January 2010 Archives

By: Katie Passmore

Just recently, a friend of Lauren's contacted her about her husband's eyebrows.  She said they're unruly and scraggly, and she doesn't know what to do about it because he doesn't want to be a girly-man and groom them.  So, in response, here is my philosophy on men's brows:

I don't think the men in our lives would appreciate us girls having disgusting, bushy brows that are all over the place and that we refuse to do anything about, so then how can they expect us to be okay with theirs?  So....tell your men to get to grooming!  Their brows do not need to have an arch like ours do.  They don't need to be thin like ours are.  BUT, they do NOT need to have random stragglers that are noticeably out of place and unnecessary.

The fact is, a man's image is extremely important, especially in the work place.  It's not just the wives, girlfriends, mothers, and daughters that notice unruly brows; clients and colleagues can, too.  Therefore, please explain to your men that an ill-groomed man is an ill-credited man.  And if he wants to look successful and upstanding, he needs to have nice brows.  Period.  (Keep in mind that this also goes for ear and nose hair.  Just plain get rid of that!)

When your boys check themselves out in mirrors, and we all know they do, point out the stragglers and tell them that it is totally acceptable for a man to remove them.  Men want to be attractive, too, so just explain to them that having unruly brows is gross.  But don't let them over-groom.  A guy with too-perfect brows is almost as bad as a unibrow!  It's just not right!

Don't believe the news about the Power T?  Thinking there's no way for it to eliminate your muffin top, and denying that it can smooth out the lumps and bumps around your tummy and hips, even your back?  Well, it's time to believe it because you're about to see it!!

Click the link below to see the Body Magic Power T really work its magic!!

Body Magic Power T

You may be thinking, "Tailoring doesn't really make that big of a difference." But, this common misconception just isn't true. When your sleeves are too long or your pants too short, it doesn't matter that your outfit came directly off the mannequin at Neiman Marcus. A lack of alterations drastically diminishes the value of your clothing. You don't look polished. Are you a savvy shopper that prefers Steinmart or Kohl's?  Even more reason to alter your clothing. An item that isn't expensive can look valuable if it is altered to fit you perfectly. 

My tailor has become a great friend. Not only does he keep my ensembles polished, but he is very honest with me. In fact, as a wardrobe consultant and personal shopper, my tailor is one of the only people I can depend on to keep me looking my best. While my clients are looking at me to set a wardrobing example, I am trusting him to make the perfect adjustments to my clothing.

Set a New Year's Resolution to make those final tailoring adjustments to your clothing, and take your outfits from unpolished to perfected!

Over the course of the past month, you have heard both Elaine and Katie's New Year's Resolutions for their clients. They have encouraged you to take better care of your skin and to update your makeup, to name a few. Now it is my turn to urge you to make a small wardrobing change that will up your fashionability rating in a big way: Tailor Your Clothing!

So you have been on a shopping spree, and you are feeling great about your purchases. They look beautiful, they are the perfect colors, and they integrate into your current wardrobe effortlessly. But, have you thought enough about fit? Sure, you can get the pants to button, but what about sleeve and pant length? Or, maybe you need to take up your top at the shoulder seam, and you don't even know it.

This is the beauty of a tailor (and a personal shopper). My tailor and I work together to address any aspects of an item of clothing that aren't perfect, and we correct it. I have even been known to drag my clients to the tailor directly after finishing a shopping trip so that their new clothes never see the inside of their closets until they are finalized with tailoring.

Attention!!!  The Image Power book is on sale for just $10!!  That's 50% off, and they're going quick!  Also, all scarves and wraps are on sale for $30!!!  These fabulous accessories are over half off and for a limited time only!  Call, come in, or order on-line to get your products at the discounted price!  Don't miss this!!!

Calling all lip gloss lovers!!  We are sad to announce that our fabulous Liquid Lustre lip gloss is being discontinued.  Call or come in to receive your Liquid Lustre 50% off!  Originally $18, now just $9!!

Liquid Lustre is available in 8 shades: Blazen, Blossom, Desire, Luscious, Plush, Satinizer, Vixen, and Voluptuous.

We were so excited to get to the studio this morning and start discussing all of the Golden Globe Fashions. 

