Outfit Algebra

Plug and play your outfit making!

Shop pieces inspired by my looks:

Graphic Tees

Jeans

Blazers/Utility Jackets

Switching Seasons: 4 Mistakes to Avoid

Twice a year, when the weather starts changing, I encourage my clients to store items from the current season to make room for the upcoming one. Even if you have a massive walk-in closet that can hold everything year round, you should still move the upcoming season’s items to the most prominent areas in your closet. Off-season and infrequently needed items take up visual and mental space, costing you time and energy when you’re trying to get ready- you don’t need bathing suits and cocktail dresses front and center when you’re getting dressed to meet a friend for coffee. Giving your pieces some breathing room will not only help you get dressed more efficiently, it will prevent damage from insects (more on that later!) and odor transfers.

1. Not Editing

Rotating your wardrobe provides a great opportunity to evaluate your pieces and make any necessary edits. Are there items you didn’t wear at all this season? Do you really see yourself excited to wear them in the future? Perhaps there are things that no longer fit, or are worn beyond repair. Pulling them out will save you storage space now and time later.

2. Feeding the bugs

Storing clothing without first thoroughly washing or dry-cleaning is like sending a dinner invitation to creepy-crawlies. Ravenous bugs like moths and silverfish are attracted to the scent of body oils, sweat, and food residue, especially on natural fibers. Cedar blocks can repel certain insects (remember to replace every two years or so), so throw a few in with your freshly-cleaned items for extra protection.

3. Wrong storage choices

Speaking of bugs, did you know that storing your items in the wrong container can actually attract them? Cockroaches and moths love to eat paper products, so basic cardboard boxes aren’t ideal- remove leather shoes from the original boxes and use fabric ones with windows instead. Plastic bins that seal moisture out can also seal it in, which can crack leather and allow mold, odors, and bugs to thrive. Instead of plastic, use storage that allows airflow while keeping dust out, like  zippered or lidded fabric bins and fabric dust bags for leather goods. If you still choose to use plastic bins, add some silica gel packs that can absorb any excess moisture.

4. Skipping Repairs 

Check for signs of wear and tear and take items to the tailor or cobbler now. You won’t be wearing these items for a while, so waiting 1-2 weeks while they’re repaired won’t matter; better than pulling pieces out of storage next season and having to wait to wear them.

 

Autumn-ish: strategies for the season-between

Back to school has come and gone, we’re surrounded by pumpkin spice, and stores are bursting with cable-knit wool sweaters. Yet it’s still (arguably) beach weather for many of us. It’s hard to resist the urge to pick up shiny new items for that fresh, updated feeling; even harder to wait a month (or two) until it’s actually cold enough to wear them. So I’ve picked my favorite versatile items for fall that you can wear now and later in the season:

 

I’m still floored that this skirt is made of french terry, not denim, which makes it easy and breathable for now, but cozy like sweatpants in later months. And just like real denim, it can be dressed up or down for any occasion.

Quince’s versatile bra-friendly slip dress comes in 11 color ways- this floral version makes it perfect for now, and the moody black+gold combo is a winner for coordinating with the rich neutrals of fall.

This lightweight Rails blouse is made from a silky tencel-blend perfect for the still warm days of early autumn. The perfect balance of bright and moody shades in the print make it a year-round staple to wear with anything.

So this pant isn’t exactly a new item- Everlane has offered this pant year-round for a while now. Its cotton/modal blend won’t suffocate you in warmer temperatures, and the hefty double-knit fabric feels substantial enough for cooler breezes to come.

I’m a huge fan of rag & bone’s Slade blazer, one of their best-selling items for years. This version is crafted from stretchy-yet-structured ponte knit and cut in a cropped shape, ideal for layering over higher-waisted silhouettes.

Lizzy’s Favorites: Fall Edition UPDATED

This is a post from my newsletter last fall (2023)- I was searching for a product link while making this year’s newsletter, and I was pleasantly surprised that all of my favorites are still my favorites! What’s more, almost every link still worked (I had to replace two items that were out of stock)- which means that they’re also perineal favorites of retail buyers and shoppers alike. Talk about timeless!

