My Favorite 2008 Spring Updates (Click here for the Shop Doc Podcast)

Okay. I've been reading magazines and searching the stores since January looking for the perfect items that will update 2008 wardrobes. There are a lot of great items available so the process of choosing a few pieces to update and expand a wardrobe can be overwhelming. Trust me, it doesn't have to be.

Before you hit the malls and boutiques you might want to go through your closet...no clean out your closet, pitching items that are no longer current, anything that cannot be repaired, items that haven’t been worn in the last year, and items that no longer fit your lifestyle. Cleaning out your closet will serve several purposes:

This will allow you to reorganize. That will only save you time and effort when getting dressed.

You'll reacquaint yourself with your wardrobe and clothing pieces that you've forgotten.
You'll be throwing out some items, and then donating others to charity. Either way you'll create more room in your closet.


You'll be able to see where the holes are in your wardrobe.


When I recently cleaned out my closet I discovered an amazing pair of shoes that I'd forgotten about. I'd purchased several items in orange last year that will fit into this season's colorful trend. I also rediscovered not one but two safari style jackets that fit into another of this season's trends. I'll also confess that I no longer face the avalanche awaiting me as I attempted to get items out of the back of my closet.

After you've finished sorting through your own closet, you should see what you’d need to bring your wardrobe up to 2008 spring standards. I honestly believe that most of us only need a few things to get current. Remember you should already have basic pieces that make up the foundation of your wardrobe. Consider your basics when assessing your own wardrobe situation.

I've made a few notes on items and trends that are considered trends for Spring 2008. I'm assuming that many of you already own several of these items already. I'll make mention of some items that just aren't you. But then I may give you some ideas that you think will fit in not only with your current wardrobe, but also with your personality and lifestyle. Who knows, you may even think out of your comfort zone? Style means looking good your way, so take what you can, and tuck the rest away. Here’s my list for some of the most versatile updates to your 2008 Spring wardrobe.





















TRENCH COAT I'm sure that many of you already own a good trench coat, primarily because you need a coat to transition you from winter to spring and summer. If you don't already own one remember that classic kakhi will transcend the seasons as it's always in. The 2008 trend is to go for bright colors in your trench. If you already own a good basic trench, you might want to consider adding a second one in a bright color, and a different length for variety.






SAFARI LOOKS This may be one of the easiest trends to incorporate into your current wardrobe.
While kakhi is where most of minds go when we think of a color related to the safari trend, the color palette is much more expansive. Think the colors of the desert like muted blues, greens, oranges, and purples. This certainly gives you more to work with. Think of adding these pieces with the traditional kakhi. Do you own a pair of cargo pants or kakhis? Then you already have two pieces that fit right into trend. I've seen safari style jackets all over this season. You can go for something very tailored that's office appropriate, or something much more casual and unstructured for weekend wear. Though honestly, the safari jacket is so utilitarian, that unless you work in the most conservative environments, even a very casual style can be dressed up to be work appropriate. In addition to the safari jacket, you'll also see several cargo and trench style shirtdresses. In traditional kakhi these items are not only on trend for this season, but can also be considered a classic piece for seasons to come.





ORANGE Yes bright orange Orange! Surprisingly this is a color that works on most complexions. If bright orange is too scary for you, you might consider a softer shade of orange like cantaloupe or "sherbet" orange. And I'm not talking about investing in major pieces (though I'm lusting after the bright orange textured cotton jacket at Banana republic), try adding an orange sweater or tee shirt. Imagine how either of these would brighten up a traditional kakhi safari jacket. If orange is still scaring you, think accessories like the crinkled cotton scarves that can be found all over. Or try a strand of bright inexpensive orange beads. Merely the addition of a minimal amount of bright orange will bring you current.






















