Realities of Retail

31 Sun+00:002018-01-21T05:20:35+00:00+00:0001b+00:00Sun, 21 Jan 2018 05:20:35 +0000 201731 Sun+00:002018-01-21T16:48:42+00:00+00:0001b+00:00Sun, 21 Jan 2018 16:48:42 +0000 2017 ~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

The realm of retail has taken a turn into uncharted territories. Many stores are closing up the brick and mortar locations in major cities, including my beloved J.Crew. I’ve worked in fashion(retail) for 12 years, where I’ve seen many fashion trends come and go. Some I’ve been very excited about and have made it their way into my wardrobe, for example my fondness of sequin pencil skirts. Then there are the trends that I cringe at and I am waiting for the fad to be over ..ie…..the cut out shoulder on everything and the questionable placement of ruffles. Despite individual retailers launching their version of the latest trends and neglecting their iconic image; there are many other attributing factors that have resulted in the amount of stores closing their doors

Chasing the trend: Once upon a time, individual retailers were known for their particular “it item” Gap was the place for jeans and khakis, Anne Taylor, it was women’s suiting, J.Crew the classics in bold colours and patterns . Yet, some where along the way these brands started to chase the ever changing tastes of the millennials while losing their identity and alienated the core customer that placed them on the fashion map.

Quality: What goes up must come down and unfortunately quality is usually the first thing to be subtracted from equation of products when a brand is struggling yet the prices stayed the same or even increased by 25% or more and that has the customer thinking, “what happened?” Customers feel “if I’m getting less quality, I should pay less money for the product”. I personally am guilty of this; being in this industry as long as I have, you begin to see where designers start to cut corners and fabric is usually the first place customers notice a shift in a brand. When I first noticed this, I started to look for the look I wanted for less, which was easy since every retailer has begun to look similar and encourages me to shop up a coming fashion labels. When you know that the quality of your favorite store is going down hill, it becomes harder to justify spending silk prices for polyester product. And this is the hard reality.

Technology: Technology has become an inevitable addition to our way of life. However, retailers where slow to incorporate technology. Online shopping opened the brand to a broader market but brick and mortar stores were late incorporating the online shopping and when they did, it wasn’t always a positive experience. For example, some retailers offered a cheaper price online and would not price match, forcing the customer to purchase online. “Ship to store for free” is an option that definitely gets me into the stores, however, I feel like this was an option offered too late for some retailers then trying to play aggressively encourage the “ship to store for free” without having the balance of available product in both stores and online. Another change that really hurt stores was “online only option” There were so many times that I saw an item that looked really cute but was “online only”, it limited the shopping experience for customers (in my opinion). I’m a fashionista that likes the feel and try my garments. Oh and colour, let’s not forget colour! So many items are “off” in colour and too many times I’ve returned items for customers because colour didn’t match the online image. Technology has really changed the world of retail for both the positive and negative. The world is now at our finger tips and we can learn and be exposed to so much information. however, it has also limited our human experiences with the world and altering our view on so much that is happening including the way consumers shop.

Ultimately, what is really hurting retail… is brands not understanding the demographics and not listening to the employees regarding feedback about the customers thoughts and concerns about product which has created a negligence customer relationship and a lack of brand loyalty. Fortunately, fashion is cyclical so it is just a matter of time before we see brands going back to basics, re-establishing their beginnings and their relationship with their core customer.

Happy New Year!

31 Tue+00:002018-01-02T04:46:55+00:00+00:0001b+00:00Tue, 02 Jan 2018 04:46:55 +0000 201731 Tue+00:002018-01-02T04:47:15+00:00+00:0001b+00:00Tue, 02 Jan 2018 04:47:15 +0000 2017 ~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

3…2..1….HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! The time has come again for each of to make goals to get fit whether it be financially, physically or both, organize our lives or just simply do differently than the previous year. I encourage the goals that make us better with our finances, spiritual life, health, marriages, professions or home. If you have set a goal in any of the areas mentioned; I also challenge you, my readers, to set a goal for your wardrobe and your personal style by analyzing the various aspects of your look and wardrobe:

Image: Does my “look” match the image that I want to portray? If the answer is “no”, then it is time to do some reflecting and purging of your closet. Working with a personal stylist, can help you create a new look. A good stylist will work with you by finding garments that are flattering on your body type, coloring and personality. Some may think of a personal stylist as a frivolous expense but I think of as an investment in your personal brand…the image you present to the world.

