Stay tuned next week for Alicia’s closet.. couture for sure!

Know, first, who you are; and then adorn yourself accordingly.  ~Epictetus

Last time we delved into Sandy’s closet, looking at how to do retro right!  Now we’re moving on to vintage, whether it be true vintage or inspired.. Tanya does it fantastically.   I’m always waiting for her to consign her pieces so I can snatch them up.. she’s one of those ladies you want to copy.  Vintage is a hard look to pull off without the right eye.. just going into a thrift or second hand shop doesn’t mean you have vintage chic… you could just end up looking a little hodgepodge.  But with a little knowledge, YOU can be a vintage chic diva too!

When I think of vintage, I instantly think of Jackie O, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn and other ladies with impeccable style and grace.  Attaining vintage style is all about being feminine and still strong.. unique pieces with texture and soft colors.  These clothes not only look great, but feel wonderful too!

Tanya’s closet is just as put together as her clothes..

A well organized closet is the first step in looking great.. because we all know if it is easy, we will do it more often!  I love the bright green pitcher.. just there to be cheerful and say “Good morning.”  Tanya has bags for different occasions..  the beach, with all the necessities ready to go quick… swimwear, sunscreen, towels and a good book.. great idea!

Here is one of Tanya’s favorite tops.. it’s a gorgeous charcoal gray.. a color that looks great on most skin types by the way.  A modern flowy cut, with victorian sleeves it has a lovely defined waist.  Beautiful on it’s own, but of course we’ll accessorize it!

We’ve added a beautiful vintage enamel necklace and black zip up cummerbund and black rose petal handbag.. still simple but very chic.

Next up is a top I love on Tanya.. a vintage inspired knit tank, notice the main point with ‘vintage’ is the details.  Most vintage pieces have lace, or buttons with tons of simple delicate details.  This top with its lace rusching is so flattering and feminine.

When layering a piece like this.. keep it delicate also.. something too structured would take away the feminine appeal.  We’ve added a soft collared shirt, that also has some ruffled details.  A gorgeous belt to define the waist, very important!  And a huge vintage beaded necklace.  With all the detail, keep your accessories a simple color.

I love this next one.. a quirky vintage blouse.. I wanted to put this one in my bag…

Nothing says style like a great hat.. this one looks like it is vintage Russian!  It adds another texture to this outfit.. soft silky blouse, textured knit sweater vest and a huge cameo style pendant.. the contrast between the lighter yellows and browns with the black pendant draws your eyes to the center.  Especially good if you are pear shaped.. I like to have the attention upwards.. you could wear a simple dark pant or jean with this.. if you have an all over petite frame, you could go one step further and wear a chic textured brown pant.

Vintage Style is all in the details!  Ruffles, vintage inspired pendants, buttons, soft materials and lace.  If done right, you can channel your inner Audrey Hepburn or Sophia Loren.. feminine and lovely.  If you need more style advice.. stop by TAGS.. we’d LOVE to help you find your style!

Next week: Alicia’s closet… Pop culture fun!  She’s our resident Hello Kitty girl.. stay tuned to see what she’s got to share!

High heels were invented by a woman who had been kissed on the forehead.

~Christopher Morley

This week Sandy is up.. I shop for Sandy all the time (my partner in crime as I refer to her), so this one was cake for me.  Sandy has a very classic style with a cool funky retro flair.  Always a kick back to the 80’s, minus the blue eye shadow.  Sandy has a fun laid back vibe for daily life and working at TAGS, then a more professional side for her other job.

We decided to pull one of Sandy’s (MANY) white collared tops, and make it fresh and new.. white collared shirts can be the base of some stellar creations… we were quite successful!

For a simple quick upgrade.. belt it and add some bling.. this would work for a casual work setting.

Your office a little more heels and jackets?  Another easy add on.. one of my favorites.. the Jackie O style jacket..retro and fun but still a classic.

Tap into your preppy side (which Sandy also has) and switch out the jacket for some totally chic argyle… same necklace.  Loosen up the feeling by rolling up your sleeves.  This outfit could go from office to anywhere, just throw on some jeans instead of the slacks!

