Carolyn Rovner

Everyday Style…Beyond the Fitting Room

October 9, 2012 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

“Yummy” is the only word I can think of to describe the colors and trends for Fall 2012. Combining these hues with cozy fabrics like cashmere, tweed and suede results in the makings of great outfits to wear as the temperatures drop and the leaves fall.

The Pantone color system (above) is THE authority on color. Think of it as a translation dictionary of sorts. No matter what anyone calls a color, for example, a brownish yellow could be called mustard or marigold. That same color is what the Pantone color palette calls Honey Gold. Along with French Roast and Tangerine Tango, it’s one of the season’s hottest shades.

When it comes to what to buy for fall, I found a few items that I think are “triple threats.” This means they represent three unique trends, and are, in my opinion, excellent selections for the season. Check them out:

* This black and white tweed dress with a peter pan collar (photo 2) is super trendy for three reasons: (1) it’s black and white, (2) a shift and (3) sports the peter pan collar–a new “accessory” that is either attached to a top/dress or as a necklace.

* A new look for shoes is the “lady-like pump” (photo 3) with the oxford bow’s nod to (1) menswear, (2) the deep red color and (3) the sleek, lady-like design. They work with dresses or patterned slacks, and look great with grey, black and navy. Prada bow suede pumps, $750. Available at Nordstrom.com

* The color pink, in every shade from blush to fuchsia, was a big hit on the Fashion Week runways. This dress is just right for a special event—wedding, gala or a night on the town–because it’s not only one of the (1) hottest shades of the season, but it is (2) all lace, feminine and chic, and has a (3) figure-flattering peplum (photo 4). Cynthia Steffe ‘Camille’ Peplum Lace Sheath, $275. Available at Nordstrom.com

* A structured bag, like the classic Kelly or Birkin, is a time-less accessory. However, what makes this particular handbag (photo 4) so unique is (1) cobalt blue, (2) the hard lines of the bag, and (3) the cross-body styling. IIIBeCa By Joy Gryson ‘Duane’ Crossbody Bag, $158. Available at Nordstrom.com.

If staying “on-trend” is important for you, do your research to determine which trends you like, and shop for pieces that fit that criteria. You’ll look stylish this season, and you may find a new wardrobe staple that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

For style tips and trends, go to Carolyn Rovner’s blog at C2style.com/blog and subscribe by clicking the “subscribe” button on the right side of the page. Or see her page at facebook.com/c2style.

Everyday Style…Beyond the Fitting Room

August 5, 2012 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

You’ve got the perfect outfit — complete with hot shoes, rockin’ jewelry and a killer handbag. The only problem is, there is ONE thing out of place. Can anyone else see the snafu? Maybe it’s only noticeable to you, and sometimes, that feeling is worse. Either way, nothing is more frustrating than that proverbial “hair out of place” when you want to look and feel your best. Not to worry; there are products to take care of just about every potential fashion disaster, and if you have them handy, you’ll be ready for any emergency. Here are my five favorites:

Wearing a racer-back top can be a challenge when you don’t own a racer-back bra. VBS (Visible Bra Straps) can be distracting, and but more than that, they mess with the sexy look of a bare shoulder, and give off a tacky vibe. To solve this dilemma, the bra converter from Inti-Mate (www.myintimate.com) hooks on to your regular bra straps and makes them disappear. (photo 1)

Just when I think a new pair of shoes is comfy enough to wear all day, a nasty blister pops up on my baby toe, and I have forgotten to pack a band-aid! So now I use Body Glide (www.bodyglide.com) before I hit the mall on a marathon shopping excursion. I rub it over my toes and at my heels, and it provides a thin barrier that prevents blisters from busting out, and ruining my day. (photo 2)
Have you ever put your top or dress on over your head before your underarm deodorant has dried? It’s beyond frustrating. The solution is the Rescue Sponge from Miss Oops (www.missoops.com), and it’s a lifesaver! Simply rub it on the smudge, and it will disappear like magic … crisis averted. (photo 3)
Sometimes the outfit you’re loving cannot be worn with a bra—not even a strapless one. What’s a girl to do? Silicone gel petals (www.stuff4sewing.com) provide the coverage that could otherwise be overly revealing, and perhaps a bit embarrassing. (photo 4)
The booty wrap (www.bootywrap.com) is my favorite active wear item…ever! Tying a sweatshirt around your waist serves a couple of purposes … a cover-up for your bottom, and pockets for keys and cell phone. The booty wrap does the same thing, without the bulkiness. It’s a perfect warm weather accessory, when you’re not actually going to wear the sweatshirt. (photo 5)

