Carolyn Rovner

Fall Fashion

October 9, 2014 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

Fall 2014 brings new trends to add to your wardrobe. First, start with the freshest colors: emerald green, rich amethyst, ruby red and the hues shown on the Pantone color chart.

Knits: Cashmeres and wool-blend sweaters–will keep you cozy on cold winter nights.

Silky track pants , the latest look in trousers, are both chic and comfy…what’s not to love about that?

A shearling jacket is perfect for a Lake Tahoe weekend getaway.

Menswear-inspired slippers are smokin’ hot. That’s why we love “smoking slippers”.

There are many more trends to explore…pastels, wrap coats, plaid and small, structured handbags. Choose the items that work best for your personal style and your lifestyle, and …

Be well. Dress well.

For style tips and trends, subscribe to Carolyn’s blog at C2style.com/blog or follow her on Facebook (C2 style) and Twitter (shopwithC2style).

Beyond the Fitting Room

August 10, 2014 by Carolyn Rovner 1 Comment

Protecting the planet and looking chic are not exclusive endeavors. As women are becoming increasingly aware of their carbon footprint and animal cruelty, eco-friendly fashion is a trend that’s here to stay.
Here are some ways you can contribute to the environment and be super-stylish, too:

1. Shop at consignment shops. By purchasing pre-loved clothing, you can rescue good quality merchandise from landfills or being shipped overseas. You also have more options than regular retail shops because resale shops have a wider variety of styles. You’ll also find good quality garments—as opposed to “fast fashion” retailers like H&M and Forever 21—and you can extend the life of a treasure!

2. “Living with Less.” This philosophy, embraced by many Americans, results in the downsizing of homes and reduction of wardrobes, creating a less stressful lifestyle. Donating business attire that you no longer wear to organizations like Wardrobe for Opportunity (www.wardrobe.org) will ensure that that your “power suit” is passed on to someone who needs a fresh start in life.

3. Save the animals, ditch the leather. Wearing faux-leather, or what we used to call “pleather” (plastic + leather) is no longer considered tacky. A vegan leather jacket uses synthetic materials sourced from petroleum, and is both cruelty-free to animals and costs less than real leather. And that’s cool.

4. Host a clothing swap! Trading gently used clothing with girlfriends is the best way to ensure that the pieces you’ve “worn and loved” will have a good life with someone new. Chances are, more than one friend has been eyeballing that cocktail dress of yours for years. As Elsa sings in the movie, Frozen… “Let it go!”

5. Recycle your clothes. Retailers like Puma, Levi’s, Gap, Patagonia and The North Face offer discounts or other perks. Inquire at local locations for event information.

Be well. Dress well.

For style tips and trends, read Carolyn’s blog at C2style.com/blog or follow her on Facebook (C2 style) and Twitter (shopwithC2style).

Fun, Fresh, New Looks

April 2, 2014 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

So long. sweaters! The newest looks are fresh and fun!

Bright and airy colors…

… Floral prints (look by Blugirl)

White with black accents–not to be confused with plain ol’ black and white (available at lyst.com)…

THE color of the season, radiant orchid, makes a handbag look, well…radiant (bag by Michael Kors)…

The summer bootie works with slim slacks, skirts, dresses and shorts—this season’s IT shoe (shoes by Salvatore Ferragamo, available at Neiman Marcus, $750)…

Best Dressed Tips for Women 50+

January 31, 2014 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

For the woman in her 50’s, projecting her best personal style may be a struggle. Gravity takes a toll, “muffin tops” pop out, and her internal thermometer may run on the warm (bordering on the hot and sweaty) side. However, looking youthful and on-trend is easy when the art of dressing age-appropriately is mastered. Some Do’s and Don’ts to consider:

*Do combine trendy pieces (like knee-high boots) with a classic wardrobe, rather than piling trend on trend ontrend. Let one item in outfit “lead the look” so the effect is sophisticated (photo 1).

*Do wear layers to provide a relief, should the nasty hot flash creep up on you. For colder weather, add a lightweight sweater and a cotton scarf (photo 2).

*Don’t wear a sleeveless dress without a jacket, cardigan or a wrap if you’re not comfortable with your upper arms. On the other hand, if you have suffered through a million tricep kickbacks, then proudly show off your arms (photo 3).