BLACK & WHITE For me black and white is a classic, especially in the springtime. The combination is always crisp, clean, polished and appropriate. What makes the combination new for this spring are the geometric prints. You'll find them on dresses, skirts, and tops. These prints are fairly easy to incorporate into your existing wardrobe, especially with your basic black and white pieces. Think out of the box and don't be afraid to mix them with other neutrals like kakhi, and adding a touch of color can add just the right accent.

















TRIBAL INSPIRED Tribal prints were all over runways this spring. I've seen these prints on a number of items, both clothing pieces and accessories. As with any other type of print, make sure that it doesn't overwhelm you. These prints mix beautifully with neutrals. Quite by accident I went shopping outside of the traditional retail box. I was walking down Hollywood Blvd. and passed an African Import shop that I hadn't been into in years. The authentic jewelry and clothing items spoke to me, and prompted me to explore other importers of African merchandise here in the Los Angeles area. I've found some incredibly beautiful and unique items. While there are several items available in your traditional clothing stores, you may want to explore African importers in your area for the real deal.




There are several other trends this season (Ombre or shades of color, color blocked dresses, painterly prints, and ruffles, just to name a few), I've concentrated on the trends that I feel are the easiest to combine with your existing wardrobe. Before hitting the stores, make sure that you make yourself a budget so as not to overspend. For the trendiest items (a tribal print top for example,) you may choose to spend less, while spending more on classic pieces (like a classic trench coat).

To guide you, make yourself a "look book " of items and styles that you like to guide you as you shop. I always enjoy making a seasonal "wish list". This is fun, and will help keep me focused once I do start shopping. Below is my own wish list for this spring. It's pretty short and sweet.
As I always say, do your homework, set a budget and stick to it, and most of all have fun. Best wishes for a very stylish Spring 2008!






My Spring Wish List



After going through my closet recently I discovered several items that were perfectly on trend for spring 2008; not one but two safari jackets (different fabrics, colors and styles), and several tops in bright orange (most purchased last season) and hardly worn. As much as I love the idea of a brightly colored trench coat, I already own two, one full length and one 3/4 coat. I just can't justify buying another. So my wish list this spring is short and sweet.





1. Banana Republic's
Cotton Textured Jacket in
Marvell Orange.
I've loved this jacket since the first time I saw it. It's tailored beautifully. I adore the orange, however, I’m wondering if it's too orange. It's incredibly bright in person. While I can wear bright orange, I'm questioning whether or not it's too bright for me. The jacket also comes in black (in larger stores) and cream. I'm seriously considering the black that will transcend the season, and can be used as a transitioning piece as we head into fall. I'm wondering if this color look dated, and or faded next season. I see the jacket in black in my future, and will consider the Marvell Orange as well when the item goes on sale. We'll see.





(Yes, I did eventually get it in black and am enjoying it.)

2. Liz Claiborne's
Jacksen Sling back Pump in
Black & Cream (Leopard Print)
I'd selected another platform sling back, but again after exploring my closet, I discovered that I had a few pairs of shoe in the color I was considering. These I found by accident. They're out of my usual norm that will bump up my personal style a few notches. This is a sexy shoe whether it's worn with jeans or a LBD. By the way, leopard goes with nothing, so it goes with everything!

3. Ann Taylor Loft's
Kakhi Trench Style Shirtdress
I'd considered another Kakhi shirtdress from another designer, a dress almost identical to the Ann Taylor Loft dress. There were subtle differences, but it was basically the same dress. What swayed me to the Ann Taylor Loft dress was the price as their dress (when I found it) was on sale for a third of the price as the designer dress. This is one piece I've already purchased...and it looks better on. The neutral color and classic styling will make it a "go to" piece this spring.

4. Tribal Inspired Print Tops and or Accessories
While I don't have anything specific in mind I know I'll have no trouble finding something to my liking. In addition to looking in my favorite stores, I'll be looking in African Import Stores.

(I just found a wonderful straw tribal inspired clutch at Cost Plus World Markets!)

