amy dressed

A CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

I am not one to ‘toot my own horn’ (blush), so I will let one of my favourite clients do it for me. This is an incredible letter she sent me out of the blue after our last shopping excursion, it brought tears to my eyes!

Just when I didn’t think a styling shopping trip with Amy could get any better… 

And then it did!

I contacted Amy about booking my recent spring styling shopping appointment and she mentioned that I could take advantage of her acceptance into the Nordstrom’s Independent Stylist Program that offered some great perks to her clients with NO obligation or expectation to make a purchase. So of course I said sure! After all when Amy was working there in the summer I scored some amazing items that I wore to death and were also really good prices (not at all what I originally perceived Nordstrom’s to be). Nice quality clothing with a wide range of labels to suit any budget.

It started with our reserved and luxuriously changing SUITE, a huge change room with tons of mirrors (and door for those who like their privacy) AND secondary area where Amy lined up my next outfits and waited for me to come out and present each. This ‘behind the velvet curtain area’ also doubled as our own exclusive café where we sat and enjoyed complimentary virgin mimosas and free nibbles from the Nordstrom’s menu. This is the way I’ve always dreamt of being treated when shopping and now want it every time, but sadly the change room experience later at The Loft rocketed me back to my ‘normal change room’ shopping reality.

Back to pampering… we locked our personal effects in the room that Amy held the key for, walked around Nordstrom’s free of sales associates chiming in, all the while picking out potential treasures to try on. It occurred to me at that time that there were a few things Amy’s clients needed to know if they already didn’t and I decided to write this.

5 Tips To Benefiting From ‘The Amy Experience’

1. Be upfront right away – what do you already have at home, what do you need/looking for and what size are you (honestly). All these things really help Amy do her best to help you.

2. Go with an open mind —you’ve hired Amy for a reason – after all you don’t hire an accountant and then do your own taxes, so use her expertise.

3. Try on ANYTHING Amy suggests, no matter what — she has a gift, take it! I’ve learned that if you give yourself to Amy’s process you’ll never go wrong (see my camo pants I just love)

4. Let go of your usual ‘go-to’ picks — when you shop by yourself you pick what you THINK would be good, but you’re with Amy so let her do the picking

5. If you have to choose, take quality over volume – I’ve learned that 1 AMAZING pair of jeans (blazer/dress/pants/etc.), that makes you feel like a million bucks when wearing is a better investment than 4 meh pairs of jeans that make you feel just ok

On this last trip I was able to round out my existing spring casual wardrobe by adding an amazing green blazer and striped top to my white jeans and sandals. Went WAY out of my comfort zone with camo pants and cute stripped t with knot detail and a few more items such as a pair of jeans, fun colourful blouse, necklace that went with at least two of the outfits we bought and a few other goodies. (here are a few quick photos from home to show you some of my loot). Although we could find a pair of shoes I wanted in my size, Amy was able to make suggestions on what shoes I should be on the look out for to buy on my own and also how to pull these pieces together with what she knows I already have in my closet. 

Thanks Amy, you’ve spoiled me. The bar is really high now for the fall!

Long time client,
Annette

Here are some pics and links from our trip, how gorgeous is she?

LOOK #1:

Double Breasted Green Blazer

Halogen Boxy Blouse Ivory-Green Striped

Necklace: Ann Taylor

Pants: Clients own

LOOK #2:

Halogen Burgundy Multi Stripe side tie wrap top

Wit And Wisdom Fray Hem Seamless Skinny Ankle Jeans

Necklace: Ann Taylor

Shoes: Clients own

LOOK #3:

Wit and Wisdom Ab-Solutions Camo High Waist Ankle

Top Ann Taylor (similar to this one)

Shoes: Clients own, Kate Spade

LOOK #4:

 

Banana Cropped Denim Jacket

Dress & Shoes: Clients own

Openings are still available to book a Spring Shop…just send me a message!

Your friend in fashion…amy.

I AM BACK…FINALLY!

I have been MIA for a while and I apologize, lots going on and my beloved blog got a little lost in the shuffle. I have committed to writing weekly again and here is a little teaser.

I don’t think it is ever going to feel like Spring in my neck of the woods…if it has arrived where you are, rejoice! I am actually sick of wearing cashmere sweaters, but yep it has happened…I am so over my turtlenecks!

Let’s talk trends and in a future post I will be sure to put up some wearable links of these trends.

Sparkly Shoes

Checks & Gingham

Ruffles

Fanny Packs & Belt Bags

Bold Colour

Small Cat Eye Sunglasses

Denim on Denim on Denim

Logos on Everything

If you are out and about shopping keep an eye out for these exciting new trends.
Your friend in fashion…amy.

I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT THESE…REALLY!

Below are a few of my must have beauty and make up products…when I sat down I realized that I use a lot, I mean a lot of beauty products. We are all guilty of that, right?

Clarisonic
Mia 2 Skin Cleansing System

Your skin feels so fresh and clean after two minutes, no sign of oil or makeup…nothing but clean pores are left behind.

 

Peter Thomas Roth
Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Hydra-Gel Eye Patches

My sister-in-law gifted me this magic in a jar. As many of you know I am a terrible sleeper and frequently have dark circles and puffy under eyes, these gel patches are so soothing and they really work…pinky promise.

 

Arbonne
RE9 Advanced Cellular Renewal Mask

This product is really worth every penny, and the best part is you don’t need much product for maximum results. If I use this mask when I have a breakout, they clear up almost over night. I also apply it as a spot treatment if I see a pimple brewing, and your skin will be softer than ever.

