Explore every episode of the podcast Wear This Not That
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How to Build a Sustainable Wardrobe | EP 216 | 03 Oct 2024 | 00:25:03 | |
Welcome back to another fabulous episode of the *Fashion Crimes Podcast* with your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz!
This week, we're diving into one of the hottest topics in fashion: "Building a Sustainable Wardrobe."
Whether you're eco-conscious or just want to make more intentional shopping decisions, Holly breaks down the essentials of ethical fashion, why fast fashion should be avoided, and how you can start curating a wardrobe that not only makes you look good but also feel good about your impact on the planet.
Ready to level up your style game sustainably? Tune in for expert advice, personal insights, and the ultimate guide to shopping consciously!
KEY TALKING POINTS:
1. What is a Sustainable Wardrobe?
A sustainable wardrobe isn't just a buzzword—it's a thoughtful collection of clothing made with eco-friendly materials and produced in ways that minimize waste and pollution.
Holly explains how it's not about having less but about shopping with intention and choosing items that align with ethical values.
2. The Dark Side of Fast Fashion
Holly pulls back the curtain on the fast fashion industry, which is the second-largest polluter in the world (after the oil industry!). #notagoodlook
She discusses the social and environmental costs of fast fashion, from underpaid workers in unsafe conditions to the massive waste generated by cheap, disposable clothing.
3. Shopping Vintage and Second-Hand
Want to make a difference? Holly recommends starting with vintage and second-hand shopping. She highlights some of her favorite stores like "Madison & Fifth" (Episode 179), and "Ensemble Consignment Charleston" (EP 209).
By choosing preloved items, you're giving new life to garments and reducing demand for new production.
4. Sustainable Brands to Know
From Stella McCartney to Eileen Fisher, we introduce some incredible eco-friendly brands. Whether you're looking for high-fashion pieces or everyday essentials, below is a list of ethical labels that are perfect for starting and curating a sustainable wardrobe.
Sustainable Brands to Explore: • Stella McCartney • Gabriella Hearst • Reformation • Eileen Fisher • Pangaia • Levi's • Patagonia • Pact • Everlane • Girlfriend Collective • Naadam • Nudie Jeans • Weft & Warp Denim • Collina Strada • Ekhaus Latta • Kotn
Past Sustainable Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 179: Interview with Chloe from Madison & 5th Episode 210: Interview with VienneMilano Luxury Hosiery Episode 147: Interview with Designer Marissa Wilson Episode 145: BILIBLOND Swimwear Episode 134: Dayo Women Episode 125: Designer Kiya Tomlin
Holly's Shout-Outs of the Week!
Thank you so much to Sticky Bakery in Toronto, Sarah and Catherine from St. Paul for always writing in! #lovethem
Final Thoughts on Sustainable Fashion
Holly wraps up the episode by sharing her personal philosophy: sustainable fashion isn't just a trend, it's a necessity.
As consumers, we have the power to demand change from the fashion industry. By shopping consciously, whether through second-hand finds or eco-friendly brands, we can all make a positive impact.
As no closet is "fast-fashion free", making small, intentional changes can and will go a long way.
"Fashion should make you feel good inside and out. When we know better, we do better!" Let us know how you're building your sustainable wardrobe and give us the deets! Drop Holly a message at holly@fashioncrimespodcast.com, or DM her on Instagram @fashioncrimespodcast. | |||
| How to Buy a Wig EP | 215 | 26 Sep 2024 | 00:21:43 | |
Welcome back, Fashion Besties! In this week's episode of the Fashion Crimes Podcast, your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz, is diving into a topic that is new to her but essential for many: How to Buy a Wig. As Holly faces her personal journey through cancer and prepares for her treatment for multiple myeloma, she shares her first-hand experience in wig shopping, offering invaluable advice to anyone considering this option, whether for medical reasons or a fun change in style. In this episode, she breaks down the decision-making process with her options while hanging at the wig store. Holly's openness and humor make this episode both informative and uplifting! KEY TOPICS: 1. To Wig or not to Wig? Holly opens up about her recent diagnosis of multiple myeloma and the inevitable hair loss that comes with treatment. While this situation is deeply personal, Holly emphasizes that wigs aren't just for people experiencing hair loss—many people choose to wear them simply to change up their look. 2. Wig Shopping 101 Holly takes us through her journey of wig shopping, from walking into a wig boutique for the first time to the overwhelming options that greeted her. She learned that what looks good on a mannequin doesn't always translate well on a real person. Here she offers practical tips like trying different styles, consulting experts, and trusting the professionals who work at these stores. She learns the difference between synthetic and real hair wigs, and why you might want to invest in a wig that looks close to your natural hair if you're aiming for a seamless transition. 3. Top Tips for Choosing the Perfect Wig Whether you're considering a wig for the first time or just looking to refresh your current style, this advice is solid gold. She encourages trying a variety of styles and even pushing your own boundaries a bit. If you're daring, try something completely different, like going blonde—but remember, wigs are personal, and staying true to your comfort zone is always a great choice. HOT TIP: Understand return policies IN DETAIL and try on wigs on in person, because what looks good online may not suit your skin tone or face shape. Purchasing a wig virtually is a little bit more labor-intensive and risky, but can be done with the right guidance from a wig stylist at the boutique of your choice. 4. Wigs Aren't Just for Hair Loss One surprising takeaway? Wigs have become a staple in the fashion world even for those who don't need them for medical reasons. From celebrities to everyday fashionistas, wigs are increasingly popular for switching up your style. Who knew?!? Making this new world feel more approachable and fun, Holly gives the 411 on the wig process that can help anyone considering if a wig is a smart style choice. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Whether you're considering a wig due to hair loss or just looking to add some versatility to your wardrobe, Holly's advice is empowering: "You can do it, and no one even will be able to tell!" She reminds us that, in fashion and life, it's all about confidence, and finding a wig that makes you feel fabulous is just one more way to express yourself. Thank you for tuning in and supporting Holly during this time. As she faces the next steps in her treatment, she'll keep us stylishly updated—so be sure to write in with your fashion questions or send a message of support. Don't forget to subscribe to our weekly podcast (always subscription-free!), send us your fashion questions, follow our fashion journeys on our social - and as always - stay fabulous! www.fashioncrimespodcasts.com | |||
| How To Do Chemo In Style | EP 206 | 26 Jul 2024 | 00:21:27 | |
This week on the Fashion Crimes Podcast, our beloved personal stylist, Holly Katz, delivers an uplifting and insightful episode titled "How To Do Chemo In Style." In this special edition, Holly shares her personal journey with cancer treatment, offering heartfelt and practical fashion advice for those undergoing similar experiences. And in Holly's own words: "I've been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, which is a very common blood cancer. Now, here's the ass-kicker. I'm gonna live...mkay, just in case you're worried? I'm gonna live. Believe me. I'm just as shocked as you are. And I just started my cancer treatment last week, and it was not chic. Okay, let's just say that." Whether you are someone you know is going through this....read on! Key Highlights:
Special Feature: Holly has curated a dedicated Pinterest board for this episode, showcasing all her favorite chemo-friendly fashion picks. Follow along at Holly's Pinterest Board to explore these stylish and comfortable options. Join Us: Tune in for this fun and light episode with an important personal message. The Fashion Crimes Podcast is "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!" for our fashion besties over 40, and even those way over 40! Whether you're over 40 or simply love timeless fashion, this podcast series is for YOU! Availability: The episode drops this Friday, subscription-free, wherever you get your podcasts. Be sure to listen and follow us for more fashion inspiration and advice. Stay Connected: Visit Fashion Crimes Podcast for more episodes, fashion tips, and to join our mailing list for exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox. Embrace fashion, stay positive, and join Holly Katz on her journey to doing chemo in style. #FashionCrimesPodcast #ChemoInStyle #SelfCareFashion #HollyKatzStyling | |||
| Designer Spotlight: GG Maull Handbags w/Gretchen Maull | EP 116 | 04 Nov 2022 | 00:38:22 | |
We are so excited to welcome a new guest to our Designer Spotlight Series: Gretchen Maull of GG Maull designer handbags. This is NOT your average designer, nor just another handbag.
Gretchen is an artist and a visionary, and we love having her on our podcast because she has built her business around empowering women and giving joy.
And #sorrynotsorry, but what else is there?
Designed in NY, and carefully handcrafted in Italy by cherished artisans — GG Maull is a handbag brand motivated by spreading JOY, building CONFIDENCE, and inspiring WOMEN.
But how Gretchen started her own handbag design company – and more importantly – why, is the real story.
Get the full episode here!
PRO TIP: This episode requires some visual assistance, so we recommend watching it on YouTube or visiting Holly's Pinterest.
How it started:
Gretchen believes in only having things in her life that "spark joy." She nearly lost her sister to a horrific car accident and came face to face with life's fragility.
She had been in a hospital waiting room for hours anxious and desperate to hear whether her sister would survive, when the doctor finally announced that she would make it through the night.
Her now-husband gifted her with a beautiful pair of black and emerald earrings. At the moment, in the ICU waiting area, it was not something she was expecting, nor felt she could be present for.
But he insisted, "If these bring you joy for two minutes, that's two minutes of joy you need right now." (Host note to ladies: Marry THAT man!)
Why GG Maull was started:
Joy in the face of incredible adversity. That moment laid the groundwork for Gretchen's drive to empower women and equip them to live their lives to the fullest.
She looked around and saw many women in New York struggling to perform multiple roles and responsibilities: building a career, being a sensitive friend, achieving their health and fitness goals, dating eligible partners, having a rich social life, becoming an adult, leading a community, caring for others around them, becoming a solid partner, managing a household, raising a family, taking conscious care of themselves, and being socially responsible citizens.
ARE YOU EXHAUSTED YET???
In these pursuits, Gretchen found the women she came across being weighed down physically and emotionally.
So, she was inspired to take her 10-year experience in handbag design under prestigious fashion labels to create her own brand characterized by functionality, aesthetics, and purpose.
How it's going:
Fast forward five years, and GG Maull now delivers functionality through handbags that can be worn multiple ways, including hands-free, with removable pouches that make it easy to change between handbags, and with even weight distribution.
Gretchen's objective in delivering these unique functionality features is to provide customers the feelings of lightness, freedom, strength and security.
"She observed her husband "preparing" to leave the house with astonishment that all he needs to do is grab his cell phone and wallet."
In contrast, she felt compelled to have a bag that gave women the ability to contend with expectations for the day ahead.
Women fill multiple roles during the day, from perhaps mother in the morning to executive by day to sexy dinner companion or concert-goer at night.
And while these roles certainly bear their respective shares of responsibilities, women don't have to feel anchored down anymore. With Gretchen's "multi-wear" approach, every woman can feel that as her role transitions, so can her handbag. Loving this journey for us!
Gretchen's designs are different because they are versatile. But they also look different because of her passion for the types of leather she sources and her love for all aspects of design: color, texture, uniqueness.
If you wear Gretchen's bags, you are considered one of her "Rebels," because her customer does not live, breathe or dress like everyone else.
A few of Holly's favorite styles:
Power Belt Bag Don't call this a fanny pack, but it's a fanny pack. In the most glorious way! The Power Belt Bag can transition from a hands-free belt bag to fashionable tight cross-body to an evening clutch. #totallygettingthisone
Rebel Holster Imagine the wild west of motherhood, when your hands are full, but you need your stuff handy at your side – well this 'holster' slips over your back and rests two small handbags at waist-level on your sides. You have to see it to believe it! (Hint, go to Holly's Pinterest board!)
Power Tote: To address the age-old challenge of switching between bags, the Power Tote was designed with a removable insertable pouch with magnetic snaps large enough to fit a laptop. It also has an outside cellphone pocket, so you don't spend 20 minutes searching for it in the bottom of a deep bag. (PS, it's also a killer diaper bag). #Finally #ThanksGretchen
Cocktail Clutch: The Cocktail Clutch was designed with unique beaded fringe and Italian snake leather and was inspired by vintage cosmetic cases. It has a silver-plated ADJUSTABLE brass wristlet chain, so your hands are free for cocktails and crudité!
There are just too styles many to love!! As always, Holly has hand-picked her favorites and created an episode board on Pinterest!
Holly and Gretchen talk about so much more than just handbag love. This is truly an in-depth conversation about purpose, women supporting women, being a female entrepreneur - and the powerful impact of choosing to live life with joy as an end goal.
We hope you will listen and come to love and appreciate Gretchen as much as we do! Follow her, support her, become a GG Maull Rebel!
Thank you for joining us again this week. FASHION CRIMES PODCAST 'The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!"
Hosted by your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz!
www.fashioncrimespodcast.com | |||
| How To Style Boots | EP 115 | 28 Oct 2022 | 00:22:12 | |
If you've been following this podcast at all, you will know by now that Holly loves to talk about boots. All sorts of boots – all styles, all heel heights, all brands. Holly Loves Boots...and you should too. She has reported seeing them everywhere at NY Fashion Week in the Fall of 2022, she owns a bunch herself and she almost never gets through a styling conversation without mentioning them at least 10 times. HOW. EV. ER. What we have not yet discussed is "How to Style Boots," which is different from "designers are showing boots right now," and "everyone is wearing boots this season." #FACTS
Example: If you are a woman of a certain age, and you think you want to wear boots that go up to the top of your knees or even to the middle of your thighs, you need to try them on first.
If you have crepey skin that falls over your boot tops, these are not the boots for you. (You know what we are talking about, don't act like you don't!) There is absolutely no reason you cannot wear any style of boot you love. Cowboy boots, vintage boots, the new lug-sole boot. Boots are timeless (if not practical and just fab). What matters is HOW you wear them. (Pro Tip: As always, Holly has curated an episode-specific Pinterest board with all the style suggestions mentioned in this episode. It is always fun to follow along while you listen!) So, let's start with the differences. Boots are usually determined by the height of the shaft, or the amount of leather or material that covers the lower part of your leg.
From there, you will find any heel height in combination with any shaft height. And, as with all shoes, a higher-heeled boot tends to be dressier, with mid-to-low heels being more versatile.
So how do you choose? Well, with some major caveats.
Fashion Crime Alert! Do not wear Hunter rubber boots up to your knees if it is not pouring rain or a hurricane. And do not wear Ugg (we call them Uggggggly) boots if it is not 20 degrees outside. Period. You can walk the dog in them, fine. But these must be worn in. the. cold. Holly does not care what the weather was when you left your house. If it stops raining or it warms up, you better have a change of shoes in your trunk!
And finally, the Care and Maintenance of Boots.
If you're already taking great care of your shoes, most boot companies want you to use a leather conditioner or a non-silicone, waterproof stain protector.
For someone who's new to the boot trend, the care of leather is a learned art. Instead, get to know your local cobbler or find a shoe person. Have your boots waterproofed, regularly cleaned, re-soled if needed, and fix those stiletto heels you keep ruining by stepping into the middle of cracks. Try not to do that, please. In summary, anyone can pull off the boot trend! Just don't go too far out of your reality zone, try boots on before you buy them - and learn to take care of them so you can enjoy this timeless fashion trend forever.
FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!"
Hosted by your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz.
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| Fashion & Politics w/ Political Personality Skye Ostreicher | EP 114 | 21 Oct 2022 | 00:39:02 | |
Didn't your mother ever tell you that certain topics are not appropriate in polite society? Well… beyond sex, religion, and money - are FASHION and POLITICS. What? How can those two words even be in the same sentence? Are you nervous yet? This is a non-partisan issue, people. Regardless of your politics (not goin' there), one thing you should know is that fashion matters in politics (as in everything) and our ROCK STAR guest this week is here to explain it all to you – IN THE MOST DELIGHTFUL WAY! Meet Skye Ostreicher, otherwise known as The Political Personality. (Isn't that the mother of all oxymorons?) Skye is the host of City & State's online video series, Political Personalities with Skye, where she brings a fun flair to New York state and local government-related conversations. Her goal is to interview politicians to bring out their personalities, not their politics. Who knew? Politicians are people, too? She also just happens to love fashion and has built her personal brand on her style choices (in a very male-dominated, opinionated world). Skye's passion is to interview elected officials who determine the future of our democracy in order to humanize the person, not their political positions. And, WHY, you say, would Holly bring THIS to the Fashion Crimes Podcast? (FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!). Because just like fashion, people run from the things they are not comfortable with. "Fashion is your friend, not your enemy." Sound familiar? Well, Skye is here to tell us in this episode that politicians have hobbies, favorite foods, and families they love - just like you. So maybe, if you get to know those in leadership positions as humans, rather than political operators, you just might find that you CAN stomach learning about candidates, political issues, and the people who make the laws in this country – WITHOUT FEAR! Your Hostess with the Mostess, Holly Katz, admits early on that keeping up with politicians is "not her thing." Well, obvi! Who enjoys that, let alone is not scared to death of the entire political system in general? Meet The Political Personality: She then went on to work in government affairs for eight years before being asked to spearhead the Mike Bloomberg presidential campaign efforts for Long Island at the end of 2019. During COVID, which coincided with the end of Bloomberg's presidential bid, unemployed and locked inside, Skye began an online video series on her Instagram profile, highlighting on-the-ground efforts by local elected officials. This series continued to grow into what it is today – after working with a few different media outlets, Skye has nearly 900 episodes total, all with the goal of highlighting the positive work of elected and appointed officials as they navigate the complexities of municipal and state government. She has a passion for connecting people and facilitating positive political relationships. And guess what? We are OBSESSED!! This week, Holly and Skye trade similar stories about stereotypes (politicians must dress conservatively), the mixed signals fashion can give in a professional or political environment – and how fashion can actually be a friend in politics! Gone are the days of Hillary's pantsuit and office outfits. Like everything, what you wear gives signals of who you are as a person and can affect how people view and accept you. Especially in politics. As politicians, if you dress too conservatively, are you out of touch and out of date? If you embrace fashion and style, are you spending your tax-supported salary irresponsibly? It seems to us that they cannot win. However, Skye informs us that if you get to know the person – who happens to be a politician, chances are you might find a way to engage in politics without being overwhelmed. Humanize the human! In this episode, Skye and Holly hash it all out:
By the end – AS PER USUAL – Holly has adopted Skye as her new best fashion friend forever – and now they are planning a political fashion show during NYFW next September. The fashion gods have spoken – and these two shall meet. We loved meeting Skye! Learn more about The Political Personality and Skye's work here: City and State online media: https://www.cityandstateny.com/ The Political Personality with Skye: https://www.cityandstateny.com/topic/political-personalities-skye/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoliticalpersonality_/ Twitter: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOpxxW82euaKmNnaXMlpp-fWcxfkJcv0f FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!" Hosted by Your Favorite Personal Stylist, Holly Katz | |||
| Evan Hirsch | Designer Spotlight | EP 113 | 14 Oct 2022 | 00:37:35 | |
This week, Holly introduces us to an innovative, up-and-coming fashion designer named Evan Hirsch. We want y'all to remember that you heard this name here first, on the FASHION CRIMES PODCAST, because this unique designer is 'transforming' the fashion world. Literally. Evan Hirsch is a 25-year-old fashion designer, entrepreneur, TV personality, stylist, make-up artist, and content creator from New York. He is most known for his transforming dresses, under the name EvanHirschFashion on TikTok, where he posts for over 460,000 followers. His designs have been viewed by over 65 million worldwide viewers and have captured celebrity and the fashion industry's attention. Evan currently creates transforming designs out of his New York studio space is going to have a Made-to-Order collection launching very soon. From Vogue Business: "Evan Hirsch is a young fashion designer who has gained millions of likes on his social media for his transforming, shapeshifting designs, and funny narrative videos. His most viewed videos include a leopard-print shift dress that becomes a gilded gold ballgown or his attempts at recreating CGI dresses from movies such as The Hunger Games and Cruella." Think of a combination of high costume, high drama, and the Transformers, all wrapped into one. If none of this makes sense to you, then you need to listen to every second of this episode! Evan designs and constructs transforming clothing that starts out as one item, and then right before your eyes, completely turns into something else: another type of clothing entirely, a different fabric, a different color, or a different shape. You must see it to believe it! SIDE NOTE: As always, this is the part when we encourage you to head over to Holly's Pinterest board and follow along with the visuals for this episode. You can also see Holly and Evan in person on our YouTube channel! #gettherenow Evan has just come off his first show on the New York runway – but the real story is how he got there. In this episode, learn about Evan's start in the fashion business, his design process, and ultimately displaying his first collection at New York Fashion Week: Evan Hirsch Spring/Summer 2023. YYAAASSSSS Like many in the creative industries, Evan's path to fashion design took him from being a theatre kid to sketching designs and eventually learning how to sew. He worked in the boring, but necessary side of fashion – intern, tech designer, etc. – but longed for more creativity. And then the pandemic hit. He started creating at home and posting on TikTok. And the rest is history, as they say! Well, it wasn't that easy. His new fashion brand is in its infancy, and he still has the business of fashion to tackle, but Evan has incredible ideas and a trajectory – so hwe know he is on his way! And Holly, being the best fashion friend that she is, has offered herself to be his first Met Gala customer. Can't wait for that! #DUH In this episode:
We are so excited for you to meet Evan and learn about his fabulous designs. You can learn more about him at: Website: https://evanhirsch.godaddysites.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@evanhirschfashion Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evan_hirsch/ FASHION CRIMES PODCAST 'The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!"