5. Rikki #2 Pleated Tote (Red)
Shopsueyboutique.com
When I've considered tote bags in the past, I always end up buying a black bag. Now that I need a new tote, I'd like to have a little more fun. Red is the new neutral that goes with almost everything. The bag is not too large (and with my small frame that's a plus).

I've done my research. One good thing about not shopping right when the new season's styles come into the stores, is taking advantage of sales four to six weeks later. I'm pleased that my picks for this season will take me beyond this spring, and help me transition into fall. Who says smart shopping can't be fun?

Check out the Shop Doc Podcast. I'll be discussing how not to become a fashion victim and spring trends in makeup.

Red Shoes (They're not just for bad girls anymore!) CLICK PODCAST

My mother is one of the best-dressed women I know. Not only did she teach me the fundamentals of style (style is what you make it), she taught me to dress for my body type. Mom taught me how to shop smartly, not only looking for price, but also for quality in fabrics, details and tailoring. Mom always looked great (and still does), so what reasons did I have not to follow her advice to the letter?

When I was very young, five or six maybe, (fashion training began early for me), I remember mom telling me that she’d heard a fashion expert say that "a lady never needs a pair of red shoes." According to this expert, red shoes were unnecessary. A few years later I remembered this, but not the reason, so I asked. "Mom, why don't we need red shoes?" Mom gave me one of those looks. "Because red shoes are unladylike. They are worn only by small children, clowns and prostitutes." At age seven or eight I didn't want to be thought of as a small child, I was afraid of clowns, and while I didn't know what a prostitute was or why they were so scandalous, I was sure that I wasn't one of them either. Mom knew everything about fashion, so she had to be right. I never gave red shoes another thought, except when I saw a woman wearing them. When I was really young I just assumed that these women were prostitutes. As I got older I just thought that these red heeled women had no fashion sense.

Some things are just ingrained in us: traditions, values, morals, and in my case, the strong belief that a lady never wears red shoes. This shouldn't be surprising, as red shoes have gotten a bad rap for years.

We can go back to 1845 and the publication of the Hans Christan Andersen story, The Red Shoes. In this story a young girl, Karen, becomes obsessed with a pair of red shoes only to have them have a horrific effect on her life. Early in the story Andersen describes a princess as our heroine sees her. "She wore neither train nor a golden crown, but beautiful red morocco shoes. There is really nothing in the world that can be compared to red shoes!" (I guess Hans realized this fact.) Later young Karen acquires a pair of red shoes for herself. "Amongst the shoes stood a pair of red ones, like the princess had worn. How beautiful they were!" (Hmmm. Perhaps Mr. Andersen once longed for a pair of red shoes himself.) Karen makes the mistake of wearing her new red shoes to church the following Sunday and is reprimanded severely. The next Sunday however, "Karen looked first at the black shoes, then at the red ones; looked at the red ones again, and put them on." This act of defiance turns the entire village against her. When Karen danced in her red shoes it was as if they were possessed by the devil himself as the shoes had a mind of their own forcing poor Karen to dance uncontrollably. As she forcibly dances past the church she sees an angel with a sword guarding the entrance to the sanctuary. He condemns her "Dance you shall," said he, "dance in your red shoes till you are pale and cold, till your skin shrivels up and you are a skeleton! Dance you shall from door to door, and where proud and wicked children live. You shall knock, so that they may hear you and fear you! Dance you shall, dance!" (Scary and a bit heavy handed in my opinion. All of this gloom and doom over one little pair of red flats!) Exhausted she pleads to the village executioner to cut off her feet with the red shoes, since by now they have grown to her feet. As she confesses her sin (?), he obliges cutting off her feet. The shoes dance away with the little feet deep into the woods. I think the ballet has a happier ending as Karen keeps her feet but dances herself to death. All of this because poor Karen dared to make a strong fashion statement. And to think my mother missed reading me this charming uplifting story! Instead of trying to rationalize why a lady never wears red shoes, she just could have scared the hell out of me by reading me this piece of classic literature.

