Confessions of a Professional Stylist
by Joyce Neave

1.  I am a repeat dresser.

I do not like having a ton of clothes.  I prefer to create new outfits using the same pieces.  (Hint - go for classic pieces in the same or complementing  color family)

2.  I wear high/low.

I have been known to wear really expensive pants with a cute top from H&M.  (Hint - when choosing a low priced item, make sure it is sewn well and the fabric  does not look cheap)

3.  I shop consignment.

To me shopping is a like a treasure hunt - sometimes  I come up empty handed, but when I find that special garment or accessory, it is very exciting.  (Hint-know what you are purchasing and what it is worth.  Never buy just to buy, and always  check for damages)

4.  I avoid wearing  designer labels on the outside of my clothes.

The best dressed men and women of the world let the quality and fit of their garments speak for themselves.  Outer Labels are status, not style.  (Hint - if you love designer items - and who doesn't? - look for garments and bags that have labels on the inside only.)

5.  I look for inspiration from others.

If I like the way someone looks, I try to identify what makes them look so good, and then I incorporate it into a look that works for me.  (Hint - if it's a color, make sure it's a color that will look good on you - same with cut or style.)

6.  I don't follow every trend

I do not like every trend, they don't always fit my style or age.  I pick and choose what I like and then find fun ways to stay current.  (Hint - if you like a trend, try a little bit, an accessory.  Only add one trend per outfit)

7.  I do not live and breathe fashion.

Don't get me wrong... I LOVE  fashion!

But let's keep it in perspective.  Beauty comes from within.  Your kindness and love is what people will remember.  And it is certainly not worth going into debt.  (Hint - find clothes that look great on you, and then go spend time with the people you love!)

Happy New Year!

Joyce Neave: is an authority on fashion and style. As founder of “That Mom Inc.,” Joyce has been “styling” for over twenty years. Featured in Style Setter by Washington Post, Ten Well Dressed Women in Washington by Washingtonian Magazine, and A Fresh Eye- Washingtonian Magazine. Joyce was profiled on WUSA9 News to highlight her wardrobe consulting practice as well as her forward thinking blog: www.thatmominc.blogspot.com, specializing in helping moms realize their stylized potential Joyce provides fabulous practical style at http://www.that mominc.com

Have a fashion question for Joyce? Ask here. Your question/answer may be printed in a future issue.