ChicBlog - ChicMadeSimple
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Tracy James is the go to wardrobe stylist and personal shopper for women, men, tweens, teens, and kids in the Birmingham, Alabama area.
ChicBlog - ChicMadeSimple
1y ago
The Death of the Suit and Tie
As a wardrobe stylist on the speaking circuit, educating companies on the Do's and Don'ts of proper workplace attire, I admit I am not a fan of the move toward Business Casual, or, as this article more accurately phrases it, "Business Whatever." That said, the dressing-down trend has been great for business (MY business, that is) because...for many people, when you give ‘em an inch they'll take a mile. Whereas professional dress code rules are relatively clear cut, there’s a lot of grey area under the umbrella term, "Business Casual," and that's how you end up wit ..read more
ChicBlog - ChicMadeSimple
1y ago
In addition to helping guests shop, I did a little for myself - picking up these Diane gold statement earrings in abalone shell.
I was thrilled by the invitation from Kendra Scott at The Summit to be a Guest Stylist at their recent VIP event. Who doesn't love playing in someone else's jewelry box?! In addition to helping guests find just the right pieces to add to their wardrobes, I gave a brief talk, sharing a few accessorizing tips.
"Accessories are what make an outfit a little bit more YOU." - Kate Spade
Tip #1: On Trend
Two of my absolute fa ..read more
ChicBlog - ChicMadeSimple
1y ago
As a frequent traveler, I love a product that makes looking good while out of town easier. Enter Collar Perfect. Created by a Marine to keep his uniform collars regulation-ready, Collar Perfect works on almost any ironing job. This compact travel iron features two facing heated plates—shirt collars, hems, and pockets fit neatly between them. Angled edges let you easily smooth out the areas in between buttons, too. The plates can also fold out flat, morphing into a mini iron for bigger areas. That said, it really is meant for smaller jobs. But when combined with my oft-metionoed favorite ..read more
ChicBlog - ChicMadeSimple
1y ago
Here is a sampling of styles spotted at Sloss Fest 2017 ..read more
ChicBlog - ChicMadeSimple
1y ago
Upon hearing “Woodstock,” often the images in one’s mind’s eye are of sweaty young folk clad in bell bottoms and flower crowns. Today, the word “Coachella” is as much about Spring's Californian music festival as it is the fashion trends it has inspired.
Blank NYC Tomboy denim short $78; fab’rik Fallen top $20; Bamboo Juliana sandal $38; Gold choker $26; Beaded fringe necklace $68; Leather tassel necklace $42; Gold earrings $18
BB Dakota Sheena romper $72; Lace plunge bralette $28; Gold hoop earrings $18; Tassel choker necklace $24; Bamboo Charade wedge sandal $20; Bracelets $18+
A brie ..read more
ChicBlog - ChicMadeSimple
1y ago
I was recently asked to take part in a fun summer event at fab'rik Homewood, which was a treat since it is already a fave spot to take clients (and myself!) for casual, easy, on-trend, affordable pieces.
I paired the Palm print Camden shorts, peach Delanie tank, and pink Sunny Lane shades with my wardrobe-staple Qupid shoes I got at fab'rik last year!
For the #VacayChic afternoon affair, I got to put together a rack of my favorite vacation-worthy duds, including a few complete ensembles:
A denim skirt is a must-have of the season. This one features trend-right lace up detailing an ..read more
ChicBlog - ChicMadeSimple
1y ago
Invest in one - or some - cute cover ups.
These days, if you’re wise, you’re not baking in the sun to perfect a tan. Long gone are the bronzing marathons of sundial-like rotating on space blankets, iodine and baby oil cocktails, and Malibu Barbie sporting tan lines. So you might as well cover it up. Especially when on vacation, I like a swimsuit cover-up that I can slip on and feel comfortable enough in to wear to lunch by the pool. Whether you want one to cover your arms, your legs, what-have-you…there is a style out there for everyone. Resist feeling obliged to match your swimsuit - a worthy ..read more
ChicBlog - ChicMadeSimple
1y ago
Embellished sneakers - whether emblazoned with kitschy patches or lush florals - are trending this Spring. Check out these luxury versions and their more budget-friendly alternatives ..read more
ChicBlog - ChicMadeSimple
1y ago
Some of the tools I carry in my Stylist’s Kit are handy items that everyone should have in their personal arsenal. Below are my top recommendations, including my favorite brands of each and where to buy.
1) Personal Steamer
Jiffy Steamer E-Steam Personal Handheld Steamer, purchase here; Canvas bags by Fairhope-based MB Greene (Marguerite’s Conceits, $76 & $28).
I discovered this little baby 20 years ago when I first began my career, assisting backstage at Parisian runway shows. Unlike the wimpy handheld steamers I had tried in the past, which seemed to spit more water than stea ..read more