Dorothy in the 1939 MGM production of The Wizard of Oz had her own problems with a pair of red shoes. First off, these shoes were taken off the feet of a dead woman, a "Wicked Witch " no less. A second witch desperately wants them and is willing to kill Dorothy (and her little dog too) for them. A third supposedly good witch tells Dorothy not to take off the shoes, as they must be very powerful. Dorothy must have been too naive to comprehend their power, as she never learns what powers they truly possess. It's obvious, Dorothy Gale, an innocent farm girl from Kansas with little to no fashion sense falls in with a bad crowd and is corrupted, all over a pair of red pumps. No wonder this movie gave me nightmares as a child.

You don't have to go back as far as the 1800's or the 1930's. Remember the fairly recent Showtime series Red Shoe Diaries. The title alone suggest something steamy...something scandalous...something naughty, all because of a reference to red shoes.

Imagine my surprise recently when I started noticing women in red shoes and thinking that they were chic, stylish, and even powerful. Then women that I admired started turning up in red shoes. I saw style guru Stacy London (of TLC's What Not to Wear) on Oprah one day. She was wearing a pair of skinny jeans, then, a new silhouette that many American women were slow to accept, and a pair of killer red heels. She looked amazing. For the first time in my life I found myself wanting a pair of red shoes. I'd keep this desire hidden from my mother, as my desire for red shoes would have killed her. After that I began to see women from all walks of life wearing red shoes. I'd heard Stacy London say that a pair of red shoes could really "pop" an outfit.

But old habits die-hard as it took me a year to finally purchase a pair. I started off small with a pair of inexpensive suede sling backs...and I still considered buying them in black instead. I wore them that very night thinking "now is as good a time as any." Nobody talked behind my back, gave me dirty looks or propositioned me. I was at a casual event and liked the way that my little red heels gave an extra little punch to my jeans and long black cardigan. This touch of color made my outfit "current." I was surprised that I felt no guilt, shame, or tartness. Old perceptions die-hard.

This past summer I bought a pair of casual red flats that I ended up living in. They seemed to go with everything. I purchased the same pair in black, which while worn got less use. Feeling brave at the beginning of the fall season, I took the plunge and bought a pair of red patent leather peep toe pumps. A friend had purchased the same pair and she'd worn them to work with grays and black. This little pop of color made her outfits smart and modern. I figured I could do the same. The very next week I got a pair of deep red patent leather flats that I'm wearing several times a week. Not only are they fun, but they are some of the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn... and that was a bonus! I guess I'm over my phobia of red shoes, or should I say the negative perception of a woman in red shoes. Red shoes can be very ladylike. The look is what you make it. Own it.

I'm heading home for the holidays in December. Dare I bring a pair of red shoes with me? I've changed my thinking. Is it possible that mom can now see this one little fashion choice in a new light, or will she still be seeing red?

Check out the Shop Doc Podcast.

In this show we'll explore one of my favorite ways to up your style quotient, Vintage clothing and accessories! By reaching back to past eras you'll instantly add unique touches to your current style and further express your personality. My special guest is actress and vintage aficionado, Beverly Mikins.

http://berrioproductions.com/DONNAALLENONLINE/Shop%20Doc%20%23003.mp3

THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN: Accessory Basics (Click here for Shop Doc Podcast)

I think I was about twelve years old and starting to develop my own fashion/style personality.I'd been reading Seventeen and Teen magazines for well over a year and was convinced that my preteen wardrobe needed some necessary upgrades. My own closet seemed bare and immature. I wore a uniform to school so my mother didn't feel that I needed too many clothes. I had a few dresses for church and special occasions and some casual knock about things for the weekends. (No jeans as my mother thought they were inappropriate for "nice" girls.) I had saved a little of my own money from Christmas, birthdays and allowance and was headed downtown to Shillito's, at the time Cincinnati's leading department store. I knew that I couldn't buy a whole new wardrobe, but I could certainly afford to buy myself a great pair of dress shoes to finally replace my little girl patent leathers. With my mother right behind me I ran into the shoe department looking for the perfect shoe befitting an almost teenager. I saw it immediately; a patent ivory colored heel with a small bow. In my eyes it was chic, simple and exactly what I was looking for. My mother had already started to talk to a sales person when I asked to please see my perfect shoe in my size. To my surprise they both said no. My mother said, "That heel? Absolutely not. It's far too mature for you."