Here’s the post with updated links:

I don’t love ‘must buy’ lists- they often assume readers share the same color profile, silhouette, and preferences. However, there are items and brands I come back to over and over again because they work for so many of my clients. Here is the fall edition of my most-purchased list…

  1. Hobbs Aimee Double-fronted Top- comfy like a tee, but polished enough for work thanks to doubled jersey and a clean neckline. The not-too-low v-neck and ¾ sleeves flatter almost everyone

  2. JCrew Perforated Italian Leather Belt- I love this belt (available in three colors) because of its versatility- holes punched all the way around allow it to be worn at the hips and the waist

  3. Rag & Bone Slade Wool Blazer- Rag & Bone has had this blazer in a million different fabrications, for good reason. Its  vaguely militaristic styling is always classic, and the long, lapel-less silhouette works on so many silhouettes. It’s also made of unlined wool jersey, so you’re basically wearing a very polished sweater

  4. Rag & Bone Slade Ponte Blazer- see above, but in a knit viscose blend for year-round  wear

  5. MMLafleur Hockley Jean- not quite a jean, not a dress pant either; these are the perfect post-pandemic work pants. The stretchy twill feels substantial but not heavy, making the ‘tusk’ colorway a great white-jean sub. I love the lack of a set-in waistband in the front (no digging!) and universally flattering straight leg w/ convertible hem

  6. DL1961 Mara Mid-rise Jean- not every figure works with a high rise, especially if you have more volume in your torso. The flattering cigarette leg is a great option if you’re looking to venture beyond skinny styles.

  7. Everlane Clean Silk Relaxed Shirt- a classic silk shirt can serve multiple functions in most wardrobes- paired with jeans for a casual yet polished look or tucked into a skirt for dressier occasions. Everlane’s is reasonably priced and not too sheer

  8. M.Gemi Lustro 70mm Pump- for all the reasons you want to wear a heel (height, polish) but without the things you don’t want (instability, pinched toes, sore feet). This high-quality pump has a flattering almond (not pointed) toe and sub-3”  block heel for comfort

  9. Maeve Colette Cropped Wide-leg Pant- one of the standouts of Anthropologie’s house-brand revamp, I love this pant’s substantial stretchy twill and inclusive size options. Front patch pockets (vs slash which add to hips) and wide hem will create a smaller waist

  10. Banana Republic Sloan Straight Pant- Banana has had this pant FOREVER, for a lot of good reasons. No slash pockets at the hips, nice weighty twill, gap-proof waistband… the straight leg is a new innovation of the long-running slim silhouette

  11. Treasure and Bond Utility Parka- I disagree with the conventional opinion that everyone needs a jean jacket. Yes, it can be versatile, but it’s boxy, mannish shape isn’t flattering on most silhouettes. I opt for an army-inspired field or utility jacket, which usually has a drawstring or waistband to create an hourglass shape.

  12. Margaux Andie Loafer- Expresso Python Embossed- loafers will always be a perennial favorite, but I love how this sleek, minimal pair looks especially timeless. The dark brown python makes it a versatile shoe to match almost any outfit.

  13. Cuyana Convertible Leather Backpack- “Fewer, better things,”- Cuyana’s motto. My go-to for leather bags and accessories thanks to their understated aesthetic, quality construction, and thoughtful functionality. I’ve had this backpack-slash-handbag for years now, and it still looks new.

  14. Boden Ellen Ottoman Dress- Boden drives me nuts because every time they make this dress it sells out almost immediately. It’s made of super-comfortable ribbed ponte, and the seam details make it flattering on almost all silhouettes.

  15. Inez Paz Boot- Inez is a ‘comfort’ shoe brand made in Spain, which means this almost 2.5” inch heel will feel like zero inches. I love a classic brown ankle boot in Fall/Winter and one is timeless.