There are more “save the day” products…from Spanx to fashion tape, and each of them can provide the confidence that every girl needs to pull of their perfect look. What are your favorites? I would love to know, and share them with other readers. Go to: www.C2Style.com/blog, and post your comment today!

Carolyn Rovner is a certified image consultant and owner of C2 Style, a style consulting and personal shopping service. For additional style tips and trends, go to Carolyn’s blog at www.C2Style.com/blog, and subscribe by clicking the “subscribe” button on the right side of the page.

Everyday Style…Beyond the Fitting Room

June 10, 2012 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

Why go barefoot this summer when there are so many cute shoes to choose from? Just like clothing trends for spring, color is a major player this season. Don’t worry about busting your budget either—great summer shoes and sandals can be found at any price point from bargain city to super-chic designer versions.

Take a look at the best of the summer:

Bright flat sandals can be worn as a neutral. Introducing this “pop of color” is a great way to make a plain outfit extra snazzy.
Wedges will give you a lift…literally. Adding a heel always looks dressier than flats. They are easy to wear, and comfy, too. A new kind of wedge is a “flat-form”, and it’s essentially a raised flat sandal. Perfect for the “vertically challenged.”
Cap-toe flats are a fun spin on the classic ballet flat. Other interesting trimmings include bows, buckles, chains and studs—some of which are pointy and could double as a weapon!
The classic, preppy boat shoe is hotter than ever. Shown in bright color combinations and prints, they only confirm the notion that “prep is back.” My favorites are from the new Milly-Sperry collaboration, and
are tres stylish.
Espadrilles are a summer staple, and with the popularity of Tom’s (the shoe company that donates a pair of shoes for every shoe purchased), they are a “feel good” shoe in more ways than one; they look cute, feel comfy AND save the planet.

Just be sure that when you’re sporting those great new sandals, that your feet are pretty and properly pedicured. Toes should not hang over the sides, heels can’t spill over the backs, and the tops/sides of your feet should not “pudge out” between the straps. Got it? Now, let those “piggies” out and enjoy the summer!

Carolyn Rovner is a certified image consultant and owner of C2 Style, a style consulting and personal shopping service. For additional style tips and trends, to to Carolyn’s blog at C2Style.com/blog, and subscribe by clicking the “subscribe” button on the right side of the page.

Flashback Fashion

April 4, 2012 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

It’s an ‘80s flashback! I can almost hear my favorite Wham song, “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” while eating frozen yogurt with my college BF (boyfriend) who is now my H (husband) of 25 years. The spring trends of 2012 have taken me back to my “bang-wall” days—a serious fashion déjà vu. So, what do you do when trends come back, and in some cases, haunt you? Follow these tips to successfully navigate the ‘80s AGAIN:

*Wear ‘80s trends in small doses, especially if this is your second time around. Bold floral prints are everywhere this season—jackets, tops, bottoms and accessories. Start with one bold piece, and complete the look with modern elements (photo 1), not a jumpsuit featuring a head-to-toe ‘80s garden of delight (photo 2).

*Color, especially neon, was a must-have in the ‘80s, and it’s back like crazy. My favorite take on color this season are jeans in every shade of the rainbow. Kelly green jeans (photo 3) are a fun and easy way to put POP in your wardrobe. A hint about neon: make sure the color compliments your skin tone. Otherwise, a girl can appear less chic, more sick.

