Neckline Cheat Sheet

Sometimes the hardest part about accessorizing is finding a necklace that looks good with your shirts neckline. We are all guilty of trying out at least 3 or 4 necklaces before we actually figure out which one to wear (somehow it always ends up being that first one you tried on). Above is a little cheat sheet for you when you don't know which kind of necklace to wear!

1. Wear long necklaces or pendants for a turtleneck sweater to draw the eye up and down.

2. Crew necks are perfectly suited for people with longer necks. Bib or collar necklaces are great for this neckline.

3. For halter tops wear a long dainty pendant. This is a suitable style for people with broader shoulders.

4. Boatneck shirts bring definition to the shoulder line. Longer necklaces help lengthen the neckline.

5. For scoop neck lines pair a statement necklace with it. This works really well for people with shorter necks.

6. Pair a bold collar necklace with a strapless top for some added edge. This is perfect for people with smaller chests.

7. To lengthen your top half pair a v neck top with a triangular pendant necklace to match the neckline.

8.Wear a dainty pendant with a button up top to add some flare but not overpower the shirt. 

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Holiday Helper - As Seen In The Press

Need a killer party outfit? Sandy Hapoienu helps you shop in your closet. Or, she'll hit the stores to find that perfect little black dress, instead. The Waccabuc stylist, who runs Styling Session, has worked with Bloomingdales, Ann Klein, Vogue and Vanity Fair. -Cathy Pinsky

What they do: Worried about what to wear - or what not to wear - to all those festive get-togethers? Waccabuc's Sandy Hapoienu, a longtime stylist who's worked with Bloomingdales, Anne Klein, Vogue and Vanity Fair, can help you look fabulous from head to toe. 

She'll come over to edit your closet, offering suggestions now hat items to keep, toss or have altered. "People emotionally shop for things, or buy things that are not for their body type and don't fit them well," says Hapoienu. For special events like a holiday bash, she can pull together an outfit form your own wardrobe - hey, I never knew what to pair with those tuxedo pants! - or go shopping to pick out a dress that's perfectly flattering.

Benefits over doing it yourself: What woman hasn't looked at a closet full of clothes and felt like she has nothing to put on? With Hapoienu's help, she promises that you'll look more polished - and everyone at those parties will notice. "I guarantee they'll feel better about themselves and get compliments galore," she says. 

Details: Hapoienu describes her business, Styling Session, as a "one-stop resource" for any style needs, from personal shopping, wardrobe building and makeovers to fashion shows, photo shoots and corporate professional presence training. Contact her for your free consultation or to buy a gift certificate at stylingsession@gmail.com.

As seen in The Journal News written by Heather Salerno

Dream A Little Dream

As an educator and a former editor, now fashion blogger and stylist; I research and I dream and then I react.

When you have a vision and are building your empire, business will come. Well a girls gotta dream right? As an entrepreneur, it is all about when to take the next step and questioning what exactly that step should be. I can literally and pretty much do already live a life, gathering information through tweet chats, webinars, summits and online conferences. But I need to get out of my bunny slippers and pjs and away from my computer and start setting these power meetings up. If I want to make it big I need to start with a fabulous work space.

I started thinking about who I would want to have on my dream team and I have come up with quite an impressive list. First, I would have my advisory board which would include..

Mario Testino

A fashion photographer, who's work has been shown in Vogue and Vanity Fair. Princess Diana chose him to work on her 1997 Vanity Fair photoshoot.

Picture from Wikipedia.com

Who wouldn't want Mario on their advisory board? He has taken the most beautiful photographs of the most influential fashion icons. Not only would I love to style for him, but if I'm going to fantasize I would also love to call him to shoot my Christmas card photo. 

Olivia Palermo

Olivia is an American Socialite and fashion blogger with an incredible eye for style. 