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| What to Wear to Your Class Reunion | EP 112 | 07 Oct 2022 | 00:20:57 | |
Does the thought of your High School reunion make you want to "respectfully decline"? If you're an extra extrovert, then you're counting the seconds until you and your friends can catch up on all the latest class gossip. If you're an introvert, do you dread seeing your who was actually your best friend when you were seven - but then middle school and boys happened so you fell out of touch? Regardless of how you feel about high school reunions, Holly has one piece of life advice for you: Just Goooooooooooo. Because whatever is holding you back from attending, or getting you so excited that you attend every 5 years, one thing is certain: No matter what, when you know you look good, you cannot have a bad time. It's just simply universal fashion law. You cannot have a terrible time. If you show up looking fabulous, it's impossible. In this episode, your favorite personal stylist (and extra extroverted reunion advocate), Holly Katz is here to make sure you attend your reunion, and she promises to give you all the style tips you need to ensure you have dressed appropriately, dressed better than everyone else (without being over-dressed) and feeling comfortable and confident. #duh This. Is. Going. To. Be. Epic. Did we mention Holly's reunion is in 2 weeks? Note: Be sure to click over to Holly's Pinterest board for all this style inspiration! First Up: Dress Code When it comes to events like these, the dress code on the invite is usually some ridiculously dumb version of "casual." They try to use words like "upscale casual" or "cocktail casual" or "dressy casual". So, if you're confused more than ever, you're not alone. Well for one thing, whatever the dress code, it means you must get "dressed." This in fact means you DO NOT show up looking like you do every single day. Don't make us repeat that. What you wear every day (t-shirts, shorts, golf shirts, flip flops, jeans, etc.) is NOT what you wear to an event like this (or any event. Duh.) According to Holly, and you know she does not mince words, the dress code should actually read: "Put in some effing effort." That is the new dress code. She has taken upon herself to rewrite all the etiquette books to say just that: Put in Some Effing Effort. New dress code alert! Option 1: Dresses Just because you're wearing a nice dress doesn't mean you're sooo dressed up. You are just dressed. You may not even need to run out and buy something new! Holly always loves the dress option because you can dress up a casual dress with just a little zhoosh. Just add extra jewelry, a great handbag or fabulous shoes. Holly loves a moto jacket or blazer. Snazz it up! You can also style a really nice dress down to make is more casual. Just throw a moto jacket or leather blazer over it. This can be worn anywhere! Dress Suggestions:
Option 2: The Jumpsuit We have talked about this look in many episodes, and it is perfect for this type of event. Jumpsuits are dressy, but fun. They can have ruffles and color and they look great on all body types. Holly's personal favorite designer is Badgley Mischka. Option 3: The Bodysuit Another option is a body suit. If you wanted to go with the funky pant route, like sequins, these are great to wear as a top alone, or under a blazer. Option 4: No Jeans Remember, you are dressing up. Not like you do every day. So, while Holly is adamant about not wearing jeans, you can wear a bodysuit or cute top and jacket with a wax-coated or colored jean that does not look like denim. She is giving you a pass on that one! Option 5: Sweaters If you live in a cold or cooler climate, please plan accordingly. Showing up in a skimpy, sleeveless dress usually won't work if you live in the Yukon Territory. Dress appropriately for the weather and season! The latest trend is sweaters with cut-outs that can give a little shoulder that are sexy and fun. No fisherman's sweaters. No sweatshirts. Fun, flirty sweaters are the name of the game. In that regard, consider outwear if you are in a cold climate. NO ski jackets are allowed when you are dressing up. Try a long dress coat over slacks and top. Nothing is chicer than a long coat over pants. Option 6: Lace or Metallics As was noted in the Trend Report episode, lace is really in right now, along with metallics. If you want to do something with a hint of either, your options to accessories are endless. So, what is Holly wearing to her 30th high school reunion? Stay tuned because there will be photos on social. And most likely, will include sequin pants. Send us your reunion outfit questions – and even better – send us a photo of your outfit!! DM us on social or email Holly at Holly@fashioncrimespodcast.com. FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz. | |||
| Jené Luciani Sena, The Bra Expert | EP 111 | 30 Sep 2022 | 00:39:54 | |
Did you know? 85% of women are wearing the wrong bra right now? You need to grab your "girls" and an adult beverage, and get ready to meet our new BFF Jené Luciani Sena, aka "The Bra Expert"! This one is of our more insightful and helpful episodes to date – in our humble opinion – so do not miss it! Get EP 111 here or wherever you get your podcasts. Jené Luciani Sena is an accredited journalist and internationally renowned bestselling author, regularly seen on national TV outlets such as Access Daily, Today, and Dr Oz. Touted as one of Woman's World Magazine's "Ultimate Experts," she's a TED Talk speaker, a podcast host - and a busy mom of four! Her life's mission is to help other millennial moms like herself make it through life with humor, heart, and a proper-fitting bra. Jené made a name for herself as a bra expert and has made a successful career of guiding and encouraging women through their biggest fashion and lifestyle challenges. And guess what? Jené believes helping women look and feel their best starts with the right foundation. If you have been a friend of the podcast before, then you already know this is one of Holly's #1 styling recommendations, which has been covered many times on the podcast. Because this matters, Fashion Friends! As you know, "necessity is the mother of invention," and in the case of Jené, this could not be more relevant. She shares her personal story of needing specialty bras and, frankly, real information on breast shapes and issues during her formative years, which led her to become an expert on finding comfortable and confident bra styles that are unique to each person. Starting with herself! Her career has evolved into fitting and styling women to look and feel their best, and you just cannot do any of this without a proper foundation. As Holly herself has said many times, you will look good only if you feel good! But an ill-fitting bra can ruin even the most expensive or fabulous outfit. Boob rolls, boob tubes, boob-smashing minimizers, and back-fat squeezing bras that are too small will be all anyone will notice – and not in a good way. #seriouslyserious Holly and Jené cover these critical bra topics you need to know:
Along the way, they discuss kids and boobs and books and careers. This is a real-life conversation full of humor and heart – and just some damn good and helpful ideas! We are so honored to have Jené join us. To learn more about her business and the topics she discusses in this episode, see the links below: How to Find Jené Luciani Sena: Website: https://jeneluciani.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/jeneontv Books: https://jeneluciani.com/books Podcast: https://jeneluciani.com/visible-panty-lines-podcast Gem Bras: https://thegembra.com/ Thank you for joining us again this week! Remember to send your fashion questions and podcast topic ideas to Holly – we'd love to hear from you! Follow us on Social, Leave us a 5-Star Review, and Share with your Friends! FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz. | |||
| Fall 2022 Trend Report | EP 110 | 23 Sep 2022 | 00:20:46 | |
Fashion insider besties.....this is going to be epic. So, as you know, Holly spent last week at New York Fashion week, dragging herself from hair and make-up to fashion show after fashion show – ALL FOR YOU......just sayin. Consider this reseach for the greater good, because this is what will determine what YOU will be wanting to wear in the next few months, albeit, translated into real clothes for real people. Here's the deal: Fashion Week previews the art of fashion designers. That art is paraded down catwalks and photographed, and then shared a zillion times on Instagram. THEN, it goes into the heads of mass market fashion producers, watered down to be wearable, and re-interpreted and produced by everyone from boutique designers to box stores. THAT is how the latest trends come to you. So, if you hear Holly talking about a 'windowpane petticoat" do not stop listening. This is a precursor to what is coming your way. Get the latest episode here! If you're not sure how the fashion cycle works, this is a quick fashion lesson: Trends from Europe come over to the United States. They get shown on the runway, and then what's known as the trickle-down effect happens in the market. This means that what's on the runway gets reinterpreted and knocked off by several different companies to reflect what the trends are for that current season for the general public. So, for example, let's say you see a mesh cage petticoat on the runway - which Holly did see - 99% of the people at the show would say: "That's amazing! It's a piece of art. It's incredible! The construction is to die for!" In addition to those comments, Holly would say: "Who is actually going to wear that?" Well, other designers will take that particular style and make an "idea of that style" adaptable to the mass market. It may have started as a windowpane cage petticoat. But then it turns into something that simulates the artistic style. Maybe it's a black skirt with a windowpane print that looks like a structured petticoat with a tulle or crinoline skirt. This would give the idea of the petticoat. One that might go into actual production for a label. "Mass market companies want to emulate a trend so it's adaptable and makes sense for a mass market crowd. If you're more confused than ever, keep listening! Brands that cater to mass markets take the idea of a trend and break it down and make it less scary for us regular folk." – Holly Katz, your favorite personal stylist Top Fall 2022 Trends | See Holly's Pinterest Board for Images:
The first trend Holly loved - and saw at almost every fashion show - was COLOR!! More specifically, pink, purple, orange and highlighter neon colors. This goes for men as well as women. Yes, neon is still here. The brighter and louder, the better. There are so many ways to interpret color. One being taking ONE piece of your outfit, like a shoe, a bag, or a blazer, and pick a color so outrageous, that it stands out as the star of your outfit. Holly saw someone last week in neon yellow everything: jacket, shorts, thigh-high boots, and even accessories. It was not hard to spot her, but for adaptation to everyday life, remember: less is more!!! This look is certainly a conversation starter, and it is a great way to take a fashion risk without getting crazy.
When we say 'crochet," we mean crochet everything: pants, tops, bathing suits, jackets, dresses, everything! When you think of crochet, the first thing most people immediately think of is: "Oh, you can see through it!" Because if the weave is not tight, then you will be able to see through it. However, you can easily work with a crochet top by pairing it with a cami underneath. When you see the crochet dress designs, you can think of two things: wear it over a bathing suit on vacation - or simply wear it with a full slip underneath.
We know that sounds obvious, but denim is all the rage right now! Look for a more relaxed fit that sits lower on the hip. Very loose in the legs. Think of a boyfriend cut or stovepipe leg that is straight all the way down. If you are rail thin, lower on the waist or low rise looks really great. But if you're curvy, you can simulate that look by wearing a mid-rise looser fit. (If you have any additional questions about denim, go back and listen to Episode 65 called "The Deal with Denim and hopefully you can get more specific information.)
There's certainly a way to wear tie dye that looks sophisticated. When wearing tie dye, less is more. Holly has been seeing it more and more with intricate dyeing techniques like ice dyeing and something called Shibori print dyeing. Ulla Johnson had some of the most intricate tie dye designs in her separates and dresses, along with Naeem Khan. Holly was not invited to these shows, (completely rude), but boy does she wish she was. Just a little sidebar for all you insider besties out there that just wear black every day: We know it's super easy to fall into that trap, but for God's sake, try something different for once! Wearing bold out-of-the-box colors is super chic as well.
Now, we know what you're thinking: floral prints... big deal. But no. This is different. This is a giant flower application and larger-than-life flowers. One brand to check out is the shoe brand is called Cecilia New York, by Ashley Cole. She's one of the nicest people Holly has ever met, and she's just got some of the cutest shoes we've ever seen. And for a very decent price point. Pictures from the presentation of course are going to be on Holly's Pinterest board. She has giant flowers on her shoes and we love them so much. For clothing: you must see PatBO who had GIANT flowers on their designs, as well as Markarian, who had beautiful embroidered flowers. Giant applications -which is all the rage right now.
First of all, everything was metallic going up and down the runway: Jackets, Pants, Skirts, Boots – ALL the boots were metallic; especailly at the Tom Ford Show; which Holly attended this season. Remember: When it comes to metallics, wear them with solids, and let the metallic piece be the star!
Hollys love this trend! She really loves a lace moment - but it's got to be done tastefully (just like when you were in High School, people!!). Lace tops, pants, shorts, jackets, skirts, etc. Lace really never technically goes out of style, per se, but when several designers show it on the runway - it is considered "back", and of course, both in neutrals and bright colors alike.
This is cultural styling by international designers who are bringing their cultural dressing to the runway and American buyers. Look for designers like Silvia Tcherassi from Columbia and Raquel Orozco from Mexico. In Summary: Color! Orange, purple, metallics, lace, flowers, giant flower appliques, tie dye, denim, crochet, highlighter colors. There are so many trends out right now. This is what you will soon be seeing in the stores. You can do this! You don't have to do all these trends. Just pick one trend that you like and go for it. If you need more help, remember to see Holly's Pinterest board so you can see some of the trends and how you can apply them to your everyday wardrobe. That's it for this week! Send Holly your fashion trend questions – via email or DM on social! FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed" Hosted by personal stylist, Holly Katz. www.fashioncrimespodcast.com | |||
| New York Fashion Week 2022 Highlights | EP 109 | 16 Sep 2022 | 00:43:53 | |
It's New York Fashion Week, insider besties! This is the SUPERBOWL of fashion just FYI in case you weren't aware. Join us this week as your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz and celebrity stylist Nolan Meader fill you in on literally EVERYTHING that happened at New York Fashion Week, September 2022. As personal stylists, their job is to drag themselves all over New York City from one fabulous fashion show to another, scouting out the latest fashion trends from new and famous designers alike. It is grueling and horribly difficult, but hey, that is why they are "The Best Friends in Fashion You Never Knew You Needed!" They do all the work for you. Now, are you going to be wearing what Bella Hadid walked in at the Tom Ford show? Do you even know who Tom Ford is? If you don't, then you're about to find out! That is why you need Holly and Nolan. They have been there to see it all and take notes. From the before- and after-parties to the big designer shows and the up-and-coming designer presentations – their job is to collect new style ideas and translate them into fashions for their personal styling clients – and more importantly – for the regular people who just want to know what the next fashion trends will be. Grab an adult beverage and follow along on our social and Holly's Pinterest boards and get ready for Nolan to name-drop celebrities from left to right, all day long. This is one of our "Fabulous" episodes where you must listen and laugh. Be sure to click the links to see the designer shows covered in the podcast: Go ahead and explore some new trends! You might see one you love, and can be the first to try out. FASHION CRIMES PODCAST Hosted by Holly Katz, with special guest and our "lady about town", Nolan Meader. #fashion #newyorkfashionweek #NYFW | |||
| Sustainable Fashion with Selina Ho | EP 108 | 09 Sep 2022 | 00:41:48 | |
Welcome back to another fabulous fashion episode covering one of our most important topics – and one we hope everyone is becoming more and more aware of every day - Sustainable Fashion! This week we are SO honored to have Selina Ho, the Founder & CEO of Recloseted, gracing us with her AMAZEBALLS presence on the podcast! She is our new *BFFF, and she will be yours, too! *Best Fashion Friend Forever Selina is a BADASS SUSTAINABLE ROCKSTAR who started an consulting company to help brands transform the harmful practices of the fashion industry. She has gathered a team of all-stars — from sourcing experts to material scientists - and leveraged her own business experience working at startups and Fortune 500s to help "slow fashion" clients get on the path to fashion sustainability. Recloseted is the first one-stop consulting agencies for sustainable fashion brands. They launch and scale sustainable brands and help existing apparel brands become more environmentally friendly. Selina knew she wanted to start doing her part in changing the world after breaking out in a vicious rash while wearing a polyester shirt (poly is made of OIL, eeew) and doing some research which led her to some devastating truths behind the production of garments. Her company is on a mission to transform the harmful production practices of the fashion industry. It's a lofty goal but they hope to accomplish this by launching and scaling sustainable fashion brands in addition to making existing brands more conscious. She and her team may be small, but the mighty Recloseted team is now a force to be reckoned with! The Recloseted motto: Together, let's transform the harmful fashion industry. If that wasn't enough, Selina is also the host of the Recloseted Radio podcast, and the self-published author of "The Recloseted Handbook: Your Sustainable Fashion Guide", a 200-page e-book detailing exactly how to become a stylish yet conscious clothing consumer. #lovingthisjourney What can the normal person do to start being conscious about sustainable fashion?
FACT CHECK: Holly reminds us here that we need to have a Style Plan. You don't go to the grocery store and just pick one of everything, do you? Um, no. You have a meal plan for the week, and you only buy what you need. Only. Buy. What. You. Need. In addition to what you buy, pay attention to where you buy. Shop local and shop small. Vote with your wallet. The big box stores do not need your money (uhm, think Jeff Bezos. Just no!) Entrepreneurs and small businesses do. They really, really do. (Hot Tip: If you find a creator or designer online that you love, be sure to purchase their items directly from their own website versus 3rd party sites like Etsy.) What does "Fashion Sustainability" really mean. For Selina, it means "balance." How do you balance your lifestyle while still taking care of the planet? Find a way to live with more intention. The choices you make every day, big or small, can add up to make a difference. There are many fun and easy fashion sustainable efforts you can try:
What does "Greenwashing" mean? Don't be fooled by appearances. As you start looking for sustainable brands, be aware of something called 'greenwashing'. Many brands promote themselves as being earth-friendly, but in fact, they may only have one product that fits that description in order to market themselves a 'sustainable' brand. #dontfallforit Think of the grocery store again: many items say they are organic or gluten-free…. But are they??? Brands marketed with social or health benefits sell better, so, just make sure who you buy from is legit. "When companies invest more time and money on marketing their products or brand as "green" rather than actually doing the hard work to ensure that it is sustainable — this is called greenwashing." How does a company like Recloseted help fashion companies become better at being sustainable? Selina's group offers various consulting package for new brands – giving all the fashion and the business information they need to be a sustainable company. They tell brands to put their clients first and be strategic and intentional with their products. For instance, instead of buying another sweater. Be intentional and buy from a smaller brand that's more versatile: maybe it can still be worn despite your size changes, or maybe the fabric is transitional for more than one season. Recloseted shares viable production mills and fabric sources, helping brands use fair labor and best practices supplier all over the world. And what is sustainable junk? Is that like space junk? Well, yes. It is. Brands should not make or sell products that check-off all the sustainability boxes if there is no market for the item. This is where brands need to put their customers first: are you producing items that people really want or need? So, even if it is totally green, if no one wants it, they've just made junk. Brands need to instead solve "pain points" or the areas where customers are frustrated and need a solution. Cleaning and care of your wardrobe. When do we know when it's time to let something go? Selina and Holly are of one fashion brain on this one: If you keep your closet clean and organized, you will aways know what you have. Routine clean-outs keep the chaos away! Do your clothes still fit? Do you still love your items? Maybe you could swap with your friends. Just make sure to give your clothing as much life as you can before you finally decide on discarding. What are some of Selina's favorite sustainable brands? Also, don't forget about accessories and jewelry! Look for designers who use recycled gold and lab-grown diamonds, like our BFF of the podcast www.AmandaPearl.com! OK, so AFTER you listen to this episode, please engage with her on social and learn how to have a more sustainable wardrobe. It's starts with just one item. It's that simple. Website: www.recloseted.com Podcast: https://www.recloseted.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recloseted/ Handbook: https://www.recloseted.com/shop/p/handbook Use the code PODCAST for 10% off! Start by taking baby steps, but let's get on the sustainable train together!!! Xoxo, | |||
| What to Wear for End of Summer | EP 107 | 02 Sep 2022 | 00:25:45 | |
So, it's the end of the summer. What exactly does that mean for fashion people when it is still 90 degrees literally everywhere? Can you wear white after Labor Day? Do flip flops go with wool pants? Should you shop the Labor Day sales? Is it a good time to buy summer clothes? Help us, Holly! What in the world do we wear when our brain says fall, but the thermomotor says HOT? Turns out, many people are fashionably confused right now. Just because you are dying for those Pumpkin Spice Lattes to drop at Starbucks does not mean fall weather is here. Regardless of what part of the country you live in, it's still very much summer weather. This week, we are talking about the awkward "end of summer" and how to survive it. You know what we are talking about: Just because you decided to buy a new jacket at a pre-Labor Day Celebration sale last weekend does not mean you can actually wear it yet. We'll get there. How many of us have been tricked by the start of the school year into wearing a bulky new sweater, only to end up melting by 11:30 am? Not only are you miserably hot, but you look ridiculous. Sorry, Boo. It's still 85 degrees. I'm just sayin. Lucky for you, we are here to work it out. We're going to tell you what to wear so you look age- appropriate and on-trend without looking like a fall bumpkin in flip-flops. Fashion Disclaimer: All this style advice is relative depending on where you live in the universe. It's very important for you to know that you have Holly's permission to dress in summer-weight clothing as long as you need, because let's face it, its hot. However, you are going to start watching what you are wearing. You are not going to wear sandals anymore. Nor sun dresses, shorts with tank tops and no flip flops. No more thin spaghetti strap summer tops, or floral miniskirts. We need you to take baby steps. No need to bust out the leathers or the knee-high boots, or especially, Uggs! Ew, no. Nothing is weirder than walking down the street and seeing a person in a scarf and leather jacket right now. We are in what the fashion industry calls "pre-fall' or transition fall. So, what does that mean? It is exactly what it sounds like: clothes that you wear right before the calendar says that it's fall. Which in this case, is September 22nd. What's the secret to Pre-Fall? You transition by mixing a bit of your summer clothes with some lighter-weight fall clothes. It's really simple once you know how to do it. You will be comfortable and stylish with these easy tips: Number 1: Do Not Switch Out Your Closet Seasonally Don't bother with turning over or switching out your 'summer clothes" for your "winter clothes." FASHION CRIME! If you've listened to us at all before, you know you should be keeping your closet organized so you always know what is in your closet. If you have so much stuff that you are hiding sweaters under your bed, go back to EP 106 and listen to "How To Clean Out Your Closet." It is a life-changing episode, trust us. Here's the problem. Let's say you do get your fall and winter clothes out of storage, and then you take your summer stuff out of your closet. You are going to be very upset when you find out some things no longer fit, or are looking ragged, and maybe out of style! Now you are annoyed, because you have a bigger project than you intended and frankly, you forgot what you even had. Just don't do it. It's not a great headspace to be in. You want to be in control of your wardrobe at all seasons. You can't do that if half your crap is in storage. Number 2: What to Wear? (As always, be sure to follow along on Holly's Pinterest board this week.)
Number 3: What about Fall trends, you say? Well, Holly doesn't know yet, because she has to go to Fashion Week and that is not until next week. So be sure to come back an listen to that episode to find out! And finally, Holly's biggest tip of the week is to get your wallet ready, because Labor Day is the best time to buy summer clothes and accessories in sale, y'all! Stores have got to get the summer merchandise out and the full price fall merchandise in. This is the best time to buy anything for summer! Pre-fall is just that. Mixing your summer with your lighter fall items to create a look that says you're ready to transition your wardrobe into the next season. Buy with intention knowing you can wear something from season to season or at least layer with it. Having pieces that can be worn for multiple seasons builds a cohesive wardrobe. From your favorite personal stylist and the only Holly you need to know....Holly Katz "The best friend you never knew you needed in fashion!" | |||
| Introducing THE FINICKY FILLY in Charleston, SC | EP 205 | 18 Jul 2024 | 00:32:51 | |
Welcome back to the Fashion Crimes Podcast, the best fashion friend you never knew you needed!
In this vivacious episode, we continue our series celebrating the flair and entrepreneurship of women-owned fashion businesses in Charleston, SC.
This week, Holly chats with the dynamic Kilby Bronstein from The Finicky Filly, nestled on the historic King Street—a hotspot for fashion and creativity.
Dive into Kilby's fascinating journey into fashion retail and how she brings a unique style to Charleston's charming streets.
NOTE: Be sure to follow along on YouTube this week, to see Holly's exclusive in-store interview and the styles you need to know at The Finicky Filly!
Key Episode Highlights: • The Origin Story:
Kilby delves into how she unexpectedly became a fashion entrepreneur. After her father's passing, she returned to Buffalo and was presented with the chance to purchase her former employer's fashion store and the building it was housed in.
She and her mother seized this unexpected opportunity, transforming it into Half and Half, a boutique that caters to women of all ages, emphasizing a mother-daughter shopping experience.
This store laid the groundwork for her venture into Charleston's fashion scene. • Adapting to Charleston's Market:
Kilby discusses the strategic shift required when she took over The Finicky Filly in Charleston, emphasizing the different fashion preferences between her clientele in Buffalo and those in Charleston.
She adapted to local tastes by sourcing unique, southern-inspired collections and introducing lines not found in other local stores, thereby setting The Finicky Filly apart from the competition on King Street. • Fashion Trends and Customer Engagement:
In Charleston, Kilby focuses on offering attire that appeals to a "daughter to mother to grandmother " demographic, with special attention to creating stylish, comfortable, and versatile pieces that cater to women over 40.
She shares specific fashion challenges her customers face, like the need for dresses with sleeves, and how she curates her collection to meet these needs.
Kilby's approach goes beyond just selling clothes; she builds relationships by understanding and responding to the unique wardrobe problems of her clients. • Cultural Fashion Influences:
Kilby is excited about incorporating fashion lines from Latin America into her Charleston store, highlighting how these pieces bring vibrant patterns, exquisite craftsmanship, and a fresh perspective to her boutique.
She mentions specific countries like Brazil and Colombia, noting their burgeoning fashion scenes and how these styles resonate with Charleston's climate and fashion sensibilities. • Building a Fashion Community:
The discussion also covers how Kilby fosters a community through her boutique by ensuring every client feels seen and valued.
Whether styling someone for a European vacation or a local wedding, she and her staff strive to make fashion a personal and enjoyable exploration for each customer.
Kilby's emphasis on personalized service helps transform first-time shoppers into lifelong patrons who feel connected to The Finicky Filly's community-oriented shopping experience.
