[MAKEOVER] Brains, Beauty + Busty
A few months ago I was asked by a very close friend to help revamp her current wardrobe as she enters a new phase in her life.
Sasha Osbourne was concluding her Residency to begin a yearlong Forensic Pathology Fellowship in Houston, Texas. She was looking to stray away from the basic black suit for vibrant colors and playful silhouettes! Her current wardrobe consisted of ruffle button up shirts, a sea of outdated denim and a collection of black pants which is the make-up of most of America’s wardrobes.
WEEK 1: CLEANSE
After weeks of discussions I was ready to dig into to the two week process. The first set was to purge her current wardrobe of unflattering fits, incorrect hem lines, and cliché’ trends.
Sasha divided her clothing into two piles donation and keep.
[Sidebar] Also try a “tailor” pile, sometimes there are items that work but may need a minor adjustment.
Once the clothing had been divided, which took a few hours and the help of two HONEST girlfriends it was time to tackle the task of “what do I really NEED”? Sometimes I think that many people get caught up in the thrill of purging that they forget about the pieces they already own. A fly brand new wardrobe is great but remember the clothing that you already own find ways to incorporate them into your new wardrobe.
Once you establish your current inventory the next phase is to set a realistic budget. Sasha’s budget was $1,000, and because I’m a budget-nista it was not hard to stay under that number.
WEEK 2: BUILD
After a week of consulting looks and ideas we hit the mall! Though we did do a test run the week before, which makes the second run a breeze! I am a Zara girl to the core but considering that their clothing are cut for Europeans ONLY that would not be the best store for women with curves. Structure was a word that I used often that day. Darts are your friend, heavier materials are also key. Stare clear of Polyesters and other loosey goosy fabrics that cling and do nothing to compliment your figure.
Our first stop was the unexpected JcPenny’s which I was not only pleasantly surprised by their selection of dresses and skirts but the quality for the price was unmatched. They also have a nice assortment of tailored jackets and pants. I am a firm believer in SEPARATES, mix it up a bit depending on your career 99% of the time it’s okay to do so! Don’t get stuck in the matchy, matchy rut, it’s OKAY to step out of the box add a floral with a stripe or orange with purple! Stay away from too trendy or drab colors that do nothing for you.
After spending the bulk of her budget at JC, we continued our trip around the mall to Limited, NY Co., Banana Republic, and other stores picking up and array of clothing and accessories. There were some online purchases as well as a few pieces from Apple Butter Boutique that also made the cut ;)
[Sidebar] My three main tips when shopping are…find the appropriate length, for a woman in her 30’s its essential that you are age appropriate I’m not saying go Grandma, but keep it classy! Knee length or midi are perfect for any height as long as the look is complimented with 3” or better heels. A belt is also a great way to create the illusion of an hourglass figure. An alternative to black, try a leopard print which is a neutral, yes I said neutral that can be paired with any color! Last but not least under garments, a good bra is key no matter how big or small your bust is the right support makes a big difference in how your clothing fit.
The last task was to PAIR clothing and accessories together, Sasha is hip on her own so she did not need too much help in that department once we completed our goal, to buy pieces that can be used year after year.
Below are some pictures shared to me by Sasha of some of the outfits that she put together using the tips that we shared and her own Stylish intuition.
Enjoy!
Sharon French
Owner, Apple Butter Boutique
Love. Peace. and Fashion
Are you looking for a fresh start and don’t know where to start? Contact me by email at info@applebutterboutique.com, subject CLOSET CLEANSE with your name, number, and a brief description of what goal you would like to accomplish. Currently servicing the Northern New Jersey/ New York City area.
