FabSugar

On My Way To a Fab Closet, Part III

FabSugar — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 15:00:22 -0700

The most fabulous news: My Fab closet is done! I wanted to make sure it was in tip top order before I did my big reveal. I also had to go the The Container Store to get some boot fillers, skirt hangers (the kind with the multiple hang) and some plastic containers for under my bed storage. All my clothes have been analyzed and some have been tossed to the consignment shop curb - buh-bye! There are still a few questionable items - maybe you all can help me determine their fate? So I really didn't need to do much but put on my organizing Philip Treacy hat when filling it up.

As you can see, I am a color coordinator. I also group items by type; dresses together, tops, jeans etc. I fold my jeans, I don't hang them, btw. What are my favorite parts of the newly improved closet? That's easy: The shoe shelves! Also, all the hanging space. I have lots of dresses, tops and jackets and now everything has a home. But the best part of all is that I can see all my clothes. The only things hiding are seasonal sweaters and costumes. The belt rack and scarf rack are cool too; I've been wearing more of both as a result. I must confess that I also have two dressers. The burgundy one houses my sunglasses, underthings, socks and tights. The big purple one hides jewelry, pj's, cotton basics, tee shirts and sweaters. And, I have a coat rack for grab-and-go jackets and hoodies.

To read the rest and to see more pics of my Fab closet, read more

OK, it's obvious I have a lot of clothes. But this experience has opened my eyes as to what my personal style is. I believe one's style is always evolving - especially for a fashion chameleon - but there were definitely some Fab staples. Allow me to share them with you. I have about ten LBDs as well as oodles of navy and red dresses. Don't let me buy anymore! I love sharp outerwear. Given the foggy climate of San Francisco, I have tons of jackets and coats, but I wear them all. I swear. When I used to live in New York City I had more coats and I started collecting vintage coats and restoring them so I still have a few that I will love forever. I just wear them Carrie Bradshaw style: with a sexy little LBD (see!), strappy heels and a clutch.

Black is most people's neutral, mine is grey. Another thing I don't need to buy more of: grey cardigans and sweaters. I have every kind of pant imaginable: black trouser, black pinstripe, jeans (cropped, wide leg, skinny, black, grey, white), grey trouser, khaki trouser, black cropped, black bermudas. Hmmm, maybe black is my neutral after all. In general, I need to wear more slacks! Carine Roitfeld wears them all the time, so color me inspired. Also, I am more of a shoe junkie than a bag lady. I really don't think I have that many bags, PartySugar. Except, my clutch collection (mostly vintage) is quite fabulous.

Here's the fun part: My favorite brands. I guess there's no other way of uncovering them than raiding your closet. Here goes: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Banana Republic, Theory, H&M, DKNY, J.Crew, Target GO International (lots of pieces from the Proenza Schouler collection last year), BCBG, Miu Miu, Nanette Lepore, DVF, See by Chloe, Paul and Joe, J Brand jeans. As for shoes, I have lots of Marc Jacobs and Marc, KORS Michael Kors, Nine West and Belle Sigerson Morrison. Heels have tapered off for me, I am an official lover of flats. Vintage rules my coats, sandals, clutches and jewelry.

So what's next? I don't have much extra room - this is a good thing. Now that I've been reacquainted with a lot of my clothes I don't feel I need to shop much. But you know me. I have a few shoe slots available, some jacket space and I'm not really happy with my boot collection so come next Fall I may invest in a new pair. Maybe some grey ones . . .

Hallway closet

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Mistress closet

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On My Way to a Fab Closet, Part II

FabSugar — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 06:00:22 -0700

It has begun! The Fab closet metamorphosis is in full effect and my clothes are already thanking me.

First thing's first. In order for the installation to begin, California Closets had a separate construction company come and tear down what is in my already existing closets. They patched up the walls and took all debris away. It was nice to come home to a blank canvas! This cost approximately $560 - a little steep if you ask me. But they did a clean job and showed up on time so moving on . . .

To read the rest and to see more Fab closet photos, read more

The next part is the installation. Here's where I have to be honest. I have only heard good things about California Closets so I was utterly surprised/bummed when they didn't show up on my scheduled Saturday installation date. That's right, they just didn't show. I was given a window of 10:30 - 12:00 p.m. and once noon rolled around I started panicking. I called my consultant and she was on the case. Only, they totally messed up and I fell through the cracks. As you all know, I work at Sugar headquarters during the week so Saturday is the ideal option for such a major life changing event for me. I was livid. After countless apologies we rescheduled for the following Tuesday but my mom had to make herself available to oversee it (thanks again mommie!).

It only took a few hours and once my mom called to say it was all done I wanted to drop everything and run home and start organizing. I had already been fantasizing about cleaning things out and wondering if all my shoes would actually fit! I got home, said hi to Annabelle and got busy. This is pretty much how I spent every evening last week after work. Life stops when you have a brand new closet.