*Lace is back. This time, it’s more lady-like and polished than the edgy way Madonna wore it thirty years ago. And, if you prefer an even more classic look, a lace top (photo 4) with colorful pencil pants will give you more of an Audrey Hepburn vibe. Who doesn’t love that?

*Lastly, do not grab your old clothes out of the attic (or heaven forbid, your closet!) and wear them again. Over the course of the last 30 years, life experience has taught me one thing…I am not a girl anymore. As much as I would love to fit into my acid wash Guess jeans with the ankle zipper, I know that my sense of style has matured. And I like it! However, I will enjoy watching my 20-year-old daughter find her way through the colors, floral prints, and over-sized, off-the-shoulder tops, and she’ll emerge just like I did, with her true personal style intact.

If I see you wearing a scrunchie, I’ll have to “Get Physical!”

For style tips and trends, go to Carolyn Rovner’s blog at C2style.com/blog and subscribe by clicking the “subscribe” button on the right side of the page.

Take the Style Makeover Test

January 29, 2012 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

Now is the perfect time for a style makeover! January is resolution crazed—organizing, eating well, and exercising — if you’ve kept your promises, then you deserve a treat. Not chocolate, but the opportunity to take your style to the next level. How do you know if you’re in need of a style makeover? Answer these questions:

Are your clothes 10+ years old and no longer relevant to your current lifestyle?
Do you own only basics and solids? (Yawn)
Is there a “disconnect” between your personality and how you dress?
Is your closet full of clothes, yet you have “nothing to wear”?
Are you experiencing a life transition—job change/promotion, a special birthday, or a weight-loss goal accomplishment?

If you answered “yes” to any of the above, then … Congratulations, you are worthy of a new you!

Start at the top: Hair. Seek hairstyles that are interesting to you. If you see a gal with a great cut, ask her where she got it. If she agrees to a photo, take a picture with your cell phone. Your hairstylist will advise you if that cut will work for your hair texture and face shape. Sometimes, a new hairstylist can make the change you want, but give your current stylist a chance first. Odds are he/she has been dying to update you for a while.

Next: Make-up. Meet with a professional make-up artist, either an independent consultant or a representative of your favorite cosmetics line. Defining your brows is a quick fix—tweezing or waxing can give your face a “lift,” helping you look and feel more youthful. With make-up, highlighting your favorite feature is key, so if you love your eyes, “play them up,” and go neutral elsewhere. A fresh, new lipstick is the most cost-efficient change a gal can make—just be sure you’ve chosen a shade that compliments your skin tone. If you don’t know, just ask!

And finally:Your Wardrobe. Purging worn out, out-of-date and frumpy old clothes from your closet can be intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be, and it’s a big first step. Enlisting the help of a fashionable friend or hiring a seasoned professional style consultant will provide you with an invaluable objective eye.

Once you’ve eliminated the “unworthy” items, there are essential items that should either remain in the mix or may be added. My favorites include dress slacks, a cardigan sweater, a pencil skirt (photo 1), white jeans (photo 2), a nude shoe, a neutral blazer (photo 3), a daytime (funeral-appropriate) dress (photo 4) and a little (not necessarily black) cocktail dress (photo 5).

Makeover TV shows demonstrate that even the most fashion-challenged can discover their personal style. It’s definitely the most exciting part of my job, and the makeovers shown on my website are dramatic examples. Don’t be embarrassed…everyone needs a bit of help now and then. Best of all, it can be affordable, fun and a positive step towards your best YOU!

Recently, I had the pleasure of working with Jen, who was treated to a style update after she lost seventy pounds!! Check out her story and testimonial on my website at www.c2style.com/blog. She describes her transformation as “life-changing.” I agree. It’s quite possibly the best gift you can give yourself or to someone you love.

So, take a close look at your hairstyle, make-up and wardrobe. If it’s time for a change, don’t hesitate. Make it happen … you deserve it!