Thank You Note:
A heartfelt thank you to Kilby for joining us on this fashion journey and for sharing the rich narrative behind The Finicky Filly.
Her dedication to enriching Charleston's fashion landscape and supporting the stylish needs of women over 40 is truly inspiring!
Listen Up!
As we continue our series on women-owned fashion businesses, we're reminded of the profound impact passionate entrepreneurs like Kilby and the super-hot fashion scene in Charleston can have on local cultures and economies.
Remember, whether you're revamping your wardrobe or seeking that perfect outfit that breaks all the molds, the Fashion Crimes Podcast is here to keep you stylishly in the know - and out of the fashion police's reach!
Keep tuning into the Fashion Crimes Podcast, your ultimate guide to navigating the fashion world with flair and fun, because here, every episode is a step towards being your most fabulous self!
Be sure to SUBSCRIBE, download, like and share the FASHION CRIMES PODCAST wherever you get your podcasts, follow us on social media, and watch us on YouTube.
See you next week! Byeeee!
- Holly Katz Your Favorite Personal Stylist | |||
| How to Clean Out Your Closet | EP 106 | 26 Aug 2022 | 00:28:21 | |
Do you ever wonder what might be blocking your style and holding you back from fashion happiness? Almost everyone makes the same ONE major fashion mistake, and it's called Closet Chaos. There is literally a name for it. This week, your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz holds your hand and guides you through "How to Clean Out Your Closet" (without crying). This episode is fabulously fun and informative, and is just the pep talk we all need! These are the ULTIMATE Fashion Crimes:
The number one reason your closet looks crazy is disorganization. If you think you are an organized person, but you can't find anything to wear or it's taking you too long to get dressed, guess what? You are not organized. Clothes are energy. What you wear and how you feel in your clothes all starts with how they are presented to you every day. You need your clothes to be organized so they make sense to your eye and your brain. If they are hanging in a way where you can't recognize what is what, then you either aren't going to take the time to figure it out, or you will take too much time trying to decide what to wear. Are your clothes in piles on the floor? Stuffed into a tiny closet? Shoved inside your drawers? Messy closets will make your morning dressing routine chaotic, and leave you stressed out before your day even gets started! "Here is an analogy: 'Eat this eat, not that.' Holly heard this on her favorite TikTok feed (where everyone goes for important info). And she had an epiphany! You know what? We all need to be an adult at some point and eat vegetables with every meal." Same goes for keeping your closet organized. Be an adult. 2. Inconsistent Laundry Practices You need a laundry plan: start it, finish it, put it away. Do you forget to put your clean clothes in the dryer? Do you leave your clothes in the dryer for days to get wrinkled? Do you have piles of clean clothes in laundry baskets? Do you send everything, or nothing, to the dry cleaner?
If you answered yes to any of the above, you have inconsistent laundry practices. You need to know HOW to do your laundry: read the care labels, know what to send to the dry cleaner, put your clothes back where they belong, and remember to always iron/steam when needed. 3. Over-shopping Do you know what you have in your closet? News Flash: You do not need to buy a new outfit every time you have an event or occasion. Repeat that to yourself at least once a day. You most likely have what you need in your closet right this very minute! But you can't even see any of it, because of your chaotic closet. Yes, shopping is thrilling! And it often seems easier to just buy something new than deal with issues like a chaotic closet, or the real reasons why you are shopping too much, or spending money you do not have. Do not shop to fill a void. "It could be something as small as a pair of earrings. If you have 78,000 pairs of earrings that are all over the house, and you can't find them, you are just going to buy more because you don't want to deal with finding them." You can stop this madness. And try going shopping in your closet first. More 'stuff' only adds to the chaos. You now know the reasons why your closet needs help and why it could be holding you back on your style evolution. We've identified the reasons why, now let's talk about the solutions. SIDEBAR: If we were to look back at pictures of you from 15 years ago, and you look the same in the exact same clothing, you are stuck in a style rut and you need to clean out your closet. Jussayin, boo! So, how do you clean out your closet on your own?
We swear to God, Holly could scream this from the mountaintops for the next 20 years. You need to change all your hangers. Right the second. Right now. Not yesterday, not in two weeks, not tomorrow. And, you must change all your hangers to velvet, slimline hangers. If you have shitty-ass plastic hangers, hangers from dry cleaners, or plastic tube hangers or wooden, this is your first issue. Please understand that this is the most common issue. And the easiest one to fix!! No matter how you hang your clothes, when you use these types of hangers, they take up the minimum amount of space. You're not only going to save room, your space is going to look so much more organized.
2. Make 3 Piles.
To start, everything comes out of your closet, and then your drawers. Everything. Make it look like you're about to move. Keep: Put on a velvet hanger or back in your drawers...(not overstuffed) Giveaway: Put these items in a bag, put them in your car, and drive them to the donation center. DO NOT leave them sitting around in your home...you will be temped to go back through the bags! Trust me, we've witnessed this..... Sidebar: Please consider people who are coming back into the workforce after jail time, homelessness or poverty, places like battered women's shelters, local churches or religious programs that provide support for refugees just arriving in this country, or anyone who needs aid. Drop off your items at your local community services, and always consider the programs in local your community first. Here's a list of others you might want to consider! Sell: Post on a resale app like Poshmark, The RealReal, or THREDup or you can take them to a consignment store locally. It's super easy and you can make good money. Did we mention that if you leave these items in your trunk or backseat, or in your closet, we will find out? You do not want a visit from the fashion police. Trust us. Throw Away: Do not give items you do not want to someone who has not asked for them. A trash bag of clothing dropped off at your sister-in-law's house just made a bag of junk her problem. This is a major fashion crime. We can hear the sirens from where we are. Do not do it. "Just so you know, before you throw things away, please remember that somebody else can really benefit from bras, socks, underwear, or pajamas. As long as the item is clean, gently used and in good condition."
You must put your clothes back into your drawers and closet in a way that makes sense to YOU. Not to Holly, not to your husband or your partner, or your sister or your kids. YOU. REMEMBER: When hanging things back up...like goes with like. All short sleeve tops, long sleeve tops, short dresses, long dresses, etc. When putting things back into your drawers, store like, with like. Bathing suits and underwear together. Some like socks, sports bras and pajamas together. Even more like workout pants with workout shirts together. Or, sweaters with sweatshirts. Regardless: try to get as much as you can in one drawer - but do not overstuff it. Don't forget......
If you have shoe overflow, this means you have run out of shelf space if you have shelf space for shoes. It also means you most likely have too many pairs of shoes. However, here is the fashion crime: Do not, do not, do not, do not, do not keep your shoes in shoe boxes. Did we say DO NOT? Here's why it doesn't look neater, and it does not save space: Boxes actually take up more room. Do yourself a favor, get rid of the shoe boxes and put your shoes out. Bonus: you can actually see them so you know what shoes you have. You can donate shoes boxes to a preschool for art projects, or please recycle them.
2. PLEASE do not use your closet for a dumping ground. Nothing should be in your closet that does not belong to you. No Halloween baskets, no Easter baskets, no kids' stuff, no diapers, no toys for Christmas. Nothing should be in there that you do not wear. This is a sacred space for YOU. Your closet is not a storage room. So now the rest is up to you! Clean out, clear out, keep it clean. Your brain with thank us, we promise.
Want to really join in on the fun? Holly has a challenge: Whoever has the most garbage bags full of items to give away, send us a pic at holly@fashioncrimespodcast.com Please send a description of what you're giving away, the number of bags you're donating, and the name of the charity where you're donating to. The winner will win an exclusive phone interview with Holly, LIVE on the show, to tell all of our fashion crimes podcast insider besties about your closet clean out experience.
YOU CAN DOOO IT!! FASHION CRIMES PODCAST
Hosted by your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz. | |||
| Exclusive Interview w/ Fashion Designer Nicole Miller!!! EP| 105 | 19 Aug 2022 | 00:40:44 | |
Ladies and Gentlemen, we are BEYOND honored to present the one and only, one of America's MOST iconic fashion designers, the legend: NICOLE MILLER! Join us this week as your favorite personal stylist and the hostess with the mostest, Holly Katz, sits down for an exclusive interview with Nicole Miller, who is celebrating 40 years as a fashion industry trailblazer and innovator this year! Nicole is here to share it all: from her historic rise in the fashion industry to what inspires her renowned designs, and her current views on the fashion industry today. This is a fashion design-lovers episode, y'all, and we are here for all of it. So buckle up! Get Episode 105 here. As always, follow us along on Holly Katz Styling Pinterest boards, and this week, be sure to see the entire interview on the FASHION CRIMES PODCAST YouTube channel. ABOUT NICOLE MILLER: Nicole Miller is an American fashion designer (with a French mother and an engineer father) and a businesswoman who was born in Texas and then grew up in Lenox, Massachusetts. Her iconic designs are elegant with a hint of rebellion. The result is a look is both sophisticated and sexy, with the drape and cut of gorgeous fabrics that always look fresh. In this episode, she tells our Holly that her creations stem from art, her travels, and popular culture combine in unique prints and imaginative uses of color throughout her designs. Innovation, too, finds its way into her work; she has often been the first to popularize a new technique or fabric, including sustainable fabrics such as denim made from recycled bottle caps and plant-based materials. Nicole attended the Rhode Island School of Design and earned a Bachelor in Fine Arts degree in Apparel Design. For a year, she studied at L'Ecole de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. There she learned the art of fabric drapery and classical method of dressmaking. She has previously described the training sessions as "intense," but the course gave much help in fabric manipulation, which soon became her signature style in her designs. Her outfits have been worn by Beyoncé Knowles, Angelica Huston, LeAnn Rimes, Jennifer Stone, Eva Longoria, Susan Sarandon, Brooke Shields, Angelina Jolie, Lauren Hutton, Cindi Lauper and Sheryl Crow, among others. "Nicole's vision is to create sustainable, accessible luxury and premium fashion and lifestyle products for eco-conscious, empowered women and their families who want to look their best, feel good about their consumer choices, and participate in making the world a better place." THE BRAND: The Nicole Miller brand is a global fashion and lifestyle brand headquartered in New York City. Founded in 1982, the iconic brand has grown to be one of the premier names in American fashion. "With an emphasis on signature graphic prints, luxe fabrics and innovative silhouettes, the womenswear collection cultivates a look of elegance with a hint of rebellion while bringing accessible luxury to the modern woman. Known for her skillful draping and unique detailing, Nicole Miller designs every piece for the woman who wants to look and feel her best." In addition to its contemporary womenswear lines, the company has partnered with leading licensees in numerous lifestyle categories including handbags, shoes, jewelry, eyewear, denim, activewear, sleepwear, kids, fragrance and beauty, and home, among others, and can now be found online and in over 1500 specialty and department stores worldwide. The Interview: Fresh off Hamptons Fashion Week 2022, where she was celebrated and honored as one of America's most highly regarded fashion icons for 40 years, Nicole Miller graces our podcast with her wit and wisdom regarding all things fashion! From her deep American roots, to earning her degree at the Rhode Island Institute of Design and studying design in Paris, Holly uncovers all sorts of fascinating facts and insights about Nicole that most people would never know – all of which have blended to be Nicole's secret to fashion design success. She is a force to be reckoned with; her signature style has traditionally been bold colors or black – with interesting cuts on clothes. Her key concern has always been necklines, curves and proportion, with designs that are considered classic and sexy at the same time. She creates cocktail dresses, lounge wear, wedding clothes and form-flattering gowns. She draws inspiration from a number of sources including contemporary art, cinema, 20th century cultures and architecture. Nicole is first and foremost an artist and designer; she is also a skiier both on snow and the water. This outdoorsy and slightly competitive element is perhaps just one of the millions of layers that feed her enormous creativity. She also loves to cook and, of course, travel. Listen to this episode to learn more:
For those of us who grew up with Nicole Miller, to anyone just discovering this marketing maven here, this intimate conversation is a fun and fascinating insider's look at the world of fashion and a legendary designer. And you can only get it here. FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz. | |||
| Best Care & Maintenance for Your Wardrobe | EP 104 | 12 Aug 2022 | 00:21:19 | |
Wardrobe maintenance and clothing care might not be the most exciting topic out there (THAT would be shoe shopping, just FYI…), but nevertheless, we are sure no one needs Holly to point out that there's not much point in buying nice clothes if you're not going to look after them, are we right?
(*She is going to point it out anyway. You're welcome.)
As with any investment, taking the time to properly care for your wardrobe will ensure its value. Beautiful clothes are worth the extra time and care needed to keep them preserved.
So, this week, we are sharing some TRUTH BOMBS and handy tips to help you on your way to crafting a well-maintained wardrobe.
Listen to this new episode here. Follow along on Pinterest and on Social.
And, please: Don't forget to LIKE, REVIEW and SHARE our podcast as much as you can! Thank you!
Anywho…
Here is the goal: Everything in your closet should be: 1. stuff you like 2. stuff that fits you well, AND 3. you know where it is
There are a few different buckets when taking care of your clothes:
No. 1: Organization No. 2: Care and Cleaning No. 3: Maintenance and Repair
NUMBER ONE: Organization
So, let's start with #1- organization. How you store your clothes is part of taking care of your wardrobe. Clothes are energy. How they present themselves to you is very, very important.
So, here's the deal; if you have a shitshow going on in your closet when you open your door, and you don't know where anything is, this isn't taking proper care of your clothes. It will also make you crazy.
No one wants to shuffle through stuff until you find something that's clean or trying on a bunch of shit because you have 12 different sizes to go through. It's not a great start to your day. That is ridiculous. PS: This is where we rant and rave about the value of a professional closet clean-out. Also available in Episode 60. If you need help with what to wear and cleaning out your closet: hire a professional personal stylist. If you need help organizing your kitchen, do not. Hire a professional organizer.
KEY POINTS:
Hangers: Get yourself some non-slip, slimline velvet-covered hangers. Remember Mommie Dearest? Not kidding.
If you have shitty-ass plastic tube hangers, plastic hangers from Target, or wire hangers - or if you're lazy and you leave your stuff in the dry-cleaning poly bags until you wear it – you need to need to stop it right now. All your hangers must be changed to the velvet slimline hangers.
We know exactly what you're thinking, and why you're cussing Holly out right now: What is so wrong with putting the dry cleaning up in the polybag on the wire hanger?
Number 1, it looks terrible. Number 2, you need to welcome the item back and put it on its appropriate hanger where it lives in your closet.
You will also avoid like hanger and shoulder bumps, and it will get it back in its proper place so you can find it again. ' Drawers: If you go through your drawers to get rid of old stuff or the things that you've worn to death, you're going to feel a lot better. If you know what's in your drawers and they aren't over stuffed, this is really going to help you tremendously.
Shoes: Let go of any shoes that are worn to death, or are old or dogged out. Only keep the shoes that you are actively currently wearing. If you haven't worn them in three years, they gotta go.
Another thing: Keep your shoes organized in your closet so you can see what you have, so you can find them, and so that you don't impulse buy new shoes you do not need.
You probably have a pair of rain boots. So no, Boo, you do not need the ones you found on sale with pink duckies. YOU HAVE A PAIR ALREADY. #preach
Final shoe tip: Find yourself a shoe repair guy. Call him a cobbler if you are fancy. But just like clothing, you can repair shoes (and handbags, fyi) and extend the life of the things you love the most. If you take care of your investments, you can enjoy them again and again.
NUMBER TWO: Cleaning Your Clothes
This is simple. You either wash your clothes or you have them dry-cleaned.
When you wash your clothes, you need to do it properly, and then fold and promptly return them to their spots. Over-washing and not reading the care labels can lead to problems and issues. If you want the longest life out of your clothes, and you need to read the care labels.
Do you have a dry cleaner? If yes, are you going weekly? Are you going biweekly, or are you stubborn and you don't go at all? Some people over dry clean to avoid laundry. They just send everything to the dry cleaners. That's a BIG NO-NO. And some just don't go to the cleaners ever, which is not good either. Don't be either one extreme or the other.
Washing vs. Dry Cleaning: Cotton, cotton-poly blends, jeans, workout clothes, unders, socks, pajamas and your kids' stuff should be washed at home as needed. Anything outside of these categories - slacks, dressy dresses, blouses, button-down shirts, jackets, blazers - all these things need to go to the dry cleaner.
Regardless of your method, just know that pressing your clothing is important. Get Holly's favorite steamer, or use the iron in your hotel room. Just don't be wrinkled. Ever.
How often you wash your clothes, the type of laundry products you use, how you dry them – these all add up in the condition and longevity of your items. Knowing how to treat your laundry can be your superpower!
NUMBER THREE: Alterations and Repair
Holly is on her soap box again, so please get the memo this time, because we can't say it enough. If your clothes fit you perfectly, you will always feel better and look better. Find yourself a place for alterations and clothing repair so that everything fits you well – no matter what body stage you are in.
Did you pop a button? Keep it! Does your favorite dressy winter jacket need repairs or buttons before the cold weather hits, or before you go on a trip. Get yourself organized here.
You can find talented alteration people at your dry cleaner, local tailors shops, or at department stores like Nordstrom's.
To conclude: Take pride of ownership in your clothes. It really makes a difference on how you feel about yourself and your clothing. And that really is the point is it not?
You're supposed to feel fabulous in what you're wearing. Why would you wear something that you don't feel good in or that doesn't fit properly? Give your clothes the long life they deserve by taking care of them.
And you know what? Dammit, they're gonna take care of you.
Love, Holly Katz, your favorite personal stylist and the best friend you never knew you needed in fashion.
FASHION CRIMES PODCAST | www.fashioncrimespodcast.com
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| Designer Spotlight: Mimi Prober | EP 103 | 04 Aug 2022 | 00:40:41 | |
Join us this week as we shine our DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT on a rising star fashion designer, Mimi Prober. This episode is a FASCINATING deep dive into one designer's passion for fabric, vintage textiles, sustainable fashion, and creating a brand with a purpose. Mimi Prober has dedicated herself to "the sustainable practices of natural dyeing and design with a focus on textile narratives, preservation, and process - honoring those involved in the creation, from farm to fiber." She is celebrated for her decorative and unique beading, embroidery, and lace designs. "Integrating the artistry of the past and establishing a sustainable future through the reuse of antique materials to create modern handcrafted heirlooms." Founding her namesake label in 2014, Mimi has become known for creations using "forgotten textiles with documented stories to tell from a previous time." So of course, her designs are GORGEOUS and highly regarded! Her collection has been worn by industry icons Chloë Sevigny, Misty Copeland, Erykah Badu, and Rihanna, just to name a few. #JUSSAYIN! And this year, she was just named one of fashion's "Rising Stars" by the Fashion Group International – a BFD, friends! Mimi's bio is vast: she is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, the creator of her own clothing brand, a lover of vintage textiles and fashion (especially rock T-shirts!) and has been a designer-in-residence at the Jill Stuart Gallery at Cornell University. If that is not fabulous enough: Mimi's work is part of the permanent collection at the Museum at FIT, where a collection piece was on view for the exhibition 'Fashion Unraveled.' AND, her creations are now on view at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York for the Costume Institute's "In America: A Lexicon Of Fashion" through September 5, 2022. "Intricate hand embroidery, hand spinning, weaving, and knits in organic natural fibers, antique textiles, and local luxury wools. Created with artisan and women owned natural dye houses, fiber farms, and mills with the commitment to ethical production and preservation. Signature silhouettes include hand knits, motorcycle jackets, draped details, and 19th century inspired workwear reimagined into modern heirlooms." Mimi has long had a passion for finding and preserving fragments that were discarded at some point because they no longer had a use. She sources heirloom antique fabrics from the 18th to early 20th centuries at auctions and markets, and sometimes individuals reach out to her when they've inherited something that holds meaning for them, but they don't know what to do with it. Her philosophy is based on a desire to create mindful pieces and bring to life the stories embedded in them, sharing them with the next generation. "There's so much work that goes into making a garment, consumers don't always realize that it's not automated." "We live in a society where it's so easy to forget about where we came from," Mimi says. "So much is mass produced these days, and it's a whole different mindset. I appreciate the detail from the past." Her company has invested in community engagement, and she has partnered with a female-founded, all-women-run natural dye house in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and a women's lace guild in Kollam, India. A certified sustainable and organic factory in India that makes materials for her ready-to-wear line also provides full funding to all the female employees and their children to attend school. On this episode, Mimi shares her love for sustainable luxury fashion and a deep appreciation for history and handcraft, while your hostess with the most-est Holly Katz masterfully asks all the great questions:
We don't want to give you all the answers here – you need to hear Mimi's voice to feel her passion as an artist and a designer. Her ideas are big and creative, and she gives us so much to imagine and think about. This is one podcast episode you will want to immerse yourself in for a minute and learn about a myriad of philosophies and ideas that you just may not have ever heard before! Mimi Prober's ethereal designs are evergreen, collectible pieces. And her ideas and concepts are intentional and thoughtful. Join us for this refreshing point of view on fashion and the fashion industry. Mimi Prober is an inspiration, and we are so pleased to introduce you! Learn more about Mimi Prober at www.mimiprober.com or find her on Instagram. FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!" www.fashioncrimespodcast.com | |||
| Top Summer Wardrobe Must-Haves, w/ Fashion Stylist Soneca Guadara | EP 102 | 29 Jul 2022 | 00:35:22 | |
What is better than a fashion podcast episode with "Your Favorite Personal Stylist" Holly Katz? A podcast with TWO fabulous personal stylists discussing the 2022 Top Summer Wardrobe Must-Haves! Join us this week as our BFF of the podcast and style expert Soneca Guadara sits with Holly to discuss the top summer wardrobe must haves and how to wear them. It's hot as balls everywhere this summer, but that is no reason to not look great - no matter what the temperature, or your erratic hormones. HOT OFF THE PRESS, GET THIS EPISODE HERE. Soneca Guadara is a personal stylist and fashion expert extraordinaire, who like Holly, has built her career helping women feel beautiful, confident and fabulous at any age. Soneca is the creator of Style by Soneca. She is lifestyle blogger, fashion stylist, proud Latina, and mom to four kids. Hailing from Miami and the burbs of New Jersey (yes, you can say she is a Real Housewife of New Jersey) this fabulous fashionista not only has a keen eye for fashion, but she has amazing taste for interior decor and fashionable entertaining. Soneca is a certified Fashion Stylist from NYC's world-renowned Fashion Institute of Technology, has worked backstage at various fashion shows for NYFW, has her own fashion column for BCthemagazine, is an on-air fashion and lifestyle expert on Unimas for Viernes y Mas, and stays current working with various photographers and stylists where her work has been published in magazines... not mention working with clients helping them with their fashion needs. So, Soneca knows style. First Fashion Tip: First day of Fall is July 5th on the Fashion Calendar Yes, it is the end of July and 95 degrees in literally every town in America (and Europe) right now. But, after July 4th the retail fashion industry switches gears and starts promoting fall fashions. WHHHHUT?? It's true. While you still have boob sweat, the fashion industry has put their summer styles on sale to make room for back-to-school fall styles. It doesn't matter where you live, or how hot it is, you have now entered the fall season. #youarewelcome So, if you are not ready for angora sweaters, leather pants and thigh-boots right now, then you need to be shopping for this summer's hottest sales. Now. Also? Europe is not so fancy in the summer. Soneca starts out telling us about her fabulous travels to Europe this summer. First, it was unbearably hot. Second, even the Europeans take a break from over-the-top fashion so they can simply survive the heat. So, what are the fashionistas wearing in Italy, London, Paris and beyond? They are keeping in SUPER casual and low key. Think livable fashion. Elevated loungewear. Effortless dressing This means styles that can beat the heat and take you from day into night. FASHION TIP: Go to Holly's Pinterest Board now to see many of the styles discussed on this episode. Dresses, comfortable shoes, hats, and handbags that are functional, affordable and appropriate. Helpful Hints:
We are so grateful for Soneca's fabulous style tips! There is absolutely NO way you won't be ready to rock the summer fashion scene after hearing all of their fun and easy fashion secrets! Please be sure to look Soneca up on all of the social channels. Look for Style by Soneca or Soneca Guadara on all platforms! Take it from these two fashion besties; less is more when it comes to looking stylish in the ungodly heat. Stick with these must haves and you will have a cohesive wardrobe that will take you right into transition fall. You heard it here first, folks from the hostess with the mostest, your favorite personal stylist and as always, the only Holly you need to know! | |||
| How to Mix High/Low Fashion Pieces | EP 101 | 22 Jul 2022 | 00:33:02 | |
Mixing High-Low Fashion: what it is and how to do it? This week, we are giving you the 411 on mixing High-Low Fashion: what is it and how do pull it off – and, in addition - our Fairy Gay Mother, Nolan Meader, is back to help us! GET THE NEW EPISODE HERE! A Disclaimer: Holly starts off by saying this is not her usual "Fashion Over 40" style rant. This is a fashion topic for anyone of any age or budget. Most anyone can pull this off! Also: be sure to head over to Holly's Pinterest Board to follow along as you listen. So, this isn't as simple as one might think. There is a way to pull this off that looks seamless and classic; not trendy or tacky. This is something that people started to do then got creative and made how-to videos about it. I will say creating a high/low look is really broken down into two buckets.