  16. Agolde Riley High-rise Jean- as far as high-rise straight-leg jeans go, this is my favorite. Agolde denim is so soft, and more reasonably priced than other premium brands. One note- they make the same styles in stretch and non-stretch denim, so read the fiber content before buying

  17. Everlane Slim V-Neck Tee in Essential Cotton- my go-to basic tee. Feels lightweight and soft without looking transparent

How to succeed at last-minute shopping

We’ve all been there- you’ve got an event THIS WEEKEND and you’ve got nothing to wear. Maybe the dress you had intended no longer fits, maybe you got more information about the dress code, maybe you just (ahem) FORGOT- but you need SOMETHING to wear and you need it FAST!

Here’s my guide for keeping your cool and landing on the right outfit that no one will know was thrown together at the 11th hour…

EVALUATE YOUR INVENTORY

Ask yourself honestly if there’s anything you currently own that will work for the event- this includes shoes, outerwear, jewelry and accessories, handbags, and clothing. Try to draft several outfit options with what you have, and pencil in what you need to find. 

KEEP AN OPEN MIND

Now that you know what you need, be specific about the requirements of the item (e.g. must be red for a theme party, must be closed-toe shoe for weather, etc.), but be open to the variety of options. What else could fit the bill? A ‘dress’ need could be met with a jumpsuit, a skirt and blouse, even a dressy pantsuit- the less specific you are, the better your chances of finding success.

LEVERAGE TECHNOLOGY

It’s time to pick a destination. Malls and shopping centers are often good places to start since there are multiple stores in one location, and most of those stores have websites where you can filter their inventory by store location.

Look at the directory of a particular shopping center and identify chains that have e-comm websites and carry they type of item(s) you need

Jump on each store’s website, and start shopping, filtering by type and ‘available in store’ or ‘available for pickup’

Cast a wide net: don’t specify by sleeve length, color, etc. unless necessary. Select sizes at least one above and one below your current size

Take screenshots of items that might work, note the item or style # for easy look up by a salesperson

Able to add to cart for pickup? Great! Keep in mind that the item might be out of stock even if the website says it’s there, resulting in the dreaded “We’re sorry but…” email. Select multiple options if possible as backups

Make sure you’re aware of the return policy if you decide to purchase multiple options with the aim of returning the rest

 

GO OLD SCHOOL

Call ahead to a few stores that might have what you need- provide a salesperson or department manager necessary information (your size, general item type, budget) and ask them to pull items for you to try

Try to give them item/style numbers of pieces you found on the website to grab for you or to give them an example of what you’re looking for

The more advance notice you give, the better! Don’t expect a lot of options if you give them say, 30 minutes

START YOUR ENGINES!

Bring any items that you may want to coordinate for your look (shoes, jewelry) as well as foundational garments you might need (strapless bra, shapewear). It’s easier to make a decision when you have all your tools rather than having to use your imagination.

Have an honest, trusted advisor on call to receive outfit photos for a second opinion; not only are we not the best judge of our appearance (especially in a crisis), but a commissioned salesperson might have mixed motives :)

My 5-year Plan: the secret to building the perfect, timeless wardrobe

I recently came across this brand Asket, which struck me as a Swedish Everlane. Their core philosophy is to offer pieces that are meant to last at least five years by using quality materials and focusing on timeless items (like mid-rise straight jeans and tees) that won’t go out of style. 

Purchasing new pieces with this five-year mindset has a number of advantages- you’re saving money (no more impulse purchases that never get worn), saving time (when stuff lasts longer, you don’t have to shop for replacements as much) and saving the environment (reducing the amount of apparel in landfills).

Further, you’re curating a cohesive wardrobe of pieces that coordinate easily, since they were all chosen based on the same criteria:

QUALITY

Is this well made or will it fall apart after a few wears? Are the materials good enough so that it can be repaired in the future?

STYLE LONGEVITY

Is this a classic style or a fad? Could this have been worn five years ago?

VERSATILITY

Can this be worn with a variety of other items in your wardrobe? Can it be dressed up/dressed down for multiple occasions?

STYLE PROFILE

Does this fit in with your style profile (CLASS: Color Profile, Lifestyle, Aesthetic, Shape and Story)?

