Tip #46: STAPLE B - The Black Pant

Who doesn't love a pair of black pants?!?   Black trousers can be dressed up or down and, if you buy a pair that fits your figure, black pants can be slimming and flattering.  

Black pants can be worn over and over without looking repetitive, because the attention is on what you pair them with, not on your pants. I went on a business trip once where I was limited to one carry on... I brought 1 pair of black pants, 6 different shirts, accessories, casual shoes and high heels.  Every day I had a different look.   

Try on a variety of styles to find the one that best fits your body type.  Are they machine washable?  Will dog hair stick to them? Should they be lined?

Different Black Pant Looks:

• A classic flat-front, wide leg style flatters virtually every figure and enables you to wear a variety of shoes -- ballet flats, peep toes, loafers.  
• Black jeggings or leggings with a pair of black boots (or even brown depending on what you wear on top) 
• Wear black pants with a T-shirt, a hoodie and sneakers for a casual weekend look.
• Opt for a black sweater and black boots for a lean silhouette.
• Select a crisp white blouse and black beads for a simple, modern touch.
• Let your shirt pop by selecting one in a bold color, such as turquoise, deep pink or bright green.
• Try straight-leg black pants with a longer, tunic cut print top.
• Experiment with tops in a range of styles and cuts. Try shirts that are open at the neck, high turtlenecks, boat necks and crew necks to see what works best.
• Feel sexy by pairing a halter top with black pants.
• Find a black cropped jacket in a tweed finish that works with the pants to get a suit effect. Just match different blacks carefully, since the depth of the colors can vary.
• Take black pants into evening by selecting a top with a metallic finish, such as bronze, copper, gold or silver.
• Tuck straight-legged black pants into boots that come up almost to your knee with a turtleneck and blazer to achieve a classy, equestrian style easily.

Tip #45: STAPLE #A - JEANS

First, I want to thank the MOPS girls at Kirkwood Presbytarian in Springfield for being so welcoming and wonderful this morning.  I had such a great time talking to your group and I learned some valuable tips myself... thank you!!!


One of the questions asked this morning was, "What are the staples that you must have in your closet?"  I could speak in length about each one of the staples, so today I will only address one... JEANS!!!


Everyone needs a pair of 'go-to' jeans.  The kind of jeans you can grab and wear with anything.  Once we find 'the pair', we are so happy.  But, finding that one special pair can be very daunting.


Here are some tips:

1. JUST go shopping for jeans - nothing else.  Jean shopping can be overwhelming with sizes, brands, styles, washes.  You are going to need a good meal and an honest friend to go with you.  
2. Wear shoes that are easy to get on and off!
3. Wear a shirt that you would typically wear with a pair of jeans. This is important for fit (especially for hiding those trouble areas)
4. Refer to Tip #10 and Tip #32 for more information on jean trends and Levi 512's.
5. I wouldn't be the Hip Bargain Chick if I didn't say WHERE to buy a BARGAIN pair of jeans... try consignment stores (like Chic Envy in Fairfax, Plato's Closet in Chantilly, Classy Consignments and E C's Closet (in Burke/Springfield) or Salvation Army.

• Jeans are broken in
• Designer brands for cheaper (True Religion, 7 For All Mankind, CABI, etc.)
• Lots of selection in 1 spot

I had a Mom (who just had her fourth child and looks fabulous) mention this morning that her favorite pair of jeans are the Old Navy Dreamer Jeans.  I haven't tried them on yet, but the on-line reviews are good.  

Old Navy Dreamer Boot Cut Jeans

Tip #44: The "New" Pencil Skirts

LOVE Pencil Skirts!  But, I haven't worn one in years because the hemlines have been too short.

Well, I am excited, because this seasons elongated take on the 9-5 classic hits below the knee!!  

A Black Pencil Skirt is a GREAT Basic to add to any wardrobe - and a piece I would spend more money on for good quality.  It can be dressed up or down for day or night.  So many outfit possibilities!!! 

NOTE:  With this shape, shoes with height are a must.

Tip #43: Out of Season Shopping

Are you willing to wait until things go out of season to score some great deals?!?!

1. Stores usually stock clothes according to the fashion seasons, which are always a month or two ahead of actual seasons. 
• A spring line of clothing lasts from January to March
• Summer lines are introduced in April
2. Buy your spring clothes in April (or later) instead of January 
3. Buy winter clothes for a steal in March
• Buy staple pieces, such as slacks and sweaters, that will still be in style for next year.
4. Buy for your children a year in advance; just buy in a bigger size and store them. 

Tip #42: In Season Shopping

If you see a piece of clothing that you JUST GOTTA HAVE this season... here is the rule:

1. Wait 6 weeks from the time that the items were first introduced at the store. Six weeks into the introduction is when most items go on sale.
2. Then, after you've waited, hit the store on a Thursday night. Thursday is usually the first day of a sale.
3. Don't wait until the weekend.  The store won't re-stock by then and the choices may be picked through, reducing your chances of getting the right size and style. 
4. If an item isn't in stock when you go to buy it, ask a sales associate if she knows when more might be in or to call other stores to see if they have it. Often, stores will ship it to you for free.