Scarlett New York

Where To Find My Blog

2010-04-14T19:36:00.001-04:00

Welcome.

You can now read my articles and blog posts at http://www.scarlettimageconsulting.com/blog

Please vist the above link and click on subscribe so that you will continue to receive my posts.

Scarlett

Client Testimonial - video

2010-03-16T11:51:00.001-04:00

Last week I had the pleasure of being interviewed by my lovely client Lynn Tempesta for her web site Tempesta! Promotions. Click on her link to view this short interview.
Lynn discovered me via her business coach who is my wonderfully talented and wise client, business coach, Jane Pollak.
Lynn was able to very eloquently express how she has saved money on her clothes since we first worked together, and how she is now better able to dress in a way that truly expresses her style.
Hiring a consultant to help you in whatever area you have a need, whether it be business, organizing, accounting, lifestyle, image, or fashion, saves you not only money but time as well. It actually can cost you more in a number of ways, to not work with a professional.
Thank you Lynn for being so complimentary regarding my services, and for expressing that it is not about having lots of clothes, but more about having the right clothes in one's closet.

Under or Over - Just Do It!

2010-02-23T07:37:00.000-05:00

Make Over or Make Under, simply means the time has arrived to make a change in how you have been dressing and/or doing your makeup for the last few years, or perhaps even, decades.

A few weeks ago Carson Kressley did a wonderful segment on Oprah titled Make Under, as opposed to the usual make over segments very popular on TV and and print.

One make-under subject, Dawn, stood out the most as she was a very beautiful woman who wore way too much makeup and wore very inappropriate clothes, and I mean very. Her own children hated the fact that their Mom's image was that of a porn star instead of the sweet, loving mother that she is. She had gotten so deep into the habit of heavy makeup, over tanning, botox, you name it, and dressing in excessively suggestive clothes, that she could no longer see what a negative image she was now projecting. All these, easy to hide behind, layers were a result of not being able to get over being made to feel unattractive and not worthy of attention 20 years ago!!

She was now indeed getting attention, but it was all negative attention. Not only did she look like a caricature of a Barbie doll, she also looked much older than she really is.

After Carson got Dawn to turn the volume down on her beauty and fashion routines, the results were beyond fabulous. She now looked easily 10 years younger, prettier and much more confident.

I have always felt that confidence is a persons' most important image tool, and learning how to tone it down can have the same effect as turning it up, if needed, when it comes to makeup and clothes.

So take a look at what is in your closet and mirror to see if you have been buying and/or wearing the same look for no more than a few years. If you have, it is time for your own make under or over as well.

No More Mascara Clumps

2010-01-28T11:54:00.000-05:00

Don't you just hate it when after you have applied your mascara,

you have clumps of stuck together lashes, instead of them

simply being thickened and lengthened?

Well ladies here is the tool for you, the Perfect Lash Comb.

Rather than using tweezers and pins, yes many women do use

such dangerous methods to set their lashes free, take the easy

to use perfect lash comb and simply comb thru your lashes

after each coat of mascara has dried for a great looking set of

eyes.

If you want long wearing with no need to un-clump, try Blinc

(formerly known as Kiss Me) mascara available at Sephora.

This is a mascara that coats each lash with a tube of mascara,

no flaking or running.

Warm water releases the tubes off your lashes when you are

ready to remove the mascara. This mascara stays on until you take it off.

Perfect for the woman on the go, at the gym, weddings, romantic movies,

school plays, well you get the idea.

Find What You Want For Less Money & Without Leaving Your Home

2010-01-13T14:27:00.000-05:00

Take a look at a great on-line shopping site http://www.shopittome.com

At Shop It To Me, you can select the items or manufacturer name that you are interested in, and when those items go on sale, Shop It To Me will email you the specifics.

You will only get an email from them, when what you are interested in goes on sale.

While you are at the computer, check out the web sites of better departments stores as they are having incredible sales and you can get better quality clothes for the same price of a mass merchant retailer such as Sears or Kohls. There were some unbelievable deals last night on Lord & Taylor's web site.

Shipping is usually free over $100 at most retailers, and you can always return to the store what doesn't work out for you.