So how do you do retro right?  It is a little tricky.  Clearly you are on the wrong path if there are shoulder pads or bustiers involved!  Retro can be done if it is an updated look, which on a side note, vintage is a lot harder to pull off.. Tanya does it great and we’ll look at her closet next week!

Up next is one of Sandy’s favorite purchases.. if you’ve been to TAGS when she’s workin’ you’ve probably seen her in it!  A unique Pac Man tee… this is so much fun.. we’re going to spice it up a bit.

ACCESSORIZE!  Found a cool madonna inspired belt, white circles with a little bling in the silver of the chain.. then a quirky necklace.. chunky chain with a lock pendant.  Still really comfortable,  just a little more put together and polished.. let’s add one more thing…

What?  Yep, you guessed it.. the little jacket!  This one is Calvin Klein.. so lovely.. but you can see how it makes it a complete finished outfit!  So easy.. all these pieces could be interchanged with so much in your closet.. if it’s easy, it will work out every time!

One last white collar idea..

Pull a cami over the top.. brings it all in for a more defined waistline.. that everyone needs.. a hint of sexy.  Careful.. no HR nightmares!  Just a HINT..

Ready to push your style a little out of the dreaded ‘comfort zone’?  Here’s a fun retro idea for Sandy.. find a cool vintage-y print, pair it with an updated necklace and belt.. voila!  Stunning!  Add a mod vintage bag and you’re an instant fashionista.

Join me again next week to get a peek in Tanya’s closet… her vintage classic style is something we all try for.. but few ever succeed in!  Maybe we can get some tips for choosing vintage pieces that won’t make you look like you’ve had it for 80 years!

Have fun with your style!

Know, first, who you are; and then adorn yourself accordingly.  ~Epictetus

Lemon Fresh

Melissa recent entry on the not so basic white tee… Was truly inspiring.  Truly, inspired the question: How do I keep that white ohhhh  soooo white?

Well, according to ehow:  Lemons can freshen white! 
Frustrated by Underarm stains, ehow suggest that  you do the following:

***To remove underarm stains on white shirts, cut a lemon in half, lightly wet the underarm of the shirt with plain water, sprinkle the underarm with salt and scrub the salt in with the half of a lemon. Let the shirt sit in the sun for 2 to 3 hours. Wash as usual.

***For tough underarm stains, dip the underarm of the shirt in isopropyl alcohol. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes, soak the entire shirt in an oxygen bleach such as oxy-clean for 2 to 3 hours

According to Linda Cobb from her book: ” The Queen of Clean’s cleaning guide”:  Lemon juice will take spots out of white clothing, apply lemon juice and lay in the sun.

 Watch for more tips from your TAG TEAM!  Wonderful ways to extend your wardrobe… making every day a TAGStyle day!

Need to consign? It’s easy.. Bring in your Clean, Ready to wear condition clothing  between the hours of 10:00am -3:00pm  Tuesday thru Saturday.

Love Re-Style!!!  We have it Shop Tuesday thru Friday 10:00am -6:00pm and Saturday 10:ooam -4:00pm

Need to be in the know?  Several way:  Click on our Calendar here at the blog, check out our facebook page: TAGS CONSIGNMENT  or sign-up for our emails… button upper left hand corner.

Read more: How to Remove Underarm Stains From Clothes | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how_5341873_remove-underarm-stains-clothes.html#ixzz0t0jEnGdQ

I was in dire need of some organizing.. and this provided some fantastic motivation!  My closet generally has three color ranges, white, black and gray.  Then a few sparse colors to brighten my basics..

This might sound totally boring.. but if you’ve ever been into TAGS when I am working.. you know it’s not.. I love accessories.. and it is much easier to add large necklaces and bracelets to black or white..

You just can’t go wrong with black and white.. it really looks great on everyone.

(The color section)

I do have a couple absolute favorite finds, from TAGS of course.  My all time favorite blouse I knew I had to have the moment I saw it.  Mostly white, it has a vintage flair that I adore and is so comfy too, double bonus!  I always feel beautiful when I wear it.. every girl should have an ‘I feel lovely’ shirt!