Picture form oliviapalermo.com

Olivia would be on my team solely for the fact that I would want to see what she's wearing every single day. She always looks so fabulous. Maybe her cute hubby will come by once in a while to pick her up and I could take a selfie with him.

Gabrielle Bernstein

Gabby is a motivational speaker, author and mentor. She founded herfuture.com and is considered to be the guru of this generation.

Picture from nbcnews.com

I love Gabby's spirituality and would enjoy starting my day with a yoga class every morning. All my fellow entrepreneurs out there can fully understand how important it is to stay centered and focused.

Anna Wintour

Anna has been the editor-in-chief of Vogue since 1988. She has an eye for fashion trends and is supportive of young designers.

Picture from wikipedia.com

To rub elbows with Anna Wintour would be an honor. She was one of the first to come to mind, especially as my creative director. 

Sarah Jessica Parker

Sarah is an actress, producer and shoe designer. She is well known for her part in Sex and the City. 

Picture from hollywoodlife.com

Sarah is so cool and I would love to get some inspiration from her. Maybe I could even channel Carrie Bradshaw to write some blog posts.

Natalie MacNeil 

Natalie is an EMMY Award winning media entrepreneur who conquers the world.

Picture from https://twitter.com/nataliemacneil

 I would love to have Natalie by my side. She would be an excellent life coach and I would appreciate having her marketing expertise for my business. I recently enjoyed a 9 week conquer summit and I have gotten so much information out of it. I can’t even imagine if I had total access to this wealth of information.

If I was to pick my favorite designers to collaborate with for a clothing line here is who I would pick..

Hats: I would go to Maison Michel and hire Laetitia Crahay to produce my hat line.

Jewelry: I would pick Eddie Borgo because he is, as far as I'm concerned, one of the hottest new jewelry designers out there.

RTW

Picture from style.com

I would combine the designers from the following companies for the following reasons..

Bruno Cuccinolli - simple and luxurious

DVF - prints

 Missoni - knits

Chanel - classic Chanel 

The Kooples - edgy and fresh

Shoes:

Stuart Weitzman

Valentino

Christian Louboutin

Rene Caovilla

Handbags:

Alexander Wang 

Gucci

Valentino

Chanel

Celine 

If only I could make this dream team a reality, we could build the biggest fashion empire anyone has ever seen!

Who would your dream team consist of?

If you want to see my reality check out my services here

Neiman Marcus Fall/Winter Trends

Recently, I was privileged to attend the Fall/Winter fashion show at the White Plains, NY Neiman Marcus; highlighting one of my fashion favorites - accessories! I was accompanied by my intern Caroline Rogers and we went to work snapping photos and taking notes. The show was hosted by Ana Maria Pimental NM Accessories Fashion Director and Abigale Levinson Fashion stylist. Here are the big take-a-ways (literally)(I want it all).

First, there were running themes throughout the show, color themes such as grey, reds, greens and blues; emphasis on the clutch, bucket bag, booties, statement necklace, and anything with shimmer, global influence and fringe.

Gray Matters

Saint Laurent Bag

Nancy Gonzalez Bag

Reds

 Burberry Poncho

Valentino Bag

Gucci Bag

Oscar de la Renta Earrings

Prada Bag

Global Chic

Valentino Sneakers

Shimmer Time

Alice + Olivia Jacket

Edie Parker Clutch

Chanel Bag

Bucket Bags

Nancy Gonzalez Bag 

Saint Laurent Bag

Prada Bag

Tips

A few new accessory pieces in your wardrobe each season can update your look. A couple of things that stood out to me is fringe on everything from skirts to shoes to bags. The clutch has become very important and it is definitely a day staple that brings you right into the evening. How cute is the Alexander Wang bag with the mirror, great to have before a selfie and also wonderful for a girl on the go. Another great tip is to mix it up, put your florals with studs, gowns with boots, and sparkly jackets with menswear. I added the Louboutin display because we can't forget that nail polish is now considered a fashion accessory, so go crazy, mix it up and pick a pop of color! 