I was a little surprised the wood frame didn't cover more - I thought it consumed the whole closet space. But I guess once you get your clothes in you don't see the sides and back. I picked out the wood finish and the silver poles to match my floor and matte silver finishes throughout my place. So here is the hardware, installed and ready for my Fab clothes!

Hallway Closet:

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Mistress Closet:

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On My Way To a Fab Closet, Part I

FabSugar — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:00:22 -0700

For a stylephile, closets are a very personal thing. And so, I am about to bare my soul to you, my friends. In case you didn't hear, I moved about a month ago. I upgraded from a studio to a one bedroom - yay! Annabelle and I are very happy in our spacious new digs. I have to admit one of the things that sold me on this place was the two closets. My one before wasn't too bad, but I have dreamed of a personalized closet for years and knew the time had come.

I quickly called California Closets because the existing white wire racks and configurations were not working for my Fab things. My clothes were not fitting well (I don't have that much stuff, I swear) and it was just a bad use of space. I thought it would be fun to share my experience with you. The only other thing I was this happy about investing in was my little furry roomie so here's the scoop.

To keep on reading about my experience and to see more scary before pictures, read more

There are two closets. One in the hallway, intended for coats, linens, travel gear and the like. This one is OK, do-able. Simple. Then there's the "mistress" (as California Closets calls it) closet, which spans the whole wall across from my bed and has mirrored sliding doors - yes! This is obviously the key closet in which my livelihood will live. Sadly, clothes were smushed and shoes were boxed while I had to get the project done. If I've been moody the past couple weeks, now you know why. But really, it's a big undertaking and expense I'm willing to make for my truest love: fashion.

The hard part is over. Stay tuned as I find my way to a Fab closet!

Mistress closet:

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Hallway closet:

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On My Way To a Fab Closet, Part III

FabSugar — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 11:08:05 -0700

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On My Way To a Fab Closet, Part III

FabSugar — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 10:59:03 -0700

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The Honeymoon's Over: How to Organize Your New Couple's Closet

FabSugar — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 15:00:22 -0700

If you're a traditional gal, chances are you won't move in with your husband-to-be until he is, well, your husband. Sorry to burst your love bubble, but living together means sharing a closet - gasp! For any gal who is overly protective of her clothes (present), this reality is downright scary. But don't reconsider your commitment now; I've got some solutions to ease your closet-sharing fears.

Since you'll probably be moving your clothes into a new closet, it's the ideal time to get rid of stuff you haven't worn in over a year. Honestly, if you haven't worn it in that long, you probably won't wear it again. Plus, even more reason to buy new stuff!
There's nothing like hanging your lovely clothes on pretty and scented hangers. Buy a bunch and you'll keep your section of the closet ultra feminine.
You can barely count how many handbags you own. It's OK - that's why buying a hanging purse organizer is useful. If your husband finds your purses lying on the floor, he won't get that you and your bags are inseparable. And if that happens, you won't be able to defend yourself when buy that new bag to have.

To learn more closet-sharing tips, read more

Color coordinating. Since menswear is in vogue, you don't want to run the risk of mixing your clothes up with your hubby. My solution? Color code your entire wardrobe. Start with dark colors (black, navy blue); then move on to neutrals (white, creme, heather gray); finally, get into the colors (fuchsia, orange, yellow). I like to create a little closet rainbow.
Get some hanger tags that let you know how many times you've worn your clothes. That way, you don't over-wash, and in turn, ruin, your clothes.
Investing in a big jewelry chest is a must because you don't want your man messing with your gorgeous bling. To keep it out of his way, keep it on your dresser.
Drawer nooks are a great way to divide your undies and socks and to keep things nice and tidy.
Perfumed drawer papers are great for keeping your lingerie smelling fresh. Wink.
Though I don't share a closet (yes!), check out On My Way To a Fab Closet for inspiration.

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FABTV: The New House of Style

FabSugar — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:00:22 -0700

Where were you Saturday at 3 p.m.? I was in a limo on my way to my bridesmaid debut, so I missed the premiere of the new House of Style on MTV. You can catch up on MTV's website, but here's the first (and best) clip, I think. Other segments include going inside model Jessica Stam's closet, Chanel Iman (HOS correspondent) explaining geek chic (kinda awkward), a Fab dinner party with Erin Fetherston, and a cameo by Justin Timberlake and his William Rast line. They also took us through the top 10 trends of Spring. They really packed a lot in. OK, nothing can ever be as good as the original with Cindy Crawford as host. Let's just get that out of the way. MTV is totally different today. The show partnered up with Teen Vogue, so it's very youthful and snap edited. I quite like the friendship bracelet DIY with Mary Kate Steinmiller and Charlotte Ronson. Host Bar Refaeli in the multiple bikinis is weird, but gorgeous nonetheless. Make your own deductions, but you have to admit it's fun and entertaining.