My second favorite thing in my closet?  Yep a pair of jeans.. I’m a total jeans girl, I wear them ALL YEAR LONG.  Plus, they go perfectly with my favorite shirt.  These jeans were one of my first purchases at TAGS, so there’s some sentimental value too.

American Eagle, the only kind of jeans that fit my toosh!

Jeans shopping can be grueling.. so when I find a pair I stick to them.  And when I find a brand, I buy as many as I can!  Good jeans are like good men, HARD TO FIND!

So there it is.. my perfect FEEL GOOD outfit.. I threw in my GO TO shoes.. brown t-strap Hush Puppies.. also bought at TAGS!

What’s your favorite outfit?  Or the shoes you throw on that works with just about anything?  Get it out and put it on.. go have coffee or sit in a cafe and just feel fantastic!  You deserve it!  If you don’t have an absolute favorite.. Stop by TAGS and we’d LOVE to help you find your new favorites!

Stay tuned, next week we’ll be peeking into Sandy’s closet.. We’ll take one item and make it new again at TAGS!

“When in doubt, wear red.” ~ Bill Blass

]]> http://shoptags.net/blog/2010/07/tagstyle-whats-in-mels-closet-sneak-peek/feed/ 1 http://shoptags.net/blog/2010/06/the-lbd-if-you-dont-have-one-get-one/ http://shoptags.net/blog/2010/06/the-lbd-if-you-dont-have-one-get-one/#comments Fri, 25 Jun 2010 07:10:09 +0000 ShopTags! http://shoptags.net/blog/?p=182 What is the one ‘Go To’ item every girl MUST HAVE??  It’s the Little Black Dress…

Versatile PLUS chic.. the little black dress.. aka LBD is an asset to any stylish girls closet!  Wear it to work, out on a date, to a wedding, cocktail hour, Christmas party.. your best friends birthday, dancing with the girls or a job interview.  The LBD just might be the best piece of clothing in your entire wardrobe.

As a self confessed shopaholic, I must say I have a few LBD’s.. and you should too.  I’m going to show you how to take the simple & chic LBD from work,  to dancing and more… And as always, you can find everything pictured at my favorite consignment shop, TAGS!

Let’s start out with the most simple LBD shape, a shift.

When you’re headed to work, just throw on a blazer to make it office appropriate.  An organic looking beaded necklace, and a light blue linen jacket give this look a soft summery feel.  Patent wedges will glide seamlessly from day to night…

Stash a lacy wrap in your bag, and change it out on your way to dinner or the movies… still light and airy but a hint of sexy chic… for an added punch of twilight style, keep some metallic strappy heels in your trunk, they go with everything and change your look instantly!

The LBD is UBER fabulous for a wedding or special occasion, with a unique scarf and vintage inspired cropped jacket.  Peep toe pumps, in a fun pattern add interest without chaos.  Remember, if you are wearing a monochromatic look, please add a vibrant colored bag, it’s like a cherry on top of the sundae…

To travel from your special event, to cocktail hour simply ditch the jacket!

The dreaded job interview!  We all despise them, but they are a necessary evil, if you like money at all.  It is a proven fact, that if you feel like you look good, you do better at everything and exude confidence.. something you need in this job market!  Go get your trusty LBD, a conservative, yet stylish, blazer… and some fabulous heels.. not so high you’ll be teetering around.  For a splash of color near your face, bring out that lovely scarf, just a little peering through is all you need.  Dress for the job you want.. not necessarily the one you’re applying for

Meeting your BFF at the cafe for some java?  Simple fix.. loose the blazer, arrange your scarf over your shoulders as a wrap, fasten it on the side with a brooch.. you can find vintage inspired pins at most stores for under $5, another must have!  (and easily stored in your purse, or just wear it on the jacket to the interview).

A colorful scarf and vintage inspired brooch are two other priceless pieces, if you don’t have these, stop by and we’ll help you find something special!

Bonus outfit… a go anywhere and turn many heads… simply lovely!   The animal print heels take this one from chic to CRAZY beautiful!