This is the time of year to get great deals and build your wardrobe with pieces that will update your current wardrobe, so go ahead and have some fun shopping while hanging out at home in your bathrobe.

Happy shopping!

iVillage - Feeling Down? Buy Lipstick

2009-12-12T09:55:00.000-05:00

I wanted to share with you an article I recently had the privilege of being

interviewed for on iVillage.com by Dawn Papandrea. Her article focuses

on the importance of making yourself feel and look better despite stress,

and without having to spend a lot of time to accomplish that very

important goal.

Remember that the better you feel about yourself, the better you can make

those around you feel as well.

Let's Get To The Root Of The Problem

2009-12-04T22:38:00.000-05:00

You can save time and money, when you prolong coloring your hair or extend the time between color and highlights.

Here is an easy to use hair color touch up for you to use in between hair colorings and/or for those dreaded, newly discovered gray hairs that pop up when you least suspect them.

With a simple wipe, you can cover up your grays or roots, until your next shampoo. Color Mark, is available in 12 colors, and will not brush out or flake off like other touch up products can do. You can purchase it online or at beauty supply stores. Retail selling prices range from $20 to $25.

What Decade Is In Your Closet?

2009-11-18T13:43:00.000-05:00

Does this style of clothing look familiar? Perhaps you even have a few pieces in your own closet? Have no fear, because you are not alone. Almost each of my Closet Editing consultation client's have clothes from the 80's and/or 90's, and each one wonders if they are the only ones that do. As entertaining as the 80's and 90's were in terms of fashion, there truly are very few, if any, pieces that one should save and continue to wear other than for a costume party.

The 2000's are almost over, and that is where practically all of your clothes and accessories should be from. I am not talking about wearable vintage pieces, but the things that are simply taking up space in your closet and drawers and not allowing you to clearly see what you have that is wearable and flattering for you to choose from when putting outfits together.

Take some time to pull out of your closet the clothes that are keeping you in the past. Not only do they age you unnecessarily, but they also keep you from seeing what you have and need.

For some more tips on getting your closet to work for you rather than against you, please read my article 8 Steps to Get Your Closet Ready For Fall | career-intelligence.com

Need A Pick-Me-Up?

2009-11-03T09:01:00.000-05:00

Do you want to look thinner, taller and younger? Then all you need to do is lift up your breasts and this fabulous book, The Bra Book at www.thebrabook.com.

Yesterday's episode of Oprah, reinforced the importance of wearing the correct fitting bra, and as many of you know I am not shy in advising you on how much better your clothes can fit when the proper bra is worn. The Bra Book gives you the tips on how to find the right fitting bra, and so much more.

Please keep in mind, that getting a few new bras, does not mean having to spend a fortune. Target has a great line of bras under their private label of Gilligan & O'Malley for only $10.99!!! These bras are made in the same factories as the more expensive versions, and as long as you follow the guidelines in The Bra Book, you will find the right fit and style for your needs.

If your time and budget allows, I would suggest first going to a reputable lingerie store or department of a major store, and have their fitter measure you and offer some suggestions. Then add onto your new bra collection with a few more from Target.

After you have purchased your new bras, please remember to toss out ALL of your old ones, and take notice of how great you now look all lifted and perky in your clothes.

Need A New Tip?

2009-10-04T14:10:00.000-04:00

The time has come when I reluctantly need to stop wearing my sandals and move onto shoes and boots. But rather than mourn this transition, and I do, why not take the time to inspect your summer sandals so as to determine if they need any repair.

The most common needed repair is replacing worn down heel tips, which are an easy and inexpensive repair for the shoemaker.

By taking the time to get your summer sandals in tip-top shape now, they will be ready for wear the moment the temperatures rise in the Spring.

When Should You Throw Out Your Beauty Products?

2009-09-08T09:38:00.000-04:00

Ever wonder how to know if your beauty products are still working? Besides only tossing when it smells and/or looks bad, there is a symbol on many products that will tell you when it is past the point of being effective.

Real Simple magazine's April 09 issue explained the Period After Opening label that is on many beauty products. It is a picture of a jar that tells you the number of months, after having been opened, that the item can still be effective.

Place your own label on the case or bottle after you have opened it, and follow the Period After Opening guideline so that you are only treating yourself with products that can still safely and effectively offer what they promise to do.

