chicagostylist, Author at My Chicago Stylist - Chicago Personal Shopper & Fashion Stylist

How to Find your Faceshape

When it comes to choosing a hairstyle or sunglasses, knowing your face shape is important to help you know which styles to choose. What looks good on your friend with a square shape, doesn’t necessarily work for someone with a round face. To determine your face shape, grab a soft tape measure and follow these steps:

First, take the following measurements (in inches or centimeters):

1. Forehead: Pull the tape measure from the peak of one eyebrow arch to the peak of the opposite arch. Record that number.
2. Cheekbones: Measure across your upper cheeks, starting and ending at the sharp bump below the outer corner of each eye.
3. Jawline: Measure from the tip of your chin to the point below your ear where your jaw angles upward. Multiply that number by two.
4. Face length: Measure from the center of your hairline to the tip of your chin.

Write down these four measurements. Note which is the largest, and use the information below to determine your face shape.

(Step by step courtesy of Birchbox)

Square: All measurements are fairly similar. The angle of the jaw is sharp.

Olivia Wilde has fierce cheekbones and a wide jaw. With so many hard angles, you’ll want to choose a soft and sophisticated hairstyle and round sunglasses.

Oval: Face length is larger than the width of the cheekbones, and forehead is larger than the jawline. The angle of the jaw is rounded.

Liv Tyler has a soft and long face. Oval types can wear many different hairstyles and sunglasses. I recommend wider sunglasses and a more voluminous hairstyle to balance the long oval shape.

Heart: Face length is largest. Then, in descending order: cheekbones, forehead, and smallest is jawline. The chin is pointed.

Kourtney Kardashian has a beautiful jawline that is accentuated with her soft cheeks and hairline.

Round: Cheekbones and face length have a similar measurement. They are larger than forehead and jawline, which also have a similar measurement. The angle of the jaw is soft.

Ginnifer Goodwin has very soft features and is a perfect example of a round face shape. You’ll want to create hard angles with your sunnies or hairstyle.

STYLISH AND WATERPROOF BOOTS

We all love em-Boots! Fall is here and one of our favorite accessories is a warm and cozy boot. You need a boot that can stand up against the elements but want to look on trend. With so many colors, shapes and styles to choose from, your probably asking yourself, “Which boot style is best for me?” Here are our stylist favorites to keep you on point this Fall.

Aquatalia is one of our favorite brand for boots. I can’t say enough about this brand! High quality, comfortable, stylish and best of all weatherproof! They only use the finest italian leather and weather proof with a secret recipe only that family knows. The result is a low maintenance, stylish boot that is easy to wear all year round. The Upswing is an especially well designed boot with mesh material on the calf that expands and contracts based on how you decide to wear them. We’ve all had the issue where our jeans aren’t right and stick out along the rim. The upswing will expand so that you can stuff as little or as much fabric into the shaft as you’d like. Even better you can wear them with skirts above the knee and leggings for a fun flirty look. This boot is just the right height for women of all sizes.

La Canadienne’s Caleb boot. They are waterproof and very comfortable. Simple, stylish and great for everyday this fall.

medina — Sorel “Medina” Rain Boot $199.95

In Chicago, with fall comes the rain. Why not wear something cute that stands up against the elements? This bootie by Sorel is so adorable. The rubber heel and platform are as waterproof as it gets. Stomp through all the puddles you’d like while still looking fabulous!

weitzman — Stuart Weitzman “Gorgeous” Bootie $485

Mix things up with a sexy, chic and versatile bootie. These little beauties by Stuart Weisman are a made of gorgeous suede that work well on women of all heights. Using Gore-Tex technology, the materials used allow for breathability and comfort in all climates. Pair them with skirts, skinnys or a clean tailored pant. The best part? They are waterproof and ready for you to pound the pavement in style!

These booties by La Canadienne and blondo are fantastic weatherproof boots as well. Blondo’s high ankle to keep you warm and provide a rubber sole for extra traction.

ANNIE A. CLOTHING REVIEW – EVANSTON, IL

My Chicago Stylist is reviewing the best boutiques in Chicago. Every boutique is unique and we encourage you to take a closer look at what they have to offer. Michelle Jeremias is an experienced personal shopper and fashion consultant changing the way her clients feel about their style and wardrobe.