Super Stylin': Fab Chats with Two Very Cool VH1 Stylists!

FabSugar — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:00:33 -0700

VH1 fashion stylists Alana Kelen and Esther Pak have the career any fashionista would kill for: they get to dress famous TV personalities, reality stars, actors, actresses and models on one of the coolest channels. Talk about a dream job!

The duo has worked on such shows as: "The Real World Chicago Reunion," "VH1 & IFilm's Web Junk 20," "VH1 Best Week Ever," "30 Days" "Bands Reunited," "Vh1 All Access: Behind the Red Carpet," "I Love the '80s," and more.

I was lucky enough to chat with Esther and Alana, and I loved their advice about what every girl needs in their purse at all times. You also definitely want to hear what they have to say about upcoming Fall trends and the one item in their closet they can't live without!

To see some more photos and to read their interviews, read more

Alana Kelen
(pictured right)

FAB: If your house was burning down and you only had time to save one clothing item, what would it be and why?
AK: A black Hermes purse that my mother recently gave me. It was a present from her aunt when she was younger, and it has great sentimental value; but is also such a gorgeous, fantastic piece that is classic and will never go out of style.

FAB: What should every girl have in their purse in case of a fashion emergency?
AK: Safety pins - they can attach a button, repair a ripped seam, reattach a strap, fix a hem, and even help get finicky food out of your teeth. It's a great item to have in your purse at all times.

FAB: What Fall ‘07 trend are you absolutely looking forward to?
AK: I love that tights are staying alive - in all colors, especially grey. I think they are an amazing additional accessory for any ensemble, and they also make it possible to wear your favorite Spring or even Summer dresses into the Fall by adding an extra layer.

FAB: As a stylist, do you feel the pressure of always dressing uniquely?
AK: I don't really feel pressure to look unique. I just try to stay true to what I am comfortable in and what is appropriate for what we do. I am always running around, schlepping bags, so comfortable shoes are a must. I love flats! I think it is important to stay classic, yet current; not go too trendy, with myself, and everyone I dress. You never want to look back on a photo five years from now and say, "What was I thinking?"

FAB: Who are your style icons and what do you admire so much about them?
AK: Audrey Hepburn did some many amazing things for fashion. She became the first actress synonymous with designer labels, wearing them on and off the camera. Her style was classy, elegant, always lovely and feminine with a touch of adorable tomboy. Her inspiration is still used today in the fashion world. More currently, I think Reese Witherspoon has always looked incredible, and is so age appropriate. Her recent "new look" wearing Oliver Theyskens for Nina Ricci is gorgeous, fresh and flattering for red carpet events. Her look off camera is clean, classic, easy yet beautiful. Funny, reading over my answer Reese could be considered a modern day Audrey Hepburn!

Esther Pak
(pictured left)

FAB: If your house was burning down and you only had time to save one clothing item, what would it be and why?
EP: This is a very hard question because I’d grab everything I could possibly grab. I really don’t think I can think of a single clothing item, maybe my four pairs of jeans that I just treated myself to. Actually, it would most likely be a ring that my father gave my mother after they were married. It’s sapphire on a gold band. It looks like a cocktail ring. I get a moment of happiness remembering the ring on her finger as I would hold her delicate hands and looking up at her, hoping that it would fit me one day. Now it fits my pudgy fingers perfectly!

FAB: What should every girl have in their purse in case of a fashion emergency?
EP: Top stick. Strong double-sided tape that you can use to keep a shirt in place, or fix a hem on a pant leg that comes undone. Safety pins are great as well!

FAB: What Fall ‘07 trend are you absolutely looking forward to?
EP: I am looking forward to the bold colors. They accent the sleek black, browns, greys that we favor for the Winter!

FAB: As a stylist, do you feel the pressure of always dressing uniquely?
EP: Sometimes I do feel a little pressure. I can tell when some of my non-wardrobe co-workers eye my attire of the day. They either compliment that they like it or I catch them checking me out head to toe. I have to admit I run a little late leaving the house because I’m staring at my closet thinking I have nothing to wear. I just make sure I feel comfortable head to toe, cover up my belly area when I’m having one of those frumpy days or wearing shoes that don’t bother my feet all day. We run around all day so I never wear heels - flats. Vans are a favorite of mine and sometimes a good pair of flip-flops that are appropriate for the office. I like to follow what’s hip and in now, but I also go with what fits my body, my comfort, me. That’s what everyone should do.

