Size 8 is the new size 4!

Are you one of those who think that they will someday sell their clothes or hand them down to their younger sister or wish that someday they’d fit in them again?

If you ask me, my answer is yes, yes, and yes. Shoes are no question, but yes, I am also guilty of hoarding clothes. My excuse is that I mostly buy versatile pieces that I can accessorize, mix and match regardless of the season.

Anyway, focusing on what I want to write about…

Have you noticed the size of your older pieces compared to your recent outfits? And I don’t mean your last season’s purchases. I am referring to your vintage wardrobe, even including your classic collections from the 80’s or 90’s…they run 4-6 sizes smaller than today’s clothing sizes!

Most women may be on denial, but today’s outfits are designed to satisfy buyers’ wishes to appear thin and feel better about themselves, a phenomenon called “vanity sizing.” I pulled out this floral-print fitted pencil mini skirt from The Limited that I’ve had since early 90’s. It is a size 8 and is snug on me. I am now 5 pounds heavier, and size 4 of the same brand fits me comfortably!

And by the way, high end-designers do just the reverse of vanity sizing in that their garments are sized smaller than average RTWs of the “same” size. So when you shop vintage or signature pieces to add to your collection, be prepared for shock and awe!

To Hat or Not To Hat

Oh no, it is not merely for bad hair days; not just for English weddings - which by the way you are not obligated to wear if you are not one of the principals; not only a must wear at the Derby - frankly I find most of them hideous!

Back in the old days, they were worn for protection from the elements especially to warm babies before hats were fashion adornment for formal gatherings defining ones social status and worn to get noticed.

During the wars, hats have taken aback until once again popularized in the 80’s by the Princess of Wales, Diana. Today, who doesn’t have a hat? Wearing it is no longer a differentiator of rank in society but an expression of art as part of daily accessories.

There are still the traditional vintage Victorian hats, minus the real dead birds of course. And then there are beanies for winter, fun Mardi Gras hats, sporty visors, the western style for that cowboy image, and the most popular…. caps with embellishments and logos that are worn backwards or sideways or sometimes inside out while upside down.

Dust your stylish straw fedoras for the summer or shop the easy on the pocket new selections at Charming CHARLIE.

Bitch Stole My Look!

…as Fashion Police Joan Rivers would say, or call it US Weekly magazine’s “Who Wore It Best?” but both Tara Hitchcock, Arizona’s former Channel 3 news anchor, and I agreed how comfortable this high waist accentuated, soft, wash and wear python print dress is. But that awful bohemian sling purse just does not belong, what was she thinking?!?

This is a flashback from last year’s Florence Crittenton’s “Dreams Come True – 8th Annual Teaming Up For Kids Charity Luncheon” at the historic Arizona Biltmore Hotel. I miss visiting the Girls Ranch, a supporting foundation of Flo’s and a vital collaborative program serving young moms in need. Shout out to my very talented mentee, Lashawntay who has now moved back to Washington DC to be close to her family!

#47 – Smart Wear? Label Whore? Or Simply Baduy?

Salvatore Ferragamo Eyewear
BCBG Dress

Makers from Italy and China

Happy 42nd Erf Day =)

What are you doing today?

From Kiehl’s Lip Balm at Nordstrom, to Malibu Heat Body Lotion at Bath & Body Works, to a Gardening Class at Williams Sonoma, find freebies and activities in your area in celebration of the International Mother Earth Day.

Go green, not only on St. Patrick’s Day, but everyday! Click here for 10 easy tips.

White Trench

A wide adjustable belted white trench coat is perfect to weather the evening spring showers and low 50’s in Scottsdale. This thigh high single-breasted jacket is stylishly detailed with oversized notched lapel, front pockets and ruffled cuffs. Pair it with white pointy pumps, and whether boot cut jeans underneath or bare, depends on how you want to end your night =p

Invited or not, Digbyfest, here I come!

#48 – Smart Wear? Label Whore? Or Simply Baduy?

Jacket by Delia Collection (What a steal for $25)
Heels by BCBG

Makers from China and Brazil

Wedge those tootsies!

Digital shopping on a Sunday morn, I find that almost every designer, low or high end, has wedge sandals in their collection.

It’s all about color-blocking, texture and creative prints - tribal, paisley, floral, snakeskin, and more. If you can imagine it, you can find it.

Here are some pretty ones I found. Let your fingers do the shopping =)

#49 – Got my raffia-wrapped, blue hues, zigzag patterned platforms with adjustable straps and back zipper.

Forever 21 Top (only $4)
Levi’s Crop Jeans
Prada Handbag
Parisian Sandals
The Learning Center Inc. and Juicy Couture Bracelets

Makers from USA, Italy, Philippines and China

Flats are where it's at!

Made famous by Audrey Hepburn pairing it with skinny jeans in late 50’s, ballet flats almost never went out of style since. Making another loud fashion statement in fall of 2009, these stroll ready Dolly shoes continue to be chic must haves, whether with a dress, a skirt, leggings or shorts. It’s the most ah-mazingly comfortable and versatile footwear year round.

Good luck owning just a couple! They come in a myriad of irresistible colors, texture and embellishment. Some come with bold brand logos for those who need to make sure you know who they are wearing. And other flats come in eight-inch heels, go figure!

And for those of us who missed the Missoni frenzy at Target last fall priced as low as $29.99, we can still stuff an almost identical pair of Missoni ballet flats in a Bloomingdale's big brown bag for merely $432. Too bad, Friends and Family 30% discount ended today =)

#50 - How many pairs are enough for your collection?

Shoes by Zara, Parisian, Jessica Simpson and Sole-mate
(Sea Foam Floral Sole-mate with Bow $3.50)

Makers from Spain, China, Brazil and Philippines