*Do wear a bra that supports “the girls”, and try shape wear that smoothes and creates a lean line through the mid-section (photo 4, available at theperkylift.com).

*Don’t give up on your individual sense of style by wearing shapeless styles that do nothing for your figure (photo 5). You’re much too fabulous for that!

For style tips and trends, subscribe to Carolyn’s blog at C2style.com/blog or follow her on Facebook (C2 style) and Twitter (shopwithC2style).

Everyday Style…Beyond the Fitting Room: Find the Perfect Gift

December 5, 2013 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

Finding the perfect gift for “her” can sometimes be overwhelming. What to choose? Something extravagant or practical? Unexpected or a specific item? Or maybe, he’ll be off the hook, and she’ll pick it up herself while she’s buying the rest of the Christmas gifts? A recent survey showed that nine out of ten women agree that jewelry is ALWAYS an acceptable holiday gift. Here are a few ideas:

For the trendsetter: A uniquely designed Chain Reaction Key necklace from Jennifer Montana Design. Inspired by the “keys that open doors in one’s life,” each piece is produced by individuals from Harbor House, a non-profit community center in Oakland. (Photo 1, available at Flaunt Boutique in Danville)

For the diva: A sterling silver, 18k gold or rose gold bangle from the Atlas Collection at Tiffany & Company will win big points. The design is striking and contemporary, honoring a Tiffany icon (the clock at the flagship NYC 5^th Avenue store). With or without diamonds, these pieces are forever stunning. (Photo 2, available at Tiffany & Company, Walnut Creek)

For the nature-lover: Earrings made by hand from natural materials from the earth and sea such as stones (minerals, precious and semi-precious gems), pearls, shells, wood and other natural, petrified or fossilized materials. Each piece celebrates a connection to Mother Earth. (Photo 3, available at Kathlyn Stone Jewelry, Danville)

For mom: Personalized jewelry from K. Pepper Jewelry will become a cherished keepsake. Designer Karen Hazarian creates rings, pendants and bracelets with the etched signatures of family members in sterling silver or bronze. You can duplicate a child’s first signature or a special message for one amazing gift. (Photo 4, available at www.karenhazarianjewelry.com)

Finally, for the crafty gal: Perhaps a jewelry-making session, followed by lunch, of course…and create something together. Who wouldn’t love that?

P.S. There is no “recent survey,” but seriously, giving jewelry at Christmas is a really great idea. Happy Shopping!

Go Bold… Not Boring

October 8, 2013 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

In my job as a wardrobe stylist and personal shopper, I’ve heard it a hundred times: “I hate my clothes; my closet is so boring!” And even before I’ve seen the wardrobe, I can predict what’s there: solid neutrals. Bottoms are khaki, black, white and denim. The tops are grey, white, black and brown. The jackets, sweaters, dresses and shoes …everything is neutral. Of course it’s boring, what else could it be? So, what’s a girl to do? Four simple words: Color, texture, pattern and shine.

This season, you’re in luck. Beautiful clothes are plentiful—just waiting to exhilarate your soul and energize your spirit.

Color: With luxurious colors in the fall 2013 palette, spicing up your wardrobe is easy (Photo #1). All shades of purple, red, blue, and green and are “IN”, so instead of another white blouse, try something in cobalt blue! Use your neutrals as a starting point, and then add accent colors to your outfit for POP. (Photo #2)

Texture: For the tactile individual–you know who you are because you touch every item on the rack while shopping—texture is everything. Texture adds richness to a wardrobe, so fabrics like tweed, silk, lace, leather, chunky wool, cashmere, fur, as well as embellishments like quilting, brocade, embroidery, feathers and fringe will make you feel like a member of the jet set. (Photo #3)

Pattern: “Pattern-phobes” fear clothing with patterns because they think that a solid color will be more versatile. And, to a certain extent, that’s true. The only problem is that now we’re back to square one—a boring wardrobe. This season, fall floral, hounds tooth (Photo #4), plaid, stripes and animal prints are abundant, and if you’re not sure about a print, you can always give it a try on a smaller scale, like a handbag, scarf or shoe, for example. If you like patterns so much that you dare to do what many designers are showing, and that’s combine patterns (animal print and plaid, for instance) in one outfit, then to you I say, “You are a bold and brave fashionista!”

