Navy Shoes…An Endangered Species?


Have you pondered what shoe color to wear with navy?

As an image and fashion consultant I get asked this question all the time. Trying to find the perfect pair of navy shoes is about as easy as baking a wedding cake in an Easy -Bake oven. Men usually wear black shoes with a navy suit, though dark brown are often worn and are stylish. Cordovan, rich burgundy leather, is a nice change for the fashion forward. Did you know that cordovan is made out of horsehide? Don’t worry, no thoroughbreds are giving up their lives for shoes.

Women have a bit more leeway with colors. Black are the most obvious choice especially if the navy is a very dark hue. Chocolate brown, bronze, burgundy and charcoal grey look smart too. I also think a nude shoe looks terrific, and it is popular this spring. If you are wearing a skirt suit or dress a sleek nude shoe will make your leg appear longer. You also can throw caution to the wind, and wear a totally opposite color. That move can be tricky in a conservative workplace, and may not work with the image you are trying to convey. 

Just remember to add in whatever color you choose into your accessories. And if you try to find a stylish navy purse that does not look like your Aunt Ethel’s’ from yesteryear…
FUGETTABOUDIT

February 25th, 2009 Posted to black shoes, cordovan shoes, navy shoes, what to wear | Comments (0)

No More ”Wedding Bell Blues”… 3 Bridal Tips for Your Happiest Day


Someone popped the question over Valentines Day! Congratulations. Now what? I have dressed many brides and bridal parties in real life and on TV. While there is usually more drama behind the scenes on the TV show, everyone faces real challenges.

1) Gowns!


If you’re going for off-the-rack and they’re dirty and stained in the showroom, BEWARE. The salon may not look after your well-being either. Get all the extra charges upfront and in writing. Some salons add extra fitting charges. Have your final fitting close to your wedding date, so the dress can be adjusted for any weight changes. When trying on gowns, wear make up and style your hair. Bring a variety of bras, shapers and appropriate shoes. If you have a picture of your “Dream Dress “and it is just not available, then definitely check into having a dress custom designed and made for you. Oftentimes the price difference is negligible.

2) White?


Know your best white. There are lots of different whites, some stark and some creamy. Good rule of thumb: if you have cool skin (blue and pink undertones) white-white, gray-white and blue-white work best. If your skin is warm (peach and yellow undertones), then go with ivory or cream. Try different white dresses on to determine your best color. Have a professional color analysis, if you can’t figure this out. NEVER think that changing your makeup will make the dress look better. If the color is wrong it is wrong, period. Trust me, on this! Do not be afraid of a light color, if white does not sing to you. I designed many pastel wedding dresses. I find the trend, fresh, bold, and unconventional. Hey, it is your day, wear the color you like and that makes you sparkle!

3) Fit


Figure out your figure. Decide what you want to accentuate and what you want to hide. A gown can hide unwanted bits with the proper undergarments. Remember, you will be wearing it for HOURS so make sure you can maneuver. Think ladies room!

• Junk in the trunk? Look for fuller skirts and corset in your waist. Put the focus on your upper body
• Do you have the “right to bare arms”? Maybe you do, or consider a dress with a sheer, modern sleeve
• Big bust? V necks, keyhole and scoop necklines are best
• Thin frame? Add gathers and layers and heavier fabrics for bulk
• Full-figured? Consider princess and A lines and avoid ruffles and gathers
• Petite? Be careful not to choose a dress that will make you look like a big cream puff. You will be a little head sticking out of a mass of tulle and lace.

It’s your day and it’s going to be lovely, once you nail down the details. Know what you can control and what you can’t. If you are calm and collected that’s what people will remember. If you’re hysterical or pouty, that’s what they will remember. How do you want to be remembered? Beautiful bride? Or “Bridezilla”? In the end, it’s up to you to make the wedding both magical and memorable!

P.S The gown above is a Lori Ann Robinson original
February 19th, 2009 Posted to Uncategorized | Comments (0)

Welcome to LAR Consultants Fashion and Image Blog

I am so happy to finally be writing a blog!.

With the help of my virtual assistant Deborah, we are alive and kicking.

I will be providing you with similar content that I presented to you in my newsletter PLUS so much more!
I will be reviewing the latest greatest fashion and where to find it, not -to -be missed bargains, beauty products that I try out myself, SAVVY ways to keep you looking terrific AND people, places and things that “cause me to pause”, and say Hmmmmmm.

So stay tuned for my posts. I look forward to hearing from you, and ask me your pressing wardrobe questions.

Were you projecting the kind of image that you wanted in 2008? Did you wardrobe say polished professional or dull and dated? Well maybe you need to rethink your appearance and how you presented yourself, and make that a priority in 2009. Holding on to your job can be stressful enough without having to worry about what to wear.

One of the biggest challenges my clients have is what is appropriate to wear to work . They have the weekend kick around jeans and t-shirt look, but are a bit more mystified with business casual clothes that are right for the office.

So, I am going to share one 5 tips today that may help you get in touch with your inner fashion god or goddess, if you ready to unleash it, and sharpen your look.

  1. Have a few key pieces of current clothing that work as a base. 
  2. Pick a neutral color that looks best on you. Most people start with black or brown.
  3. Look for solid color clothing that has clean lines to be the most wearable. 
  4. Separates are easiest to mix and match 
  5. You can get away with wearing the same item of clothing on the lower body half more often if you switch out clothing on the top half. Ladies change out your accessories, they are your “best friends” when it comes to dressing, and can dramatically change the look of your basics.

Look at magazines to get your fashion inspiration. And if this all seems too overwhelming, treat yourself this year to a professional image consultation.

Making sure you look and feel your best is paramount when in the work pool.

Happy swimming.

Fashionably Yours,
Lori Ann

February 2nd, 2009 Posted to Uncategorized | Comments (0)