If the words "I hate to shop' are in your frequent vocab, this isn't for you. In addition to the advice and style info that we are about to give: This really isn't for a beginner or someone who has just started a style journey. This is for someone who already has great style who is trying to EVOLVE their style. Your style should be evolving with your age. If your style isn't evolving or you're stuck in a style rut, this will be great motivation for you to get that fashion energy moving back in your life. It's kinda like your furniture and your tchotchkes. If you don't move them around occasionally, the energy in the room gets stale. So, let's start there and break it down. Let's first talk about the difference between high-end and low-end fashion items. It might seem obvi, but we want to make sure we are all on the same page. What personal stylists might consider a high-ticket item would be something that starts probably at $500-600 dollar range and up. Low-end would be $100 or less. Anything in the middle say over $150 would be considered moderately priced. This isn't written in stone, it's just what we consider high and low. How to Buy It: If you love to shop but don't know what to shop for, then start here. Designer, high-end pieces can be acquired from stores at full price, or second hand. In the market for a fabulous designer bag? Shop around a little at places like The RealReal and Vestiaire Collective and try to purchase second hand. We've talked about this before, how you can go to secondhand luxury websites and buy something even with the tags still attached. People who want to regularly rotate their wardrobe will buy and sell second hand. It's a great resource for the fashionably fickle person who always wants something new and it's even better for the environment. So that's a great reason right there to shop second hand. When you shop high-end, the best place to put that money is going to be in the accessories. Accessories usually means, bags, shoes, jewelry, belts, scarves, hats, etc. These are the items that you can tell are high-end. You don't want to waste a 'high-end' piece on say like a pair of black pants. You want the high-end pieces to be subtle but recognizable and the low-end pieces to blend with a sense of ease in conjunction with the rest of your look. A person who achieves this look correctly will have someone look at them and not be able to tell which pieces are low end. That's how you pull off a High/Low look! Yay! Buying high-ticket items can be intimidating and daunting, but once you shop around and research what you are looking for, then you will feel better about spending the money. Most people with a financial block around clothes don't see the value of why things cost what they do. There is a reason that things cost what they do, and clothes are no different. Everything from the stitching to the fabric to the actual pattern it takes to make the garment makes a huge difference. This is the reason why we are constantly talking about shopping for fit first instead of for color or for price. When you shop for fit, you will have a better product that you can wear longer. Things that fit better on your body will probably cost you more. Let's use Holly as an example. She has never, ever been a person who cares about bags or purses. She bought what she though was cute at a cheaper price and never gave it a second thought. Once she met Nolan, who is a terrible influence, btw, he taught her why her bags didn't work and how it cheapened the rest of her look. She started to buy higher-priced bags and then really got it. Carrying a nicer bag can make you look much more polished and professional. #truthbomb The next high-end statement pieces are shoes. No matter what your high or low pieces are, shoes are the most telling statement you can make. Fine, high-quality shoes say "high" no matter how "low" you go. #seewhatididthere So, how low should you go? Notice we didn't say how low you can go; we said how low should you go. When you see something cool and trendy, like a T-shirt, that can be low-end. If you are into T-shirts or like wearing them, a great way to shop for them on the cheap is to shop vintage. For example, Rock-n-Roll, authentic tees can be pricey, but something similar like a knock-off band tee is something you can do on the cheap. You can look at vintage stores in your area or look at websites like ThreadUp and Etsy, or even Urban Outfitters has a vintage section. This is a great way to mix it up. "You could put a vintage Rock-n-Roll tee under a blazer with designer jeans and shoes, and a moderately priced bag with costume jewelry. That's a great way to mix high and low." Another way to shop low-end is with denim. Levi's are a perfect way to get a great jean at a great price. There are other companies like Good American and Madewell that have jeans that are priced moderately and have a great product for less. Once you have great basics on the lower end its super easy to mix with high end to create a perfect high/low mix. See my Pinterest board here for more ideas! DOOO ITTTT. Nolan's Note of Week: High needs to be "high" to pull off the High/Low look. Take your best pieces and combine them with a trendy low piece. The focus needs to be on the High. Not the Low. Or he'll beat you with a menu from Cipriani. And we aren't kidding. He was very passionate about this. FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!" #fashion #fashionpodcast #highlowfashion | |||
| 100th Special Episode Featuring Melissa Rivers | EP 100 | 15 Jul 2022 | 00:47:32 | |
Weeelllllll, Fashion Friends – we did it! We made it to our 100th Episode of the Fashion Crimes Podcast! We are so grateful to all our listeners who have cheered us on, downloaded our podcasts and have been such great fans of the show! But enough about that. The real news of the week is our BFD Super-Duper Special Celebrity Guest: Ms. Melissa Rivers! GET THE FULL EPISODE HERE. THE AMAZING MELISSA RIVERS! As co-creator, executive producer, and co-host of E!'s wildly successful "Fashion Police," Melissa shared with viewers her candor, quick wit and meticulous eye for fashion, which she honed throughout her years covering the Red Carpet. Melissa also starred opposite her mother, Joan Rivers, during four seasons of WEtv's hit reality series, "Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best?" Melissa is now a New York Times bestselling author, a podcaster, an award-winning producer, an entertainment journalist and correspondent, an equestrian, an Ivy League graduate, an accomplished public speaker, and an animal advocate. While her professional achievements are plentiful, it is her role as a single parent to her son Cooper that Melissa calls her greatest accomplishment. This week, Melissa joins Holly to celebrate our 100th episode and to update us on her life since the crazy days of the Fashion Police on the Red Carpet with her comedian mother. We also discuss Melissa's newest book, "Lies My Mother Told Me" and her podcast, "Melissa Rivers' Group Text!" As women of a "certain age," Melissa and Holly trade lots of hilarious #facts about fashion and life over 40 (and we mean, wayyyyy over 40). From not giving a "blank" anymore about most things, to what fashion trends one can really wear at this age, you will be enlightened by their fun and witty banter. THE BOOK: "Lies My Mother Told Me. Tall Tales from a Short Woman" was written by Melissa during COVID in response to the crazy times we were in. She was constantly asked, "What would your mother say…" about the state of insanity that thus ensued for 2 years. This is not a biography by any stretch of the imagination. This book is purely satire and a delightful read. Holly shared her 3 favorite parts of Melissa's book:
"My mother once said: No man has ever put his hand up a woman's dress looking for a library card." – Melissa Rivers, remembering stellar parenting advice from her mom, Joan Rivers. THE PODCAST: Also, during the pandemic, like most of us, we were venting and sharing stupid pandemic memes in group texts a simple a way to survive. Melissa turned that same idea into a fabulous new podcast called "Melissa Rivers' Group Text Podcast" where she hosts her celebrity friends, and they talk all the crap they text about – with humor – of course! We are so happy to have Melissa as a fellow podcaster – and Holly invited herself to be on the show at least 1,000 times. I mmeeaan....at least. Check out Melissa's new podcast here. LIFE and FASHION OVER 40: What advice does Melissa have for women over 40? What is a 'yassss' and a 'um, girl no'? What is the best part of getting older? To be blunt, her list was short. Her views on fashion are clear:
CAN THE FASHION POLICE EVER COME BACK? Melissa and her mother Joan, along with others, were part of different entertainment generation. Covering the Red Carpet with a critical eye is from days gone past. While the intent was to not hurt anyone, comedy, humor, and criticism has a very small margin of tolerance, and rightly so. It is the end of that chapter, and time to channel that energy into new project! We are so grateful to have Melissa with us this week – you will just LOVE HER! Download the episode here. And, new this week! You can WATCH the entire episode on video on YouTube! FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!" www.fashioncrimespodcast.com | |||
| Best Bathing Suits for Women Over 40 | EP 99 | 08 Jul 2022 | 00:25:23 | |
Okay, guess what folks? It's summer. You either love getting into a bathing suit, or you absolutely despise it. We hear you. We see you. We acknowledge you. (And for those about to rock a bathing suit, we salute you!) Who doesn't have reservations about what looks good on a body this time of year?
Well, your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz is here to let you know one specific thing: You CAN get away with a lot more than you think these days. If you have not been bathing suit shopping in a while, the technology of a well-constructed bathing suit will be a very pleasant surprise! GET THIS NEW EPISODE HERE! Holly is here for you this week with a good old-fashion Summer Pep-Talk. For those of us of a "certain age," there are A TON of new bathing suit options that will have you on the beach, in the pool and feeling confident and cool! This episode will not hurt, we promise. And to make it even more fun, be sure to follow along on Holly's Pinterest Board to see all of the styles she will be discussing today. DO. IT. Bathing Suits 101 If you are a regular listener of the podcast, you will know by now that FIT is the most important place to start. Shopping for your body type is mandatory, and Holly has literally told you that 99 times. (Most recently in Episode 97!) But just as a refresher: your body type is simply determined by where you carry most of the weight in your body. You either carry most of your weight on your top, your middle, or your bottom half. Do not get caught up in what you think you should be wearing, what you used to be wearing, or what bathing suit you are aspiring to be wearing. Mkay? You should be grateful for all your body does for you. And to stop the negative thoughts. Sidebar: Holly says she must take her own advice on this. She likes to practice what she preaches. So, she is not over here trying to pump you up, and then over there saying that she has a perfect body. Those days are over. Waaayyyy over. So, she has readjusted her priorities when she looks in the mirror. As we get older, we get wiser. Trust this style tip. Bathing Suits for Your Body Type: Your body type is determined by three specific measurements, your bust, your waist, and your hip measurement.
For a one-piece suit, try a one-shoulder or halter that like ties around the neck. This draws attention to your face, and the lines will make you look longer and leaner. Holly's favorites for this body type come from www.swimsuitsforall.com. Favorite swimsuits for this body type:
For this type of figure, Holly's absolute go-to bathing suit company recommendation is www.miraclesuit.com.
Holly's favorite brand for this body type is www.summersalt.com.
Now you know the secret to summer swimsuit success!! NOTE: this episode requires a bit more visual participation than normal. So again, go to Holly's Pinterest Board to see all of these style suggestions. Want to know another secret?? Next week is our 100th Episode. To celebrate, we have a BFD (big fucking deal) super duper secret special guest with us: Melissa Rivers! As part of the original Fashion Police mother-daughter duo, we could not be more excited for you to meet her. DO NOT MISS IT! Got questions? Suggestions for our next episode topic? DM Holly on IG or email at holly@fashioncrimespodcast.com. Happy Summer!! FASHION CRIMES PODACST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!"
#swimsuit #bathingsuit #fashion | |||
| True Fashion Crimes of Holly & Nolan | EP 98 | 01 Jul 2022 | 00:37:06 | |
OMG: Our "Very Best Gay of the Podcast," Mr. Nolan Meader, is BACK this week!
Since it's summer and everyone is sending us "Out of Office" replies (RUDE!), Holly and Nolan decided to shoot the shit about what they have been up to lately, what fashion adventures they will be having next – and for the first time ever – a list of Holly and Nolan's Personal Fashion Crimes!!
Yes, it can happen to even the best of us.
As Nolan loves to say: "Style is a journey. We are constantly evolving our style and tastes, and that is OK. However, it is still fun to make fun the of dumb stuff we do sometimes."
This week's episode starts with a recap of Nolan's fabulous fashion life. He is a busy working gal about town (NYC), styling people near and far (Milan), managing fashion events, eating desserts… you know, important stuff!
Of course, along the way, they do get a bit side-tracked here (look, a squirrel!) with a story about a trip to one of Nolan's favorite designer showrooms: Markarian.
This designer combines timeless design with modern grace, and her clothes are TO.DIE.FOR. They are very dressy designs, and once Holly was in the door, it was game-over shopping!
Other fun events of recent weeks include celebrating up-and-coming designers at the NYC Fashion Group International (FGI) annual "Rising Stars" event. One of our Podcast Besties and past guests, Julie Lamb, was awarded the Rising Star Award for Jewelry Design.
(If you missed that episode, jump over to EP 93 | Julie Lamb NY.)
This daytime event, and dinner afterward with Fashion super stars like Global Fashion Ambassador Ken Downing and more, was a spectacular celebration with the true fashion insiders of NYC!
Finally, Holly and Nolan finally move on to their own Personal Fashion Crimes of late, poking a lot of fun at themselves. What are Fairy Gay Mothers for anyway?? Amiright??
In the words of the legendary Joan Rivers: "When you can laugh at yourself no one can ever make a fool of you."
Nolan's Top Personal Fashion Crimes:
"The moral of the story is: do not irresponsibly spend money while you're still drunk from the night before unnecessarily on a distressed leather trench coat, because how many times am I really going to wear that?" – Nolan Meader, Coat Addict
Holly's Personal Fashion Crimes:
Lessons learned today? Everyone has their own style. What we wear in fashion. A fashion crime occurs when your individual style has a trainwreck with fashion.
(We know that feels like a math equation. Try to keep up.)
So, what is next for our favorite personal stylists? A lot of fashion events, and a lot of travel to Europe: London and Paris to start.
Stay tuned for these adventures and more!! And don't forget: our 100th episode is coming up and we have a mind-blowing special guest. NOT KIDDING!
FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!"
Hosted by your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz, with guest host Nolan Meader. | |||
| How to Dress Right for Your Body Type | EP 97 | 24 Jun 2022 | 00:20:56 | |
Welcome to Episode 97 of the Fashion Crimes Podcast! We cannot believe we are almost to our 100th Episode - and just you wait until you hear who our Mystery Special Guest will be. You. Will. Die.
But THIS WEEK, Holly is bringing us back to reality. Time for some real talk and fashion truth bombs, because NONE (zero, zilch, etc.) of her fashion advice is of any help unless you understand Fashion 101:
FIT IS THE KEY TO UNLOCKING YOUR STYLE POTENTIAL. – Holly Katz, your favorite personal stylist.
Does it seem like we are screaming right there? Well, we are. Holly has LITERALLY talked about proper fit and dressing for your body type for at least 96 episodes (and on her YouTube videos, and throughout her 20 YEARS as a personal stylist…).
So, if by chance you have missed this memo along the way, this episode is all about HOW TO DRESS RIGHT FOR YOUR BODY TYPE.
First: Click over to Holly's Pinterest to see her latest board to see examples of what she is discussing in this episode.
What are body types and why do we care?
A body type means refers to your shape, based on the area you carry the majority of your weight. The goal and getting dressed is to look proportionate.
What does proportionate mean? It means that your top half should match your bottom half - or come very close to it. Some people are proportionate already. But please understand, trust, and believe most people are not!
You create the illusion of being proportionate with clothes. That's what clothes are made for. That is why wearing clothes that actually fit your body is key. So again, and with extra meaning:
"Fit is key to unlocking your style potential. Once you have clothes that fit properly, your style only goes up from there."
Fit is everything. Holly teaches fit first to her clients before anything else. "Fit Before Style."
You can wear clothes from the most inexpensive store on the planet and if they fit well, they look expensive. You can also wear clothes from the most expensive store, but if they don't fit well, they look cheap.
^ This is fashion universal law.
Four Body Types for Women: As Defined and Measured by Your Bust, Waist and Hip
1.) Carrying the bulk of your weight on the top half of your body (big bust, wide back, little butt and hips).
What to Wear:
2.) Carrying most of your weight in the middle, aka, The Tummy. This is when your waist measurement is bigger than your bust or your hip measurement.
What to Wear:
Style Tip: The biggest mistake people make with this kind of body type, is to try to hide your middle. Instead, define your waist. You do have one! Wearing loose and flowy tops over a big tummy just makes you look even bigger.
3.) Carrying most of your weight in the bottom half of your body. Your hip measurement is actually bigger than your bust and your waist. Also known as "Little in the Middle, but I've Got Much Back."
What to Wear:
Style Tip: Your legs will never look skinnier than when you wear a flared jean or pant.
4.) And finally, the no curve body type. Yes, that is a thing for women over 40, and yes it needs to be addressed. You have no butt, you have no boobs, you have no hips, you have no waist.
What to Wear:
Style Tip: Whatever you are wearing, do the "Sit-Down Test." Low-waist jeans? Sit down at home first and see if your crack is out. Short or mini dress? Sit down at home first and make sure crotch is not hanging out. JUSSAYIN.
And for this week's final bit of best advice – as a reminder:
Go Get Fitted for a Bra
Regardless of what body type you have, you must, must, must get a bra fitting every two to three years. Do not guess at your size, and make sure you're fitted by a professional.
This is the most important thing you can do for yourself regardless of how big or how small you are. This changes how you look in your clothes, regardless of your weight or your size.
- If you are large and you want to look smaller, be fitted for a minimizer bra. - If you are really, really small, this does not give you an excuse not to wear a bra, or not to get fitted.
Bra Fashion Crime: You want to know when you need to be wearing a sports bra? When you are doing work around the house or doing sports, or working out. That is the only time when a sports bra is acceptable. Okay? It's called a SPORTS BRA for a reason, because your ass is doing sports. The ultimate fashion crime? So glad you asked: Wearing a sports bra when you're not doing sports, trying to pass it off as a regular bra. Don't. Do. It.
Holly lays out very specific details about why a bra fitting matters, how a bra should fit you and why which bra you wear matters.
… Ok! That's it for this week! You are now ready to shop for your body type, clean out the crap in your closet that doesn't work for your body type AND wear outfits that fit your body type perfectly – no matter what type it is.
"It's not about hiding what you don't like about your body, it's about embracing it. If you get comfortable with what you're uncomfortable with, then your style is going to start to evolve and your style blocks will start to recede."
FASHION CRIMES PODCAST | www.fashioncrimespodcast.com
#fashion #bodytype #style | |||
| FRENCH RIVIERA FASHION | EP 204 | 11 Jul 2024 | 00:20:48 | |
Fashion Besties, welcome back to the Fashion Crimes Podcast! Hosted by your favorite personal stylist and the hostess with the mostess, Holly Katz! Get ready to dive into the luxurious world of French Riviera fashion as we explore the hottest trends straight from the sun-kissed beaches of the South of France. From bold statement pieces to timeless classics, we've got the scoop on the most fabulous styles that will have you dreaming of a European getaway. Listen to EP 204 here! Before we get started, head over to Holly's FRENCH RIVIERA STYLE Pinterest Board to follow along. Key Style and Brand Discussion Points: 1. The Vibrant Vibes of the French Riviera: • High-End Designer Clothes & Accessories: Discover how vacationers in the French Riviera embrace designer fashion with bold statement sunglasses, designer bags, and coordinated day dresses with chic hats. The emphasis is on luxurious, well-crafted items that exude sophistication and elegance. Holly was particularly impressed by the seamless blend of style and comfort, making every ensemble look effortlessly chic.• Thong Bikinis Galore: Holly shares her observations on the fearless fashion choices of women flaunting their bodies, including older women confidently rocking string bikinis. This boldness and body positivity were truly inspiring, showcasing that confidence is the ultimate accessory.
2. Discovering Unique Fashion Brands: • Lucky Lou: An Italian contemporary women's wear brand from Milan featuring statement tops, colorful slacks, and denim dresses. What we loved: their versatile pieces that cater to women of all ages, with bright colors and modern designs that make a statement without compromising comfort.• John Richmond: Edgy and dark with a splash of punk, this brand offers billowy blouses, printed sleeve button-downs, and accessories that will make you stand out. What we loved: A unique blend of high fashion with a rebellious twist, making it ideal for fashion-forward individuals looking to add a bit of edge to their wardrobe. • Maison Montagut: Known for its basics and comfortable travel clothing, this brand offers a classic French Parisian vibe with affordable prices. What we loved: Simple yet elegant pieces that are perfect for mixing and matching, providing a solid foundation for any stylish wardrobe. • Yasa Minochkina: A Ukrainian designer based in Monaco, renowned for her Parisian chic ready-to-wear collection and couture gowns adorned with intricate beading. What we loved: The meticulous craftsmanship and luxurious fabrics, making these pieces perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions. • Cosy Sunday: An Italian brand specializing in the softest two-piece loungewear sets, bathing suits, and so much more. What we loved: They emphasize sustainable, slow fashion captivated by both comfort and quality; ideal for lounging in style while making conscious, more ethical fashion choices. • Elisabetta Franchi: A high-end brand with a comprehensive collection of dresses, beachwear, accessories, and shoes. Known for its fashion-forward attitude and inclusive size range. What we loved: Bold, confident designs that make a statement, perfect for the modern, stylish woman who already knows she looks good. • Five Jeans Paris: French clothing company with a relaxed California vibe, specializing in denim and casual wear, offering inclusive sizing and trendy styles. What we loved: Their versatile and comfortable pieces, especially the unique two-tone flared leg jeans that add a fun twist to any outfit. Be sure to check out Holly's Pinterest board for all the fabulous designers and styles mentioned in this episode. 3. French Fashion Crimes? Just One: • Old men in Speedos, which she deems acceptable as it's a European norm. This light-hearted observation underscores the relaxed and confident fashion culture of the French Riviera.Call to Action: Fashion besties, make sure to LISTEN, LIKE, FOLLOW, and DOWNLOAD our podcast on IG, Pinterest, and YouTube. We are the best fashion friend you never knew you needed! Stay tuned for more fabulous fashion insights and inspiration. Final Thoughts: Thanks for tuning in this week. Follow along on Instagram (@hollykatzstyling and @fashioncrimespodcast) for more updates and fashion tips Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter and grab your copy of "Stop Making These Fashion Mistakes" on Amazon. Until next time, have a fabulous fashion week, and we'll see you back with our "Women Supporting Women" series. Au revoir!