"Oh no that shoe is too much for you." This saleswoman was about to lose a sale. By this time my mother had another shoe in her hand.

"Look at this one. It's some sort of snakeskin. It's cute...and very stylish." To my horror she was holding a snakeskin version of the same patent leather Mary Jane that I'd worn since I was two.

Despite my pleas to at least try on the shoe that I really wanted, I was told no ("Just look at that heel!" It was probably an inch and a half at the most.) I begrudgingly left with the shoe that had been selected for me, and worse yet paid with my own money. This was a disastrous shopping trip.

Years later when I was in charge of my own style destiny, I had no idea where to start as far as accessories were concerned. At age twelve I only wanted one pair of semi grown up shoes. Now there were just too many choices. I knew that I needed items that would work with my minuscule wardrobe for everyday life plus all other the other occasions that I'd encounter. A stylist on one of my very first jobs helped me to assemble a basic accessory collection that I still swear by. Sure I've added more pieces since then, but these seven basics are the foundation of my accessory wardrobe, which incidentally work with the 5 basic pieces of my wardrobe. Again my advice is to purchase the best quality items that you can comfortably afford now knowing that you can always upgrade later. There's absolutely no reason to ever go into debt over fashion. Today your options in terms of pricing and styling are endless!

The Magnificent Seven consist of:

3 pairs of shoes (heels, flats and casual athletic type shoe)

2 handbags (everyday bag, and a clutch)

1 reliable watch

1 pair of gold hoops

Does this sound too simple? It is. Remember that you’re going to interpret these items to fit your own specific needs and lifestyle. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Shoes: (heels, flats & athletic)

Heels (classic pump)
There are so many heel heights to choose from; demure kitten heels to sky-high stilettos. What do you feel comfortable wearing? When shopping remember that your basic heel should work with your trousers, your Little Black Dress and possibly your jeans, especially if you're dressing your jeans up. Avoid going too high. Walking in heels should feel like the most natural thing in the world

Kailey Patent Pumps: Payless, $19.99

Payless ShoeSource

Flats
I know that so many women were thrilled to see flats return to the fashion scene a few years back. The good news is that they are here to stay. With so many styles who says you can't be both stylish and comfortable? When buying consider your foot. Can you wear something totally flat, or do you need something that's constructed a little better to give you more support and keep your foot from slipping out. These will be points to consider especially if you have flat feet (little to no arch).
Nine West Mae, Boutique 9

$130.00-$140.00


Casual Athletic Inspired
I have always had a good pair of athletic type shoes to comfortably get me through a full day of errands, casual activities, and through some of the country's biggest and busiest airports. (Try running for a flight in heels.) There's a style and color to suit everyone. Your casual athletic type shoe will probably not be suited for actual athletic activity, as you'll want to stay with a simpler style with sleek styling. Both Keds and Sketchers have great selections.
Keds Hampton Sport Classic Sneaker: $39.99

Handbags

Your basic accessory wardrobe will include an everyday handbag and a smaller clutch.

An everyday handbag is such a personal item. Before you consider purchasing one, consider your needs. Do you carry a lot or are you one of those women who is perfectly comfortable carrying keys, a wallet and cell phone? You'll definitely want to consider your size, as your handbag should compliment your figure. I know larger bags are in style this season, but if you are petite, a larger style could overwhelm you. You'll look and probably feel awkward.

Here are a few other questions to ask yourself before buying:

Does it have all of the compartments you'll need?

Is the bag open at the top or does it have complete closure?