 Alexander McQueen Clutch

Alexander Wang Bag

Rene Caovilla Combat Boots

Chloe Susanna Boots

I have been lusting after these boots for quite some time now. They are the perfect Fall bootie and the gold hardware is irresistible!

Shop the boots:

Dinner with friends

Dinner with friends by stylingsession featuring Emilio Pucci

Stella mccartney sweater
$940 - harveynichols.com

Emilio Pucci pants
$1,295 - net-a-porter.com

Christian Louboutin suede shoes
barneys.com

Ek Thongprasert multi colored crystal necklace
modaoperandi.com

These Boots Were Made For Walking

Update your cooler weather boots with these hot new trendy styles! Whether your rocking the low booties, the mid rise rugged look or the over the knee boot, you will be on trend and looking fabulous! 

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Bridal Old Hollywood Glamour

Recently I sent out Caroline Rogers to preview the Fall 2014 WHITE by Vera Wang collection, exclusively at David's Bridal. I was excited to see what she had to say, I am a huge fan of treasure hunting and finding luxe for less.

Thank you Caroline, please visit her website at www.calijae.com - Sandy

I'll never forget this day, I woke up so excited to get dressed up and go into the city for the preview of the Fall 2014 WHITE by Vera Wang collection, exclusively at David's Bridal. It was a gorgeous sunny day and thankfully I was able to get a cab quickly (which made it the perfect start to the day). Vera Wang's showroom was beautiful and I felt as if I walked into wedding gown heaven. It was such an honor to be there after years of dreaming about my wedding with my sister and friends and looking at Vera's previous collections. I was also excited about going because I recently found out I am going to be the maid of honor in my cousins wedding. The showroom was full of wedding gowns, bridesmaids dresses, shoes, and accessories that will be exclusive to David's Bridal. The dresses are sophisticated, modern, feminine and of course stylish. This collection showcased eight new bridal gowns, four new bridesmaid dresses and exquisite accessories to complement any of these dresses.

The public relations department and designer Robert Barnowske gave us a tour around the showroom and discussed all the details about each dress, accessory and their price point. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that this collection ranged in price from $728-$1,898 and will be exclusive to David's Bridal. The color palette for this collection included Ivory, Charcoal, Blush, Oyster, and Champagne.

Strapless ball gown with an empire waist, metallic embroidery and organza laser cut floral

My favorite gown (shown above) was a strapless ball gown with an empire waist, metallic embroidery and organza laser cut floral. This dress just screamed princess to me and I am such a huge fan of small details in prints. My second favorite dress (shown below) was the strapless asymmetrically draped crinkle chiffon gown with a jeweled vine embroidery at the waist. This is definitely a more modern looking dress and of course I love the bling.

Strapless asymmetrically draped crinkle chiffon gown with a jeweled vine embroidery at the waist

 After the bridal gowns were the bridesmaids dresses. All the bridesmaids dresses are under $200 and included short and long contemporary designs. The bridesmaids dress that first caught my eye was the v-neck satin gown shown above, with wrap front bodice and contrast back draped tie-straps. I have never seen a bridesmaids dress that was designed like this and I fell in love with the back design. The color was another thing that caught my eye, it is the newest color to the collection called forest. The next bridesmaids dress that I loved (shown below) was the high-low belted strapless dress with pleated front charmeuse panels, contrast crepe side with back panels. I love how simple yet elegant this dress is. I think my sister's love for high-low dresses has finally rubbed off on me.

High-low belted strapless dress with pleated front charmeuse panels, contrast crepe side with back panels

V-Neck satin gown with wrap front bodice and contrast back draped tie-straps

After viewing the gowns we went on to see the accessories. Can we just take a moment to look at those gorgeous shoes..especially the ones with the bows. All the accessories are priced at $178 and under which was also exciting. There were shoes, barrettes, sashes, belts and a beautiful headpiece.