Here are some real items in my own closet that have been there 5+ years for inspiration…

(Click image to shop item/similar)


The unflattering top in almost every closet

Not everything in your closet has to be 100% flattering- personal style isn’t perfect. Some styles look great on certain body types or color profiles, others don’t; everyone’s different. But THIS top looks bad on almost everyone…

It’s a faux wrap blouse in a drapey crepe fabric, and the hem has a blouson effect. Its sold by virtually every mass-market brand, from Vince Camuto and Halogen to Rag and Bone and AllSaints.

WHY IS IT SO AWFUL?

The silhouette completely erases any evidence of a waist and loads on volume and visual interest in an area few of us want to draw attention to: the hips and lower abdomen.

What’s worse is that most women are shorter than the 5’7” fit model this blouse was cut for- so the silhouette ends up transforming the torso of most women into the shape of a Hershey’s Kiss.

WHY IS IT SO POPULAR?

A viscous cycle of two factors: insecurity and capitalism. No one likes their ‘belly’- so we buy this top to bury it under loads of fabric. Clothing brands keep making this top because we buy it (clothing brands base their production on best-sellers, called ‘updates’), not because it’s flattering or fashionable. Then we buy it again because it’s in new colors and prints… and the cycle continues.

TRICK THE EYE, DON’T HIDE

I’m not going to make you love your belly, but drowning it in georgette isn’t fixing anything. Creating a flattering silhouette is about balance and proportion- features that are smaller/larger than ‘ideal’ aren’t noticeable when everything is in balance. Use horizontal lines to draw the eye and make shapes wider, vertical lines to lengthen and streamline. Take the focus away from certain areas by highlighting others with print/color, volume, or details.

TRY THESE INSTEAD:

Halogen® Plissé Balloon Sleeve Top | Nordstrom

Relaxed short-sleeve chambray popover J.CREW

Fit Frustration: the REAL reason your clothes don’t fit right

Are you ever confused by the ‘size guide’ table on a brand’s website when you’re trying to figure out what to order? Your bust and waist measurement fits a 10, but your hips are a 12. Even if your measurements do line up, the fit still ends up off. What gives? In short: fit models. 

Do you look like these women? (credit: Fit Models LA)

Every womenswear brand fits their samples on models that have very specific measurements, most on women they call a size 8/M. Measurements are then ‘graded’ up and down the scale from the middle respectively, ideally minimizing distortion in garment sizing (which would happen if you tried to get to a 16 based on a size 0). Specs can vary from brand to brand, but generally a ‘size 8’ about 5’7” tall, measuring 36-29-39” (bust-waist-hip), and her height is balanced between her torso and legs (inseam=height÷2). There are about two dozen other measurements considered standard for this size as well- meaning there are two dozen other ways for a garment to fit you incorrectly if your measurement is not the same as the specs.

Fit models are measured weekly to ensure consistency. No thanks.

Some brands like JCrew and Banana Republic do accommodate different heights, offering tall (over 5’7”) and petite (under 5’4”) options. Brands like Abercombie and Fitch go even further, fitting each size (0-12) uniquely and even offering a ‘curvy’ size for slightly larger hip measurements.

Brands have their reasons for designing this way. First, it saves money- each unique size requires  its own set of specs, multiple factory samples, unique fit model, and scheduled fittings. Additionally, ad campaigns that feature attractive (read: proportioned) models will be the most universally appealing. Even science has shown us that we (men and women) deem symmetrical female bodies with a low waist to hip ratio optimally attractive, so this ‘ideal’ isn’t out of nowhere.

So what do the rest of us non-fit models do? 

Take your measurements. This illustration will help guide you through the most important ones and how to measure them.

Know how your height is distributed. This can help you determine if you should be shopping in the petite or tall section, and for which items. You may be 5’5” but your inseam is is 34”- which means you should be looking for tall/long inseams for bottoms and petite tops.

Trial and error. As tedious as it sounds, the best way to really find the right brands and fits for your body’s proportions is to actually try them on. Order from retailers with generous return policies (Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, and Zappos, to name a few). Order multiple sizes, if possible.