Everyday Style…Beyond the Fitting Room

December 4, 2011 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

Keeping warm this winter is easy…just cozy up on your sofa with a Snuggie and stay there ‘til spring! However, if leaving the house is part of your plan, then investing in a coat is something I strongly suggest. There are wonderful options to choose from when you’re braving the elements, and here are my favorites:

*Puffers (photo 1) have evolved from the all-over poof of volume that they once were. No more marshmallow man. Made with micro-fiber, silhouettes are slimmed dramatically, so that you will feel the warmth of a comforter without the bulk. Perfect for a quick trip to the snow, and packing is a snap—just roll it up in a ball squeezing out all the air, put it in one of those space saver bags, and you’re all set.

Modern style coats (photo 2) can stand alone as an outfit, especially when they come in a bold color like red, orange or green. A statement coat is great when you’re going to be outside, and your coat is essentially your outfit. Shopping in The City, I love a modern coat with a turtleneck sweater, skinny jeans or leggings, and a sleek, flat riding boot (photo 3). Insanely chic.

An evening coat is the answer for the dilemma every woman experiences when dressing for a holiday event. Instead of a barely-warm-enough pashmina, try a classic trench in velvet or satin. Look for details that are more feminine and less “trenchy,” like ruffles, a subtle print (photo 4), a standout color (like purple) or a touch of metallic. Don’t let me catch you wearing your daytime khaki coat. If that’s all you’ve got, stay home or be cold!

A tailored camel coat will never go out of style. This season, whatever style works for you will work: single and double-breasted styles, belted, and collar-less all give you a look of timeless elegance. Feeling a little more daring? Try a cape (with leather accents, perhaps?) or a knit poncho (photo 5). Since camel goes not only with black, but also brown, navy, charcoal grey and winter white, it’s always going to be one of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe. A forever piece.

Faux fur is everywhere this winter, and no fauxs were killed in our effort to look good—just a little faux humor! Anyway, from vests to jackets or hats to handbags, fake fur is a major trend (photo 6). Be aware of the temperature (outside and your internal thermometer), as sometimes it’s like wearing a portable furnace on your back. A sheer peasant top under a vest may be a more comfortable option than a wool turtleneck—I’m just sayin’…

Certainly, there are more coats to choose from—leather motorcycle, anorak, shearling—too many to list. Select the style that will fit your body and your lifestyle best. Completing the look is a must, including a great hat (like a wool fedora or a plaid trapper), an infinity scarf (no bulky ties to deal with), and gloves (fingerless, if your phone has a touch pad). Now, lose that snuggie and enjoy!
If you have a style question for Carolyn, please email her at Carolyn@c2style.com, and your question may be the subject of an upcoming Alive East Bay article.

Everyday Style – Beyond The Fitting Room

October 1, 2011 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

Transitioning your closet from summer to fall can be a daunting task, especially if your wardrobe is extensive. However, this project doesn’t have to overwhelm if you follow three easy steps:

Step One: Prep Your Closet / Take InventoryIf you have the space in your home to move off-season clothing to a separate closet, now is the time. If you don’t have a separate closet, then simply move things to the back of your closet or on a high shelf…out of your daily sightline. As you’re packing up your shorts, tank tops and sundresses, separate what you didn’t wear this summer from the pieces you wore regularly. If the weather never got hot enough for that linen dress, revisit it next year. Write reminder notes to yourself: which items are keepers for next summer and which should “go.” Any clothes you’ve outgrown (literally or style-wise) can be consigned, so hold on to them until February or March. Donations can be taken directly to your favorite charity anytime.

Now your full attention is on your fall wardrobe. Take the time to try everything on, and look at it with a critical eye. Look for moth holes and decide to either repair or toss. Examine skirt/slack lengths and sleeves. Take clothes that need alterations to the tailor. Keep only what you love, what you intend to wear, and consider new ways to wear them.

Step Two: Research the TrendsThe September issues of fashion magazines have hundreds of pages of fall trends to choose from. What inspires you? More importantly, what are you going to steer clear of? Some trends are recurring. Animal prints are a fall staple, but this year it’s more than a basic tan/brown/black leopard print. New and exciting variations include faux fur vests and snake print accessories that can take a simple outfit out for a walk on the wild side.