Ever wonder how

Contain Yourself

2009-08-18T10:55:00.000-04:00

Do you have a hard time finding which pair of your earrings, bracelets or necklaces would work with each outfit because they are all tangled up or 'hidden' in a box or drawer?

Here is a great solution for organizing your jewelry and being able to see it all in the same hanging space as your clothes.

This double sided 80 pocket jewelry organizer from The Container Store is one my favorite things in my closet, as it clearly allows me to see what I have so I can create and co-ordinate my outfits. No more out of sight out of mind for you!

Traveling Light

2009-07-28T19:38:00.000-04:00

I recently took 8 days off to travel with a great friend to stay in her beautiful, and thankfully air conditioned, Arizona home.

No major decisions to be made, other than trying to figure how to pack everything I need in 1 carry-on bag. So what did I take?

1 pair of shorts khaki

1 pair shorts black

1 dress black, off-white & brown print

1 pair white capri pants

1 top blue

1 top black

1 top blue/white print

1 pair sandals off-white

1 pair sneakers

1 workout outfit

1 bathing suit

1 red handbag

So what jewelry could I take that would work with every outfit I put together? Well, that

was the easiest decision I had to make on this vacation.

Last year, I purchased a wonderful coral & turquoise feng shui necklace ($60), from Seed Design (see photos) that complimented all my clothes and made me smile every day. The designer, Diane Lohman Schroeder made my necklace for me in silver, but it is available in bronze as well. As per my request, Diane also made me simple link earrings, but she also has beautiful turquoise and coral earrings that go with the necklace as well.

For those of you are unsure as to what necklace to wear, consider this pretty 'all-in-one' necklace which is now also available in pretty softer colors as well.

Beauty Skin Care Tips

2009-07-07T12:24:00.000-04:00

Beware the sun! I am a big believer in sun protection ALL year long.

Unfortunately most people only really think about sun protection in the summer.

SPF 15, a standard in most day moisturizers, is simply not enough to ward off sun damage. My suggestion is Sun Tan Lotion with a SPF 30 or higher, mixed in the palm of your hand with your liquid foundation, for a light and natural looking glow. By combining the 2, you will have a lighter feeling on your face, which is very much appreciated on hot days, and you will be protecting your face from future and avoidable wrinkles, sun damage, spots and discoloration all in one easy step.

I suggest doing this all year long, as even in the winter when you are in a car your face is being exposed to the burning effects of the sun. In countries where the driver sits on the left, there is a higher incidence of skin cancer on the left side of the face, and in countries where the driver sits on the right, you guessed it, there are more cases of skin cancer on the right side of the face.

Be kind to your skin, and remember the sun is capable of doing damage all year long.

Are You Over Spending?

2009-06-22T14:24:00.000-04:00

Do you find yourself buying the same thing over and over? Are you always buying black pants, even though you already have more than 3 pairs? Another pair of black shoes and/or handbag?

And really, how many white shirts do any of us really need? If you answered yes, then you are guilty of over spending money on your clothes.

If you see duplicates in your closet, then you have spent money on items you really did not need, and did not buy the clothes and accessories that would have truly expanded your wardrobe.

Many women tend to reach for the clothes they are familiar with when they go shopping. The trouble with that, is they then limit how many new outfits can be created with what they already own.

Next time you hit the stores, resist the urge to buy what you already own, and buy something you don't!

Do you have a size phobia?

2009-06-08T16:04:00.000-04:00

Size doesn't matter, but fit does.

Do you only try on one size, and if it doesn't fit you give up on that piece of clothing? Instead of passing on that item, why not try it on in another size, even if that means going a size up.

For instance, when looking for the right fit in pants or a skirt, look for a smooth fit at the hip, and if needed have a tailor take in the waist . Men use tailors all the time, and you never hear a man complain about what size they wear.

Women, on the other hand are very self conscious about what size they wear. I see too many women pass up on getting a great fit simply because they won't wear anything not in 'their' size. There is even a women's clothing line that does not put the size label in a visible spot on their jackets, so that women do not feel uncomfortable when the jacket is resting on the back of a chair. So cut your size label out if you cannot stand the sight of it, but remember that nothing looks or feels better than a good fit.