Update: For my fashionista who have established their “look” It may be time to update and review your wardrobe of classics and the essentials. Check the wear of your classics, these include: button downs, sweaters jeans and blazers. Depending on the frequency of their use you may need to invest in some updated classics. Now the essentials, these include the layering tanks, undergarments,especially bras, (check out the blogpost about the bra fitting) An ill fitting bra can make the most styled outfit look faux paux.

Purge: I have a two garment rules for when I shopping and cleaning out my closet: 1. If I can’t make at least 3 outfits out of a piece of clothing, I don’t purchase it. Many times we buy a piece to create a look or an event and never wear it again. 2. If you have not worn a garment in two years it is time to dispose of the item. However, there is an exception to rules 1 and 2, if the garments are special occasion pieces, particular tartan plaids and/or holiday attire, wedding gowns and maybe your one of your favorite college tees.

As we aspire for greater things in particular areas of our lives, let’s not neglect our wardrobes which is an important part of your personal brand…the image you present to the world.

I wish you all a blessed and Prosperous year.

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Tis the season of Tartan

31 Sun+00:002017-12-31T02:37:07+00:00+00:0012b+00:00Sun, 31 Dec 2017 02:37:07 +0000 201731 Sun+00:002017-12-31T03:12:02+00:00+00:0012b+00:00Sun, 31 Dec 2017 03:12:02 +0000 2017 ~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

The time has come again for seasonal attire for the many festivities that will take place From ugly sweater contests to office Christmas party but what does one wear during the holiday season in between the festivities? Many opt for the traditional red and green to don their holiday to cheer but for those who want to embrace the Christmas and fashion Tartan plaids can carry both the spirit and style.

Tartan (often called plaid) is a traditional Scotish print made of cris-crossed vertical and horizontal lines of various colours and widths. With the holiday season in full swing, tartan has become a traditional uniform of the season. As the print becomes a staple in the holiday wardrobe for many, the print is expressed in scarves, blouses, pants, shoes blazers and many accessories. The key to wearing tartan successfully is picking one piece and make it the focal point of your ensemble then complimenting your look with a shoe or accessory in the same print. Tartans in creams, reds and greens capture the holiday spirit. Styled with classic pieces and accessories, you will be the prepared for all of the fiestas of the season. Below you will see some of my tartan pieces.

Left to Right: 1.Blank-scarf-Jcrew factory shoes-old navy, 2. blouse and flats old navy paired with lace pant from Jcrew, 3. Blouse and flates from jcrew paired with Ann Taylor lace skirt, 4. Jcrew men’s blazer

G.I.F.T.S: A genuine gift giving guide

31 Thu+00:002017-12-14T02:19:37+00:00+00:0012b+00:00Thu, 14 Dec 2017 02:19:37 +0000 2017 ~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

With the holiday here, I wanted to repost one of my fravourite articles that I’ve written about gifting this season. Feliz Navidad

Style by Syraluna

The Christmas season is officially upon us! It is time to spend time with friends and family show our love and appreciation through gifts. Now, who doesn’t love to receive gifts, especially if it is something that you’ve patiently waited for all year long. On the other hand, trying to show appreciation and gratitude for a thoughtless gift..is difficult. I know that may have come off a little harsh, but every year people run around at the last minute wasting time and money on trinkets and gifts that will go unused or recycled. Yes, it is the thought that counts so why not really consider the personality, likes and interests of the recipient.

When purchasing a gift for that special someone, consider the following:

genine GENIUNE. Be genuine about the gift. What I mean is pay attention to the details. For example, where do they like to shop, what are their hobbies, favorite candies…

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Truly Thankful

31 Thu+00:002017-11-23T21:36:42+00:00+00:0011b+00:00Thu, 23 Nov 2017 21:36:42 +0000 201731 Thu+00:002017-11-23T21:38:34+00:00+00:0011b+00:00Thu, 23 Nov 2017 21:38:34 +0000 2017 ~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

Happy Thanksgiving! I give thanks to my Creator daily but I want to share my thanks with you, my readers. I want to say that I am thankful that I have a platform where I can express my passion and opinion about fashions; a place where I can showcase some of my favourite looks from my own wardrobe.