Other trends for Fall 2011 include:

Color blocking (photo 1), spice colors (photo 2), brights, capes and ponchos (photo 3), menswear inspired, high-waist and flare jeans, lace, longer skirt/dress lengths, winter maxi dresses, silky blouses that tie at the neck, tweeds and plaids (photo 4), chunky knits and Navajo-inspired patterns (photo 5), high-heeled loafers and desert boots (photo 6).

Make a list of the trends that “speak” to you, then keep an eye out for them on your shopping trips. Great looks can be found any price point; I bought a fabulous brown maxi shirtdress at a discount store in August for $49.99! I’ll pair it with an animal print wide belt ($24.99) and my (leftover from last year) brown suede pumps for a super-trendy ensemble for a dinner date or a casual work event.

Step Three: Review Your CalendarBe aware of the events you’ll be attending (social functions, conventions/business trips and vacations), early in the season so you avoid “panic mode” shopping. This crazed, last minute (usually the day of an event) excursion usually results in an outfit that is “fine” at best. Know the schedule, so you can look and feel your best.

Finally, organizing your wardrobe takes effort. If you manage it seasonally, it won’t overwhelm you, and you’ll have outfits you love ready to wear to for any occasion for years to come.

If you have a style question, email Carolyn at Carolyn@C2Style.com, and she may answer it in an upcoming Alive article.

Note: Keep what you love and donate or consign the rest. Consignment stores are plentiful up and down the 680 corridor. Find one in your neighborhood, and “recycle” the items that are in good condition and current in style, but are just no longer “you.” Great clothes can be found at consignment stores. Remember, it’s not new, but it’s new to you.

Keep from previous seasons: Animal print.

Everyday Style: “Shapewear”

August 4, 2011 by Carolyn Rovner 1 Comment

The thought of wearing a corset or an old-fashioned girdle is unthinkable in the year 2011, but just say the word “Spanx,” and women get a look on their faces like they’re in on the best secret ever. They smile and nod their heads, “Oh, yeah, I know what you’re talking about.” If you don’t know, then keep reading. Shapewear has become one of the most important components of a wardrobe. Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it isn’t there and working wonders. Here are a few foundation essentials:

If your last bra fitting is a distant memory, then it is time for another. A professional bra fitter, available at most department and bra specialty stores, can put your girls where they should be; at the midway point between your shoulder and your elbow. The center of your bra should touch your sternum, and the closure should fit comfortably at the middle set of hooks. The most basic bra in your drawer should be a t-shirt bra—one that has a smooth fit, without lace or fussy details that create bumps. Make sure it’s nude colored as white is unpleasantly visible, especially under a white blouse or t-shirt.
Everyone knows that a VPL (visible panty line) is a fate worse than death, mostly because there are so many products on hand that alleviate this affliction. If a thong is not your scene, then a laser-cut boy short or panty can provide coverage without revealing its whereabouts. The laser cut pieces have no elastic bands at the leg or waistband, and provide a smooth, clean line. If you’d like more coverage, a shaper (most commonly, the brand, Spanx) in a bike short style, or one that goes down to the calf, are great options.
The term “muffin top” refers to spillage of mid-section flesh over the top of jeans, and no one likes to see it or have it. An industrial strength camisole, worn under your blouse or body-skimming top, will magically lessen rolls, and since it usually comes in a longer length to tuck in your slacks, it won’t roll up your tummy. Problem solved.
Another favorite product, created by a couple of East Bay curvy girls, is The Perky Lift (www.theperkylift.com). This all-in-onesie smoothes back fat bulges and muffin tops, supports a sagging bust-line, and eliminates VPL…and it’s pretty to boot! Full-busted women love the wide straps that ease shoulder pressure, and the “down under” front closure makes trips to the Ladies Room easy and sanitary.
Gentlemen can also benefit from shapewear. Wearing a compression crew neck t-shirt or tank will firm the chest (no more “man boobs”), slim abs, and provide extra lumbar support. Fabrics are lightweight and comfortable, and some are even treated to wick away perspiration. Men should get to experience the “joy” of shapewear, just like we do, right, ladies?