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| Spilling the Tea on Botox with Dr. Tanya Lawson | EP 96 | 17 Jun 2022 | 00:45:26 | |
Welcome to Episode 96! This isn't our typical area of expertise, this is why we called in a PRO. This all falls under the same umbrella of self-image, so read on! In the world of fashion, everyone has their own way of achieving their style goals. This week, Holly explores the world of non-invasive cosmetic procedures with Dr. Tanya Lawson of Inbloom Health + Medispa in New Hampshire. What's the latest? Is it right for you? Does it have to hurt? See? We also apply these same questions to fashion! #AmIright? LISTEN TO THE NEW EPISODE here! First, some background: Dr. Lawson specializes in aesthetic, anti-aging, and functional medicine. Her personalized approach allows her to combine the best in cutting-edge wellness treatments and aesthetics, positioning her to provide her patients the very best care to meet their goals. (Just a disclaimer: the information in this newsletter is NOT medical advice, it is for your information only!!) "Whether it's fashion or medical esthetics, we're really trying to help clients or patients care for themselves so that they can feel their best. It's about empowering patients. It's not about making people feel bad because they look a certain way." – Dr. Tanya Lawson, M.D.
Dr. Tanya's Top Non-Invasive Cosmetic Treatments (zero Fashion Crimes here):
BOTOX: What is it, how does it work Botox is the top injectable treatment of its kind. It's FDA-approved to minimize the look of moderate to severe frown lines, forehead lines, and crow's feet for about 3-4 months. Um, what are you shooting in my face? Botox uses purified botulinum toxin to temporarily relax the muscles responsible for these common wrinkles. With Botox treatment, wrinkles become less apparent. For some patients (like HOLLY), there is a fear of pain, a fear of the medication, and the dread of trying to keep up with it every 3 months. Dr. Tanya dispels the misconceptions of this treatment, and even SPILLS THE TEA on all of the uses of Botox that you may not be aware of: those neck bands, your veiny hands - even your booty!!! #YAASSGURL Dr. Tanya and Holly review all of the "Dos and Don'ts of Botox" so you need to listen up! NOTE: At this point in the podcast, Holly and Dr. Tanya fantasize about having a "Free Styling and Botox Advice" booth in the airport for all the fashion and face crimes they see. It's so easy to ask an expert! Just do it - they are not judging!! Anyway... FILLERS: What's new? What do they do? Over time, skin loses volume. Loss of collagen, sun damage, and more can leave you with a sunken look that impacts your confidence. If you notice that your skin has lost its volume and smoothness, dermal fillers can help. Dr. Tanya explains that fillers have come a long way since the early days of collagen fillers, and primarily now they use hyaluronic acid. Um, what are you shooting in my face? Hyaluronic acid is a natural sugar that exists in our skin that loves water. When you think of fillers, you want to think about it to add volume in areas of volume loss to plump tissue. Typically, you use fillers in lips, cheeks, and jaw lines. Why do we love them? If administered correctly by a professional (ahem, take note), they have an instant result. Patients love them for that immediate gratification. AND, fillers typically last - depending on the product used - 12 months on average. LASERS for Hair Removal Shaving, waxing, and tweezing aren't just time-consuming; they don't reliably give you the silky smooth, hair-free look and feel you want. These days, new laser hair removal procedures are safe and permanent - and less painful - when administered by aesthetic and medical professionals. Ok, so laser hair removal is still not pain-free. But the new generation of hair removal is more comfortable and more effective. Dr. Tanya's Tip: just remember, hair removal procedures are not for those with red, blonde, or white hair. Rrrruuudddeee. WTF ABOUT CELLULITE? Cellulite is often genetic. It's hormonal. There are different treatments on the market that can help reduce the appearance. Dr. Tanya is a fan of using radiofrequency micro-needling. This can help smooth and tighten the skin. It also has certain settings that can help melt fat essentially. When we have cellulite, we have bulging fat cells with fibrous septums that bring it down and creates a rippled appearance. By decreasing fat in the area, you can get more smoothing. Some good news? There is a new injectable treatment on the market that is in its early stages, so be on the lookout! HOW TO LOOK NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL Most of the age-old science is still relevant (no pun intended): 1.) Get enough sleep 2.) Hydrate 3.) Avoid sun exposure 4.) Avoid unhealthy foods and alcohol 5.) Exercise, including building muscle with weights. Bottom line? Listen to this episode, live a healthy lifestyle, be happy, wear appropriate clothing, keep your face out of sun, blah, blah. blah, AND listen to this podcast. Also: Please download, follow, share, write a review, and DM us your style questions!! We are "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed" and we want to hear from you! Hosted by your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz! | |||
| How to Style Summer Hats | EP 95 | 10 Jun 2022 | 00:23:44 | |
This week, Your Favorite Stylist Holly Katz talks hats - and how to style all types for summer. Let's keep it real: It is the worst time of year to add something extra to wear as temperatures are at an all-time high. However, a hat is a really fun way to add an extra zhuzh to any outfit. Even if you feel like you might spontaneously combust at any moment. #fire Here's a nice truth bomb for you: Nothing is more in style than keeping the sun off your face, and nothing ages you more than alcohol and the sun. We know. We hate it too. But dammit, if you're going to be drinking in the sun, then do it under an umbrella and wear a fabulous hat. That's all we are asking. It's not a lot to ask! When to wear a hat, what kind of hat, what do you do with your hair, when NOT to wear a hat! The hat game can be a confusing one. So, let's start at the beginning: "Remember, the hat is the star. So don't upstage it with some crazy ass complicated outfit. – Holly Katz, personal stylist. Holly's Top Hats for Summer (no fashion crimes here):
(Style Tip: go to Holly's Pinterest board to see all these hats and styling ideas!) FEDORA: The classic Fedora is Holly's favorite for summer. It can be made of straw for keeping you cool, and you can dress them up with a grosgrain ribbon or leather hatband around the crown – and even add a brightly-colored feather or sparkly hat pin! She recommends wearing your Fedora by the pool or at the beach with a flowy, sheer kimono over your swimsuit or even over a tank top and shorts. Top it all off with statement earrings, chunky jewelry and a high wedge sandal – PERFECTION! TRILBY: The Trilby hat, which looks like a Fedora, has the same crown, but a very narrow brim. The crown is the shape of a teardrop if that helps. To be more specific, it's the hat Jason Mraz and Bruno Mars wear, and they are both Holly's boyfriends. #truth #duh Since the Trilby is like the Fedora, Holly recommends styling it in a similar way. One chic idea is to wear the Trilby with a crop top (not too short!), a long maxi skirt, and a heeled-mule. BASEBALL CAP: We know what you are thinking: a baseball cap MUST be a Fashion Crime! For sure! But actually, it's not, in this instance. This is a hat that can be dressed up or down. It never goes out of style. When you wear it the right way it looks super chic and fashion-forward. We've seen it styled in so many different ways - from a dress - and we mean a nice dress, like a cocktail dress - and sneakers, to a bright-colored suit and a chunky dad sneaker. Baseball caps can be plain, they can have cute sayings or fun logos on them, and even Trucker hats are back. If you don't dress like a slob, you can pull this off! WIDE BRIM HAT: If you go to the beach, you've seen wide-brimmed hat (which are PERFECT to protect you from the sun. Or, if you've attended the Kentucky Derby or Derby parties, those large, decorated hats are wide brim hats. There are many variations, but mainly they can be floppy or structured. Holly prefers a structured brim. You want it to keep its shape when you are wearing it. The floppy one is more casual, and best for the beach or the pool. For styling, she recommends pairing a hat like this with a crisp white cotton buttoned down for a really cute play on menswear with a high-waisted colorful maxi skirt, and a crossbody bag which we think is a great travel outfit or a day outfit, and you can even wear this into the night. BUCKET HAT: The Bucket Hat was super popular when 'some of us' (ahem) were in high school in the 90s. It's back again and worn by men and women alike. It has been seen all over the runway and beyond for the past few seasons. We are seeing it every turn! It's been shown by Prada and Gucci. And some of the more high-end streetwear brands like Balenciaga and Louis Vuitton. This is probably Holly's least favorite style of hat (#sorrynotsorry), but she will agree that it looks great with the right outfit on the right person! She recommends pairing with denim frayed shorts, a fitted top with a blazer or a jeweled cardigan, maybe a high-top sneaker…. something to make it a little bit more street! Hat Brands We Love:
So now you are ready to be super stylish this summer AND protect your skin and face. We are dying to know how you are styling YOUR summer hats – DM us a photo on social, and we just might feature you! Download, follow, share, write a review, DM us your fashion questions!! We are The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed, and we want to hear from you! FASHION CRIMES PODCAST Hosted by Holly Katz, your favorite personal stylist. | |||
| Summer Office Outfit Ideas | EP 94 | 03 Jun 2022 | 00:25:13 | |
This week, your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz shares some serious STYLE TRUTH BOMBS to help us understand that going back to work after the pandemic means we need to get our office outfit game on! Get this new episode wherever you get your podcasts or listen here. While some of us may have loved the days of working at home and spending extra time with family, others may have felt depressed and secluded. Regardless, many of us slipped into a new lifestyle that helped us feel better – and frankly – who didn't love the new normal of no pants? But now that companies are slowly getting back to work this summer, the everlasting question still hangs over our heads like a sad saggy rain cloud is: What do we wear now? Before you hit the panic button, let's keep it real. Know that you are not alone. Rule #1: The summer dress code requires one thing: Professional attire without looking like you're counting down the minutes to happy hour. You can never go wrong being the best-dressed in your office (or anywhere, FYI)! Rule #2: Is your image holding you back? "It is your responsibility to have a wardrobe that supports your lifestyle at work, at home, that fits your age and your life phase. Whether you're just starting out after college or grad school, or you've been in your career for a minute, your style should be evolving with your age." And, if you're not? You are stuck. The Top 5 Style Blocks:
"When you deplete from you, you deplete from them, because you are the shining example that they see every single day." – Holly Katz So now that we know we need to wear pants every day, and how to break free of the style blocks that cause us fashion anxiety, here are some style tips for what to wear to the workplace this summer. (Before we get started, head over to Holly's latest Pinterest Board to see all these recommendations):
Again, there are plenty of ideas on our Pinterest board for your perusing pleasure. And please let Holly know if you have any questions or if you need to go a little bit deeper into what to wear at work for the summer! Listen to the new podcast episode now! Cheers to summer!! FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz! Pinterest: https://pin.it/59tzTKO | |||
| Jewelry Designer Julie Lamb NY | EP 93 | 27 May 2022 | 00:38:23 | |
How does a talented fine jewelry designer go from working in the jewelry industry to starting her own jewelry design business? Well, this week's special guest tells us it sort of started when her work became the mascot for a close-knit community… Meet our Bestie Julie Lamb of Julie Lamb NY. She is a career designer who received a Metalsmithing BFA from Syracuse University. For Julie it was always all jewelry, all the time - pretty much her whole life. Be sure to listen to this episode wherever you get your podcasts or at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC. After starting her business nearly 7 years ago, Julie Lamb has just been named the "Rising Star" in the jewelry category, winning a prestigious award from Fashion Group International. THIS. IS. A. BFD! And Holly was there to witness it all in person at the event! Julie Lamb NY now has several jewelry designs, but one of her very first items incorporated her namesake: The Lamb. According to her website, the "Be Ewe line encourages individuality in the most playful way with a lovable Lamb logo lets the ewe shine through. Make sure to 'stand out' & 'be herd' wherever you may roam. Or just revel in your badass Black Sheep status, in black diamonds!" How fun is that??? How It Started: Julie tells us a hilarious story of learning how to navigate her new business on social media – specifically Instagram – and did not know the power of hashtags. After posting her first few "Be Ewe" designs using the hashtags "lamb jewelry and "sheep jewelry," she started getting knitters and quilters - and even some sheep farmers - responding! This New York City girl now found herself talking to sheep farmers and knitters, and even had one little customer from Future Farmers of America. They were sweet girls from Texas and other places who wanted Julie's lamb jewelry for their graduations and events. As odd as it was, it was a great learning lesson: she quickly learned how hashtags work! This led in a direction she never could have imagined – a group of knitters invited her to their industry events like the Rhinebeck Sheep and Wool Festival. She feels she was listening to her customers and was happy to go wherever they encouraged her to go to grow her business. It is hard to sell a new jewelry line (or any new product), but she was fortunate to find a separate audience that no other jewelers could play with. She found a community of lovely knitters who were very passionate and supportive. It was a different facet of the business and one that helped her grow. But all knitting aside (just kidding, she does not knit), Julie is now known for her fine CITY, Metropolis and Bespoke jewelry designs. She uses 18K yellow gold, 14K white gold and 14K rose gold for her designs – preferring the stronger yellow tone of 18K. You can see all her work at www.julielambny.com.
How to Start a Business: As an art major, Julie is a bit mad that art schools do not teach basic business skills. Math is not her thing – not that there is anything wrong with that! – but a little accounting and a little Excel spreadsheet work would have been helpful. She recommends that no matter what your product is, or how talented you are, you need to learn basic business skills early on to be successful. Some lessons are learned the hard way, avoid this one. How to Style Jewelry: We all know Holly loves to mix metals, and literally tells us that every week on these episodes. Julie's rule for wearing jewelry is 'the more the merrier!" If she goes out, she piles it on. Julie's Style Tip: for the summer, mix your metals with beads. It's a lighter look, and definitely more comfortable on your skin. Perfect for summer! Got a Turkey Neck? Julie recommends layering longer necklaces to draw the eye down from the neck area. And then add her hoops or statement earrings to draw the eye up to your face, away from your neck. It's a miracle! Julie has so many more fabulous nuggets and insights to share with us that are funny, smart and heartfelt. Be sure to listen to this episode wherever you get your podcasts or at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC.
FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz | |||
| Best-Dressed Wedding Guest, Part 2 | EP 92 | 20 May 2022 | 00:25:12 | |
It's here: "Best-Dressed Wedding Guest, Part 2!" Because our original episode "Best-Dressed Wedding Guest, Part 1," has gotten the most downloads of any episode EVER! So, we are back to giving you even MORE insider information about how to be the best dressed at your next wedding event. (P.S. If you miss the memo on Part 1, please go back to Episode 84. You won't be sorry!) Get the new Part 2 episode now HERE! Ok, to start: Regardless of what type of wedding you attend, let's just start off by repeating the mantra that Holly uses daily with clients: "It never hurts to be the best looking one in the room." Let's say it together now this way: "It never hurts to be the best looking one in the room by being the best dressed one in that room." First, let's go over the foundation of getting yourself together for such an occasion. Details include the following: the dress, shoes, makeup, hair, nails, jewelry, handbag, and a zhush. As always, before we start on the details, in order to help you with the visuals, please jump over to Holly's Pinterest to see this episode's featured recommendations. The DRESS. The 3 Things You Need to Shop For:
SHOES: A wedding is a special event. Wear something special. Not flats. Not tennis shoes. Not even kitten heels. You need to suck it up and suffer and wear nice a high heel. Heels come in all varieties, so you CAN find an elegant, elevated heel that is bearable for a few hours. Try a fancy wedge heel, or a fun block heel. There are options. However, do not ruin your best shoes for any event. If you are at an outdoor wedding (not Holly's favorite venue), then find a shoe that won't be ruined if you get stuck in the mud. Plan and shop based on the wedding venue. Brands We Love:
The HANDBAG: Every woman should have three bags:
Do not bring a medium size bag to a wedding. Do not bring your everyday bag to a wedding. Don't do it. Get your ass a clutch bag. Something fancy. We don't care if it's $12 or $1,200, you can find a perfectly acceptable small bag anywhere that will be dressier for nighttime. (GO TO EPISODE 70 FOR "HOW TO BUY A HANDBAG") THE JEWELRY: Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize. This is the way to bring your outfit up to that 'dressed-up' or 'best-dressed" level. Get some fabulous statement earrings. Clean up your nice stuff so it sparkles. Mix metals! Mix your costume with your real. But please. Please. Please do not wear your Apple Watch to a wedding. If you do, fashion alarms will be sounded, and you will be pointed out in humiliation. This is a #FASHIONCRIME. I will hunt you down and find you. Jewelry Brands We Love: The ZHUZH: A 'zhuzh' is something that adds that one last level of 'bling' or 'zing' or 'ta-dah' moment. This can be your jewelry, a pashmina, your handbag, or your nail polish. However, it better not ever, ever be a puffer coat over your wedding outfit. You have been warned. Okay, that's the secret! Make sure you wear enough to make it look special. And make your outfit look dressy and not for every day. That's the key to wearing something special: it's something that you don't wear every day. Try to look stand out! You be the judge of what's best for you. Holly is just here to light a little fire under your boots. Do something different. The truth: Less is less. More is more. We want you to be the best dress wedding guest! And guess what? You're gonna be, mkay, because we put that in the universe for you. You are welcome! Get the new episode now HERE!
FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz! | |||
| 2022 Met Gala Review | EP 91 | 13 May 2022 | 00:35:36 | |
Hear ye! Hear ye! The event of all events: The Met Gala was here, and we need to take a step back and celebrate fashion's biggest night! Get our latest episode now! Never heard of the Met Gala? Ever been to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City? Doesn't matter. All you need to know is that this is THE celebrity event of the year featuring the most outrageous costumes and looks curated by top designers, which raises money for the The Met's Costume Institute each year. If you want to see all the outfits? Please head over to Holly's Pinterest board and follow along! No matter your movie career, income bracket, or societal stature, it's the coolest of the cool kids that get to go. As exclusive as it is political, to be invited is somewhat equal to being invited to a ball hosted by royalty. You just don't say no. You show up, with bells on. Literally. The theme this year was centered around the "Gilded Age" in American Fashion, focusing on New York's elite in the last decades of the 19th Century, around 1870 to 1900 Think white ties, large hair with hats to match, opera gloves dresses to the floor, and very tightly nipped corsets galore. So, join Holly and Nolan this week to see who understood the assignment, and who forgot their homework. They have graded the papers, and the results are in: A+ Awards: Blake Lively and husband Ryan Reynolds were the co-chairs of this year's Gala. As such, Blake pulled off an epic dress reveal for her arrival on the Met steps, where gala assistants untied the bow of her shimmery rose gold strapless gown by Atelier Versace to reveal a bright blue-green train underneath. Her rose gold opera gloves also changed to blue-green, with her colors paying homage to New York City architecture, her crown paying homage to the Statue of Liberty, and the golden dress design symbolizing the Empire State Building. We. Are. Not. Worthy. Anna Wintour, the Queen of All Fashion, wore a colorful ensemble Chanel which featured a feather-embellished cape, and a long matching skirt that flowed down to the ground. Of course, her outfit was gorgeous, and she even swapped out her classic sunglasses for a TIARA– which she owns! But Nolan is just bored with her same dress profile year after year. Sarah Jessica Parker, as always, was our star student with extra credit and the teacher's pet. Her dramatic Christopher John Rodgers ball gown and exaggerated hat proved she understood the assignment again this year. Probably Nolan's favorite of the night was Bee Carrozzini Shaffer (Anna Wintour's daughter) in in a dramatic, lacy black Alexander McQueen gown. Elegant with a capital E! And Kaia Gerber in Alexander McQueen. She was straight out of a fairy tale. Holly has just become the president of the Winnie Harlow Fan Club. Winnie looked like an absolute angel. Like from heaven. She wore a whimsical white tulle creation by Iris Van Herpen with an amazing headpiece. No one does the Met Gala like Iris van Herpen. No. One. Michelle Yeoh: The epitome of GORGEOUS, and totally age appropriate, she wore a green upcycled silk-faille gown by Prabal Gurung. The piece featured a sharply draped bodice with an off-the-shoulder silhouette, complete with a sweeping skirt with a fluted hem. The elegant ensemble was finished with a dramatic matching cape. Amplifying the glamour of Yeoh's outfit was a show-stopping diamond and pearl Tasaki statement necklace — also designed by Gurung. Thank you, Madame! A++ Alicia Keys in Ralph Lauren. She looked BEYOND in a NYC skyline cape and gown. TO DIE FOR. Another love: Lizzo (and her flute!) in Thom Brown. That Coat! Nolan wants to wear it to Whole Foods. He wants to wear it to the bodega. He wants to wear it everywhere. It took 32,000 man hours to make that coat, and we are here to celebrate it! Awkwafina arrived in a custom Gucci salmon pink and multicolor tulle puff sleeve dress. Holly says she has never looked better! Cardi B. "Goes for the Gold" in Versace– and was very well dressed. Holly loves, not Nolan's thing. The gown was wrapped in Versace gold chains and coins. La La Anthony in an off-the-shoulder burgundy gown: What was the symbolism with her outfit? Holly didn't like it, Nolan said they may be more to the backstory, but these two just could not agree. And speaking of not agreeing, our hosts spend WAY too much time discussing Kacey Musgraves' floor-length Prada gown that featured jeweled embellishments and a low-cut bodice that was adorned with a bow. Musgraves completed her look with black satin gloves, an ostrich fan and plenty of jewels, including a stunning diamond necklace. Holly LOVED!! Who forgot to do to the homework? Billie Eilish opted for a pale green and cream Gucci corset gown, crystal-adorned black choker, and a messy-chic updo. Nolan thinks the color is terrible. And thinks it looks too prostitute-y. That being said, he thinks it is the best she has looked in a long time. She seemed confident what she was wearing. He liked that she was wearing something with a lot of shape and structure and still felt confident and it made him happy for her because he hopes that now she'll be a little bit more confident in herself. What did Holly think? "She looked like she was a madam and an 1800s whorehouse." Allllrighty then! Kylie Jenner made Nolan want to run into oncoming traffic. It was just so bad, in so many ways. "It looks like a sad mix between the bride with no budget and bad taste. A 1950s nurse." Just no. Except, it was so bad, it was good! It was so bad that it has it has sparked a million memes. They are hysterical and all over Instagram and that makes up for how bad that outfit was. It was insulting. NOTE: If you want to honor the late Virgil Abloh of OFF WHITE, you wear one of his great dresses. Not that trainwreck. Period. Camila Cabello in Atelier Prabal Gurung. Nolan says no to the dress. Holly says it looked like a confetti cake with skittles inside. Emma Stone wearing a white knee-length flapper-style dress by Louis Vuitton. Did she draw the Louis Vuitton short straw? Anderson.Paak – no bowl haircuts, please. Ever. Emma Corrin from the Crown in a Miu Miu oversized jacket and shorts with a top hat. Not elegant. Kourtney Kardashian in Thom Browne. She had no clue what the theme was and said so on national TV. RUDE. And the outfit she wore was completely wrong for her body type. Major FASHION CRIME!! And - what about the trend to have influencers invited to this prestigious event? Is it ok, or no? Nolan simply says: "Go Home." Nolan had an interesting take on Shawn Mendes, that may or may not have anything to do with the Gilded Age or Met Gala, but he muses: How long are we pretending Shawn Mendes is straight? We mean…. Really. And OMG: Glenn Close in pink Valentino! We mean PINK! Wow, she killed it, AND got the assignment. Okay, we talked smack about just everybody. If you want to SEE all these outfits, head over to Holly's Pinterest board and you can judge for yourself. FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed" | |||
| Mother's Day Outfit Ideas | EP 90 | 06 May 2022 | 00:23:56 | |
What to Wear on Mother's Day & Outfit Ideas | EP 90 Happy Mother's Day, and Stepmother's Day and Moms of All Types Day!! Because being a mom is the hardest job in the world. Put that on repeat. As you may know, Holly is FAMOUS for helping people plan out "what to wear" for the important events and holidays in their lives. And other than your birthday, Mother's Day is the second most important day in your life. "I'm telling you to be overdressed and impractical. To spend what you want to spend, go where you want to go, drink overpriced wine, and live like it's your last day." – Holly Katz, your favorite personal stylist. In this week's episode, Holly is sharing how to dress and how to enjoy Mother's Day like the Queens that you are! You should indulge. Eat something that's really bad for you - and then drink a lot. Do something different. Dress in a way that makes you feel on top of the world. Lock the door and don't feel bad about it. Be an attention whore. That's one of Holly's many genetic gifts. A need some selfish coaching? LOOK NO FURTHER. (We are just full of the best self-help advice you would ever need this week.) Why is Mother's Day important? Or in Holly's case, Stepmonster Day! Because Moms (this means you) are the glue that holds a family together. They are the most important person in the house. And believe us when we say this - because if you don't - then you should go to a hotel for a week alone, and just see how your family gets along without you. Without your guidance, your instructions and your presence. It would NOT be okay. #GoodLuckWithThat Anyway, back to the program… What You Need for a Mother's Day Outfit: Holly's insider tips and recommendations. As always, be sure to check her Pinterest boards for visuals, links and more ideas:
2. Dresses – Hand-picked dress lengths, types and designers for you need to know! 3. Handbags – The 3 types of handbags you need to own to be ready for every occasion!