 

Rosebud Perfume Co.
Rosebud Salve

I have these tins everywhere! This salve is magic and it has such a heavenly scent, it’s always on my lips…with or without lipstick. I also use it on my cuticles and it never feels thick or sticky.

 

Stila
Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

This has a cult following, and I understand why…it really is smudge proof and stay all day. The opacity and precision are better than any other brand I have tried and that is why I can’t live without it. Plus my eyes are kinda small and I really, really need that liner!

 

Rimmel London
Provocalips Kiss Proof 16 Hour Liquid Lip Colour

I saved the best for last, the secret to my trademark red lip (check out my full routine). I have tried them ALL and this $8.00 lipstick is the ONE…my love, my soulmate. Dramatic? Maybe, but if you have witnessed me without it on you will understand.

I am always looking the latest in beauty and make up…comment below with your must haves.

Your friend in fashion…amy.

 

FOR THE FAUX OF IT

This is the perfect time of year, crisp mornings and warmer afternoons let you wear a perfect faux fur bomber from BR in the am and then reveal an even more beautiful printed blouse also from BR  in the pm.

This jacket is fun and funky and surprisingly warm…the perfect fall addition to your wardrobe.

The cropped length keeps it modern and doesn’t overwhelm your frame, especially if you are a petite gal.

This is me freezing my ass off,  jumping up and down…not warm enough to take that cozy jacket off. I have no idea how I am going to survive the winter, I wanna be a snowbird!

I am obsessed with this blouse, it looks and feels so luxe and rich…I have worn it twice this week and I love it with my leather moto vest over it. This print is to die for, I loved it so much I ordered the maxi dress in the same print. I seldom find a piece that I love so much at such a great price…who hoo!

Wishing you all a wonderful day.
Your friend in fashion…amy.

HOW TO STYLE VESTS

Vests are one of my favourite layering pieces (see below);

               

I promised a post on vests and here it is…a little late but better than never! I would recommend every woman have multiple vests in their wardrobe.

They add a modern twist to any outfit, something a blazer or jacket just can’t do. Since your arms are not covered with extra bulk, you appear much slimmer and you can see your great blouse or sweater underneath.

Style Tip: A structured vest adds instant shape when worn over a looser dress or sweater, think a leather moto vest over a chiffon dress or a belted puffer vest over a sweater and leggings.

Check out these links for more versatile vests;

BR faux fur vest

S&K reversible wool vest

CG puffer vest

HB leather moto vest

LL hooded down vest

Danier leather moto vest

Muah!
Your friend in fashion…amy.

 

MASTERING LIGHT LAYERING FOR WARM FALL DAYS

Okay I know it is Thursday, but I have been a day off all week and today is Wednesday for me…I will be pleasantly surprised when Friday rolls around.

It is crisp but not cold enough that I need to bundle up, which makes dressing for absolute fashion and not function. But as you can see by my hair, a tad bit windy!

I layered this beautiful silk sheer blouse that is from the Olivia Palermo Collection from Banana Republic (I also bought this stunning sweater).

I paired the blouse with a dark wash flare jean and leather vest, I think my next post will be on vests and how flattering and versatile they are and I want you all to add at least one to your wardrobe.

Style Tip: Have fun with fashion this time of year, thin light layers are the key. You can extend your summer wardrobe by throwing a leather moto jacket over a sleeveless maxi dress or wearing a tissue thin turtleneck under a sleeveless dress. Just be careful of the fabric…no cotton or linen sundresses please!

Happy Wednesday 🙂
Your friend in fashion…amy.

 

IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR…

Boot weather has finally arrived and the possibilities are endless! I am going to talk about a variety of my favourite styles and my dream boots, some trendy, some classic and how to wear them.

Peep Toe Booties
These are the best for transitional dressing, show your pretty toes for as long as you can! If you are feeling brave wear them with fun patterned tights all year long.

 

Over the Knee (OTK) Boots
These have been my go to boots for years, mostly because I am not fond of my legs. Being vertically challenged I like to wear heels but every girl needs a walk for miles boot. For me it has always been the Stuart Weitzman 5050 boot.

 

Fun Statement Boots
These boots are outfit makers, I plan my entire outfit around these boots. Guaranteed to put a pep in your step.

 

Here are some of my fav boots, the brocade booties are my newest addition (they will be so cute with a dress, leggings or cropped jeans).

Some links to check out…
Stuart Weitzman Boot
Marc Fisher Grazi2 Bootie
Chloe Susanna Bootie
Marc Fisher Chelsea Bootie
Stuart Weitzman 5050 Boot
Nine West Loafer Booties
Aldo OTK Suede Boots

Happy Boot Shopping!
Your friend in fashion…amy.

ONE OF MY MOST COMMON REQUESTS…

Well Autumn has arrived…or is it Summer??? Temps here have been insanely hot, warmer than any day during the summer. I actually got to wear my romper this week…yipee. Here is a quick pic of it, it has an adorable monkey print and it was a huge score from the Winner’s clearance section.

One of the most common questions I receive from my clients is, ‘What do I wear on the weekends?’ This is one of my specialities and I love showing my clients how to be totally comfy and still look chic.

Here is an outfit I wore to our Fall Fair…it is just a sweatshirt, my fav jeans (last worn here) and sneakers (last worn here). But the polka dot collared shirt and statement earrings add interest and flair.

Style Tip: Mix your casual pieces with some dressier pieces to create a unique modern look. Try wearing a statement earring or necklace with a basic tee and jean combo…throw on a patterned shoe and you will be chic and comfy wherever your weekend takes you.

I hope you will experiment this weekend!
Your friend in fashion…amy.