I am always amazed at how every television show, radio broadcast, newspaper, and magazine will be discussing "who wore what" and the "good, bad, and ugly" for the next few weeks.  And, have you noticed how many contradictions there are? Some so called "fashion experts" will put one celebrity on the best dressed list, while another "fashion expert" sticks them on the worst dressed list. Who can keep up!

So, just to add to the confusion, here is the Stoltz Image Golden Globe Review from our morning meeting:

Best Dressed: Sandra Bullock

Who didn't love that beautiful purple gown on her skin tone.  And, her hair was perfect. Elaine says that it is a much needed change from the bleached blond do she paraded in The Blind Side.

Worst Dressed: Chloe Sevigny

This is a perfect example of being eaten by a piece of clothing (as I tell my clients).  Even worse, the color washed her out, bad.

Top Trends of the Globes:

• Purple
• Feminine Details (ruffles, sequins, intricate detailing, and lots of volume)
• Platform Shoes
• Big Earrings (necklaces were a no-no)
• Tousled Hair
• Sheer, Flowing Fabrics

What do you think were the best and worst looks of the night?

Hurry, Hurry! Don't miss the Stoltz Image 50% Off Sale! 

Sale Items:

• The Image Power book, originally $20, is now just $10. Image Power is packed full of makeover tips so that you can achieve your ideal image in 2010!
• All Scarves and Wraps, originally $60-$75, are now just $30 each! Choose from an assortment of colors, sizes, and styles.

One of our dear clients, Kelly Pugh, was recently featured in D Weddings Magazine. Click here to get all the details on the beautiful wedding! 

P.S. Elaine did the makeup for the entire bridal party!

Contact us at image@stoltzimage.com to learn more about hiring a makeup artist for your wedding.

By: Elaine Stoltz, AICI CIM

It's like planning your investments: Give it plenty of thought. Your clothing is a huge financial investment. I'm sure you have spent thousands of dollards on clothing and accessories over the years. Impulse buying is a no-no.

a. Arm yourself with clothing knowledge (or a personal shopper to do it for you), so that you never make another poor wardrobe decision. Make wise clothing decisions, not irrational ones.

b. Make a list of activities. What types of clothes do you need on a daily basis? You need to really spend time answering this question. Think about all of your activities each week, each month. Do you have the appropriate clothes that you enjoy wearing for each activity? For women, the list will be quite long. You need clothing for running earrands, exercising, going to meetings or to work, going out with friends, going to your place of worship, traveling, and going to parties, weddings, funerals, and other events. Don't forget to include the accessories and shoes that you will need for each type of event as well.

c. Do a closet clean-out. Now it's time to open the closet door and look inside. If it's not neatly organized, then start pulling everything out. Empty the closet. Look at each garment. Can it justify its existence and remain in your closet? Do you love it and know you will wear it? Have you tried it on this year?

d. Make a shopping list. Before you hit the stores, make a detailed list so that you know exactly what you are looking for. Don't ver off the course and purchase an item that won't serve you well.

Don't become complacent with how you look if you are not 100% satisfied with your image. Set goals and accomplish them. 2010 will be the year you look your very best!

By: Elaine Stoltz, AICI CIM

Lessons on how to dress are not taught in school. Finishing schools do not exist any longer. Similar to decorating your home, there are rules and guidelines to use when dressing. Before you make another clothing purchase that ends up being a clothing mistake, hanging in your closet and not being worn, educate yourself.

a. Seek professional advice on what colors are flattering to your natural coloring. The biggest mistake I see with fashionably dressed women is that their clothes talk before they talk; they are wearing too bright of colors or too high of contrast (black and white).

b. Seek professional assistance to determine what shapes and lengths of garments are best for your figure type.

c. Learn the guidelines to putting a fabulous outfit together. Seek the assistance of a wardrobe consultant. It takes creativity and fashion know-how to combine clothing items into a great ensemble. A huge mistake I see with many clients is when they buy an "outfit" and never separate the items of clothing and accessories to make new and different outfits. What a waste of money.

d. Keep your wardrobe current. Do not hold on to dated items. A wardrobe is never complete. It must be continually updated. Read fashion magazines, e-newsletters from Stoltz Image, and the Stoltz Image blog for trend updates and new ideas to keep your wardrobe in great shape! Fashion continually changes, and your wardrobe needs to change with it.

e. If you decide to use a personal shopper to help ease your wardrobing burdens, make sure that that person has a thorough understanding of the colors and styles that will flatter your body and make you look beautiful.