This was an incredible experience and I am so thankful I had the opportunity to attend. Thank you Sandy Hapoienu! I learned a lot that day and can't wait for my next assignment!  

 "My collection was inspired by elegance and glamour, a style that every bride deserves on her special day, I am excited to continue providing a range of refined, modern and romantic designs to women everywhere through the WHITE by Vera Wang collection." Vera Wang

Falling For Skirts

Skirts are always a great alternative to jeans. You can pair them with tights and boots or wear a sweater to stay warm in the Fall or stilettos and sandals for travel or warmer weather! Tip, try the  royal blue or burgundy to add some color and freshen up your wardrobe, which is a big trend this season! 

What is your favorite type of skirt?

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Coat Covet

Who says you can't look fabulous while still staying warm? Many people start exchanging looking good for staying warm once the cooler months roll in, but now you don't have to!

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Sweater Weather

Sweater weather is finally here! It is time to break out those cardigans again. Heavy wools and deep colors are always on trend for the Fall season. Tip, try out the newest trend by wearing these sweaters with a pencil skirt for a new look! 

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Search and Destroy: How To Declutter Your Closet

Your closet is one of your first stops in the morning and may determine your mood for the rest of the day. Does your closet make you feel overwhelmed? Are you having trouble finding clothing in your closet? Do you feel like you don't have anything to wear but you have a closet filled to the brim? Do you have a sentimental attachment to your clothes? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should get started immediately. The beginning of each day will start with confidence rather then frustration. 

Step 1

Allow 2-5 hours. Enlist the help of a friend ONLY if she will actually help motivate, and not be a distraction. Otherwise music is another good option for motivation.

Step 2

Review your wardrobe. If you have not worn clothes for 2 years there is probably a reason. Ask yourself if this item was in a store right now would you buy it. Here is some criteria you should consider. It will help make the evaluation period quicker.

Criteria for eliminating clothes from closet:

a. Doesn't fit

b. Sentimental or evokes memories

c. Piled, stained, faded or ripped

d. You hate the way you look in it

e. No longer your style

Step 3

Have your tools accessible.

Tools needed:

-pad

-pen

-2 large garbage bags

-masking tape

-fashion magazines

-optional rolling rack

-storage bins, containers, etc. for accessories 

Storage is dedicated for different categories of accessories i.e scarves, shoes, handags, belts, jewelry-necklaces, bracelets, earrings, etc.

Step 4

Remove all the clothes from your closet. Label 2 large trash bags. One label Trash (clothes that are ripped, stained, etc). Label the other one Donate (items you don't wear but are in good condition). Your third pile "Keep", can go on an optional rolling rack or on the bed. 

Step 5

Tackle you accessories- organize by item for easy access and viewing.

Step 6

After reviewing clothes, ask yourself two questions. Is there is anything over 2 years old that has not been worn? Does it fit? Are you keeping something that is sentimental or evokes memories? Is it piled, stained, faded or ripped? Do you hate the way you look in it? Is it no longer your style? 

If you answered yes to any of these question you most likely should get rid of those clothes.

Here is more information about styling your closet http://www.stylingsession.com/p/let-me-style-your-closet.html

Picture from Google

Universal Tips for Accessorizing

You can have the best outfit on, but it's all in the details, and if those finishing touches are off nothing will look good. Hope these tips will help getting ready go a little smoother.

TIP 1: Make sure your outfit fits your body well. Your clothes should never be too tight or too loose. Having great fit will become your best accessory! 

TIP 2: Get fitted for a bra by a professional. A good bra changes the look of your outfit. Too many women walk around with a bra that is either too tight or too loose without realizing.

TIP 3: There is a fine line between sexy and trashy. Make sure you do not show too much skin. If you are wearing a deep plunge dress, make sure the length is not too short.

TIP 4: Your eyewear is an accessory so be careful if you're adding other accessories above the bust line.