I am thankful for may years in fashion where I have learned about style, fabrics, fits and how to transition key pieces from season to season and the opportunity to style individuals for life’s important moments like the engagement photos and parties, job interviews, family photos and the many precious moments in between.

I can’t forget my family, friends and clients who have supported and encouraged me to start this blog Happy Thanks giving to you and your family.

stacie-name

Camo Chic and Military inspired fashions

31 Mon+00:002017-10-09T04:07:59+00:00+00:0010b+00:00Mon, 09 Oct 2017 04:07:59 +0000 201731 Mon+00:002017-10-09T04:26:49+00:00+00:0010b+00:00Mon, 09 Oct 2017 04:26:49 +0000 2017 ~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

Imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Military inspired fashions is not a new fashion trend in fact it has been an evolving trend since 2008; fast forward nine years, we still see designers borrowing key elements from the Military to style key pieces from pants to outerwear. As a military-brat and self proclaimed fashionista, I absolutely love military inspired pieces and own several key pieces in my wardrobe. This season, the inspiration has been camouflage. Now, I will admit that this trend took a while to grow on me, two cycles in fact. However, this time around I have embraced the camo trend and have included several pieces into my wardrobe. As, I watch many stylist rock this look, I will say there is a way to embrace this trend while being professional and not look like your chasing the look of the moment.

Just One: Choose one camouflage piece at a time. Pick one camo garment or accessory and let that be the focus of your outfit, other wise the your camo look becomes overload and it ends you wearing you instead of you wearing the trend.

J.Crew camo toothpick jeans w/ stiped tee

Be Bold: Camouflage makes a bold statement by itself. Now, with that being said, I here woman ask me all the time. “what do I pair this with?” Now of course the obvious answer is black. However, I love the way it look with white, navy grey, citron yellow and of course my signature pink. Now this print can be worn with other patterns, just remember that the objective of mixing patterns is to put a twist on the outfit but allow the look to flow at the same time. So, if you decide to mix the patterns, make sure the pattern you choose to use is a smaller pattern than the camo. Remember camo is the focus.

La femme look: Camo is often associated with the military and most things

Military shirt: Old Navy, tri colour skirt:Target

masculine. Those of you that know me already know what I am going to say…. rock the camo with …pearls. Yes…pearls. Pearls give any look an ultra femme look and most people don’t expect that combination. If pearls aren’t your forte, but would still like to incorporate camouflage into your wardrobe try very classic garments such as scarves, skirts, d’orsay flats or sweaters.

Though military inspired looks is the fashion trend (again), embracing the trend with your unique style and classic pieces is how you can incorporate this trend into your wardrobe. Please remember, the only people I want to see in head to toe camo is our brave men and women who serve our military.

Where to: Des(tee)nation Greece.

31 Wed+00:002017-09-20T23:29:30+00:00+00:0009b+00:00Wed, 20 Sep 2017 23:29:30 +0000 201731 Tue+00:002017-09-26T03:04:48+00:00+00:0009b+00:00Tue, 26 Sep 2017 03:04:48 +0000 2017 ~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

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Earlier this year, I introduced you to Niko, the creator of Modern Lusso Marka, who has launched a clothing line based on his beautiful homeland of Greece. As he prepares for the his fall collection, I sit down to chat with Niko to see what Modern Lusso Marka has been up to and what are the next projects for this up and coming Greek-American company.

Modern Lusso Marka is making its mark in the Fashion world; they were invited to the 2017 Gabby Awards in New York, where they were got to partake in the honoring of the Greek American Foundation. What an incredible opportunity to be invited to celebrate Grecian history, culture and achievements while supporting the dreams and projects of fellow Greeks. Modern Lusso Marka celebrated by being a part of the goody bag; they offered 20% off your online purchase of a the uniquely designed Greecian tees, which caputures a Spirit of Greece. With such an amazing opportunity, Modern Lusso Marka is just making its imprint in the world of fashion.