Strategize your silhouettes. Even if they’re the right size, some styles just aren’t going to fit your figure. Shorter-waisted bodies with voluminous torsos are going to have a hard time fitting into anything with a waist seam. Conversely, women with more volume in their hips and rear are going to struggle with boyfriend jeans, encountering that annoying ‘waist gap’. The aforementioned trial and error can help you discover the right silhouettes for your figure.

Consider the material. Knit fabrics (e.g. jersey) tend to be more forgiving than wovens (twill). The direction of the fabric also affects the fit- garments cut on the bias (diagonal) will drape and stretch a little more than those cut on the straight (vertical) grain- think Chinese finger trap.

Take it to the tailor. Everyone says it, and for good reason. Sometimes even a tweak of 1” on a strap or hem can make all the difference. Most local dry cleaners can handle basic alterations like hems or letting out/taking in seams.   

Of course, working with an expert who has experience with design, brand fits and construction (ahem) can help you build a wardrobe full of clothes that feel like they were made for you.

Shop the Walk- Michelle Monaghan

Monaghan's neutral-palette casual look is like a wardrobe blank-slate for the New Year. Shades of gray bring a welcome respite from the ubiquitous black uniform of winter, while higher-shaft booties and a longer coat still provide warmth and weather protection. Layer a denim shirt and faux fur scarf for some additional warmth.

Rag & Bone Reversible Coat, JCrew Tee, Perverse Sunglasses, JCrew Faux-fur Scarf, H&M Denim Shirt, Banana Republic Belt, Madewell Cross-body bag, L'Agence Skinny Jeans, Frye Booties, Elizabeth and James Cuff

Primed for Christmas

Christmas is Sunday, which means time is running out for last-minute gifts to ship on-time, but thankfully, Amazon Prime can send items within two days (or even overnight). See my picks for anyone and everyone on your list.

Festive Formula: 3 Ways to Party Down with your Wardrobe Staples

The invite says 'Festive,' but the frenzied search for another party dress seems daunting/impractical/exhausting. Look no further than your humble work staples for your soirée solution: with a few updates, your basic white poplin shirt and slim black trousers form the foundation of party looks with the novelty you crave but the practicality you can justify.

Normal 0 false false false EN-US JA X-NONE <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true" DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99" LatentStyleCount="276">…

Your white button-down layered under a party top prevents it from being over-the-top. A satin camisole or jacquard bustier are great options too.

Stuart Weitzman Heels, Deborah Lippmann nail polish, KALAN by Suzanne Kalan earrings, Shiraleah Clutch

Normal 0 false false false EN-US JA X-NONE <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true" DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99" LatentStyleCount="276">…

Nothing parties like a sequin blazer (or brocade jacket, or metallic trench). Timeless extras like a red lip, velvet shoes, and leopard clutch keep the look polished.

Azaara Earrings

Normal 0 false false false EN-US JA X-NONE <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true" DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99" LatentStyleCount="276">…

This statement look is the sum of its parts: an embellished scarf (think 'statement necklace'), cheeky clutch, and velvet shoes work in harmony against a basic backdrop.

Nars eyeshadow, Alexis Bittar bracelet

Say Cheese, not Cheesy: 3 Rules for a Successful Family Photo

Have you noticed the barrage of requests for your address? It’s that time again- for the annual family photo to adorn your holiday cards. A welcome sight in the mailbox for loved-ones can be a stressful endeavor to prepare for, especially when it comes to coordinating outfits. You want your family to look cohesive, but not cheesy.

1. Don’t dress in identical outfits, or even the same color. You’re a family, not a football team. Instead, let each outfit incorporate a common color palette- such as greens and blues, or reds and neutrals. The example above uses deep reds and blues with accents of grey and cognac neutrals.

2. Plaids, stripes and prints add visual interest, but keep the scales on the larger side so they photograph well. Ensure that multiple plaids or prints are different enough from each other to keep from looking busy (the plaids above have different ground colors and scales).