Stay tuned for my fourth and final resolution: Wardrobe Planning.

By: Elaine Stoltz, AICI CIM

Growing old and remaining beautiful requires some maintenance. Here are my resolution suggestions for aging gracefully.

a. Schedule makeup application lessons and two makeup updates per year. All women need at least a little extra color on their faces, even if it is just blush and lip gloss. Some of us require much more. But, it's important to seek professional advice on what colors of foundation, lipstick, blush, eye shadow, and brow products will pair nicely with our natural beauty. Also, makeup techniques change with time. Scheduling makeup updates will keep your techniques from becoming dated.

b. Address your hair style and color. Your hair covers three-quarters of your head, and it has a huge impact on your first impression. Spending money on a quality hair stylist is a must. Enjoy your natural hair color until you start graying. You will have plenty of time to experiment with hair color once you go gray. Knowing the correct hair color to complement your skin tone is critical. Also, the shape and length of your hair can either enhance your appearance or be a detriment. An outdated hair style can age you quickly. Accept your hair's natural texture and find a flattering style that is both quick and easy.

c. Don't forget about your nails! Whether you perform a self-given manicure and pedicure or you regularly treat yourself to a professional appointment, taking care of your nails is a must. Your hands, in particular, are out front and seen by all who see you. And, if you show your toes, make sure that your feet are clean and perfectly polished.

d. Get help with facial hair. For some women, facial hair becomes a concern early in life. For others, it begins with menopause. There are numerous solutions for unwanted facial hair: electrolysis, plucking, bleaching, waxing, etc. Buy a magnifying mirror and evaluate your facial hair closely.

Stay tuned for Resolution #3: Clothing Knowledge.

By: Elaine Stoltz, AICI CIM

Quality of life starts with good health. As I'm lying in bed, foot higher than my heart and recovering from foot surgery, I'm reminded of how important our health is. My normal life has been put on hold. Walking to the kitchen to get a drink of water is now a major task. Running an errand is impossible. Luckily, my health setback is very temporary. In a few months, I will be back to normal, wearing cute shoes, and playing tennis and golf. But, this has been a real wake-up call for me. From my very personal experience, I recommend the following health resolutions for 2010.

a. Regular doctor's appointments and preventative check-ups. This means making time for even the not-so-fun ones!

b. Don't miss your eye exams and update your eyewear or contacts regularly. Eyewear is an important part of your image. Seek professional advice on the types of eyewear that are most flattering to your features. Make sure that we can see your eyes, not just your eyewear.

c. Take time for dental exams, teeth straightening, and whitening. I had my teeth straightened at the age of 59. I love my teeth now, and I make sure to wear my retainer every night.

d. Understand nutrition. Eating and drinking the correct foods for your body is key. Restrict your caloric intake and take the appropriate supplements. You have total control over your nutrition and it's up to you to take the responsibility for a healthy body. Resist food one day at a time. Remember, you only have one body for life. Be good to it and it will serve you well.

e. Exercise! Do what you enjoy. I like to walk and play tennis and golf. If you love to shop, put on your walking shoes and head for the mall. (But, you can only window shop while you are speed-walking!) If you enjoy classes, find a friend to go with you and hold you accountable. A friend is a great coach. Do whatever exercise works for you, just remember to actually do it!

f. Take care with skin care. Cleansing, moisturizing, protecting yourself from the environment, and preventing deterioration are all important for your face and body. On my cruise in November, my eyes were opened to how many people still sunbathe. The deck loungers were full on a sunny day. I had on my Waterproof SPF 30 and wore long sleeves to protect myself. 

Stay tuned for Resolution #2: Body Beautiful.

By: Elaine Stoltz, AICI CIM

Each year we make resolutions to improve ourselves. I challenge you to keep your resolutions this year. Make a list of your resolutions and put a "by when" completion date next to each one. Give this list to a friend who you will report to weekly. I have found that putting "by when" dates on my calendar is the key to success. 

Accomplishing our goals makes us feel good about ourselves. In the next few installments of our Image Tips Blog we will share some of our resolution suggestions for helping you look and feel your best in 2010. 

Attention, Attention! Cream Eyeliner is being discontinued. If you love our cream eyeliner, don't miss your chance to buy the remainder of our inventory at a fraction of the price. Originally $16, Cream Eyeliner is now just $12 each. Choose from the following colors: Brown Sugar, Mahogany, Mushroom, and Silver Lining.