The LBD will look great on any body type, you can choose straight fits, A-line, or fit and flare styles.  Another note, if you are very petite keep your hemline a few inches above the knee.. not too short!  For fuller figures, just past the knee works best and if you are pear shaped, keep the hem slightly above or just at the knee.  The LBD should never go to long, it actually breaks up the line of your body.

Accessories pull everything together and you can use them to add pops of saturated color or bright shiny metallics.. here are some ideas for bags to carry with ANY of the above looks..  your bag does NOT have to match anything in your outfit.. and NEVER needs to match your shoes.. ever.. not ever!

First, the amazing Cherry Red purse… enough said.  Get one

Vintage metallic bag… adds sparkle and shine.. goes with ANYTHING! Even silver.. yes I said it.. mix your metals!!  Throw out those old rules.. wear white all year.. really, no one will notice except to say how lovely you look!

Last, but not least.. a fun bronze clutch and SO BRIGHT glittery gold heels.. for over the top glitz and glam.. you can even leave out the jewelry with this combo.. simple stud earrings would work well.  Hollywood style all the way!  Movie premier anyone??

So remember.. the LBD.. it doesn’t have to be boring.. and with a few slight changes, it can look like a NEW outfit everyday.. sometimes more than once a day!  If you don’t have one yet.. pop into TAGS or your local boutique and ask for one.. we’d love to help you find your perfect match!

Shop happy.

A dress makes no sense unless it inspires men to want to take it off you.  ~Françoise Sagan

I set out to create 10 different outfits with the same WHITE TEE… and there was nothing plain about it!  I know some of you are saying “I don’t wear white!”, or “White makes you look fat”… and I’m here to say anyone can wear these looks, of course you may change the hemline, or the accent color to compliment your personal skin tone, but the starter piece will work for anyone.  Don’t worry, we’ll show you how, and you don’t have to go in debt to achieve these looks.

Look number one: Village Wanderer

Strolling down the cobblestone streets of Carmel By the Sea… chic yet totally relaxed and comfortable.  Start with the plain white v-neck tee.. add a long silver necklace, beachy natural bag, metallic flats (there ARE hills to climb!) and a BRIGHT and FUN polka dot skirt… this hemline is longer, but of course you could go shorter (for those girls with great gams!) just keep the color bright and cool… just beachy.

Look number two: Lunch with the Girls

Yes, you are just going to see the girls, the women who’d love you in all your beauty or a bathrobe and bedhead, but if you are going out, anywhere, lets do it in style!  Such a simple look, our white tee paired with a denim mini (we all have one, or two) and your favorite sneakers.  The key here is again, pops of color.. starting with the FABULOUS bag, xoxo is always great, then pull some colors for top and bottom.  That scarf at the bottom of that basket in your closet.. yep that one.. get it out, you need it!  And every girl should have a fun pair of colorful sneakers.. yes ANY AGE!  Top it off with a contrasting necklace.. chunky is best but as long as it is a dark color, size doesn’t matter.. in this case.

Look number three: Live Band, Will Travel

Okay, so if you don’t have a black vest, go get one!  Now!  Well, maybe not now, it’s 10pm here and that won’t work.. but soon!  The black vest is almost as important as the white tee!  You may have heard that everything looks better layered, well it is true and a black vest makes it foolproof!  It can be short, long, buttons, cotton, polyester.. um, well, maybe not polyester!  You get the picture… Throw it on over just about anything and you instantly look put together.  When you are going out you don’t necessarily want to look like you are trying too hard.. keep to black and white with a large dose of ONE color.. Teal here brings out the blue in the denim.. remember dark wash is more chic for night!  A fun printed belt says you don’t take yourself TOO seriously and the kitten heels are just a hint of sexy.