Annie A Clothing
1232 Forest Avenue
Evanston, IL
847-804-2862

http://annieaclothing.com/

Who they are: Designer Women’s clothing in the heart of Evanston.
What you will find: Clean, versatile, well tailored pieces for women 35-75 years young. You will find everything from shift dresses, a-symmetrical pieces, lightweight jackets, blouses, leggings, and pants. The collection exudes a sophisticated feel while also featuring unique embellishments and details.
Why you will love them: Annie A. produces high quality garments that are perfect for women who enjoy an organic and professional style. Can be dressed up or down, Annie’s ensembles are perfect for every day or an event. With clean classic lines, the cut of her collection is flattering on women of many different shapes. I believe there is a real need for this type of clothing in the Chicago market. Annie has a great following of clients and has been in the industry for over 20 years.
Average Price Per Item: $150-$300
Stylist Tip: Please call ahead and book an appointment. Annie will be happy to show you her studio and beautiful garments.

CINNAMON BOUTIQUE REVIEW – CHICAGO, IL

My Chicago Stylist is reviewing the best boutiques in Chicago. Every boutique is unique and we encourage you to take closer look at what they have to offer. Michelle Jeremias is an experienced personal shopper and fashion consultant changing the way her clients feel about their style and wardrobe. To learn more about us visit: http://www.mychicagostylist.com/

Cinnamon Boutique
2104 W Roscoe St
Chicago, IL 60618
773-281-2466

Who they are: Designer women’s clothing and accessory boutique in the heart of Roscoe Village
What you will find: Sophisticated, fun, classy and elegant designer apparel. Cinnamon Boutique carries familiar brands such as joie, Mother, Citizen, james, Frame, Current Elliot, habitual as well as some fresh local designers. Maxi dress, flowy blouses, jeans, stylish jewelry from vendors in LA and New York.

Why you will love them:

The styles they carry are so flattering! Although they carry the same brands as the department stores, the styles and patterns are completely different. Most of them I have not seen anywhere else. Cinnamon’s price point is a little higher, but worth it as you are paying for high quality and great fit. Taste wise, the owner is on point and buys from great vendors in NYC and LA making this place a hidden gem in Chicago.

Average Price Per Item: $75-$200

Stylist Tip: Ladies, run, do not walk to get their amazing summer inventory sale. Great designer items at a deep discount.

MINT JULEP BOUTIQUE REVIEW – CHICAGO,IL

Mint Julep
3432 N Southport Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
773-472-6717

Who they are: Women’s clothing and accessory boutique in the heart of Southport
What you will find: Fun and fresh dresses, jeans, sweaters, blouses, and accessories for work or the weekend. They carry beautiful dresses and sweaters for everyday, special occasion attire, well fitting jeans by DL 1961 and bright colors, chunky and feminine jewelry, handbags and shoes.

Why you will love them: Mint Julep is a bright and cheery southport boutique that makes their guests feel welcome the moment you walk in. Not only do they carry amazing clothing and accessories that will incorporate well into any woman’s wardrobe, the detail to attention is what makes this store so special. The owner Sarah, is a doll and has amazing taste. She hand picks all of the merchandise making sure the designs she carries are fun, fresh and unique. Their prices are very reasonable and the customer service is exponentially higher then most places you will shop. This is a great boutique if you are looking for something fresh, trendy, and stylish. Hands down one of my favorite boutiques in the city.
Price Point: $25-$180

EMBELLISH BOUTIQUE REVIEW – CHICAGO,IL

Embellish
4161 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL 60618
773-525-4400

Home

Who they are: Handbag, accessory and gift shop in North Center
What you will find: Unique jewelry for all occasions, scarf’s, handbags and other gifts.
Why you will love them: Embellish carries pieces by small local designers such as Rebel Designs, Rebecca Zemans and Shira Leah. They carry scarves, delicate gold and silver jewelry, chunky statement pieces, one of a kind leather handbags and fun small gifts that wont break the bank. Embellish is great for women who want something unique and well crafted. The store is constantly getting in new merchandise. Every time you visit you’re sure to find something new and special. The owner says most customers come in for a gift and end up getting something for themselves as well!
Price Point:$10-$250

BAZAR BOUTIQUE REVIEW – CHICAGO, IL

Bazar
3350 N Paulina St.
Chicago, IL 60657
773-388-9851
http://www.bazar-online.com/

Who they are: Casual and trendy women’s boutique in Lakeview
What you will find: Dresses for all occasions, fun prints, jewelry and accessories.
Why you will love them: Bazar is a hidden gem filled with beautiful and very affordable lightweight dresses, skirts, jewelry and accessories. With a touch of bohemian style, each piece is easy to wear and shouts, “I have personality.” The store is clean and very well laid out. The racks are evenly spaced and color coordinated, making it easy to shop. The owner has done an excellent job merchandising and organizing the jewelry in fun antique fixtures. I would recommend this store for women looking to add prints, color and personality to their wardrobe.
Price Point: $40 (necklace)-$80 (pair of shoes) You can easily walk out the door with a full ensemble for under $100.