4. Jewelry – Less is more. Do not save ANY jewelry for 'special occasions.' Jewelry is made to be worn. And, mix your metals, and mix your costume with your real.
And go see all ideas you will ever need on Holly's Pinterest boards! Wishing you all a wonderful Mother's Day! Get the episode now at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC.
FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz! www.fashioncrimespodcast.com | |||
| How to Pose in Photos w/Andrew Werner | EP 89 | 03 May 2022 | 00:35:22 | |
Do you know the secret to looking good in photos? Is it your outfit? Being naturally photogenic? Being a supermodel? The answer in short is: No. #duh. Check out this week's new episode to get the pro tricks of how to pose in photos from Andrew Werner, fashion photographer extraordinaire! https://apple.co/2XXKHfC Your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz is back with our new BFFF, photographer Andrew Werner, who tells us the inside scoop of his life as a fashion photographer, becoming a new designer of accessories, and the insider secrets of how to look your best in photos. Andrew grew up surrounded by the clothing business and has always had a passion for the arts. This eventually evolved into taking photos professionally, not only of fashion but of the many things his eye found beautiful - from people and products to street styles and red-carpet celebrities. His talent for seeing beauty through the eye of his camera lens has led him to a successful photography career, as well as being known as a knowledgeable style expert. Andrew's knowledge of the camera, lighting, angles, clothing design, body types, and current trends has resulted in stunning and creative photos. And while we love his photos, Holly really wants the dirt on what he's learned as a photographer. How does he coach people to make them look so good in photos? Is there a secret formula the normal person can use? Many people hate having their photos taken. We can feel stiff, uncomfortable, unnatural, or awkward. But Andrew tells us that with some encouragement from an experienced photographer, and something he calls the "sundial approach" - we can all learn how to look our best in photos! But we are not giving away the secrets here! You must listen to this episode at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC or wherever you get your podcasts. In addition, Andrew is now the creator of a most GORGINA new fashion accessory, the designer boutonniere. After seeing so many men on the red carpet in black tuxes – where you cannot truly appreciate the design or fabric of their outfits, Andrew went to his friends in the design district in NYC to get textile remnants to make flower boutonniere pins. He has expanded into all levels of materials, including jewelry, and is excited to give men (and women) new choices in high-style accessories. Learn about his new line, Fleur'd Pins. We can't wait for you to meet Andrew! Get the episode at http://www.fleurdpins.com/ now, or wherever you get your podcasts. FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz! | |||
| Earth Day & Sustainable Fashion | EP 88 | 22 Apr 2022 | 00:26:11 | |
Happy Earth Day, Fashion Friends! Do you want to know one of Holly's top Fashion Crimes? Fashion that ruins the planet. #Ugh #HowRude #NoFashionCrimes #stopit Get the full episode at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC, or wherever you get your podcasts. It does not take a brain surgeon to figure out that if we continue to overuse resources and throw everything we buy into trash piles, we will not have a place to actually WEAR fashion one day very soon. #facts So, in honor of this day, we would like to share Holly's "Sustainable Fashion for Dummies" episode with everyone to help explain what 'sustainable fashion' is, and how everyone can easily play a big part in saving the planet in small ways. #yourewelcome Every day, in our opinion, should be Earth Day. We should be reveling in the beauty that all the Earth gives to us. We should be appreciative and treat it with kindness, and not use and abuse our resources. Responsible sustainability in the fashion industry has been a gigantic, gargantuan topic for the past 20-30 years. While researching the topic for this week's episode, we found zillions of charts and graphs, explaining how much money each country in the world actually spends on clothes, especially fast fashion, every single year. And how much of it gets trashed. The amount of this just in the United States alone will make you cry. Nobody can imagine what "92 million tons of waste" in a landfill actually looks like. Not only do unwanted clothes end up in landfills, but the emissions to produce these items pollute our air and natural water systems. And the faster the garments are produced, the more damage it causes to the environment. Fashion Crime #1 = Fast Fashion For anyone who doesn't know what "Fast Fashion" is, it's literally a 15-20 day turnaround from concept to production. And just as fast as the consumer buys it, it either falls apart and is thrown away, or the trend has already changed. Add to that the transportation cost to quickly deliver what consumers buy each day – and the carbon footprint is now bigger than one of Shaq's tennis shoes. Fun Fashion Fact: The normal fashion fabrication cycle is 4-6 months. That is from design to production to delivery. That takes time and money, but you end up with quality. Not quantity. Understanding what a sustainable product is, especially in the fashion industry, is a real game-changer for how consumers can buy, what they want to buy, and what they actually think they need. Consumer behavior can actually dictate how the planet will be affected, how it will work for future generations, and how much damage will be done. The more we buy, the more damage we cause. Today, suppliers cannot keep up with demand. There is high demand for clothing and luxury goods due to celebrity culture and "the more stuff" culture. We are all guilty of it. But what we CAN do is change our type of consumption: Quality over quantity goes a long way. The facts and the numbers are not only shocking, but it's alarming. What are we thinking when fashion companies brag about numbers like "114 billion garments sold last year" and "$500 billion worth of clothing waste and fabric" in landfills? And please don't fall for the standard BS with claims from stores like ASOS, H&M, Shein, Boohoo, and Zara, who are guilty of "greenwashing," which is saying they carry "some" sustainable items (and market them) to offset the rest of their line, and not practicing sustainable practices the rest of the time. So, what can fashion-conscious people do to make a difference? The answer is to buy smarter: it's called "circular fashion." What is "Circular Fashion?" This term is defined as clothes, shoes, or accessories that are designed, sourced, produced, and provided with the intention of being used and circulated responsibly and effectively in society for as long as possible in their most valuable form, and then return safely to the biosphere when no longer of human use. What does that mean in English? Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repair. #PREACH Reduce:
Reuse:
Recycle:
Repair:
"Donate it to a charity that can use the items of the past person's life to better someone else's life." Where to find sustainable fashion - and is it even fashionable? Do not confuse good design, constructed with quality and sustainable materials, with lower quality fashion. In fact, to achieve this balance is a high form of art (in our humble opinion). Holly has created a new Pinterest board full of gorgeous designs from up-and-coming designers and brands you need to know! Don't be afraid to try new brands, just do your homework by reading reviews and buying what you like. And, finally, if you are one of #BFFFs already (best fashion friend forever), then you will have heard our many past episodes introducing new designers and creators whom we love and celebrate as small business owners and/or their commitment to sustainable fashion: 1.) Paridaez (women's fashion) | Episode 26 2.) Amanda Pearl Jewelry | Episode 37 3.) Vienne Milano Stockings | Episode 42 4.) Titov Label Lingerie | Episode 44 5.) Della Terra Sustainable Shoes | Episode 75 6.) Pari Passu (plus size fashion) | Episode 61 7.) Criscara Jewelry | Episode 64 8.) Closet Clean Out, Part 2 | Episode 60 Get the new episode at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC, or wherever you get your podcasts. FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed!" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist and the only Holly you need to know, Holly Katz. | |||
| What to Wear for Easter | EP 87 | 15 Apr 2022 | 00:22:53 | |
Do you have outfit anxiety? Are you unsure about what people are wearing these days? Does it even matter what we wear now? Get our newest episode "What to Wear for Easter" here. Pro Fashion Tip: Hellleerrrrrrr.....people are wearing pants again. And you need to start making a plan to get out of your workout pants. Today. With the promise of a new spring season, let's take this opportunity for a fresh fashion start! People are going out again. You need to go out again. You need to wear clothing again, and you need to plan for that. You can do it! Holly will help you. Ok, so Easter is upon us. That means Easter dresses and Easter bonnets and new outfits for the whole family, right? But why? Why do people dress up so much for this holiday, and what should you wear to enjoy this happy time of year? First, some history: Literally since the beginning of time people dressed in white or their best clothing to celebrate the vernal equinox, and believed that the possibility of wearing new clothes could bring good luck. This evolved to white linen robes worn during Easter to symbolize rebirth and new life. In Roman times, the Emperors demanded that the court must wear fine new clothing on Easter, which later came to represent the end of Lent. Jump to the post-Civil War era, when Easter started being known as the "Sunday of Joy," as women started to wear happier and brighter colors instead of dark colors for mourning. And then, the late 19th century was the beginning of the Easter Parade in New York City where women paraded down Fifth Avenue and their new clothes for the holiday. The importance of the Easter outfit continues today, albeit with less pomp and circumstance, but it is still a strong tradition today for those who celebrate. Now that we know 'why' Easter clothes are a thing, now you know the 'what' to wear. Holly has a full list of on-trend, age-appropriate recommendations on the show for you this week, and of course as always, you can see all of them on her Pinterest boards.
With so many fun ideas, you will not have one ounce of 'outfit anxiety' after this episode! And finally, Holly gives some major shout-outs to her podcast listeners who have DM'd her with some fabulous, real-life fashion questions. She tells us about "Sandra" and "Lauren" and their fashion dilemmas and how to fix them. Got fashion questions? Ask Holly! She will answer you directly AND make you famous on our very fashionable and prestigious podcast. FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz! Sign up for Holly's exclusive weekly fashion content! | |||
| The Perfect White Shirt – Shirtini on King Street | EP 203 | 04 Jul 2024 | 00:11:00 | |
Welcome back to the Fashion Crimes Podcast mini-series from historic and stylish Charleston! This week, Holly Katz - your favorite personal stylist - explores another gem from her recent trip to a delightful store on King Street called Shirtini. See more at http://www.Shirtini.com. Specializing in a curated selection of women's shirts, Shirtini is all about the perfect fit and impeccable style, all wrapped up in a crisp little shop. *Make sure you watch the corresponding Youtube video for in person interview and all the products discussed!* They are all shirts and no pants! Shirtini's concept is perfect for women of any age, but a friend to those over 40, looking for stylish, versatile, and high-quality shirts that flatter and fit beautifully. Whether you're searching for a crisp white button-down, a chic shirt dress, or unique accessories, Shirtini provides an unparalleled shopping experience. Their focus on different cuts and fits ensures that every woman can find something that makes her feel confident and fabulous. In this episode, Holly sits down with Chelsea Holt, the manager of Shirtini, to discuss her unique offerings and the art of the perfect white shirt. Key Discussion Points: 1. Shirtini's Unique Concept: - Specialization in Shirts Only: Shirtini focuses exclusively on women's shirts, offering a variety of styles from classic button-downs to stylish shirt dresses. - Curated Selection: They feature different brands to cater to various fits and preferences, ensuring everyone can find their perfect shirt. 2. Featured Brands and Styles: - Frank & Eileen: Known for their Italian linen and cotton shirts, offering easy-care fabrics that are perfect for casual and chic looks. - Caliban: An Italian brand that collaborates with Shirtini to create exclusive pieces, including private label options. - Variety in Cuts and Styles: From crisp poplin shirts with stand-up collars to relaxed-fit boyfriend shirts, Shirtini provides diverse styles to suit every body type and occasion. 3. Customer Favorites and Trends: - Versatile Shirt Dresses: Chelsea highlights the popularity of shirt dresses that can be styled in multiple ways—belted, worn as tunics, or as cover-ups. - Seasonal Prints and Neutrals: While they focus on neutrals, spring and summer collections bring vibrant colors and patterns to their selection. - Adaptable Accessories: Ethically sourced leather belts from Brave and locally designed jewelry by Currie add the perfect finishing touches to any outfit. 4. Customer Experience and Fit Solutions: - Personalized Service: The Shirtini team are dedicated to helping customers find the perfect fit, addressing common issues like chest proportions and overall comfort. - Size Inclusivity: Shirts range from size 2 to 14 (XS to XXL), with various cuts to accommodate different body shapes. Closing Thoughts: We cannot emphasize enough the importance of our mission to support small, women-owned businesses through the Fashion Crimes Podcast! Please find a way to visit Shirtini in Charleston, SC or online at http://www.Shirtini.com for the perfect shirt - and stay tuned for more features from our Charleston fashion adventure. A huge thank you to Chelsea for her time and for letting the Fashion Crimes Podcast darken their doorstep. We found Zero Fashion Crimes here—just impeccable style and endless options for every woman! Remember to follow, like, and share our podcast, and catch us on YouTube for more exciting content! Stay fashionable and support small businesses! Follow Us: Instagram: @fashioncrimespodcast Facebook: Fashion Crimes Podcast (https://www.facebook.com/fashioncrimespodcast) YouTube: Fashion Crimes Podcast Channel (https://www.youtube.com/fashioncrimespodcast) Visit Shirtini: www.shirtini.com Tune in over the summer for more exciting episodes from Holly's Charleston series! | |||
| Grammys Fashion Review 2022 | Episode 86 | 07 Apr 2022 | 00:38:41 | |
Heyyy yyoooo! We are baaaaackkkk with another Red Carpet review. This time it's the 2022 Grammys Fashions. There is A LOT to unpack: What we loved, what we hated and who needed a mirror. Nolan, our Fairy Gay Mother, returns with insights that only Nolan can share. As always, we offer our disclaimer up front: strong opinions usually require strong, yet hilarious, language. Get this episode today at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC! Ok, let's go: your favorite personal stylists Holly and Nolan share their LOVES and HATES, and of course, they rarely agree. Holly's LOVES Dua Lipa in a '90s Donatella Versace iconic bondage dress. This was supreme, and no argument here. Tiffany Haddish in a shimmering gold Prada statuesque gown. Tiffany's style is a favorite of Holly's, and this outfit reigns at "Queen" level! Olivia Rodrigo in Vivienne Westwood. Holly LOVES as she is giving off serious Morticia Addams vibes. She's here for it. Nolan is "Meh." Giveon in custom Chanel for men. Nolan is loves this, but not dying over it.. Holly thinks Giveon is gorgeous, and that he is wearing that suit, honey. Chloe Bailey in Valentino with Tiffany & Co. jewelry. She looks like a disco ball, and Holly is all the way here for it. Allison Russell in Delcore. Holly can't say enough. GORG. GIN. A. Nolan basically says nothing…. Saweetie in custom pink Valentino. To. Die. For. Halsey in Pressiat with Tiffany & Co. jewelry. This was a hard "NO" for Nolan. Holly loves a hat moment, a glove moment, a Halsey moment…… Avril Lavigne, on her first Grammys red carpet in 19 years, stunned in a tulle gown that Holly LOVED, but the studded wedge sandals she paired with the dress made Nolan go ballistic. Nolan says wedges are for barbeques in the Hamptons. Period. Holly said that is completely rude. SZA in Jean Paul Gaultier tulle gown. Nolan feels it was cheaply made and looks like it. Holly: LOVING THIS. Cynthia Erivo in Louis Vuitton with Maison Boucheron jewelry. It's a look. Doja Cat in Atelier Versace. Holly thinks it looks like a leotard with a sheer overlay. I mean, okay, girl. However, she can pull it off. Nolan is sick of everyone over-doing every outfit with unnecessary accessories. Her pearl-encrusted sheer overlay was going to make for some uncomfortable sitting. #ouch Chrissy Teigan in pink (Oscars-type gown) from Nicole + Felicia (NOT couture, as Nolan notes). Chrissy always brings it, and this was no exception. Um, Chrissy can call it whatever she wants. Holly loves her, Kelsey Ballerini in Raissa Vanessa. Holly LOVES, OMG TO DIE. Nolan doesn't care. JUST MEH / We Disagree: Jared Leto in Gucci. Must he always be so trampy?? Lady Gaga: she was gorgeous, but missed the opportunity to be edgier, more rock-star. Carrie Underwood: Looks beautiful but dressed for high school prom, or British royalty in Dolce and Gabbana. Lil Nas X In Balmain. And moon boots. Are we done with moon boot yet? Please? Holly's HATES: Justin Bieber in Balenciaga and Hailey Bieber in Saint Laurent with Tiffany & Co. jewelry: his oversized suit is sloppy, and hers looks like a cheap wedding gown. #sorrynotsorry Jonie Mitchell: looks like she is wearing a Johnny Was outfit, which is waayy too Arizona hippy for us in her floral embroidered ensemble. But, at least she showed up! Brandy Carlisle in a custom Hugo Boss suit that screams the "Rhinestone Cowboy" song! But her suit weighed 30 pounds, so we gotta give her some cred for that. Kourtney Kardashian in Et Ochs. Holly says she looks like she needs some sleep. Not impressed. At. All. Travis Barker in Givenchy with Tiffany & Co. jewelry. Again, he looks like one of the "blind mice from the Shrek movie" and also, that he just got out of jail. Billy Porter: Valentino pink, but uggggly purple lipstick. If you are going to wear a statement color, just stick to one. Megan the Stallion in Roberto Cavalli. Cheap-looking fabric, always a big NO from Nolan. Billie Eilish in Rick Owens. Holly HATES it. Nolan almost liked it. He wanted to love it, but the choice of biker boots ruined the moment for him. And that's a wrap, people!! In the end, Holly loves red carpet fashions and all the pomp and circumstance. Nolan felt everyone took 'one step too far' this year. Instead of stopping at "spectacular," many chose to take things too far unnecessarily: over-doing it with accessories, bombastic boots, and clashing colors. Holly loves these opportunities to be judge-y, it's how we learn fashion's rights from wrongs. This is the end of the red carpet season and Nolan is SO happy (it's hard to be a fabulous fashion commentator). Except that we still have the Met Gala to review, and we can't wait for that. Get this episode today at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC! LINKS discussed in this show: See all of the Grammy fashions on our Pinterest Board: https://pin.it/1Hzf5sv Listen to the Fashion Crimes Podcast: https://apple.co/2XXKHfC Holly's Oscars Fashion Review via the AP Newswire: https://apnews.com/article/2022-grammys-fashion-photos-2679a2849f1b9f22f91309ac0c993d86
FASHION CRIMES PODCAST www.fashioncrimespodcast.com | |||
| Oscars Red Carpet Review 2022 | EP 85 | 01 Apr 2022 | 00:41:17 | |
For us, the Red Carpet at the Oscars is the best part of this totally boring annual awards show. And despite all the fireworks of this year (ugh), as always, the celebs brought LOTS of fashion choices to talk about. Hold onto your seat, because Nolan is back, and we are talking about our "Yeses!" and "Girl, No's" of the 2022 Oscars Red Carpet - and we are #sorrynotsorry. Listen to the full episode at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC. First, it was Nolan's birthday week. So we have to hear about all the fabulous food and drinks and places he has been in NYC. He is such a lady about town. It's just exhausting. Then, Holly gave him some very specific restrictions on his fashion commentary, because, well, he can go overboard. So, to start, Nolan loved Mindy Kaling's Dolce and Gabbana one-shoulder dress with a yellow silk-draped sash and skirt. Her makeup was perfect! Holly's point of view? Girl, no. It looked like a leotard with a sarong. Not impressed. At all. Holly's first choice was Maggie Gyllenhaal's Schiaparelli black gown with large gold embellishments - which FYI – are a huge trend right now. She tells us she thinks this gown is a work of art. Nolan? Not so much. Nolan's next fav was Zendaya's Valentino Couture white silk satin cropped shirt, silver organza skirt with all-over embroidery, designed by @pppiccioli and styled by @luxurylaw. She just exudes effortless chic, and we just can't get enough of it! Holly's second fav was Jessica Chastain in a Gucci in a custom tulle gown embellished with sequins and an organza ruffle-trimmed hem. Holly loved this dress because she just looked so different than everyone else, and she was gorgeous. Duh. Our first controversial outfit choice comes from Nolan and Amy Schumar's Oscar de le Renta custom navy and black velvet bow gown with shattered crystal embroidery. While the dress says 'red carpet,' Nolan wished she would have put on a fucking pair of earrings. Because "if you can have an haute couture designer make you a fucking dress, you can put some fucking earrings on it!" (Nolan had a few strong feelings about this.) Next, even though Holly has no idea who Sofia Carson is, she loved her a Giambattista Valli Haute Couture 21 dress. Holly loved the Cinderella ball gown aspect, the on-trend one-shoulder, and sheer fabric. This hit all the boxes for Academy Awards, folks! As for the men, pretty much everyone agrees that Simu Liu in a red Versace tuxedo took the cake. LOVE. HIM. To be honest, from this point on, things sorta turn the way of Joan Rivers – and it is hilarious. Nolan is on a roll because a.) he is hungover from his birthday, and b.) he really knows high fashion and a lot of the celebrities just got the assignment wrong. We have two recommendations for you:
Enjoy the show!! Listen, Download, Share and Review! FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed," hosted by your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz! | |||
| How to Be the Best-Dressed Wedding Guest_ EP 84 | 25 Mar 2022 | 00:19:53 | |
OMG! Did you know that there is a 2-year backlog of weddings after the COVID pandemic? This means that you will be invited to 400% more weddings this year. WHAT?? Welcome to the "Wedding Boom," y'all!
Whether it's a black-tie event or a fun backyard family get-together, Holly is here to keep you from panicking by telling you exactly "How to be the best-dressed wedding guest!"
Get the new episode here now: https://apple.co/2XXKHfC
If you need to know what to wear and how to wear it, believe us, you came to the right place. This week we cover traditional and non-traditional wedding attire, how much you should be spending, and how to create a killer outfit from your existing wardrobe.
Your favorite stylist, Holly Katz, dishes out a bunch of different scenarios of wedding events: time of day, dress codes and outfit ideas.
Let's be honest, it would be great if we could all wear something that we already have in our wardrobe. If you have a ton of to choose from in your own closet, Holly will always recommend that you start there. Always, Always!
Event Number One: Cocktail Attire The 6 p.m. wedding with dinner and dancing, and the dress code says "Cocktail Attire." Is that black-tie? No.
So let's start with the dress code. Cocktail dress code means nighttime, dressy dress, something that you would not wear during the day. And this is where it gets a little confusing, we are not gonna lie.