Look number four:  Boho Coffee House

We all have our favorite coffee house.. not talking about the chain we visit daily to get our fix, even though they know your name .. I’m talking about the one we go to when we want to hang out with friends and hear indie music on the patio.. the coffee house with character..  The mood is always chill and UBER casual.. don’t show up there in heels, unless you want to be the center of some not so positive attention.. an easy summer dress in a watery blue, over our priceless white tee does the trick!  Add a crazy unique bag, ethnic inspired is best, and some comfy but still gorgeous flip flops.. long natural beads and a free flowing belt to define your waist, whether or not you think you have one, do it, you may just love it!  And voila!  You are sooo ready for a night of java and strange, yet thought provoking music.. all in some serious comfort!

Look number five: Day to Night

Oh the things you will see, if you stick with me, yes yes…. it’s the plain white tee!

I have a love affair with the cropped jacket.. seriously I must have 20, different shapes, colors, seasons.. like the black vest they work wonders for that IT factor!  This chic style is fluid, lightweight and not bulky at all.. a single button makes the jacket work appropriate, especially paired with some fabulous low waisted Moda trouser pants in charcoal.  Yes, brown goes with grey.. we’ll talk about neutrals next time!  Since you are starting at work with this look, keep the jewelry understated and simple.. pearls are always striking, just throw on a second necklace to remove the grandma feel.  A bright scarf loosely tied around your neck for some color and bright pink heels make this fun and not corporate boring… the metallic bag, that you probably already have and will never go out of style, works for day or night!  You’ll be ready for anything in this ensemble.

Look number six: Shopping in the City

I am a serious shopper, like when I am out and know I have money to spend, I get a total rush finding the bargain or that special piece you’ve been searching for… when you are shopping like this you need two things: comfort and ease of change… yes I’m talking about the fitting rooms.  Have you ever gone on a shopping trip and realized you wore something that is totally impossible to get on and off??  I have, and believe me I won’t do that again!  Luckily with this outfit, shopping is simple and you’ll last ALL DAY!  Cute flats will go with anything you try on.. as will the denim shorts.  Not okay with short denim?  Capri’s will have the same effect, and we all have those!  I feel better when I feel stylish, so don’t forget the finishing touches.. super trendy scarf, oversized bag for all your small purchases, plus your camera and water bottle..   a burst of sunshine in a short little jacket.. this could seriously be ANY hot color…some shimmery neck candy too,  it’s like the icing on the cake!

Look number seven: Running the blasted errands!

You do not have to look like you just rolled out of bed, even if you did, when you take the kids to swim practice, or stop by the Big Boy to get your milk and eggs.. Grab that same white tee you’ve worn ALL week.. slip on pattered shorts, a very NON matchy printed scarf… hobo style beach bag, because  you know you’ll hear “can you put this in your purse?” and throw on those metallic flip flops you got at the drugstore for 5.99!  Beachy tousled hair is IN so just pin back the front of your hair and you are set for the whole day!  SO SO easy, but you’ll be the envy of all the other moms who are still in their pajamas and don’t want to get out of their cars!  By the way.. the plain white tee doesn’t apply when wearing pajama bottoms.. those are home only items please!  PJ’s in public should always be a NO NO!

Look number eight: Wine Country

Napa valley here I come!  Beauty and comfort is a must when visiting the wine country… lots of walking and wine tasting, classy restaurants, funky little shops and wine cellar tours are on the menu.  Lightweight cargo pants, not your usual olive or khaki!  Choose a cotton pant in a soft color, add our now favorite white tee, a super soft wrap for breezes and a stylish hat to keep cool in the sun… unforgettable embellished slip on flats take you from the country road to the candlelit dinner… a small simple bag, for your essentials and a super chunky wooden necklace.  You’ll look like a resident, and NOT a tourist in this funky chic ensemble.

Look number nine: First Impressions

What do you wear on a first date?  It’s been a long long time for me, but I’m sure I would have done it very wrong back then.. a lot has changed..  Most of us would want to feel good, comfortable and certainly not overdone!  The plain white tee saves the day again… this time with mocha trouser style capri’s and a vibrant wrap in a bold floral print!  Easy to keep on, or take off if the mood strikes…. also works to cover up any bulges, not that WE have anything like that!  A delicate metallic necklace up close to your face will keep his attention where it should be, and to avoid being bland, a bright and really fun bag… always a good conversation piece.  Simple slip on flats, you don’t want to be taller than him… which for me is very possible!  Deep breath.. you look GREAT!