TIP 5: Add a pop of color with neutral clothing. A handbag, scarf, or a pair of shoes will make a great fashion statement.

TIP 6: Don't forget about the jewelry, it can make the biggest statement. Long chains, cuff bracelet, brooches, big rings and big earrings will add the perfect touch if they are current in style. On the same note, if they are dated it could toss you back into an era that you might not want to be in.

TIP 7: If you are not sure if you are over accessorizing, then you probably are. Try taking off the last accessory you put on. People should admire your style not be blinded by it. Coco Chanel once said "Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and remove one accessory."

TIP 8: Last but not least, always look in a full length mirror before you leave the house and don't forget a smile could be your best accessory!

Let Me Style Your Clothes, Create a Lookbook and shopping list of must haves

Hello My Friends!

 It's here, Yes! Another season. This means it's time to freshen up our homes and rid yourself of the clutter. It is an excellent time to purge your closet of any clothes and accessories that you didn't wear all season and opening the doors to that new you. Sometimes getting rid of clothes is an emotional battle just as much as it is an organizational problem, but with my help you will be inspired.

As you head to your closet to choose today’s outfit, that familiar sinking feeling begins to settle in the pit of your stomach. By the time the door swings open you are in full-blown panic mode. The truth hurts – you have a closet jammed full of clothes but nothing to wear! I can tackle your style challenges with skill, clarity and a sharp eye for editing — saving you time, money, and wardrobe anxiety.

Revive your wardrobe.

Edit, edit, edit – more is NOT always better. We all have a tendency to accumulate clothing but only wear about 15% of the clothes in our closets. Let me help you edit your wardrobe by eliminating items that don’t enhance your looks or self-esteem.

Discover your style.

The first step towards transformation is to stop thinking something is wrong with your body and start recognizing something is wrong with your clothes. I will teach you how to choose clothing that properly fits your shape and highlights your assets.

Be the best you.

Let me help you find your authentic style. I will empower you to use style as a tool to take strategic control of your image.

Unsure of what you need to make over your style? Let's decide together. Email me to set up your free consultation. We will chat about your closet, your clothing, your body, your budget, your work-life, your casual-life and whatever else comes up. Let's get started..

First: I'll style outfits with clothes and accessories you already have, saving you money.

Second: I will let you know what looks dated and should be tossed, given away or consign.We will divide the clothing into three different categories, work, play, and special occasions.

Third: I will make suggestions on what to wear for your body type, improve your image and give you a shopping list for some must haves in your closet. Need me to shop for you or with you; I can do that within any budget! This will be a game changer treat yourself!

Last but not least: Styling Session photographs each outfit that we have created from your closet. This allows you to visualize the kind of outfit you want to wear for each day of the week or special occasion. It's your own personal  "Look Book" that I email directly to you.

This service is available in Westchester County, Putnam County, Fairfield CT and New York City

Fashion Week: Rebecca Taylor

Rebecca Taylor, known for her feminine, modern, and refined cool designs, was inspired by the work of Parisian street artist Philippe Baudelocque, for her Fall/Winter 2014 collection. The use of dimensional layering of textures and patterns can be seen throughout the collection; playing with the idea of fragile work in an urban environment and the complexity of unexpected pairings of colors, techniques and fabrics.

Key styles this season include rounded coats with sheer cut-work dresses, boxy jackets and lofty sweaters, as well as tailored cropped pants. Matelassé orgaza is applied over technical mesh, as Taylor experiments with dimension, while incorporating metallic glazed jacquards and chain sequence detailing giving an overall feel of modern edge in a controlled way. The collection boasts high-shine metallic, grounded by muted shades of neutrals in shades of gray, blue, lavender and ecru, creating a scene of simplicity and streetwise chic.

On a personal note Rebecca Taylors show was one of my favorites during Fashion Week. The reason for featuring her here is because I can truly envision myself in practically every outfit. Go to www.style.com to see the full show.