Can you wear sequins? Yes. Can you wear sequins during the day? If you're Holly? Yes. Can you wear said sequins for a cocktail wedding and make it a nighttime look? Absolutely.
It's all in how you style it. There are some very clear examples on Holly's Pinterest board of amazing dresses, and even a couple pictures of Holly as well, of course, for your viewing pleasure.
Can you wear an evening dress? Yes.
Can you wear a daytime dress or a casual sundress? No.
You need to aim to look dressier than you would look during the day. This is very important for people who don't have a dressy lifestyle, or who don't have a wide variety of dresses in their wardrobe.
Final note on Cocktail Attire: The key is to look special. Get something that makes the evening dressier than you would normally dress. It could be fabulous shoes and evening bag, or just your jewelry that can be bigger and flashier and fancier than normal.
Insider Stylist Tip: Shop for fit, not for price. We know that price needs to be consideration, however, you need to be shopping for fit first.
Holly calls this little formula "Shopping forward vs. Shopping backward." This is actually in her corporate styling presentation.
When you shop backward, the fashion crime is when you strictly shop for color or price. This is the ultimate way to do yourself a huge fashion disservice.
Translation: don't buy shit because it's on sale, thinking you'll find somewhere to wear it one day. That's how you end up with clothes in your closet with tags on them. Don't shop without a plan or shop aimlessly spending money on things that are not right for you.
That is shopping backward. You don't need this fashion crime!
When you shop with a purpose, when you know your body type and you buy something because it fits really well: that is shopping forward.
Event Number Two: the 4:00 PM Outdoor Wedding This is one of the hardest time slots to decide what to wear. When in doubt, be on the more dressy side.
How long does the four o'clock wedding go? Until sundown? That would be beautiful!
Until 10 PM? Then is it a sit-down dinner? It may not technically be dinner, but may be heavy hors d'oeuvres?
So, you have cocktails, you may or may not have seating, and you may be standing on your feet for a long time. Consider your shoe choice and the temperature after the sun goes down.
Any-who, there will be people who are just as dressed up as you, and some that are much more casual. Who is right here? Holly thinks it can honestly be interpreted either way. But again, she recommends being dressier than not.
Dress brands Holly mentions in this episode and recommends:
Hot Tip: If you are hard to fit, and ordering online, order one size up!! If you are unsure of the fit, if you don't know the designer, or if you don't know the brand - save your sanity and order one size larger.
Event Number Three: the Afternoon Wedding When the dress code says something super douchy like "smart casual" or "uptown chic" and you have zero clue that that is, join the clueless club. People don't know what the fuck that is. Right?
Translation: look nice. Don't read that much into it.
However, do not choose comfort over style! You can sometimes, but in this instance, do not, especially for a wedding. A wedding is special.
It never hurts to be the best-looking person in the room. And if we have to suffer with foot pain, we have to suffer. It's the circle of life. Okay? It's not that serious.
Just know that when you're walking in this type of situation, you need to error on the side of looking dressier than not.
Event Number Four: the Formal Wedding This is the easy one. Formal means black-tie for men and evening gowns for women. If you do not have these items in your wardrobe, try Rent the Runway or shop sale items at department stores.
You can splurge here, but make sure it is a dress that fits you perfectly and is one that you will wear again and again.
A well-fitting, age-appropriate formal gown never goes out of style - and you will always need at least one in your adult life.
Want to know "How to be the best dressed wedding guest?" Hit Holly up! She has solved all of your wedding guest dress problems on her Pinterest board and social media!
Get the episode here: https://apple.co/2XXKHfC
FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed"
www.fashoncrimespodcast.com | |||
| How to Style Shorts | EP 83 | 18 Mar 2022 | 00:19:41 | |
Our Fashion Friends wanted to know: How does a woman of a certain age wear shorts? It's too cold in the Northeast; it's spring in the South. How does a girl style shorts – and more importantly, should she? Your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz recently received a styling request (who even knew that was a thing, but it is now!!) from a dedicated fashion friend - and we are here to answer it: How To Wear Shorts? Get the latest episode here: https://apple.co/2XXKHfC Obviously we all 'know' how to wear shorts. You put one foot in, you put the other foot in… But at a certain point in a woman's life, or in a specific season, are shorts a Fashion Crime or not? Well, it depends. Like many women, Holly was a bit self-conscious about her legs and showing them off in shorts until HER personal stylist, and our fairy gay mother, Nolan Meader told her she was being RIDICULOUS. There are many ways to wear this very stylish and comfortable item that can work for all ages, all body types and all seasons. What Holly loves about shorts is that they can be super casual or super dressy, depending on how you coordinate everything together. The type of shoes, accessories, and legwear you add to the mix can make all the difference. And yes, you can totally wear shorts in the winter and year 'round. Now before we go any further, everything we are talking about on this episode has been posted on Holly's Pinterest board called "Holly's Hot Picks, Spring Shorts." To help visualize this conversation, go to https://www.pinterest.com/hollykatzstyling/hollys-hot-pics-spring-shorts What are the different types of shorts? If this is a trend you would like to try, we always have to go back to the drawing board and figure out what your body type is - and what type of shorts will look best on you. The type of shorts that will look best on you will probably not look best on someone else.
Which shorts are right for you? Here is your free fashion tip: Short-shorts are a Fashion Crime for most humans. Short-shorts are NOT appropriate for anyone, unless you are 6-feet tall and 19 years old. Write this down for anyone who might need to know this. How to style shorts so you can wear them year-round:
Don't be afraid of your legs. As Holly always says, "The first step is awareness." Know your body type. Dress for the season. Accessorize. Cover your butt. Do you have fashion questions? Drop us a DM on social at https://www.instagram.com/hollykatzstyling/ Do you need help with your personal style? Then you need Holly! She is the best fashion friend you never knew you needed. She is happy to help clean out your closet, help you shop, and ultimately make fashion your friend, not your enemy. Send her email at holly@hollykatzstyling.com
"The best fashion friend you never knew you needed" | |||
| Client Confessions: Melissa Donovan | EP 82 | 11 Mar 2022 | 00:36:44 | |
We are baaaaack with another jaw-dropping episode from our "Client Confessions" series, this time featuring one of Holly's rockstar students, Melissa Donovan. Melissa is a professional nurse and lactation consultant, a fulltime mom, a Cub Scout volunteer, a child chauffeur, a "Today Show" guest, and now, a new fiancée! OMG -You gotta hear how it all came to be. Get the new episode now at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC or wherever you get your podcasts! "You heard it here first folks: If Melissa D. can get her act together and find another husband, dammit, then you can too!" – Holly Katz
In this week's episode Holly introduces us to her star client, Melissa Donovan. They met years ago when Melissa was working endlessly as a nurse teaching lactation to new moms, she had recently been divorced and had two boys to raise. She was in the weeds, y'all, and for any of you who have been there, you know what we mean. #DeadOnHerFeet #CanYouRelate? We are going to warn you that this hilarious episode has even MORE swear words than ever, because the two #BFFFS talk a lot of truth about life and love. Real life stuff that ends up being really funny, and with the happiest ending EVER. Picture Melissa who lived in scrubs and Crocs 24/7. She was in the hospital at all hours of the day and night, meeting with new moms in stressful situations, wrangling her own children, volunteering as a Cub Scout leader, and starting over as a single mom. Her motto is "Jesus, Scouts, Sports" - and always in that order. So, she had a lot on her plate! And as we hear TIME AND TIME AGAIN, she allowed zero time for herself. But as per usual, your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz came to the rescue! Melissa tells us every detail of the good, the bad and the ugly of some their first styling meetings. And it was a lot of the bad and the ugly. From her closet full of Easter baskets to her bath tub full of toys – this poor girl had no space or time for herself. Working night shifts and being a single mom took everything she had. Doing something for her own well-being was actually below the bottom of her list. So, things started to slide - like how she was feeling. She felt like crap! And you want to know why? The minute Holly started asking her a few hard questions, in a second, she knew why: - Why are you wearing your work scrubs at home after work or on non-working days? - Why do you wear crappy scrubs that cost $18 dollars when you have a grown-up professional job? - How come you can't brush your hair? - Where do your kids take a bath if your bathtub is full of crap? - Where are all of your clothes if your closet is full of Easter baskets?
We told you it was tough love and tough talk. But Melissa is so awesome – and so damn funny - that she laughs through the entire story, even though she says they had some pretty good fashion battles. my Holly eventually convinced Melissa of a few critical wardrobe dos and don'ts:
The result? Melissa says this was the beginning of her life turn-around. She was a single mom, she was working too much, and her weight was fluctuating due to lack of sleep and self-care. But, with Holly's help, she did learn how to shop, how to buy clothes for her current body size and shape, to clean the shit out of her closet (it all went into the tub, but, oh well!), AND she bought the perfect special occasion dress for that 'someday.' And you know what? It manifested itself. Her someday came! She was at the hospital one day, and everyone gathered around her and surprised her with the news that she had been nominated for and won a Daisy Award: a national recognition program that honors the super-human work nurses do for patients and families every day. Not everyone gets this award, so this was completely BADASS. And guess what? Instead of having a panic attack in her crappy scrubs, Melissa was already prepared! She had gone to a real store that sells professional medical clothing, and eventually even bought a pair of Vince Camuto scrubs! And, because she took Holly's advice (begrudgingly) and had a great dress in her closet, she was not the least bit worried about receiving her award when it was time. She got to enjoy the moment. Imagine. And it just gets better from there. She was asked to appear on the TODAY SHOW of all things, and you know what? She knew what to wear! No stress! (Except for the live TV part.) So, Melissa started wearing actual clothing that fit her well and helped her to feel better in her non-work life, including camping trips with the Cub Scouts and at her sons' baseball games. While all the other moms wore yoga pants and bed-head, Melissa wore real pants and cute outfits! And. Guess. What? She met a guy. At the baseball field. When she did not look like she had just rolled out of bed. And the rest is history. Her and her beau are engaged, and the next chapter is when Holly styles her wedding. We cannot make this shit up, fashion friends. Fashion is your friend, not your enemy, especially if Holly whips you into shape with all the love in the world. Get the new episode now at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC or wherever you get your podcasts The FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed"
Hosted by your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz
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| Spring Trends & Milan Fashion Week | EP 81 | 04 Mar 2022 | 00:34:56 | |
Our Gal-About-Town, fashion bestie and stylist Nolan Meader, is fresh off of Milan Fashion Week, as we live vicariously through him, and we all may never recover from it! Join us this week as we talk about his very glamorous trip and then jump right into what you need to look out for in this Spring's style trends! Download and follow us at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC, or wherever you get your podcasts, because, guuuurl, we are EVERYWHERE! So, OBVI, Milan was fabulous. Nolan was there 'werking,' which means he was styling a client for a massive photo shoot. If you don't follow him on IG already, get over there and just take a look at his fabulousness! He tells us all about Milan street style (very dressy) and the food (he might mention the food 800 times), and then about some of his favorite Italian fashion brands and the fashion shows. Holly was 80% happy for him, and she meant that. Really! But because we are your best fashion friends (#BFFF), we are also here to give you the inside track on what to look forward to in this Spring's style trends. Be sure to jump over to our Pinterest Board to see photos of all of these trends:
"They are now wearing very low jeans, butterfly tops, with butterfly belt buckles. Please understand that these trends are for a much younger crowd. And I certainly can't get away with my ass hanging out in low-rise jeans. They were ugly when they first came out. And now they're even worse, because they're back a second time" – Holly Katz
Shows and Shopping and Stuff:
And in other global news... Holly and Nolan are probably going to Milan Fashion Week next year, so Save.The.Date. Holly is so excited that she is already planning it all out: You can drink in public, you can walk around drunk, it's fine. You can wear sequins to breakfast. It's just what it is. Everyone wears big sunglasses and carries overpriced bags. It's just a level of chicness that noone even knows – and we CANNOT wait! We're doin it. We going global. Watch out. Fashion is what you wear, style is how you make it. – Holly That's it. Download it, share it, live it, love it!!! Get us at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC today! FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz, with super special guest host, Nolan Meader.
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| NY Fashion Week 2022 Wrap Party - Part 2 | EP 80 | 25 Feb 2022 | 00:30:42 | |
NY Fashion week was SO AMAZEBALLS that we had to record a Part 2! So buckle up buttercups, open up your Instagram app to the Fashion Crimes Podcast IG page, tune in and hang with us to join in on all the fun! We are the best fashion friends you never knew you needed, and this week we are sharing the ultimate Fashion Super Bowl. (Um, you're welcome!!) LISTEN HERE: https://apple.co/2XXKHfC, or wherever you get your podcasts! So, after the first 3 days of Fashion Week, the chaos and hilarity continues with Holly and Nolan seeing more fashion shows, tracking down more designers and brands you need to know, and we get to live vicariously through Nolan and his fabulous celebrity client Candance Bushnell, whom he was styling this week. (#beyondfab) Oh, and we hung with out new fashion bestie, Michelle, the lovely author of the blog, Over Fifty and Blessed! She. Is. Fabulous. Fashion shows discussed: Monday: Markarian NYC Tuesday: Jojo the restaurant, The Art of Rodarte Show, the Asian Fashion Collection Wednesday: Claudia Li ANNDD of course, The Blonds which Nolan went to and Holly went home to go to sleep. Alrighty then. In between things, it was freezing in NYC so Nolan gave in and bought the winter coat of his dreams, sort-of on impulse while on a date. Now, if you have listened to our How to Buy A Winter Coat episode, you would have heard Nolan specifically talk about planning for big purchases, making smart fashion investment decisions, all why not blowing the budget! Check out his new Canada Goose down coat here! Your favorite personal stylists then share their favorite people and places in NYC to wine and dine, which of, course they did. (DUH) And Nolan tells us/doesn't tell us that he is on his way to a secret fashion project during the upcoming Milan Fashion Week! (But you didn't hear it from us.) Follow him along on that journey on his IG, because it's FAB-U-LOUS!!! We are so 80% happy for him. Remember, "fashion is your friend, not your enemy!" We are here to help you navigate the overwhelming world of fashion and style, especially for women over 40 – and we mean, WAY over 40. Be sure to catch us at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC or wherever you get your podcasts!! FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed," hosted by personal stylist Holly Katz | |||
| New York Fashion Week Recap Part 1 | EP 79 | 18 Feb 2022 | 00:28:21 | |
What is UP Fashion Friends? We are fresh off of New York Fashion Week for the Fall/Winter 2022 shows. And by "we," we mean Holly AND Nolan: The Fashion Dream Team is down to give you the scoop on this season of shows to report on what's hot, what's not...in not one but two episodes. #yaaasss Join us for the trials and tribulations of trying to make it through NYFW, because the struggle is real, y'all! Listen now at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC Your favorite personal stylist Holly had to be dressed, and on ON-POINT every day, we never knew what designer shows they were actually going to get into until the last minute, then it SNOWED and it was not convenient for Holly's wardrobe choice on that day. But, she worked it out...not to worry. Meanwhile, Nolan was styling for Candace Bushnell (#werk) all week (the American author, journalist, and television producer who wrote a column for The New York Observer that was adapted into the bestselling "Sex and the City" anthology – she is the OG Carrie Bradshaw!) – while Holly had to get herself photographed by Getty Images - AND record a podcast episode. Whew, are you tired yet? Because then there are parties to attend, friends to meet up with and drinks to be had. It's hard being fabulous 24/7. In all honestly, the reason we suffer through Fashion Week is so that you don't have to! We are the best fashion friends you never knew you needed - and now you see why. #BFFFs We are here to set you straight on Fashion Week. The purpose of our attendance this week is to get the scoop on new trends, new designers, and new STYLES FOR YOU! Not everyone is built like a model and can buy designer clothes. #DUH. But stick with us, and we will help you translate what we see on the runway into what you can actually wear! First a disclaimer: Nolan may or may not have gotten out of bed for this recording, which only makes it all the more fabulous. Anyway, Holly and Nolan take us through the shows they attended, the designers they loved, and what they wore for each event. Of course, there were star-sightings (Tan France), wrong directions taken (backstage uninvited) and accidental photo ops (Christian Cowan) to round out the fun! Shows Attended: The Art of Rodarte Exhibit and Talks The Asia Fashion Collections Of course, Nolan takes us through the list of his own FAN-TABULOUS outfits of the week, the designers he loves, the parties he attended, and the shows he got into but Holly did not. #RUDE They saw everything from models falling on the runway to VERY popular influencers (that we have zero clue who they are). It's always a people-watching event and a great opportunity for #FashionCrimes. Queue the squeaky Psycho movie music, please! We have all of our favorite new styles on Holly's Pinterest Board, and have saved the best daily updates on our story highlights on Instagram – so get your laptop open to all of the photos and follow along on this week's spectacular episode! FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "The Best Friend You Never Knew You Needed in Fashion" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz, with a guest appearance by celebrity stylist Nolan Meader. | |||
| What to Wear for Valentines Day | EP 78 | 10 Feb 2022 | 00:21:28 | |
Look, whether you love it, or love to hate it, Valentine's Day is right around the corner. And we are not here to have a say on either way, buuuutttt.... if you are going to celebrate the Day of Love, then let's get you dressed. Just keep in mind our usual disclaimer and warning: Don't you dare let us catch you wearing a red heart sweater that lights up, or carrying a cupid-shaped purse. No novelty crap for "funny" t-shirts. These are FASHION CRIMES, and we will call you out for that. #sorrynotsorry Instead, just listen to Holly! #Duh. We say it every week: "We are the best friend you never knew you needed in fashion." And? Please repeat after us: "Fashion is your Friend, Not Your Enemy!" In this week's episode, Holly tells us all about the AMAZEBALLS Pinterest board she has set up just in time for Valentine's Day outfit planning. If you can't figure out what to wear after seeing all of her recommendations, then we need to call 911 for you. If you are going to get dressed, then do it with intention! You need to think this through from head to toe. What is the weather like? It's winter in most places, correct? So, put some damn clothes on that make sense. And, not every day is a home run, A special occasion like Valentine's Day is an easy way to experiment with fashion! Wear something you normally wouldn't wear like a fun accessory, or a really cool shoe - something that can really elevate your look. Play with Fabrics: One idea is to experiment with different fabrics. Holly's picks for fab fabrics are:
In the words of Stacy London, who used to be a stylist and is Holly's style icon: Color, pattern, texture, and shine are the things that you need to try to aim for when you're creating a cohesive outfit. Choose a velvet pant, a colored jean, a bomber jacket or a silky top and mix them with your favorite pieces. Oh, and by the way, fabrics like velvet are super COMFY, y'all! Move Beyond the Sneakers: ALERT: You now need to wear shoes! Since COVID, we've only worn sneakers, but that is not gonna cut it if you are getting dressed if you're going somewhere fancy. And, if the thought of stilettos horrifies you - like it does everyone - not to worry, try these options instead:
New Designers You Need to Know: Remember, a special occasion is your ticket to try something new! As always, Holly has hunted down some new designers just for you – and has examples of all of them on Pinterest. (PS: You will only get this insider intelligence here, folks! "Best Friend You Never Knew You Needed in fashion," remember?) FE NOEL | www.fenoel.com Fe Noel is a women's wear designer from Brooklyn, "Eat well, travel often, and dress to inspire!" In other words, make life beautiful. The label's founder, Felisha "Fe" Noel, is deeply influenced by her Grenadian heritage and has mastered the ability to bottle up culture and glamour influenced by sensibility and sensuality. What Holly Loves: "Fe is so cool and so fun. She is original and authentic, and her clothes are really unique. I have gained whole new respect for her because she is very different from anything I have seen before. Since Fe's inspiration comes from the Caribbean islands, you will find a lot of resort and swimwear and bold and colorful patterns." UNDRA CELESTE | www.undracelesteny.com Undra Celeste is a modern multicultural women's designer. She designs clothes that invoke confidence and an unapologetic presence. Undra Celeste New York is the perfect mix of professional dressing and statement dressing. The goal is to empower multicultural women to show up to work feeling like their authentic selves exuding confidence by providing modern, fun, and bold workwear. What Holly Loves: Oh snap.... she's done it again…. Holly found a new bestie to stalk! In fact, she has already DM'd this designer to warn her that they WILL be #BFFFs by tomorrow. Holly loves this line, to say the least, "They have really great contemporary styles that are perfect for work or going out, and at a really good price point. She has statement clothing, dresses, sweaters, and outerwear - it is just really different and really cool!" SANDY LIANG | www.sandyliang.info Sandy Liang is a New York fashion designer inspired by her Chinese roots. Liang gains fans with asymmetrical silhouettes and tomboyish look and approaches her creations by looking into her cultural references. NYC native Liang started her label after graduating from Parsons in 2013. Inspired by grandmothers in Chinatown where her father runs a restaurant, she tapped her own grandma to model on her website, wearing Liang's signature oversized coats, including a black patent leather jacket trimmed with white shearling that retails for $2,400. Vogue and Elle have covered her designs and she sells in more than 50 stores worldwide including Nordstrom and Saks. What Holly Loves: "Liang has some amazing pieces that I love and that will be perfect for Valentine's Day. She has a very layered aesthetic where it kind of looks like two different tops or two dresses that are meshed into one super cool look. You gotta look her up. The brand is super funky and fun. It's kind of like downtown chic tulle skirt meets 1940s Peter Pan blouses and Mary Jane shoes." The Final Touch: A Handbag As we've said before, you do not go out on the town with your day purse. Leave your fat wallet and tote bag stuffed with coupons and receipts in your closet. #PREACH Because getting dressed means accessorizing the right way! Holly recommends something small enough to hold in your hand, or maybe a small bag with a chain. It's for lipstick and a phone - and that is it. It also needs to be cute. #duh
You don't need a designer bag (although Holly loves her YSL). Check out some options at great price points here. Need a little more inspiration? Go back and listen to some of our fan-favorite episodes! How to Buy A Handbag | Episode 70 How to Buy A Winter Coat | Episode 73 What to Wear for New Year's Eve | Episode 72 Happy Valentine's Day, or Galentine's Day, but no matter what, Love Your Self Day! xoxo – Holly Katz, your favorite personal stylist, and let's face it, the only Holly you need to know. FASHION CRIMES PODCAST www.fashioncrimespodcast.com | |||
| Real Client Confessions | EP 77 | 04 Feb 2022 | 00:35:03 | |
Did you know? Your favorite personal stylist actually helps REAL people every day? Uhmmmm, hellllleerrrrrrr? #DUH Our hostess with the mostest Holly Katz styles all kinds of people: professionals, busy moms, women over 40 (and we mean WAY over 40), post-baby, during baby, empty-nesters, men, teenagers… There literally isn't anyone who does not need a Best Fashion Friend Forever, and that is exactly who Holly is. Your #BFFF. In this week's episode of "Client Confessions," Holly introduces us to Nancy, a long-time client, busy attorney, and mom. There was a time, (pre-Holly of course) that Nancy did not take much stock in her wardrobe and did not consider that "what to wear" was a concept that might matter to her. #WHAT? LISTEN HERE: https://apple.co/2XXKHfC Picture this: A successful real estate attorney has Baby Number 1 and then Baby Number 2 (darling boys by the way), who decided to pivot and work on her own as an advisor while working from home. Add to this taking care of infants, cooking, cleaning, laundry twice a day…. You get the drill. #ugh #soundsterrible And guess what? There was no time for Nancy. As you know, Holly does like to say: "If you don't give to yourself first, you have nothing to give others!" There are a million ways people say this, but if mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy. And being happy means you need to feel good about yourself first. Fast forward 5 years where Nancy found herself wearing the same old T-shirts and jeans that were 2 sizes too big from her post-maternity days. And she may not have realized it at the time, but she did not feel so great about herself. She also didn't know that Holly would become the best friend in fashion she never knew she needed. #tagline Nancy eventually went back to work full-time and now runs a badass legal company of her own. Lucky for her, she had met Holly at a hip-hop exercise class nearly 10 years ago, and the two formed a professional relationship while twerking on the dance floor. It was during this time that Holly started nudging Nancy to take stock in her wardrobe and how she was feeling. They started building a wardrobe for all stages of Nancy's life and BOOM, when she went back to work, she went back with confidence and with style! And just what does "style confidence" mean? It means:
"Nancy is now cashin' checks and snappin' necks!" Nancy raves about the difference this process has made in her life. She gets up each day and is ready to work and take care of her family – WITHOUT the stress of "what to wear." She is confident, comfortable, and frankly, damn tired of people stopping her on the street to ask her about her cute outfits. It does hurt to be fabulous! #jussayin' Nancy now sees the importance of a solid wardrobe in her role as an attorney and a woman. She needs to be a leader, a legal counselor and an employer every day, and how she presents herself is directly correlated to how she feels about herself: confident and strong. People do take stock in how you look and how you present yourself. Show that you are a leader and a professional, and people will believe you! These two BFFFs are hilarious as they talk about wearing real clothes in real life with real kids, clients, and even the bitchy PTA volunteer or two. Do you or someone you know need help with your wardrobe? Be sure to download our podcast, follow our social and Holly's Pinterest boards. Or, you could also just DM Holly! LISTEN TODAY: https://apple.co/2XXKHfC Join us every Friday! FASHION CRIMES PODCAST Hosted by your favorite personal stylist and the only Holly you need to know, Holly Katz | |||
| Petite Style with Angela Foster | Episode 202 | 27 Jun 2024 | 00:39:48 | |
Fashion Besties! What is up!?! Welcome back to another fabulous episode of the Fashion Crimes Podcast! Did you catch last week's episode with Andrew Warner? He was absolutely fabulous, and his tips on posting photos were on point. #listennow But this week - do we have a treat for you! We are diving deep into petite fashion with the amazing petite style coach Angela Foster! After 20 years as an executive in fashion and beauty, Angela now helps high-achieving petite women create closets filled with clothes that fit, flatter, and elevate their style as they age. Let's welcome our new fashion bestie, Angela Foster! Before we get started, remember to find this episode wherever you get your podcasts, and watch us on YouTube!