The mastermind of Modern Lusso Marka has visions for this budding brand. Currently, the tees can only be purchased via the website. However, Niko plans for the brand to make it’s tangible debut in pop-up shops around Annapolis, MD (where there head quarters is currently located) in the immediate future. After pop-up shops, Modern Lusso Marka invisions collaborations with local boutiques here in states along with the various antique shops in the many islands of Greece. 2350
I have told you the aspirations of Modern Lusso Marka; now allow me to about the product and quality of the tees. These graphic tees are the softest tees that I have ever felt and only seem to get softer with each wash. This may be the perfect blazer and/or lounge around tee. Each collection is based on various aspects of Grecian life. One in particular that has captured my eye is the coordinates tee. I love how it is complex and simple at the same time. 2646

Launching a brand in these precarious times of retail…is genius because it is an opportunity to take the big risk as a brand, set a trend and create your own look that is not being represented on the market. Look out for future post out Modern Lusso Marka and Style by Syraluna.

The Season of Shoulders: The Off the Should blouse and dress

31 Wed+00:002017-07-19T03:18:07+00:00+00:0007b+00:00Wed, 19 Jul 2017 03:18:07 +0000 2017 ~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

Fashion has a way of taking looks of yesterday and making them modern and popular once again. Sometimes the trend is just that a trend and other times a trend can transcend to that classic “it” piece of the every woman’s wardrobe. The Off the shoulder look may be that piece that will make the cross over.

Now, I’m not sure of “the off the shoulder” looks made their debut into the fashion world, but this is the first time that I am wearing this trend and I have to say that I am a fan of the look. The off the shoulder look can be romantic and sexy; with the right material, print and length; it is a look that any woman can wear with confidence.

Material: Many of you that follow me and have shopped with me; know that I preach the importance of material; it affects how clothing will fit and lay. I have found that off the shoulder blouses fit best with lighter materials like cotton or a cotton/linen blend. I have seen silk off the shoulder blouse, though they are very elegant, silk is not a giving fabric.

Length: The body part that is being highlighted are the shoulders. Hence “off the shoulder” This means that you should not show your midriff, lower back or décolletage in addition to your shoulders; the shoulders are the only part of your body that should be highlighted. Now, if you decide to don an off the shoulder dress, please beware of the length. Note: if a dress hits mid-thigh, it is a considered a tunic and you need to wear it with shorts, jeans or as a cover-up.

Prints and Colour: I love, love ,love, colour and prints and I don’t shy away from either. My rule for colours are that they should be bold and rich. As for prints; they need to be proportionate to your body shape. For example, chicas with boobs, you should avoid thin lines or small prints. Small lines and prints can make you appear larger. Instead go for medium sized lines or prints, which is flattering for the ladies who have a full bust. The same can be said for women who are petite; larger prints give the appearance of the garment wearing you and you not wearing the garmnet.

Fabric and material: Those of you that that may have shopped with more or regular readers of the blog, know that fabric is an important element of how a garment will fit. This season, I purchased an off the shoulder in linen and cotton this season. Linen is a fabric that I love in theory.; it is light and perfect for hot summer days especially as we reach triple digits. However; it is a fabric wrinkles very easily which can make your ensemble look unprofessional. One way around this, I ‘ve discovered in my years as being a stylist, you should opt for linen-blend garments or bright coloured linen garments. Picking one of these linen combinations will help the linen garment appear more crisp and polished. Cotton and Cotton-blend: In my efforts to explore the off the shoulder trend, I have found that cotton has made the best fabric for this trend just because it is a more breathable and accommodating fabric for various body types. More importantly, cotton is a versatile fabric which makes it easier to transition looks from season to season

Off the shoulder looks have exploded this season and have implemented a romantic look to every woman’s wardrobe. I don’t see this trend fading away any fashion season soon, so if you decide to rock this trend please keep in mind that body part that is being highlighted is in the title of the garment “shoulders”. I should not see cleavage or belly buttons. If you decide to don an off the shoulder dress, please beware of the length, explore multiple fabrics and silhouette of the off the shoulder look… not all are created equal.