Shine: Once worn for evening only, sequins, metallics, grommets and studs are now encouraged daytime wear. My current obsession is mirrored silver metallic oxfords from Bass & Co. (Photo #5). I think they’re fun and sassy, and will look great with jeans and colorful pencil pants. Think “Ellen,” but shiny!

Now, go shopping, incorporate the wonderful trends this season, and take your wardrobe to the next level.

For style tips and trends, subscribe to Carolyn’s blog at C2style.com/blog.

Beyond the Fitting Room

May 31, 2013 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

A summer getaway to Europe is an exciting adventure. However, packing for such a trip can be overwhelming. But, it can be a simple and efficient process that will result in looking sharp and feeling comfortable throughout your travels. I once toured Austria and Italy for three weeks with only one carry-on bag, and I had 42 outfit combinations that I did not repeat! So, here’s my recommended packing list for a two to three week European escape:

5 Bottoms: (1) jeans, (1) cotton/casual pant, (2) pair of shorts (a longer length will allow you to enter churches, etc. without incident), and (1) skirt. All bottoms should be either of two neutral colors: navy/tan or black/white, for example. If you don’t like to wear shorts, then add another casual pant or skirt instead.

6 Tops: (2) tanks, (2) short sleeve t-shirts, (1) long sleeve t-shirt, and (1) button-up blouse. Layer the tanks or t-shirts under your blouse if the weather gets cooler. Select tops in accent colors that will coordinate with the bottoms. The goal is to have each top go with as many bottoms as possible for variety and comfort.

2 Sweaters: (1) pullover, and (1) cardigan. The fabrics should vary, so that you’re covered when the temp drops.

1 Dress: a cotton dress that can go with flat sandals during the day, and dressier sandals at night. Select a dress with an all-over pattern (a feminine floral, perhaps?) that won’t show wrinkles as much as a solid. (photo 1, available at etsy.com.)

4 Shoes: (1) comfy flats (photo 2, available at shopgeox.com), (1) sporty walking shoes, (2) sandals—one flat and comfy, and one dressy (and comfy). Make sure that the pressure points of the shoes hit your foot in different places, so that if a blister pops up, you can switch shoes, and give that “owie” a break for a day or two.

Additional items: (1) hat, (6) underwear, (2) scarves, (1) lightweight jacket, (1) umbrella, (3) socks, (1) carry-on tote for magazines/books and (1) small cross-body bag (photo 3, available at countryoutfitter.com) and a minimal amount of inexpensive/versatile jewelry.

A few more dos and don’ts:

*DO roll clothes or use packing cubes (photo 4, available at bedbathandbeyond.com) to maximize space in your luggage.

*DO wear your heaviest clothes/shoes on the plane both ways, including a wrap/pashmina, and use it for a pillow or blanket.

*DO check the weather forecast before you leave. Why carry an umbrella for 3 weeks, when it’s clear skies?

*DON’T wear sneakers or a fanny pack. They scream “Tacky American Tourist”, and that’s a bad thing (photo 5). That includes sports teams t-shirts and baggy cargo shorts, too.

*DO use a local laundromat, rather than washing items in the sink. You get to experience the local culture firsthand, it only takes 1 ½ hours, and you don’t have underwear drying all over your hotel room.

*DO go shopping, and pick up anything you’ve forgotten…and have a fabulous time!

Share your packing ideas with Carolyn at C2style.com/blog.

Everyday Style…Beyond the Fitting Room

March 29, 2013 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

Unveiling the trends of spring is like Dorothy opening her farmhouse door in Oz, and gazing with delight at a wonderful world of color, and then stepping into that rainbow. Welcome to the hottest looks for 2013!

Photo 1: The color palette for your spring wardrobe essentials. Try something new this season!

Photo 2: Go bold combining orange with hot pink, cobalt or gold accents. Too much color for you? Try an accessory instead.

Photo 3: Bold black and white stripes are inspired by the mod looks of the 60’s.

Photo 4: Worn with neutral or metallic shoes, lace works for both day and night.

Photo 5: A metallic cap toe gives a sleek white pump a modern and sexy look.

For style tips and trends, subscribe to Carolyn’s blog at C2style.com/blog.