*Offer expires January 22, 2010. (You must stop by or call the studio to receive this offer.)

By: Katie Passmore

These days, we're doing everything we can to keep ourselves looking young and fresh.  Along with keeping makeup current, another way to do so is to take care of our skin!  Keeping your skin healthy makes a huge difference when it comes to aging.  What some of you may not know is that it's the little, routine steps that really keep you looking youthful.

It's so easy to just go to bed without thinking twice of what the difference taking your eye makeup off might make.  Or what about putting on night cream?  And eye cream?  Too many times these things go undone as if they are of no importance to our physical and emotional well-being.  This needs to stop!  When are skin is glowing, we are glowing!

That said, let's make 2010 about keeping our skin healthy and looking fresh.  How do you do that?  Easy!

1.  Wash your face with a cleanser that suits your skin type morning and night.  For some this can be done with just water, but most of us need to use a cleanser.  (Ask about our fabulous chamois cloth to use while washing!)  Be sure to remove all eye makeup.  Some may need a makeup remover, but others can do just as well with their cleanser.  Leaving eye makeup on at night can actually lead to losing eyelashes and eye infections.

2.  Use a toner to remove all of the excess dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin.  This step does not necessarily have to be done morning and night, especially if you have dry skin, but it is absolutely okay if you'd like to do it both times of the day.

3.  Always, always, ALWAYS use a moisturizer!  In the morning, you definitely need to be using a moisturizer that has an SPF, but at night you need to apply a night cream without an SPF.  Nighttime is breathing and healing time for our skin; we don't want any added chemicals.

4.  EYE CREAM!!!!!!!!  This is something that I have heard so many clients say they don't use.  My response: bad, bad, bad!  You need to use an eye cream morning and night, every single day.  The skin around our eyes is the most delicate skin on our bodies and it needs to be treated with mucho kindness.  When we don't, we droop and we bag: two things that are never good when dealing with eyes.

5.  Lip moisturizer is something that many people forget is even a part of the skincare regimen.  The fact is, our lips are extremely delicate, and, much like our eyes, if we don't keep them healthy, they'll start to crack.  Permanently!  Not. Good.  This needs to be an essential step that is never forgotten.

6.  (A tip for the body.)  Keep your entire body moisturized.  Apply a lotion after every bath or shower, and be sure that when your skin is noticeably dry you're using a heavier lotion or cream.

7.  Be good to your hands and feet.  Keep them clean and moisturized.  Apply a heavy cream on your hands and feet every night before bed.  Wearing socks and gloves along with this helps too!  Wash your hands throughout the day and apply lotion to them after every wash when possible.  Also, pamper your cuticles.  Every night before bed, apply cuticle cream or oil to them.  This makes such a difference!

So, now that I've given you the run-down of steps for maintaining healthy skin, it's time for you to make that promise.  Make it your New Years resolution to glow.  And ladies, this isn't a bad idea for the men in your lives either.  Need a good gift idea?  Start your men on their very own skincare regimen.  You'll be glad you did, especially when it comes to their hands.  I'll tell you this: no girl likes ugly man-hands, that's for sure.

By: Katie Passmore

Every year at 12:00 midnight on January 1st, we make promises, resolutions we like to call them, that we truly intend to keep but usually put by the way-side to be forgotten in 3 months.  Your New Year's resolutions are probably about losing weight, eating healthier, exercising, etc.  Not this year.  This year, I want your resolutions to be about taking care of yourself in a different way: taking care of your skin and keeping your makeup current.

Your makeup, just like your clothes, go in and out of style by way of trends and can become dated from season to season, making it imperative that you have your makeup updated.  You know, if I recall correctly, bright blue eye shadow hasn't been "in" since the 1990's, so why am I still seeing it?  The fact is, our makeup needs to stay updated AT LEAST twice a year.  The most efficient way to do this would probably be to have an update once in the fall and once in the spring.

For those of you who are already makeup clients with me at Stoltz Image, you can have these two updates for FREE every year!  When you come in for your update, I will completely refresh your skin care and makeup while introducing the new trends for that season.  I know everyone wants to make sure their clothes are current, but please, please, PLEASE don't forget to keep your face updated!