ask CARRIE M. Style is something each of us already has, all we need to do is find it. Diane von Furstenberg
My son got engaged! I’m searching for mother-ofthe-groom dresses, and most of them are matronly. I’m so discouraged! Although women are vibrant throughout all the seasons of their lives, the fashion and formalwear industries haven’t gotten the memo! Assemble all details on the wedding, including clothing discussions with your future daughterin-law, son, and mother-of-the-bride. Identify what you would be most comfortable wearing to gain a clear picture of what you are seeking. Think outside the box - where do you typically shop locally? Do they carry a line of formalwear or dressier options? What about consignment shops? Online, try JJ’s House, Floryday and Miusol. Don’t forget body shapers, and shoes to dance the night away! Look for kitten heels, Mary Janes or wedges. And enjoy, you sexy thing, you!!
When is it time to finally let go of clothing? When in doubt about a piece of clothing, try it on and reflect. The right reasons to say adieu: it doesn’t fit, it was a gift and you don’t love it, it’s the wrong color, it’s irreparably damaged or out of style. The wrong reasons: you’ve had it for years (if it’s a classic style and in good shape, why let it go because it’s a “senior member” of your closet?), you haven’t worn it in awhile (maybe the seasons have been kooky), or there has not yet been an occasion to don it (perhaps you’ve been thinking of it too narrowly?). Finally, as declutter guru Marie Kondo asks, “Does it spark joy?”
How do I tastefully use patterns in a professional outfit? Using and mixing patterns adds a fashionable touch to both men’s and women’s clothing. The key is how to get away with it. When using patterns in a professional atmosphere, less is more. Stick with a scarf (vintage stores are a great place to find interesting and inexpensive scarves) or wear a
12 KNOXVILLE STYLE MAGAZINE
A dressmaker in a former life, Knoxville Fashion Consultant Carrie McConkey is a “clothes whisperer” for her clients, taking great pleasure in helping them unlock their signature style.
patterned blouse underneath a jacket or cardigan. Avoid patterns on core items of clothing such as pants and suits. Choose the scale of the pattern based upon your build. Stick with small patterns (or avoid completely!) near areas you would like to de-emphasize. Patterns can become a part of your signature style – do you love polka dots? Florals? Make them your own!
How many pairs of black pants do I really need? Women typically own MANY pairs of black pants. They are like little black dresses you can wear every day! Don’t fret or feel guilty – just evaluate. Do you own a variety of cuts and lengths? A pair suitable for each season? A dressy pair and a casual pair? Remove any duplicates. Now try them on. Do they still fit? Are they a classic cut, or beginning to look dated? Do any need repairs? Remove the dated and damaged pairs and decide if you need to replace. Finally, go through your entire closet. There is usually a pair hiding in a corner that you will be thrilled to rediscover, or relieved to clear out. Voila!
How do you incorporate high fashion trends into your wardrobe without being “that fashion girl?” Incorporating fashion trends into your wardrobe can spark creativity and style, adding to your personal branding. To prevent breaking the bank, dating yourself, or looking like a fashion ad, keep the old saying in mind: “Everything in moderation!” Pick and choose your favorite elements based upon your taste, body type, and colors. Select pieces that are classic (black leather moto jacket), or so unique that their date of origin is unclear (sparkly clutch purse). Don’t wear a head-to-toe look. Instead, mix high fashion pieces with inexpensive items (Google “Sharon Stone black Gap turtleneck”). Go ahead and swoon over Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Porter— and make the looks your own! Do you have questions for Carrie? Email her at carrie@carriemfashionconsulting.com.