FAB: Who are your style icons and what do you admire so much about them?
EP: There are so many women that I believe are icons: Audrey Hepburn, Ali McGraw, Natalie Wood, Jackie Kennedy, and Katherine Hepburn. I admire that each one had their own distinct style that from then and until now we are still replicating in some way. They always looked so comfortable in their skin and carried themselves so well. The silhouettes and colors that Audrey wore were so beautiful. Ali was boho-chic and effortless. Natalie was the movie star-classy and subtly sassy. Jackie Kennedy was the epitome of classic, royal beauty both inside and out. Katherine Hepburn is so sharp and so sleek with her pants and those suits. She perfected it for woman!

I think currently, with Hollywood being such a part of fashion there are three ladies that follow my style icons and make it their own: Reese Witherspoon, Charlize Theron and Lucy Lui. These ladies seem to follow their own beat and comforts. They look flawless and incorporate the beautiful ideas of the past into the present. I admire them for always being an individual on the red carpet and off.

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The Nina Garcia Giveaway Winners and Special Nina Added Bonus!

FabSugar — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 06:00:22 -0700

Nina is the gift that keeps on giving. In honor of her new book, and your continued support of Fab, we are giving away a copy of The One Hundred by Nina Garcia and a pair of Ray Ban Aviator sunglasses to four lucky readers. And we have the winners! Congrats to dnhclr, PoignantTuna, caseydamn, and boingbaby. We hope you learn many valuable things from Nina and wear your shades with pride.

But it doesn't end there. Remember when Nina answered all our burning fashion questions a while back? She gave us some more knowledge to chew on! Some of it relates to her new book and some is just good 'ol Nina fun. Congrats to the winner, and enjoy, everyone . . .

What are the top five out of your 100 items every women must have?

Jeans, white man’s shirt, heels, little black dress, diamonds.

How do you and Ruben Toledo collaborate on the illustrations?

Ruben is a genius. I sent him a list and he just turned out some of the most beautiful illustrations I have ever seen. He knew exactly what vision I had for every item. In fact, I think he knew better than me what I wanted the book’s aesthetic to be. He captured the essence of what I had in mind just perfectly.

Who do you think is the most stylish celebrity?

I can’t pick just one. I am always in awe of women like Elle MacPherson, Kate Moss, and Dita von Teese. They all have a distinctive personal style and they stick to it, irrespective of trends.

For lots more Nina insights, read more.

Besides your own closet, where else did you draw inspiration from for your guide?

From fashionable friends, celebrities past and present, music, movies, museums, great paintings, old photographs . . . and on and on and on . . .

Speaking of closets, how long should you wait to throw out an item in your closet you haven’t worn in a while?

If you haven’t worn an item in a year, it’s time to consider parting ways. However, if it’s a Pucci dress or a Missoni knit that you are just letting sit out a season or two, of course that stays. But if it’s a pair of pants you haven’t worn in five years, kiss ‘em goodbye.

You mention push-up bras in the book; what kind of bra gal are you?

There are so many factors involved here. It depends on the outfit, the time of day, the occasion, my mood, etc. Undergarments are an important element to your style and should be chosen with as much care as every other element of your look.

Do you own every single item in your guide?

Yes. That said, I am always on the hunt for multiples. A girl can never have enough belts, heels, diamonds, cocktail rings . . .

What will the next book be about? And what color will the cover be (I love the silver)?

I have a few ideas floating around in my head, but right now, I’m focused on enjoying the afterglow from this book.

What’s your favorite pant/jean cut?

I’m a classicist. I like the good old Levi’s 501s.

What emerging designers do you have your eye on?

I am always on the lookout for new, young designers. Right now, I have my eye on Alexandra Wang, Philip Lim, Peter Som, and Chris Benz. But again, there are so many good ones out there!

What trend do you wish would die already?

The new “it jean” emerging every week. Each time someone asks me what the hot jean is, I freeze. I don’t know! I can’t keep up. We must all get back to the days of buying the jean that looks great on you, and fits your body perfectly. When one does, THAT’S the “it jean.”

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What Is Your Makeup Organizing Method?

BellaSugar — Tue, 13 May 2008 06:02:42 -0700

I possess way too many beauty products to count, so in an attempt to organize everything, about six months ago, I took a trip to Home Depot and bought a bunch of clear plastic containers. I now have eight of them vertically stacked in two columns in my bathroom labeled by category and about ten more full of hair and nail care products in my closet. I swear they’ve changed my life.

I know how a handful of celebrities stay organized, but I want to know more about how you keep track of your cosmetics. Do you store everything in drawers sorted into color or type, or do not have any special kind of system at all?

I also bought some of those containers for my belts and shoes and have found them to be really helpful (FYI, I organize these by season). If fashion is more of your passion than beauty, you’ll drool over FabSugar’s new closet - it's awesome!