If you’re not convinced that these products are as comfortable as they are revolutionary, I challenge you to try one on. Who knows? You may convert, and wear them daily as many women (and men) do. They are available everywhere, at all price points. My only suggestion is: Go up a size …that way, they’re a little easier to get on and off. At least, that’s my experience!

Everyday Style – Beyond the Fitting Room

June 7, 2011 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

Swimwear. This word strikes fear in the hearts of women every summer. Not anymore! This season, be ready for the beach, the pool or even your backyard hot tub with a few simple tips to help you discover your inner “bathing beauty” and take her out for a dip.

The savvy swimwear shopper knows how to flatter her shape…with very little fabric. That’s where strategy comes in. Playing up your assets is first and foremost, but we want to ensure that your “not-so-favorite” parts are attended to. So, if you have…

Small busts and a full bottom: Try ruffles or gathering—anything that will pump up the volume. Demi-cups or pads will give the girls extra oomph. At the same time, a skirted bottom will provide coverage and comfort when chasing little ones or playing in the sand. (photo 1)

A bit of a tummy: A one-piece suit (photo 2) with ruching (gathering down the sides) or a tankini (photo 3) will take care of that. Color-block suits with a light color up on top, and black on the bottom or an empire waist suit (with a band under the breasts) will draw the eye up. The result: What tummy?

Big “girls”: Support your bust with a sturdy halter that won’t let them down. Underwire could be your best friend or a band under the breasts will maintain structure (photo 4). Flimsy triangles are not an option!

There is a swimsuit out there for everyone…maybe even two! The same suit you wear to the neighborhood pool party may not be the one you wear at a Mexican resort or on a Caribbean cruise. Just save the thong for your next trip to Rio. Trust me, it’s for the best.

Fitting room confidential: A three-way mirror can really be annoying, but in this case, it’s a lifesaver. Take this opportunity to view yourself from the front and back. Move. Squat; bend; jump—all within the privacy of your fitting room where no one can see. The suit should fit your body in motion, as you will be when you’re wearing it.

Finally, ditch the oversized t-shirt or shapeless dress and spring for a coordinating beach cover-up—a tied sarong, a skirt, or a tunic (photo 5)—so many choices, and none of them are spelled “M-U-M-U”.

Beyond the Fitting Room…Everyday Style

April 12, 2011 by Carolyn Rovner Leave a Comment

A breath of fresh air! Spring fashion drags me out from under layers of sweaters, coats and scarves to emerge like a butterfly—light, full of color and ready to fly!

My favorite pieces this season are not new on the scene, but for spring 2011 they have a fresh vibe and they’ve been reinvented with a new twist…

*ORANGE (and other bright colors): Bold and happy, orange can be paired with pink, yellow and turquoise for a high-volume and high-impact effect. However, worn with neutrals like khaki, navy and white, orange pieces and accessories will go a long way this season…even in the workplace. A little orange goes a long way.

*POLKA DOTS remind me of the Easter dress my mom wore in the 1960’s—complete with a hat and gloves. Fast forward 45+ years (WHAT!?), and 2011’s polka dots are whimsical (on a pair of ballet flats) or sophisticated (on a sheer silk blouse).

*The boho 70’s trend is nothing without HIGH-WAIST JEANS. Make it modern by pairing it with a funky peasant top or a relaxed silk blouse, and wood platform or wedge sandals to make your legs look extra long.

*A classic TRENCH is a staple that should be in every girl’s closet. Lightweight and easy to wear, it’s a great transitional piece that goes with everything—from jeans to a dress.

*NAUTICAL STRIPES are a spring essential, and this year they rocked the runways. If you’d like to jump on the boat with this trend, any color combination will do. Black and grey is an edgier combination than traditional navy and white, but both are equally stylish.

Try something new this season—there are so many great finds! The good news is spring clothing is generally less costly than fall/winter fashion. So, being a trendsetter doesn’t mean you have to break the bank.
Now, fly little butterfly!