2009-06-06T22:26:00.001-04:00

Wardrobe Consultant in New York Dresses Women for Business and Personal Occassions
Image consulting service enables women to match their clothing to their professional and personal lifestyle.
http://www.associatedcontent.comarticle/1787908/wardrobe_consultant_in_new_york_dresses.html

All That Glitters

2009-05-22T09:55:00.000-04:00

Why not take the jewelry that has lost it's glitter to you, and cash it in? Think of the glitter you will have in your eyes, when you have new found money in your pocket!!

As a daughter of a jeweler, I used to have jewelry that I inherited or no longer wore. But in my never ending quest to only have what I need or use, I sold some and had other pieces re-designed so that I would actually wear them .

If you have gold (yellow, white or platinum) jewelry you never wear, is broken, has missing stones, 1/2 of a pair of earrings, and/or jewelry that you inherited or received as a gift, but NEVER wear, why not dust them off and bring them to a jeweler you trust.

Gold prices are high so jewelry selling parties are popping up everywhere, but you would get more money if you go directly to a jeweler. Selling direct puts more money in your pocket because you are by-passing the middle man; the host of those jewelry selling parties.

If you are able to go into Manhattan, I highly recommend taking your unused, unwanted or unloved jewelry to Arme Gems,

tel. 212-302-6565 www.ARMEGEMS.com

It is run by a mother/daughter-in-law team Anne and Cheryl. They are absolutely delightful, honest and, if you are looking for re-designs, can create great new pieces with your jewelry, as I do with your wardrobe.

Give them a call, and please give my best regards when you do.

When To Accessorize

2009-05-01T10:21:00.000-04:00

No outfit is complete without adding accessories, so here is an easy way to remember what and where to wear the pieces that will pull your look together.

Just say WHEN!

W = Wrists. Bracelets and/or a watch

H = Hands. Rings

E = Ears. Earrings

N = Neck. Necklaces and/or a scarf.

Always keep in mind, that by changing accessories, which includes shoes and handbags, you can totally update an older outfit without spending any money.

Back In The closet

2009-04-16T21:21:00.000-04:00

After having received so many positive comments from when I posted about organizing my closet with the hangers from Bed Bath & Beyond, I was inspired to do some additional fine tuning of how to make my closet more efficient.

I am always struggling with how to keep my folded tops and sweaters organized and not falling over onto each other. So with the help of my trusty label maker and shelf dividers from The Container Store ($6.99 for 2) I no longer find myself not knowing where a top belongs, or having to constantly re-fold my sweaters.

By taking the little bit of time to label and categorize, I no longer waste time and energy on finding what I want to wear, or returning it to its correct spot.

Do you have any ideas or suggestions on keeping your closet organized and efficient?

Bargain shopping in NYC

2009-03-28T20:51:00.000-04:00

I wanted to let you know about a wonderful Sample Sale in NYC next week. I am unable to attend this year, but in the past I have done very well at this sale and hope you can too.

Elie Tahari

70 to 80% Off

Tuesday, March 31 and Friday, April 3

Women's, Men's & Accessories

8:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 4

10:00 am - 5 pm

510 Fifth Avenue - Entrance on 43rd street

Women's & Men's knits from $19

Shoes & handbags from $69

Women's blouses & Men's shirts from $39

Let me know if you are able to get there, and try to get there early!

I love shoes!

2009-03-21T10:32:00.000-04:00

I love how a new pair of shoes, boots or sandals can totally update a basic outfit. Not only do you stand and sit with more poise and confidence, you get to create may new looks with just one new pair of shoes. But, what I really, really love is getting a great deal, so check out this money saving website, 6pm.com.

It is Zappos.com's discount site with savings of up to 75%!!

There is something here, for everyone's style and needs, so have some fun saving money and spicing up your existing wardrobe.

2 Great Finds

2009-02-28T13:54:00.000-05:00

I discovered 2 great new products this week, that I want to share with you.

#1 The Invisibelt $19.95

This belt is the answer to the problem of having pants, especially jeans, fit at the hip and waist, without the gap at the back. No more, pulling up your jeans as they stretch out. This clear belt has a flat buckle, so there is no bulge on the tummy like you get from a standard belt.