BE BY BABY BOUTIQUE REVIEW – CHICAGO, IL

Be By Baby
1654 W. Roscoe St.
Chicago, IL 60657
773-404-2229
www.bebybaby.com

Who they are: Upscale baby boutique

What you will find: Blankets, new mom undergarments, women’s apparel, baby apparel, vegan and organic clothing and products, toys, books, carriers, gifts and pretty much anything a new parent will need!

Why you will love them: This boutique goes the extra mile offering hands on educational classes for new parents. (Many of which are complimentary.) Classes give new parents the opportunity to get their feet wet before their bundle of joy arrives. Its also a great way to meet other likeminded mommy’s and daddy’s. The classes discuss topics such as natural childbirth, cloth diapers and breastfeeding. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and always happy to demonstrate how to use their merchandise. Having a new baby is stressful enough. The last thing you want to conquer is figuring out how to put on the baby carrier.

You can view their class calendar on their website- http://www.bebybaby.com/calendar/

Price Point: $6.95 (baby hair bow)-$124.95 (maternity dress)

Classes range from complimentary-$250 for a series of classes

BORRIS J POWELL BOUTIQUE REVIEW – CHICAGO, IL

Borris J Powell
400 N. May Street
Suite 201
Chicago, Illinois 60642
773-857-5585

By appointment only.

Who they are: Upscale women and men’s fashion designer featuring a combination of classic lines and whimsical details. The Fall/Winter 2014 “Freedom” collection is a unique fusion of Midwestern and southwestern Americana.

What you will find: Silk blouses with whimsical embellishments, fitted pants, boleros, romantic pea coats, tailored dresses and evening gowns and skirts.

Why you will love them: Every piece is unique and meant for women that love to dress up and appreciate quality craftsmanship. The clothing and accessories are custom produced using only high quality materials. Fine silk, cashmere and leather are a common thread used throughout the Fall 2014 collection. Each garment is lined with beautiful silk fabric adding to its unique design and quality. Borris J Powell produces pieces meant to cherish and wear year after year.

Price Point: $600-$1200

5 TIPS FOR FINDING THE PERFECT SUIT

1. Where to shop

The first step to finding the perfect suit is to know where to shop. Ask for an in house specialist at a store with a large selection of suits, who is knowledgeable and an expert in suit styles and fit. They will assist you in selecting options that are right for your body type and match what you’re looking for.

2. Make sure the Suit fits

The most significant factor when choosing a suit is fit. You should always have your measurements taken by a professional tailor whenever you’re looking for a suit. It can’t hurt to have some understanding about fit before you go in, so here are a few ways to determine if your suit fits or not. If you are the shorter side, stick with a classic single-breasted jacket. If you are taller, you will want to look for a lower buttoning jacket that will give you a slim silhouette. The suit jacket should hug your shoulders and chest while allowing for motion. There should be no pulling or gaps and should be easy to button. Your shirt cuffs should stay put and not slide up or down. If you decide to wear a button cuff shirt, it should end at your wrist. French cuff shirts should break ½ inch further.

3. Style

The style of your suit is personal preference. You will need to consider the number of buttons, type of lapel, and vent style you want your suit to have.

The three-button suit is very stylish and sleek. This style allows you to button the top two and leave the bottom undone or just button the center. For lapels that lay flat, I recommend fastening the top two buttons. If you lapel has a soft roll, then only fasten the center button.

Two-button suits are more conservative and great for the office. The top button should remain buttoned while the bottom is left undone. This style has become very popular in recent years and looks great on most men and body types.

The one button suit is considered high fashion and very sleek.

You should also consider is what type of lapel you like. A notch lapel is the standard and conservative option, which is sewn to the collar at an angle, creating a step effect. This is standard on single-breasted suits, and is used on most suit jackets and blazers. A peak lapel is elegant and makes more of a statement. It is a V-shaped lapel that points up and out just below the collar. This type of lapel is most commonly seen on double breasted- jackets and formal coats.

Vents are cuts in the back of the jacket that allow for additional movement, and are another factor when looking at the style of a suit. A center vent is conservative and modern, while side vents offer a more European look.
4. Dress for the Occasion

When looking for a suit, you must consider the occasion and how often you’ll be wearing it. A suit that will primarily be worn to the office or out to dinner, is best kept simple. A solid navy or navy with pinstripes is classic and timeless. More formal occasions, such as weddings or funerals, call for black or navy. They are always a sure bet. I always recommend purchasing a suit with a classic style and color before going with a different pattern like pinstripes or checks.
5. Find the perfect suit pant

Suit pants lay differently then your casual trousers. Suit pants should hit at your natural waist and have a cuff at the hem. When heading to the tailor, remember to bring your shoes you plan on wearing with the pants. The height of the shoe will determine the size of the cuff and length of the hem.