Last but never least,

Look number ten: Classically Audrey

We couldn’t do a plain white tee without showcasing Audrey Hepburn style.. yes YOU can be a princess on your very own Roman Holiday… Ruby red ballet slippers, detailed A-line skirt in linen.. sheer black shoulder wrap, a fantastic red glam bag and sparkly bangles as arm candy… no necklace needed.. Audrey style is definitely a ‘less is more’ look.. you can take this anywhere.. walk in the park, off to the movies, art gallery or just the PTA meeting..  tres chic!

Whew!  Ten outfits, One NOT so Plain White TEE!  The most versatile and essential item in your closet.. if you don’t have one, head out and get one from your local consignment shop or favorite boutique…

remember… you can build anything with the basics…

Stay tuned for more helpful hint and tricks.. TAGStyle for every woman.

Just around the corner in every woman’s mind – is a lovely dress, a wonderful suit, or entire costume which will make an enchanting new creature of her.  ~Wilhela Cushman

Tees for all!!

UTILI – TEE !!!!   Summer Priced Right events continue with Tee-Shirts for ALL 50% off this Friday and Saturday Only! !!  TAGS Loves Value and Comfort and Tee Shirts are the Best!!  Utlility is the best word to describe Americas Favorite Top!!!   Dress is UP or Dress it down… Your sure to find a FAVORITE for your best denims, your lake adventure, Riding and Brushing the Pony, Summer Camp, Dinner at your favorite Eatery and more!

TAGS!  The Re-Cycling Center for Adorable Clothing!  Come by and pick out your favorite TEE’s and bring everyone in your family, Dad, Son, Daughter, Mom, Sister, Brother…. the list goes on and on!  See you soon!

SHOP This Summer Priced Right Event: Friday June 18th 10- 6 and Saturday June 19th 10-4!  

Happy Summer!!
Your TAG TEAM MATES!!
Tanya, Sandy, Melissa,Alicia, Deb and Lynnette

Soooo, To celebrate… Melissa and Team TAGS has VAMPED the store ….  With of course Vampire Style!  Come by and check out Bree… (Lucy the mannequin adorned as Bree).  Cullen Class, Edward and Bella Romance, Alice Charm and Volturi vice!  All in a days work for Vamp Camp!  
 

Summer Priced Right Events!   What is Summer Priced Right Events???  Weekly Specials just for YOU! !!!      Three Ways to find out:   Emails, Facebook Fan Page, or right here SHOP TAGS blog!          
 
  

 Store Hours:  Tuesday – Friday 10-6   Saturday: 10-4
                 Drop Hours Accepted Daily:  10- 3 

Summer Priced Right Memorial Day Weekend Event! Despite the weather, summer really is around the corner, and TAGS is proud to have one of the largest selections of summer clothing for the whole family in the Oakdale area! Shorts, sandals, capris, tee’s- we have what you need priced for any budget thanks to our fashion savvy and smart consignors!

And kicking off our Summer Promo Series this weekend,is our BOGO event! Watch for SUMMER PRICED Right events each weekend! 

Buy one fabulous purse or wallet, and get a 2nd of equal or lesser value for 1/2 price.

In other exciting news, Eclipse fans all over will want to shop next week, when our Twilight inspired jewelry arrives, just in time for the June premier.

Other items you’d enjoy… Disney Couture- Alice Series This is a beautiful out-of-production piece of classic Disney meets Couture. In a beautiful Cotton Candy Pink color from the” Alice in Wonderland” collection by Disney Couture, this bracelet makes a statement. These retailed for well over $200, and is very high end with the Disney Couture stamp inside as well as the Swarovski crystal accenting the trim- this is beautiful and highly collectible, made more valuable by their out of production status, making them more scarce by the day. Our Price: $145.00 Shipping services available.

Because those who know, KNOW!
TAGS Consignment Boutique 1220 East F. St. Oakdale, CA 95361 (209) 845-9312 www.shoptags.net