Your pants fit at the waist, no longer slide down, and your tummy is flatter. It is also comforting to have some extra 'wiggle' room for those days when we need it. Who wouldn't want that?

Also available in Plus Size.

www.invisibelt.com

#2 Cover Girl Lashblast Volume Mascara $8.49

I have finally found a drug store mascara that I like and can highly recommend. This mascara makes the lashes look fuller and longer without flaking off and smudging.

I received positive comments on my lashes the first day I wore it, and believe me, it has been quite a long time since that has happened.

Spring Cleaning Your Makeup

2009-02-16T17:31:00.000-05:00

Okay so it's not spring yet, but why not get your makeup bag and/or drawer cleaned up and organized anyway?

If you have any makeup that you would not pull out in a public area for fear that someone might see it, odds are it is way too old and most probably contains some dreaded bacteria. If it is a product that you use on a regular basis, the time has come to replace it with a new one. If on the other hand, you have not used it in months/years, or ever please consider tossing it out.

The same guidelines apply to makeup as to your clothes. If it does not 'fit' and flatter you, then do not wear or keep it. All those lipsticks you got as a gift with purchase rarely come in a color that works for you, so why hold onto them?

When your makeup collection only consists of what looks best on you, it will be easy and quick to apply your makeup every day.

NOTE: Last month I posted my recommendations for makeup and skincare products in Westchester Magazine's feature, A Guide To Frugal Living

The eye cream's name I recommended by Neutrogena, has been changed to Ageless Intensives Deep Wrinkle Eye Cream. Same great product, but with a new name and packaging.

Itching For Spring?

2009-02-03T22:13:00.000-05:00

According to the groundhog, we have 6 more weeks of winter, which means six more weeks of dry, flaky and itchy skin.

Despite what the cold air and indoor heat do to your skin, there are a few products and tips to minimize the discomfort and dryness.

Start off with using a gentle cleanser such as Cetaphil, after removing your eye makeup with a makeup remover. Follow with a non-alcohol toner to remove any residue.

Exfoliate (face and body) your skin 2 to 3 times per week. When you have a facial, the true benefit is the removal of the dead layers of skin on your face, but the massage and relaxation steps sure do feel great.

Following exfoliation, apply a moisturizer onto damp skin. If you have some redness on your face, try using Aveeno Ultra Calming lotion with SPF 15, and for the body use Neutrogena Sesame Oil. These are great products for everyday use and are available at CVS or your local drugstore. The Cetaphil and Neutrogena Sesame Oil are occasionally available at Costco as well.

Be consistant with regular exfoliation and slather on your moisturizer for the best results and before you know it, Spring will be here.

First Lady Of Style

2009-01-21T17:18:00.000-05:00

What a pleasure to see a woman who not only knows how to dress well, but knows how to dress in a way that flatters her the best without spending a fortune with big name designers. Michelle Obama knows what the right fit and style can do for her. She chooses the right colors, necklines, and cut that work wonders with her body and face shape.

She is the perfect example of displaying the benefits of learning how to dress in a way specifically for your own body.

Knock off designers are already creating lower priced versions of what she wore on inauguration day, but if a yellow or one shoulder dress is not right for you, please do not get caught up in the mirroring of Michele Obama's clothes. Discover what you look best in and wear it with our First Lady's confidence in her choice.

Remember, confidence looks good on every woman.

Take A Peek Into My Closet

2009-01-07T09:10:00.000-05:00

I love organizing my client's closets, and mine as well. I especially enjoy finding ways to make my very small closet, which I share with my husband who is also in the fashion business, as organized as possible. That is why when I discovered a new type of hanger at Bed Bath & Beyond, I became excited at finding a way to make my closet even more organized and slightly more spacious as well. In making a closet appear larger and organized, it is very important to use the same type of hanger in your closet for all your clothes. That consistency makes the closet look much more organized. I found a hanger that not only looks good, but takes up less space as well. Their velvety texture also prevents clothes from slipping off. B B & B sells a box of 50 for $39.99, and a larger assortment is available as well. Clips are also available to convert the hangers to support skirts, pants and shorts. Use your coupons and save an additional 20%. Similar versions are available at discount stores, but the quality and variety at B B & B is far better.

