Advice Directly from Stacy and Clinton- Part 1

Well, I can go ahead and slack off for the rest of 2010 because I have already had a fabulous experience.  I recently attended the Discovery Communications 25^th anniversary gala, where I saw many familiar faces from the Discovery networks.  Everyone from the Pitmasters to the stars of Little People, Big World were wandering about- snacking on cool creations from the Future Food chefs and admiring giraffes from Animal Planet.  I don’t have to tell you who the biggest attractions were.  Despite being inundated with reporters, though, What Not to Wear’s Stacy and Clinton took time to speak directly to FH readers.  I am pleased to tell you that they are both just as charming, funny, and gracious as you could hope, and we talked about a subject that is near-and-dear to my heart.

See, I have this theory that one time back in the 70s there was this woman who ran her own corporation and had an amazing marriage.  She had at least five kids, who all grew up to be thoughtful, kind, successful adults, and she always had time for all of them.  In her spare time, she founded a nonprofit and learned how to cook perfectly spiced Italian food.  Oh, and she was also gorgeous and witty and had an incredible sense of style.  And this woman completely screwed it up for the rest of us by creating the myth of “having it all.”  Now we all think we’re supposed to “have it all,” but I’ve never met anyone who does!  No, I’m pretty sure that woman is an urban legend. In reality, we all make choices, which means we make sacrifices.  And for too many women, the go-to sacrifice is “me.”

If you watch WNTW, you’ve probably heard Stacy talk about style being a means for women to take control over their lives.  It’s this philosophy that totally separates WNTW from the numerous “makeover” show imitators.  I talked to Stacy and Clinton about how hard it is for women who feel pulled in so many directions to put themselves on the to-do list.  Stacy was adamant that investing in yourself is really about time, not money. Clinton agreed, suggesting that women find a few hours a month and do something for themselves.  He particularly stressed going shopping- even if you don’t buy anything.  Just taking time to try on clothes you like reinforces the idea that you are a priority, and with all the responsibilities women juggle these days, it’s way too easy to lose sight of that.

Those who closely follow Clinton may have heard him talk about the 4 Items That Don’t Belong in Your Closet.  He and I discussed them in depth, so I thought it would be fun to review them here.

Item #1 That Doesn’t Belong in Your Closet = Hoodie

Yes, I know.  A lot of people really love hoodies.  But think hard.  Can you ever remember seeing someone in a hoodie and remarking, “Wow, that’s a great look!”  Me neither.  Clinton recommends a nice jacket instead, something with structure and shape. Now, I know that anyone who already feels stressed and strapped doesn’t want to run out and buy new clothes, but just check out what you can get for the cost of two bottles of (not even spectacular) wine.

Jackets for

L to R: Gap cropped jacket in Navy ($69.50 to $34.99), Chadwicks tux blazer ($49.99 to $29.99), Old Navy distressed denim jacket ($34.50)

L to R: Charter Club printed corduroy jacket ($69.00 to $39.99), Lands End stretch twill jacket ($69.50 to $39.99)

And here’s what you can get for less than dinner and a movie.

Jackets for

L to R: Ann Taylor Loft casual anorak ($69.50), Ann Taylor Loft white denim jacket ($69.50), NY & Co. linen blend jacket ($59.95)

If you’re willing and able to spend more, there are tons of good options.  For anyone in that position, I recommend something like this:

Marc New York brown leather jacket ($274.49 at Bluefly.com)

Obviously, that’s a bigger commitment, but investing in a few timeless pieces is a great way to make yourself a priority.  And according to Stacy and Clinton, it’s a must for 30-something women who are transitioning their style!

Next up, Item #2 That Doesn’t Belong in Your Closet…

Lucie Amberg is the Director of ZinaBeverlyHills.com.

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