Reader Request: When Matchy-matchy Makes Sense

by Sally on June 30, 2015 in the category: reader requests, style

Reader Patricia had this request:

I know you mentioned a little while ago that soon you’d write a post about the benefits of matchy-matchy — yes please! I’d also love to see that expand into something about the different attitudes and situations when matchy-matchy works, as opposed to more contrast (if that makes sense?).

I must’ve been born too late, friends, because 50’s style matchy-matchy STILL makes more sense to me than looks that “go.” Pretty much across the board. I feel that matched accessories create unity and visual harmony, and that striking the right balance of complimentary but different accessory colors is often more trouble than it’s worth. Two matched accessories total is a good cap – when your belt, shoes, bag, and earrings are all the same color, it can get a little overwhelming – but those two matched accessories are like outfit bookends. Neat, harmonious, unifying. read more

The Right to Bare Arms

by Sally on June 11, 2015 in the category: body image

I’ll fess right up: I’m not terribly fond of my arms. I lift weights every week based on a regimen created for me by a personal trainer, and there’s loads of muscle in there. Seriously, just ask me to flex. But there’s also loads of jiggle. And although I don’t want to be, I’m self-conscious about it. And I generally dress to keep them covered.

But it’s summer in Minnesota and that means it can get hot. Also nastily humid. Ya know, that sticky, icky, clingy environmental moisture that makes you feel like a giant dog tongue has just licked your whole body, clothing included? And under these circumstances, 3/4 sleeves become implements of torture. read more

Reader Request: Incorporating Neutrals

by Sally on July 1, 2013 in the category: color, recommended reading, style

Neutral-wearing advice for people who LOVE color

Reader Beth e-mailed me this question:

Sometimes–other than a collection of black pants—I feel like I buy too MUCH color. I just don’t feel drawn to neutrals. I am not afraid to mix color, but sometimes I think I’d like more neutrals in my wardrobe but they don’t appeal to me. I know I would it would make many more outfit options available to me.

If you’ll allow a bit of horn-tooting, I’d bet that reading these three posts will be a good place to start: read more