Everyday Style…Beyond the Fitting Room

February 5, 2013 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

If your closet is messy and difficult to maneuver, you can enlist the help of a professional (like me!) or you can dig in yourself with the help of useful products and strategies for managing your wardrobe:

*Keep like items together. Categorize your pieces and group them accordingly—tops, slacks, skirts, jackets, etc. should stay together, and one step further, by color. That way, when you’re looking for a black skirt, you’ll know exactly where to find it, and you won’t waste time searching through the chaos.

*Use space saver bags (photo 1) for bulky and out-of-season clothing. They come in all shapes and sizes, and can also be used for travel, and extra bedding. Store under your bed or on a high shelf to keep those items out of sight/out of mind until the season is right. Available at Bed, Bath and Beyond.

*Velvet hangers (photo 2) are not only thin and lightweight, but they keep clothes from slipping off, unlike plastic or wire hangers. Take it one step further and color-code them for each category of clothing; pink hangers for tops, black for jackets, etc. Available at Marshall’s, Target, and Costco.

*Relocate extra clutter to a better place in the home. Luggage can be kept in the garage or under the bed; your prom dress can go in a “memory box” or something that I’m a big fan of…the costume box. When that 80’s party invitation arrives in the mail, you’ll be ready to go! This way, you’ll be free of distractions when getting dressed in the morning.

*Shelf dividers (photo 3) keep t-shirts and sweaters from toppling over, causing mess and frustration. Piles that are too high may indicate that you have too many, and perhaps a little purging is in order. Lose the t-shirts that are stained under the arms or the sweaters you haven’t worn in two years, and you may find that your stacks aren’t so stacked. Available at thestoragestore.com.

*Host a clothing swap! Share your cast-offs with friends who have been wishing they had what you’ve got. Everyone brings gently worn pieces from their closets—don’t forget shoes, bags and outerwear, too. Throw in a little wine, and POOF, it’s a party! Remember: It may not be “new”, but it’s new to you!

Share your closet organizing ideas with Carolyn at C2style.com/blog.

Style…Beyond the Fitting Room

December 6, 2012 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

Boots are a fashion must-have for a chic winter wardrobe. There are so many choices … which ones will withstand the test of time? Here are a few of my favorites:

*Flat riding boot: This classic, equestrian-inspired style is perfect for wearing with skinny jeans tucked in and creating a sophisticated look. Top with a cozy sweater or blazer, and this look will take you from a day of running errands to a casual dinner. Avoid “bunchy knees” by wearing skinny jeans, jeggings or leggings—boot cut jeans are too bulky, and should not be worn tucked in. Try “jean-grabbers”, a handy elastic devise that clips to the bottom of your jeans and holds them in place (www.jeangrabbers.com). Photo 1 (Michael by Michael Kors, $295, available at Neiman Marcus)

Tall boot with a heel: This style is much better to wear with a boot cut jean, tailored dress slacks or a dress, and is your best option for a professional setting. Keep the styling is relatively simple—not a lot of buckles and straps, and a toe is neither too pointy nor too round. Chocolate brown or black suede are the most versatile colors. Photo 2 (Vaneli for Jildor, $265, available at jildorshoes.com)

“Beatle” boot: Perfect for straight leg or boot cut jeans, this boot has been a classic since the Fab Four wore them in the early 60’s. They can be suede and simple, or they can be embellished with studs for a rocker vibe, depending on your style. Photo 3 (Sam Edelman, $130, available at jildorshoes.com)

Rain boot: East Bay fashionistas know that “Wellies” brighten up a rainy day while keeping their tootsies warm and dry. Coordinate your rain boots with your umbrella and jacket for a look that will bring smiles, even on the wettest days. Photo 4 (Hunter, $135, available at Neiman Marcus)

Bootie: This trend-turned-wardrobe-staple gives an outfit extra a little extra edge. They can be worn with any style of jeans, or with a dress, which kicks it up a notch. It helps to have shapely legs—if you have “cankles” (thick calves/ankles), perhaps stick to wearing your booties with slacks.
Photo 5 (Sam Edelman, $149.99, available at heels.com)

Honorable mentions: Sorrell snow boots (for legit snow conditions), cowboy, motorcycle and desert boots. And as for Uggs? Not a fan — sorry.