Is it leather or leather-like? Leather when cared for properly will last for a long time, while some man made materials won't last as long and will show wear easily.

Do you treat your bags gently or do you use and abuse?

As I gotten older I've looked at handbags as investment pieces that I'll use for a very long time. I'm willing to pay a little more for quality. I'm not talking about the hot designer "It" bag that can cost a house payment. I know women who have finally broken down and purchased the bag of the moment, only to be disappointed a short time later when they realized the bag was going out of style. Sure if you can afford the bag of the moment, more power to you, but if not stay with a well made style that will transcend the seasons at a price point you can afford.
shopsueyboutique.com Online Store
Laurie Shoulder Bag: $52.00

Clutch

Your clutch is a smaller handle less bag that will work for dressier functions, and in the evening in place of a traditional evening bag. Today many clutches come with a detachable shoulder strap or chain that gives you two bags in one. When selecting a clutch you can select a dressier material. My first clutch was made from the softest black suede that dressed up everything I owned.
Merona® Satin Clutch - Gray : Target

$14.99

Gold Hoops
As several stylists have told me, a basic pair of gold (or gold tone) hoops work with just about everything. Put them on with your jeans, suit, or your LBD. Hoops can be both elegant and Bohemian.
Betsey Johnson Large Diamond-Cut Hoop Earrings
Dillard's $40.00

A Reliable (and stylish) Watch
A watch these days can be both practical and fashionable. The bottom line is whether or not you can read the time at a glance. Your watch is an extension of your fashion personality, so if you haven't found the perfect watch already, trust that's it's out there. You may consider traditional styles, or go for enlarged faces, bracelet styles, or cuffs. Don't forget to stay within your budget. For two years my basic watch was a simple silver toned Timex that I purchased from a drugstore for less than twenty dollars.
FOSSIL - watches, handbags, accessories, and apparel - www.fossil.com

Brown Hologram, $65.00

Again these seven items form the foundation of your accessory wardrobe. You probably own several accessories already, or if you're starting from scratch start with these basics and plan on adding on as time, necessity and your budget permit. You may want to expand your basic accessory wardrobe to include:

A Strand of Pearls
Silk scarves
Patterned and or Textured Tights
A Leather Tote
Gold and Silver Chains
Leather Boots
Belts
Antique or Vintage Broaches and Earrings

Your accessories will expand your wardrobe and allow you to further express your personality. Adding a few well-chosen details will take your overall look to the next level, setting you apart from the crowd.

Check out the current Shop Doc Podcast.

Do you enjoy a good sale? I've got some tips to help you make the most out of your sale shopping.

Indulge in the luxury of cashmere. What to know before you buy.

Accessorizing is what sets us apart from the animals. The Magnificent Seven are the essential accessories that every woman needs to make the most out of her wardrobe.

I've reviewed a great online site featuring amazing designer inspired bags and more.

Next Shop Doc Post: February 15, 2008 http://berrioproductions.com/DONNAALLENONLINE/Shop%20Doc%20%23002.mp3

5 Easy Pieces to a Practical Workable Wardrobe (Click here for Podcsat)

When I first arrived in Los Angeles I didn't have an extensive wardrobe and was on a very tight budget. At first I never felt confident putting outfits together for auditions or my many day jobs. I finally made a decision. I was going to put together a functional wardrobe consisting of just a few basic pieces that could create several combinations and take me anywhere. I've been working in Hollywood for several years now, and these 5 Easy Pieces are still the foundation of my professional and personal wardrobe. The individual pieces have changed being updated and upgraded as needed, but the pieces have remained the same.

I think they'll work for you too no matter what you do or where you live. Look for your pieces that fit your lifestyle and express your personality. Let's get started.

