ROCKS!!  Hope to see you tomorrow and thanks for stopping by….Cynthia

 

 

 

Styling with Color – Look 2

Styling with color is a fun and creative process.  I think most people default to typical and quiet combinations.  Clearly some colors compliment eachother and others do not – but I dare you to push the envelope and create a bit of surprise with your outfits.

The JCrew outfit here, styled for a casual party or even a meal out, combines a dressier, stiffer, lace fabric in the trouser with a super cozy, soft turtleneck sweater.  A more common decision would be to  dress up the red lace pant.  By combining a stiff fabric with a soft sweater in a warm color, like camel, relaxes the outfit and makes it feel more casual.  It also makes the pant more versatile.  By pairing with an unexpected combination of accessories like a tartan scarf and leopard print shoes and gloves makes the outfit more interesting.

Try styling with color by pairing combos you would not normally put together and combine a dressier piece with a casual piece – it will open up a whole new wardrobe world!!

Follow my instagram @cynhudstyle for looks and inspiration.

And find details about an upcoming event at JCrew, New Canaan, CT on Wednesday, December 12, 2018.

SHOP THE LOOK – see links below photos.

 

 

 

 

 

Lace Pant

Turtleneck sweater with side slits in supersoft yarn

Tartan scarf

Italian Calf Hair Touch Leather Tech Gloves

Cabana Reader Sunglasses

Earrings (similar)

Block heel pumps in leopard (similar)

I hope you are going to challenge yourself to try new color combinations?  Thanks for stopping by…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

 

 

JHilburn Spring 2018 Menswear and Golf Collection

JHilburn is a Custom and Made-to-Measure clothing brand exclusively for Men.  Using the finest Italian fabrics, we offer formal, business, casual and social wardrobing items.

This Spring, JHilburn launched their newest collection…MTM Golf!!  Offering a beautiful selection of performance fabrics for polos, trousers, shorts, vests, as well as, custom golf belts.

The Golf Collection

Golf Gifting Idea:  Gift certificate, custom golf belt and color block performance MTM polo.

Collection items…

MTM performance vest offered in 4 colors. White, black, taupe and navy.

 

The Spring 2018 Collection is now available and offers a variety of lighter weight fabrics for suiting, sport coats, trousers, dress and casual shirting, polos and t-shirts, casual pants and shorts – and all custom or MTM.

Casual Cotton Shirting

The latest technology in fabrics...estrato suiting – offers natural stretch = comfort and wrinkle resistance. (Taupe/Blue Estrato)

MTM shorts – made to the exact length you desire. 7 colors.

Lightweight Sportcoats in Wool/Linen/Silk blends (Wine Textured Windowpane)

MTM Chinos – 100% cotton in 7 colors

Custom shirts – limited edition spring prints.

MTM Spring Suiting worn with our NEW custom t-shirt – Linen/Cotton Blend (Powder Blue Chambray Solid)

MTM Outerwear

MTM spring weight Quilted Moto vest – 4 colors

A Spring Collection

MTM 5-pockets in 8 colors

A collection of Spring Limited Edition Suiting and Sportcoat Fabrics

Tropical Wool Suiting (Blue Tropical Revenge Micro Solid)

Tropical Revenge Wool Limited Edition Suiting

I provide a concierge-style service in Fairfield County, CT, Westchester County, NY and New York City and will visit you at your home or office. It is my pleasure to assist you in building a wardrobe that is customized and personalized just for you!

Please feel free to email me at cynthia.hudson@jhilburnpartner.com for more information.

Thank you for stopping by….Cynthia

New Year’s Resolution – Wardrobe Consultation

Happy New Year!!!  It’s that wonderful time of year when we get a fresh start!  We may also feel the pressure to come up with a New Year’s Resolution.  Are any of these on your list?  Lose weight,  get back to the gym,  cut out white sugar, cut back on coffee, reserve alcohol for weekends…  Sound familiar?  Focusing on positive and healthy change is great, and I admit, a few of these repeat goals are back on my list again for 2018….

In 2010, I achieved my New Year’s goal and long time goal of starting my own business!  The main reason I started a personal styling and personal shopping business was not because I enjoy shopping and love fashion, but because it was a way I felt I could truly help people feel better about themselves.  It is empowering stepping out of your home in clothing that flatters and you feel great in.  And, having a closet filled with clothing you love and that works is stress relieving and time saving.

Is your New Year’s Goal the same as in the past?  Or, might you consider a resolution focusing on something stress reducing and empowering?  Are you happy with your wardrobe?  Are you confident with your style?  Do you love what you wear?  Are you dressing to enhance your figure?  Do you feel great with how you look?  If you are not confidently answering yes to at least a few of these questions, you may want to consider treating yourself to a Wardrobe Consultation.  During a Wardrobe Consultation you take the time necessary to audit what you have and edit out what is not working.  As well as, put together new outfits with the good items you own and make note of what is missing.  It is remarkable how much better you feel when you enter your closet knowing that you love what is in it and that you have outfits to wear!

Editing your Closet takes time and energy – but is so worth it!!   Here are few suggestions and tips to get started:

Jeans –  If they don’t make you feel GREAT, get rid of them.  You should absolutely have a pair of great fitting, very dark wash denim.  The style depends on your shape.

T-shirtsGet rid of all stretched out, stained and pilled t-shirts.  A great fitting white and black tee are essential.  Style is a preference, however, replace every year if washed frequently; the black fades and the white yellows.

ShoesDon’t keep shoes you aren’t wearing because they are uncomfortable.  Keep shoes you like in good condition – make any repairs at the end of season.  If you don’t have a classic and sexy black pump…get a pair!  Try many on to get a comfortable pair and be willing to pay more for a quality pair.  A classic cut will always be in style and if you take care of them, they will last forever.  They go with everything and make you look and feel great!

 

The fresh start of a New Year is the ideal time to re-focus on you.  If you would like more information about assistance with a wardrobe consulation,  please e-mail me at cynhud@optonline.net.

Best wishes for a HAPPY NEW YEAR!  I sincerely hope it is filled with happiness, good health and, of course, an even more confident you!!

Thanks for stopping by….Cynthia