3. Stay true to life- don’t try to force looks that are contrary to your personalities. Is pink your daughter’s signature color? Let her incorporate a pink scarf or headband into her look. You’ll be more endearing as your true selves to those that love you, and you’ll photograph better if you are comfortable and confident.

Note: Most families don't fit the 'Mom, Dad, Girl, Boy' mold reflected in this image (nor should they!)... use the style combinations as inspiration and adapt for your own brood!

Mom: Madewell suede jacket, Rebecca Taylor blouse, Rag & Bone jeans, Rag & Bone booties

Baby Boy: Ralph Lauren shirt, Carter's pants, Minnetonka moccasins

Girl: Gap dress, Jessica Simpson boots, Ruby & Bloom headband, Ruby & Bloom tights

Dad: Banana Republic shirt, Brooks Brothers sweater, JCrew pants, Cole Haan oxfords

 

 

5 Tips for Comfortable (and stylish!) Work Shoes

It’s a problem that has plagued stylish women in the workforce for decades: a stylish shoe and comfortable shoe are rarely one in the same. But don’t resort to the 80’s-era sneakers-with-a-suit just yet… you can find cute and comfy shoes for the office if you follow the tips below…

1. The price is right. Quality counts and yes, sometimes this does mean paying more. Pricier shoes often mean better materials, greater durability, more cushioned insoles, solid construction (instead of veneers), and leather soles and linings. You can usually find a shoe like this in the $200-range (retail), so you don’t always have to spring for designer to get a quality shoe.

Stuart Weitzman

Stuart Weitzman

2. Leather is better. Opt for a shoe with as much leather construction vs. synthetic as possible (barring ethical objections). Leather is essentially skin- it breathes, stretches, and softens with use, while plastic doesn't. Leather linings won’t give you as many blisters as synthetic ones. Man-made soles can be stiff, while leather ones are more flexible. Leather uppers (read: the outside of the shoe you see) can usually be repaired if scratched or scuffed*, while synthetics usually can’t (or don’t warrant the cost to fix).

*Save patent leather for special occasions; once these shoes get a scuff, it’s nearly impossible to remove it. Nubuck is also a tricky finish- it’s similar to suede but shows wear much more quickly.

Kate Spade

Kate Spade

3. Stack ‘em up. Thicker, stacked heels offer greater stability, which usually translates to comfort; the weight of your heel is distributed over a greater area, and greater stability means less wiggling around in your shoe (which is potential for friction and blisters). A bit of a platform can also make a shoe more comfortable, since it will absorb some of the impact at the ball of your foot, and makes heels feel lower without sacrificing height.

Via Spiga

Via Spiga

4. This little piggy needs room. Unless you have very short toes and narrow feet, pointy-toed shoes are just not going to offer you long-term comfort, and may result in foot problems down the road (like bunions). A round- or almond-toe shoe allows your toes a little more room (which=comfort). If you can’t help your love of the pointed-toe look, try to find one with a shorter toe box (the angle of the point will be wider), or see if it comes in a size ‘W.’

Loeffler Randall

Loeffler Randall

5. Get ‘gellin’. If you can't resist a heel higher than 2”, a gel insert under the ball of your foot can make a world of difference. If you’re between sizes, go for the ½ size larger to accommodate the width of the insert (usually 1/8” thick). 

Shop the Walk- Winter White

STW-Blazer.jpg

Retail stores may be showcasing brightly colored "Resort" merchandise, but those of us not jetting off to our timeshare in Antibes feel we're resigned to our mostly-black winter 'uniform' (and getting pretty sick of it). But you don't have to be in the south of France for an excuse to dig your white jeans out from storage- pairing them with functional (read: warm) pieces in neutrals and soft pastels (see below to shop) creates a fresh look that also makes sense to wear in January (at least in California).

For additional warmth, add a base layer chambray shirt, a scarf, and neutral booties.

Zara Blazer

Tom Ford Sunglasses

Uniqlo Sweatshirt

Marc by Marc Jacobs Watch

Converse Sneakers

Current/Elliott Jeans

Madewell Tote