Jcrew off the shoulder blouse

Victoria Beckham for Target: the Review by Syraluna

31 Mon+00:002017-05-01T02:23:24+00:00+00:0005b+00:00Mon, 01 May 2017 02:23:24 +0000 201731 Wed+00:002017-05-10T04:01:43+00:00+00:0005b+00:00Wed, 10 May 2017 04:01:43 +0000 2017 ~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

Growing up in 90’s we had great smooth R&B, questionable fashion and of course the Spice Girls. Yes, I was fan and you guessed it… Posh Spice was my favourtie Spice Girl; I loved her classic and innovative fashion sense. Watching her transform from Posh Spice to fashion icon, has been incredible for the fashion world and now for my closet!

Now, you all know that Target is one of my favourite pastimes and I was beyond excited when I heard that Victoria Beckham was collaborating with Target. Naturally, I was stalking the website daily until the 9 April release date. From the first picture of her collection, I was hooked. I loved the scalloped trim in the skirts and tanks. The classic black and white to bold pinks and organges. Let’s not forget the spring themed prints of bunnies, bees, calla lilies daisies and mulitfloral prints that captures the classic English style. Her collection is sized from 00-26, which allows women of truley different size to expereince her collection

Now, I’ve been working in fashion for almost a decade and I have seen many celebrities create collections that have been less than successful due to many elements of from sizing to pricing. Victoria Beckham’s Collection for Target seems to have mastered those two elements. I have ordered two pieces from her collection and I find that her sizing is generous and the price is ideal with the average price point of $45. I persoanlly love Victoria Beckhams’s style and really excited about this collaboration and the variety that exists within the collection. The three pieces I purchased, the black and white scallaped skirt, fuchsia trousers and a beautiful white bib blouse have been fabulous additions to my wardrobe. From the first announcement of her launch, I tagged the skirt in my favourite section and of course it sold out immediately, so I had to order it and patiently await its arrival.

Victoria Beckham paired with J.crew cardigans in Black and fushia

I was impressed with the structure of the skirt, the fit and how it moved on me. The skirt has a side zip which fasted and laid nice and flat and did not bunch like some skirts I own. The skirt was the one piece that sold me on her collection; it is bold, dramatic and classic. I’ve paired it with a black cami and sweater for a very classic English look and then I paied with my signature pop of colour to make the look my own.

The perfect white blouse. I’ve been, along with many others, in search for the perfect white blouse, which I any have found in her collection. It is collarless bub style blouse with detailed buttons. It has become my go piece for black pants of distressed denim and heels. The blouse is a perfect fit for those who struggle with a blouse that doesn’t pucker at the bust. I have received so many compliments on this blouse, that I have invested in another( yes I did, girl yes I did lol)

The trousers, I’ve had to try a couple of sizes, they are a generous fit and longer than most of my pants that I own, but they are worth the purchase and for a few dollars more, I will have them hemmed for the perfect length. I’ve seen a couple of more pieces that I will add to my wardrobe and I am anxious to see how many seasons Victoira Beckhma will collaborate with Target.

I, Syraluna, approve of this collaboration. Victoria Beckham and her team were smart to introduce her collection the way they did. She introduced her brand to an eclectic group of consumers ranging fro product to her sizing. Though some criticized her sizing for being too big, I think she truly captured English style for the American fashionista who understands and appreciates that true style can evolve while being true to the foundation of the brand

The codes of dress codes.

31 Sun+00:002017-03-26T06:07:14+00:00+00:0003b+00:00Sun, 26 Mar 2017 06:07:14 +0000 201731 Mon+00:002017-03-27T04:10:44+00:00+00:0003b+00:00Mon, 27 Mar 2017 04:10:44 +0000 2017 ~ Syraluna ~ Leave a comment

A dress code is a formaly imposed standard of dress within a school or work setting (according to Merrimam Webster dictionary). These dress codes need to exist because many people lack style, fashion sense, an understanding of what is work-place appropriate or they truly don’t care about fashion. Yes I said it! So now allow me to explain.