1. The Suit or Suit Equivalent
Your suit should consist of two pieces: a good fitting jacket and trousers. You should be able to button your jacket if desired. Trousers should flatter you figure (a boot cut flatters most figures.) Avoid styles where the legs go to extremes being either too wide or too narrow for versatility and longevity. In terms of colors I'd stay with darker toned neutrals like chocolate brown, navy, charcoal, and of course basic black. Choose something that will flatter your complexion. I also suggest looking for a seasonless fabric, perhaps a lightweight wool that doesn't cling or shine.

A matching suit may not be suited to your lifestyle or taste, so instead go for coordinating separates that create the look of a suit. A great black and white tweed jacket over a pair of black trousers for example. You don't have to match to be polished.
Macy*s - Women's - Calvin Klein Double Collar Pinstripe Pant Suit
was $320.00 now $119.25

2. Jeans
Jeans have become the American classic. For more versatility stick to styles with darker washes. Boot cut or straight cut styles are best and work for most figures. Find a pair that's both comfortable and figure flattering. Sure you may try on several pairs, but don't get frustrated. There's a pair out there for everybody.

Avoid trendy embellishments like jewels, embroidery and decorative zippers. Rips and tears are a definite no! Remember this particular pair of jeans will be one of your wardrobe building blocks.
Classic Boot Cut: Jeans - Gap
$49.50

3. A Classic Long Sleeved Shirt
Check the fit at the shoulder and avoid any pulling or gaps in the front. Choose a fabric that suits your lifestyle. I love the durability and comfort of cotton. I love the fact that cotton/poly blends are easy to care for which means very little ironing. I love the rich feel and look of silk, but know it requires the most amount of care. (Luckily I have a fantastic affordable dry cleaner.) Again look for a color that flatters you, and makes you feel good. Some say that a basic white shirt is the ultimate building block of any wardrobe. It always looks fresh, professional, and is always appropriate!
Slim Stretch Shirt - JCrew.com
$59.50

4. A Classic Solid Tee
Surprised? No need to be. The classic T will look great under your suit jacket, or can stand alone over your suit trousers or jeans. You've got a ton of options; long sleeved short sleeved, capped sleeved, crew neck, V-neck. (Hint: when shopping for tees, consider how much of your arms you want to expose.) Please remember that I’ve specified a solid tee. That means no logos, advertising, or message tees.
Cherokee® 3/4-Sleeve Ultimate V-Neck Tee - True White : Target
$9.99

5. The LBD (not to be confused with a cocktail dress)
The Little Black Dress can be dressed up or dressed down. It's ridiculously versatile. The perfect LBD is a dress that is appropriate day or night. Not only does it stand boldly on it's own, but can demurely go under your suit jacket, or go more casual when teamed with your long sleeved shirt. Avoid anything too short, too long, too tight, or too revealing (though a simple black camisole might take care of that.)
Lightweight wool A-line dress: Banana Republic $148.00

Your wardrobe should never put you into debt. My rule: Buy the best you can comfortably afford now. You may shop at one of the large retailers today, but in a few years be able to upgrade your basics at a specialty store or boutique.

These are my 5 Easy Pieces that I’ve sworn by for years. I've traveled with only these pieces in a carry on bag and have had many combinations at my disposal. They've worked for me and many of my friends whether they're fellow actors, homemakers, professionals or students. I'm sure they'll work for you.

Eventually you may want to expand your basic wardrobe and add the following staples:

A neutral colored Trench Coat
A Cardigan
A Turtleneck
A Pencil or A-Line Skirt
A great pair of Black Trousers (truly one of the most versatile pieces in my wardrobe)


There are so many choices available to you, so take your time shopping to find the best options for your figure, lifestyle and budget. Once you have your basics in place you’ll find that it’s very easy to continue to build a working wardrobe.


Check out the Shop Doc Podcast.
The current podcast has information on a hot long lasting lip color, an online shopping site where the clothing and accessories are sharp, edgy and European. You'll also get some practical advice for dressing for television appearances. Let's face it, more and more people are being called upon to appear in front of a camera.
5 Easy Pieces to a Practical Workable Wardrobe (Click here for Podcsat)