Please share with me your thoughts and tips on how you make your closet more functional and organized, and I would also love to hear from you if you use these hangers already.

Scarlett

A Guide To Frugal Living- Westchester Magazine

2008-12-26T11:39:00.000-05:00

Westchester Magazine's January issue has a fabulous feature titled Live Well, Spend Less.

The magaine asked me for suggestions on how to save money when shopping for makeup and skincare. I am always happy to give women tips on how to look and feel great for less, so here is a copy of my contribution to this month's timely feature.

BEAUTY SAVERS MINIMALIST MAKEUP
Pssst! If you’re a fan of Estée Lauder products, makeup artist Scarlett DeBease (Scarlett New York Image Consulting, 914-441-0756, scarlettnewyork.com) has an insider’s secret to share: “At Kohl’s, you can buy the American Beauty and Flirt cosmetics lines, which are both made by Estée Lauder, for considerably less than the flagship line. Use your Kohl’s discount coupons that come with your charge card, and they are an even better deal.”

Other tips from DeBease:

For cream to powder foundation with SPF protection,

instead of Dior’s Diorskin Compact SPF 20 at $41…

…try Maybelline New York - Instant Age Rewind Face Perfection Cream Compact Foundation SPF 18 at $9.99

For cream/cream-to-powder formula eye shadow,

instead of M.A.C.’s Paint at $16.50…

…try L’Oreal Paris Cream Shadow Paint at $10.29

For anti-aging eye cream,

instead of Elizabeth Arden’s Prevage Eye Anti-Aging Moisturizing Treatment at $98…

…try Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Intensive Eye Cream at $19.99

For tinted moisturizer,

instead of Bobbi Brown SPF 15 at $40…

…try Boots (available at CVS & Target) No 7 Soft & Sheer SPF 15 at $11.99

Tis The Season - To Clean Out Your Closet

2008-12-17T12:53:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, I am a huge advocate of going through my closet, and yours, to determine what pieces should go and which should stay.

I truly believe that if you only hang onto the clothes that fit and flatter you the best, getting dressed for any occasion will be easier and less stressful. I also realize that many women and men have a hard time letting go of the clothes they do not even wear because of sentimental reasons or perhaps the need to have quantity above quality.

In light of today’s economic meltdown, this holiday season might be the time to part with some of your clothing, shoes, and/or a coat. Community centers and other places that cater to those less fortunate are having a tough time meeting the needs of the ever-growing number of families that need clothes and food this year.

So in the spirit of giving, please consider parting with pieces of clothing you do not wear, but will be worn by someone in need.

Wishing you hope, peace, and good health during this holiday season and in the New Year.

Welcome To My First Blog

2008-12-10T16:10:00.000-05:00

Hello and welcome to my first Scarlett New York Blog. I am now ready and willing to take the plunge into the world of blogging, and I welcome your help with my new adventure.

Here I will be posting tips on fashion, styling, wardrobe, shopping and makeup and I look forward to hearing your views and ideas as well.

My mission is to guide women and men on dressing well and projecting the appropriate image needed every day and for every occasion. This is made possible by working with an existing wardrobe, and carefully adding pieces that can expand it even further. It is not necessary to spend tons of money on clothes and accessories, nor is it required to own an excessive number of clothes, shoes, or handbags.

Today’s economy is allowing me to get more attention for my long- standing belief that it is possible to dress well without spending a fortune. Unlike Sarah Palin’s wardrobe advisor, I

know how to work within reasonable spending guidelines and limits. As a matter of fact, my views regarding her $150,000 clothing expenses were heard on “The Gayle King Show” on Oprah & Friends XM radio shortly before the election, and I must say, it was fun speaking to Oprah’s best friend, Gayle. Bottom line, it does not matter which candidate you supported, it only matters that people realize they do not need to spend a fortune to look and feel good.

I have put together many of my clients’ wardrobes by working with pieces they already own, by shopping not only in their own closets, but at stores ranging from Kohl’s to Nordstrom.
For the record, my most complimented jacket cost me $17.00, and I bought it on sale, of course, at Kohl’s
I welcome your questions and comments.