Working in various professions, I have experienced different dress codes and yet I am still shocked at how many individuals still manage to come to work dressed in a very unprofessional manner. Now, I understand that many people want to express personal style and comfort at work, which can be done, without compromising personal style and professionalism. I’ve experencied three types of dress codes and how to implement your personal style, while being professional and a la mode. The detailed dress code always calls for your look to be in season with the current collection of “it” pieces, colours or style. Being a fashionista, I’m in favor of this dress code because it captures the goal of the business with accuracy and professionalism. Business casual, which is meant for a style of dress somewhere between Professional and Casual. Yet many people lean toward the casual. Lastly, the colour code, where employees must dress in particular colours.

**Detailed:J.Crew-Jacket, tippi, pearls, Sadie flats. Madewell: denim**

The Detailed dresscode: My career as a personal stylist is all about the details and creating looks that flow within the current trends of fashion while maintaining a look of professionalism. One of the “must wear” items in this particular dress code is a blazer must be worn with jeans. Now if your recall from a previous posts, I catogorize the blazer as a classic and essential element of any wardrobe. I loved that this is required because it instantly elevates denim and employees always look professional. Now, if denim is not an option(in your place of business), refer to The third piece rule. Now if you chose to wear a skirt or a knit pant, paird with a button-down blouse, you must wear a third piece, which could include a cardigan, sweater or a statement piece such as a bold scarf or piece of jewelery. The third piece pulls the look together, focuses the eye and looks professional. Not to mention that it is easy to transition the look from day to night. Detailed dress codes take time to plan and mastered, but once you’ve established you detailed formula of detailed dress code, you will always look fashionable and professional.

Business-casual (not just casual) Now, Business casual is the most difficult dress code to define and has been left up to the business and sometimes the individual to interpreted the definition. So, I am here to help clear up the confusion. Now Gentlemen, your business casual look should comprise of khakis, crisp button down and/or sweater. Tie is optional. I will address foot wear in a minute. Ladies….Ladies, we have so many business casual jcrew2 dress code options that vary according to the event. Business casual should follow the following: proper fitting pant (skirt at the knee)+ blouse (substitute button down, if need to) + blazer or cadrigan+ statement piece= business casual look. Leggings do not fit into this equation, and truthfully unless you work in personal fitness or in the gym, Leggings ARE NOT acceptable in the work place.

Colour Code. I’ve recently changed my full-time dress code from a business-casual to a

Colour: J.Crew-Blazer and tank. WhoWhatWear for Target-Skirt

colour based dress code. Now I’m loving the position, however this colour based dress code has been a challenge on many levels. One you guys know, that I am obsessed with colour. Second, many people believe that if they’re dressed in the appropriate colour that they are dressed professionally. Wrong! I’ve seen too many fashion faux-pauxs. Let me reiterate that Leggings (even if they are colour appropriate) of any kind ARE NOT acceptable. They do not provide any support, they are too sheer (I should not see flesh or bright panties of any kind). They are extremely unprofessional not matter what they are styled with. Now, I’m not anti-leggings. I am anti-leggings in the work place. I also find that individual feel as if they don’t need to try as hard to look professional because they’ve meet the colour requirement. Now, I’m not a fan of this dress code but I understand why it is chosen. Having all employees dressed in the same colours, creates a sense of unity, intended to limit distractions and promote employee productivity.

Foot Wear: Flip- Flops and sneakers are not work appropriate. They simply look unprofessional. Now there are some exceptions to the rule you can wear a fashion sneaker with jeans and a blazer. Ladies, I know we love our heels but you need to have a cute flat to transition into, please do not wear a slipper at the office during business hours. It just looks lazy and unprofessional. After business hours, that is a different story.

Professional style is important because we as a visual society make many decisions based on how someone is dressed. It can determine if you get an interview, if a company or individual wants to do business. Not to mention, you never know who you will encounter throughout your daily travels. There have been a few times where I’ve had on the spot interviews and gotten the job. The most important thing to remember in a professional dress code is garments should have structure and clean lines when it comes to your professional wardrobe. Individualize your style with colour, prints, scarves or statement pieces of jewelry. Style is important because it is the first thing anyone sees prior to any type of engagement.