Key Discussion Points 1. Understanding Petite Fashion Challenges • Short Girl Problems: Angela discusses the common issues petite women face with off-the-rack clothing. Sleeves are too long, jackets hit in the wrong spot, and miniskirts end up looking like knee-length skirts. Shopping can be a frustrating experience when nothing seems to fit just right. #annoying • Angela's Expertise: Angela shares her journey from helping a friend rediscover her style post-pregnancy to becoming a sought-after petite style coach. She emphasizes the importance of finding clothes that fit well and make you feel confident.2. Body Shape and Proportion • Body Shape First: Angela emphasizes the importance of understanding your body shape as the first step in building a wardrobe. She guides her clients through identifying their body shapes and selecting styles that enhance their best features while avoiding those that don't.Example: Her five-step Spark Style Method helps clients identify flattering silhouettes and proportions. For instance, if you have delicate shoulders and a perky bust, understanding this can help you choose styles that add volume where needed and keep other areas clean and tailored.• Proportion is Key: Proportion is critical for petites because there is less vertical space to work with. Wearing proportionally balanced clothes can prevent you from looking shorter and wider. Example: Angela advises against wearing oversized styles on both the top and bottom. If you want to try an oversized skirt, balance it with a fitted top to avoid looking frumpy. #facts 3. Building a Versatile Wardrobe • No Panic Shopping: Panic shopping, especially when under time pressure, often leads to purchasing items that don't fit well or flatter your body. Angela advises her clients to refrain from shopping or purging their closets until they clearly understand their body shape and wardrobe needs. Example: Instead of rushing out to buy new clothes, Angela suggests evaluating what you already have and understanding how to mix and match pieces to create new outfits.• Mix and Match: A versatile wardrobe is key to feeling excited about getting dressed each day. Angela helps her clients identify wardrobe basics and versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Example: Knowing which leg shapes and silhouettes work best for your body can help you create a variety of stylish and flattering outfits from a few key pieces. 4. Accessories and Heels • Accessory Tips: Accessories can make or break an outfit. Angela provides tips on choosing accessories that complement your petite frame rather than overpowering it. Example: Avoid oversized handbags that can look disproportionate on a petite frame. Instead, opt for smaller, structured bags that enhance your overall look. • The Power of Heels: Heels can add height and a sense of empowerment. While not every petite woman loves wearing heels, Angela discusses the psychological and physical benefits of adding even a small heel to your outfit. Example: She mentions that a kitten heel can still provide the elevation needed to enhance confidence and posture without the discomfort of higher heels.Closing Thoughts Thank you so much to our guest Angela Foster - who has dropped so many gems today on how to navigate petite fashion with style and confidence! From understanding your body shape to mastering proportions and accessorizing, Angela's insights are invaluable. Remember, it's all about creating a wardrobe that you love and feel amazing in. #shortgirlstyle Don't forget to follow Angela Foster on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/angelastylecoach/ If you enjoyed this episode, please download and share our podcast with your Fashion Besties! And, of course, stay tuned for more fabulous content next week. Xoxo, - Holly Katz, Your Favorite Personal Stylist Fashion Crimes Podcast, The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew Needed! | |||
| Designer Spotlight: Tie-Dye With Made By Keeper | EP 76 | 27 Jan 2022 | 00:28:19 | |
You know Holly loves nothing more than hunting down new designers for y'all, and this week, we have a super-fun and super on-trend designer with us on the show: Lindsay of Made By Keeper! This "Designer Spotlight" episode shines on Made By Keeper, who creates ice dye and reverse dye fashions. If you don't know what that is – then, helleeerrrr...that is why WE are here! #duh #youarewelcome Designer Lindsay has been tie-dying everything she could get her hands on since she was a kid – using things like Kool-Aid and avocados, and just about anything with a strong, stainable color. (Her mother must have just LOVED that!) "I was always a creative kid. I would rather be in art class (or theater) instead of any other class. It wasn't until I was much older that my interests broadened to more than what I could learn in a classroom. One thing that always stuck was my love for the abstract. I've never been one to be symmetrical - could never draw a human form that looked right or a bowl of fruit that was lifelike." "Be a Fruit Loop in a bowl of Cheerios!" - Linsday, Made By Keeper Anyway, Holly and her husband - and of course Schmutz The Wonder Doodle - were walking on the West Side one day, and found Linsday at a street market in 72nd Street all decked out in the most AMAZEBALLS tie-dye from head to toe – so of course, Holly had to learn more. Holly fell in love with Lindsay's tie-dyes (remember, she IS the best fashion friend you never knew you needed), especially the ultra-cool jogger sets, dog hoodies and adorable sets of kitchen towels and napkins. How great would those be as a summer house-warming gift!? So, we invited Linsday to the show to tell us all about the art of tie-dye, her creations and how she started her own woman-owned business. #bosslady #brandbestie Fashion Crime Fact: The crime is here is not wearing tie-dye or too much tie-dye. The crime is not taking the time to appreciate something different, and not supporting women-owned small businesses, especially lesser-known artists and creators. We love supporting women-owned small businesses! We love to shop small. We love creative people in the fashion industry that are doing good in the world. And by the way? These are not your Jerry Garcia tie-dyed T-shirts, folks. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but different animal entirely. First, you should know that there are many styles and processes of tie-dying. Lindsay takes us through some of them from the traditional Batik and Shibori, to the techniques she uses which are ice dyes (yes, with ice) and reverse dyes. Holly's Key Insights: This creative process is hard, people! It is an art form. It takes a long time to do. This is not your third-grade tie-dye. This is real, curated, thought-out, interesting, technical tie-dye. It is done in a very special way. This is bringing it back to the bare bones of what you can be wearing and how to express your creativity and your individualism. Be sure to check out our social posts and stories to see some of Lindsay's technical processes. You can also see more on Instagram and Etsy, where you will find all the clothing and accessories Lindsay now creates. Her fashions are unisex, and have inclusive sizes from newborn and infant, up to size up to 6X:
Made by Keeper's life goal? Total tie-dye world domination! Of course! And Lindsay is right on trend with that, Fashion Friends. Because in the era of work from home (WFH), guess what people are wearing? Loungewear, comfy wear, not their pajamas. As Holly says (and you know she says a lot), it's OK to dress casually when working from home. BUT, if you need to dive behind your couch when the doorbell rings, then you need to get yourself dressed like a real adult every morning. #jussayin Fun Fashion Fact: Work from home does not mean you get to look like shit all day. #howtonotlooklikeshit #preach But wait, there's more. Sneaker Heads Unite! Lindsay is also into transforming sneakers. Most of her work is one of a kind; just by nature of the beast. But she loves getting the opportunity to take on custom projects – and sneakers have been her jam of late. This also falls into the area of sustainability: recreate your sneakers, items with stains, jeans, dye a sweater with your college colors - anything that is cotton and basically white can be transformed. Want more style advice from Holly? Of course you do. Be sure to head over to her Pinterest boards for some of her best fashion recommendations. That's it for this week! Be sure to download this episode where ever you get your podcasts or at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC. "The Best Friend You Never Knew You Needed in Fashion" Hosted by your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz! Become a FASHION INSIDER! Sign up for our newsletter, and receive a free gift from Holly today! | |||
| Designer Spotlight: Sustainable Della Terra Shoes | EP 75 | 21 Jan 2022 | 00:34:41 | |
This week on the FASHION CRIMES PODCAST "Designer Spotlight" guest series, we are shining our light on sustainable shoe designer, Emily Landsman Archila of Della Terra Shoes, who is now - of course - our new brand bestie! What is "sustainable fashion"? Well, your favorite stylist Holly Katz is here to tell you, because YOU NEED TO KNOW! Go right now and listen to this week's podcast: "Sustainable Brand Della Terra Shoes" A little background: Della Terra has a mission to be an ethical and inclusive brand continuously working towards sustainability. With sustainability, accessibility, and inclusivity at the forefront of the brand, they embrace and support all facets of life. "Footwear with less footprint" Two years ago, shoe designer Emily Landsman was inspired to create what was missing from her wardrobe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her transitional, inclusive styles are completely versatile #footwear, and her company is focused on creating real #shoes for real people! And, by the way, are both SUPER cute and fashionable! Yaaaassssss! This Shoe Boss Lady comes from a massive design background: After receiving her Master of Fine Arts in Fashion Design from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, Emily worked in corporate footwear for nearly 16 years designing for prestigious fashion brands such as Alice + Olivia, Diane Von Furstenberg, Vera Wang, Vince Camuto, Clarks, Via Spiga and many more. Anyway, back to the episode: after Emily and Holly gush about their mutual BFF and friend of the podcast – Vienne Brown of Vienne Milano - Emily tells us about how she came to create a woman-owned, #sustainable shoe company. After years in the corporate shoe industry, she wanted to create a company of her own. But she was terrified - as any entrepreneur should be - before jumping off the diving board headfirst. It wasn't really until the pandemic hit, when she had time to spend marinating in the future of fashion, that she came to realize how businesses were going to have to adapt and change in our rapidly changing world. So naturally, in the middle of a world pandemic, she decided THIS was the perfect time to launch a sustainable footwear brand! It was during those crazy COVID days, when the world seemed to stop, that she thought about this change - the way people shop, the way they dress - it was all transforming before our eyes. But at that moment came some clarity, and she knew exactly what was missing. And she knew that she could create it. Enter Della Terra, a sustainable and fashionable shoe company, which launched in June of 2020. So, what is does 'sustainable fashion' mean, and why should we care? Well, have you ever thrown out old flip-flops? That was made of rubber or plastic or leather? What happens to them in the trash pit? Do they just magically disappear? Or do they last forever? YES. They last forever. Imagine every single person on the planet throwing ONE PAIR of flip-flops away per year. How big is that "forever" trash pile? This is why being environmentally conscious and using sustainable materials in fashion matters. Emily tells us that sustainability is not a "one and done" thing. It is something we need to constantly work toward. In producing her own shoe line, they only produce in small batches, they order factory minimums and make relatively few pairs of shoes at one time. The company manages production amounts by allowing preorders early for styles because they want to make sure that - right off the bat – they are not producing more shoes than there's a need for. Emily wants to know that every pair of shoes is going to have a loving home, which is what we want for all shoes in the world! Right!? But also, we need to know what the shoes are made of. Della Terra does not use any animal products in their footwear. They are PETA-approved and use vegan leather – a vegan leather that is very specific. They had to be sure that they were not just making more damn plastic shoes, but instead, making shoes that are a combination of what they call "bio-based" - natural plant-based materials - and recycled materials. Emily tells us that one of the things we cannot take for granted is the fact that even if something is recyclable, a ton of resources are needed to recycle it. She wanted Della Terra to be one of those resources who was recycling what's already out there. #supersmart Having a product or company with a purpose requires that you analyze all the ways you may impact the world: the resources you use, the trash you create, and what you give back to others or the world. So, Della Terra also works with carbon-neutral factories, and they plant one tree for every single pair you buy via One Tree Planted. The great thing about trees is that when you plant them, they grow right away. They won't be huge trees producing tons of oxygen yet, but as soon as they're planted, you are already helping the environment. And then those trees just continue to grow. Key Insights here: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. The fashion crime here is not being a thoughtful and responsible fashion producer – AND – not being a responsible consumer. That is on you....#umewww Buying vintage is cool, trading clothes with friends is fun, donation is mandatory - and honestly - people really do need your gently-used shoes and stilettos! For donating, Holly loves Out of the Closet and Dress for Success. Emily loves Soles 4 Souls. And they both love any organization that can help people feel confident and be dressed appropriately when trying to back on their feet. Literally and figuratively. There are enough clothes in this world that no one should ever not have anything to wear. - Holly Katz What about style and the fashion industry? Holly notes that the fashion industry 'says' they are working toward being more sustainable, but as a veteran fashion industry expert, she knows that some companies really are doing it the right way. However, a lot of companies may claim they are sustainable, but maybe they're only taking a percentage of their line and doing that. It's not a secret that the fashion industry is about selling units. The fashion industry is about making sure their profits are higher, every single day. Holly used to be in garment construction and production, where a quarter of a penny makes a difference. So, if someone can save a quarter of a penny by doing something not sustainable, that is what they are going to do. Some fashion brands are doing the "greenwashing" trend, which is a marketing tactic used to portray an organization's products, activities, or policies as environmentally friendly when they're anything but. Emily notes that the silver lining of that is, they're doing that because the customer cares and is demanding sustainability. And FINALLY, Holly and Emily get to the fashion part of Della Terra shoes. They feature slip-on flats, block-heel shoes, the most BADASS boots, and more. The styling and construction are GORGEOUS! Emily pays particular attention to detail and proportion. And we especially love her because she is a bit of a rule-breaker. Holly has posted some of her favorite Della Terra shoes on her Pinterest board, along with suggested outfits for each shoe. This is FREE advice, people! So, if you made it this far, you are welcome!! Have you downloaded this week's episode yet?? Get it wherever you listen or at https://apple.co/2XXKHfC. That's it for this week! Sign up for our newsletter, share an episode with a friend, leave us a 5-star review! We are the best fashion friend you never you needed! Xoxo – The Fashion Crimes Podcast, with personal stylist Holly Katz. www.fashioncrimespodcast.com | |||
| What to Wear to a Funeral | EP 74 | 14 Jan 2022 | 00:23:23 | |
It is the beginning of the new year. And we have been getting a lot of requests for what to wear for this, what to wear for that? What should I do? What should I get? Should I buy something new? Should I wear something I already have? And unfortunately, the number one question Holly get's is this: What To Wear To A Funeral? Listen to the new episode now here! This week, your favorite stylist Holly Katz has been watching Golden Girls like it's her job this past week. Like EVERYONE. #DUH Everyone loves those Girls! Holly loves them, all of her gays love them, Nolan loves them. It's just been a really sad week. We have lost a national treasure. Host sidebar: "Miss Betty White, you aged with so much grace, and how lucky we were to have you in our homes day after day! Throughout your career, you have honestly been an example to many. You are a pal, and a confidant, especially to animals. And you made us laugh with your innocence and your authenticity. You humbled us. You are the truest example that age really is just a number. We can all only hope to have a life as full as yours. May you rest in peace, Miss Betty White, and as we say in the Jewish religion, may your memory be a blessing. Thank you, Betty White. Thank you for being a friend." By the way, the main topic we are covering today is the American funeral. And regardless of religion, this is about what's expected and appropriate at these things. Day, or night. It does not matter. The dress code is the same. Did you know that this is honestly one of the most commonly asked subjects on Google? Because again, a lot of people don't know what to wear. "Use your best judgment. Does that mean you should wear neon to a funeral? Of course not. You're not supposed to draw attention to yourself, because this event is not about you. It's about paying respect to the family. You are supposed to blend in, however, you do not have to sacrifice your style, or try to dress like someone that you're not." – Holly Katz, personal stylist FASHION FACT: The dress code for a funeral is business casual. We will say that again: The dress code for a funeral is BUSINESS CASUAL, even since before COVID-19. Holly has been yelling about this for years. What is business casual, you might ask? Let us break it down for you into two simple terms. Wear this. Not that. For context, we are going to give you a few examples:
It's pretty simple. What you would wear to an office for business casual means you're dressed. If you want to, you can wear a jacket, a skirt, a tie perhaps, or wear heels. Business Casual Dress Code Wear This:
Don't Wear This:
So, put it on your bulletin board, put it on your bathroom mirror, and God knows if you know somebody who needs this list, feel free to pass it on. #youarewelcome Business casual means you do not wear slouchy, sloppy clothing that you would wear on a regular day just kickin' around. You should wear tailored, structured clothing that looks presentable in a business environment. FREE STYLIST TIP: If somebody dies tomorrow, you have to have something to wear. Most women usually say, "Oh, this is my funeral dress," which is fine. It just doesn't have to be the only option that you have to wear. And honestly, your "funeral dress" should be something you can wear not just to funerals, but to other events, too. You should have something in your wardrobe that functions for many things, and not just have one thing set aside for a funeral. (Hopefully, you don't go to that many funerals!) WHAT ABOUT COLORS? First off, we want to talk about the color black. The old rules about color are dead. Having certain colors that complement your skin tone are always good to know. But again, this doesn't mean you can't wear whatever color you want to. If you have very fair skin does that mean you can't wear pink? No. If you have really bright fire orange, red hair, and freckles, does that mean you can't wear orange or red? Of course not. It's ridiculous. But in the 80s image consultants use to "do your colors," where you would be defined as warm or cool and they would show you what colors look best on you, which is actually helpful. However, in Holly's opinion, it's subjective, there is no color that one certain person cannot wear. But you should use your best judgment. Some funerals are actually called a "celebration of life," which is a really nice twist on making people appreciate the life that someone has lived, and not wallow in sorrow that they are now gone. It usually means the dress code is the same: you should try to look your best. Read the room: It's a funeral. Find a way to be respectful, not stand out and stick with business casual. If you really want to see some amazing and perfect examples of funeral attire, jump over to Holly's Pinterest board now! Of course, there is always the traditional black dress, which is on the Pinterest board, too. But there are lots of other options as well:
If you decide that you don't want to wear black, Holly has lots of other really great outfits that you can put together to go to a funeral. And then you can rotate them throughout your wardrobe. HOW TO DRESS YOUR KIDS FOR A FUNERAL:
Get your kids on board with the dress code. Holly actually researched this on a couple of different funeral home websites – and they have it right there in black and white: Get children and teenagers on board with the dress code!
No sports jerseys, no logos, no shorts, or no stupid crap teenagers like to wear. #sorrynotsorry
We understand you have to pick your battles, obviously. But this is one that they should follow by your gleaming example. In short, if you're not dressed appropriately, they will not be either. TO ACCESSORIZE OR NOT TO ACCESSORIZE? Don't trip on the details of wearing too much or too little jewelry and trying to coordinate matching stuff. Period. When you pick out an outfit, do not get hung up on what earrings match your necklace. At this age (the Golden 50s), you should have regular jewelry, whether it's real or not, that goes with everything. Your outfit should flow and be easy to look at. You should start with a blank canvas and work around it. It's just like baking or making a recipe. You have to have the right ingredients to get the final product to come out correctly the way it should. Number One: you should have the right undergarments. This is the first step in building a great outfit. Number Two: Do you want to wear pants? A dress? Or a skirt? Say for example, if you decide that you want to wear a pantsuit, which is perfectly acceptable and business casual to wear to a funeral. Picking a blouse that will complement the jacket that you're wearing is easy. You can wear a solid or you can wear a pattern. You can even wear a sweater underneath your blazer - that's a great look too. If you want to wear a belt, that would count as an accessory. All you need to do now is pick some jewelry, a shoe, and a bag. That's a complete outfit. Say, for example, you wanted to wear a scarf instead of a necklace. That's another way to accessorize! You can also tie a scarf to the handle of your handbag. That too counts as an accessory. Just know you don't have to worry about being matchy-matchy. Your earrings don't have to match your necklace, they don't have to match your bracelet, and they don't have to match your ring. Do not get caught up in those details. Costume jewelry should be elevated and mixed with real. Statement earrings, a chunky necklace, or layered necklaces are great ways to mix and match. WHAT ABOUT SHOES? You already know that less is more, and that is definitely the case with shoes. A lot of people cannot wear heels - which is completely fine! You can wear a wedge or wear a low block heel. These provide more support than a stiletto, and FYI: No one should be wearing sneakers. No one, no one, no one. If you prefer not to wear heels, then you need to get some really nice gorgeous upscale designer flats - which every company in the world makes. Fabulous examples on the Pinterest board. A neutral color is always easiest, but an animal print, like a snake print or a cheetah print is considered a neutral as well. If you're not there yet, try a metallic shoe like a silver or bronze. It's a great way to elevate a solid color suit, and in the words of Stacy London: "All metallics are neutrals. So it is absolutely fine to mix gold and silver; you just want it to look like it has purpose." — Stacy London, stylist HOW TO NOT LOOK LIKE SHIT: Do not make these mistakes:
BE SURE TO LISTEN TO THE NEW EPISODE here! Again, all of these examples are on the Pinterest board. Make sure you check it out and just know you're not alone. If you have no idea what you're doing, or what you're wearing, when it comes to being a guest at a funeral, it's okay. It's not a big deal. The first step is awareness. It doesn't matter that you don't know. If you don't know - find out! Just ask - and let's get you dressed right. You're Welcome! - The FASHION CRIMES PODCAST, with your favorite personal stylist, Holly Katz
Please be sure to sign up for our "INSIDERS ONLY" newsletter here. And if you find yourself in a fashion pickle - reach out, send Holly a DM today! Fashion Crimes Podcast The Best Fashion Friend You Never Knew You Needed | |||