Wear This Not That

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 a long dress? Yes.

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:

Intermix

Milly

alice and olivia

Chiara Boni

La Ligne

Adrianna Papell

badgley mischka

Revolve.com

asos.com

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"

Hosted by your favorite personal stylist Holly Katz!

www.fashoncrimespodcast.com

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.

• Denim shorts
• High-waisted shorts
• Bermuda shorts, which are longer
• Linen, silk or fine-knit shorts
• Work-out shorts
• High-rise shorts
• And the list goes on and on

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:

• Find shorts that fit your body type, and a length that accentuates your legs.
• High-waisted shorts or shorts with a belt to help draw your waistline in.
• Add a short jacket, a 'shacket,' a cardigan or a kimono to dress up your shorts.
• Add a heel or boot to give your legs length.
• Wear very on-trend stockings that are opaque for winter, or with patterns to hide you flaws. We recommend our BFFF Vienne Milano stockings to add sophisticated style to any short. www.viennemilano.com.
• Wear a chunky sweater or sweatshirt over shorts in the winter. Try our BFFF tie-dye designer for super fun sweatshirt ideas at www.madebykeeper.com.
• Wear a glam bodysuit under shorts to dress them up.
• Accessorize with statement jewelry or mixed-metal jewelry. See our BFFF Criscara Jewelry for layering ideas and truly unique and fun pieces. www.criscara.com
• Choose the price point and quality of fabric you need to look your best. Linen is lovely, until it shows every bit of your bumps and cellulite. Faux-leather is on-trend, very forgiving and totally comfortable!
• Wear denim shorts – if you must – over your swimsuit at the beach. Very appropriate and practical.

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 [email protected]

FASHION CRIMES PODCAST

"The best fashion friend you never knew you needed"

www.fashioncrimespodcast.com

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

Tough Times + Tough Talk + Tough Love = New Life

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:

1. Do not wear scrubs when you are not working or at the hospital. Your mind needs a break from the daily grind.
2. Do not wear cheap-ass scrubs that fit terribly. You will look like shit, and because they don't fit well, they will allow you to gain weight without noticing.
3. You can afford professional attire, and you will be more respected in your career if you don't look like you just rolled out of bed. #DUH!
4. Why are you still wearing a nursing bra if you are not nursing anymore? Do you need to pull your boobs out to teach lactation? Buy some new bras.
5. Leggings are not pants. Work-out clothes are not an outfit. Holly doesn't care if you are at a baseball game on Saturday morning. If you aren't working out, don't wear work-out clothes all day.
6. Get up every day, put on your pants, a cute top, and real shoes. You will feel better.
7. Go shopping, get clothes that fit well.
8. Do not wait for your perfect body size and shape to buy clothes. Buy clothes that fit in the now. Don't be afraid to buy that one size up. If it looks better on you, ignore the size number.
9. Buy a dress or outfit for a special occasion, even if you don't have one planned. Even if you think your life sucks so much that you will never go to an event again. Because it is too stressful to scramble if and when you need something appropriate at the last minute. Plus, you just never know (hint, hint, hint)!

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

www.fashioncrimespodcast.com

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:

1. Lug Sole Boots: Don't know what that is? Same. These are all the rage and basically the utilitarian combat boot, but a sole that is super thick and chunky. They are for men and women – and Holly and Nolan have a love/hate relationship with them. However, just about anyone can pull of this trend, so try it with a dress or skirt and throw it all over with a moto jacket.
2. The hoodie under a blazer or long coat look is still here. Of course, in Milan, it was spectacularly done. Not so much in the States, but anyway….
3. Y2K is back: we don't know what that is either, but Holly's very professional fashion definition is that they are bandana blouses or crisscross tops that cross over you boobs. ( . ) ( . ) You'll just have to trust us on this, and go see them on our Pinterest Board. You'll also have to trust Holly when she says this is NOT for fashion over fifty. Please, no.

"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

1. Suiting: How does someone pull off a full suit if they are not 6-feet tall and a size zero? Nolan's answer is - drolly – "very carefully." (Well thanks for that, because that wasn't helpful.) Holly pulls it out of him that you need a very tall heel, the pant hem rides on the floor and the jacket is oversized. Probably not for every body. But good on you if you want to give that one a whirl.

Shows and Shopping and Stuff:

• Casadei Shoes: the Blade pump
• La Double J: bold print women's fashions

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.

www.fashioncrimespodcast.com

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

www.fashioncrimespodcast.com

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:

Proenza Schouoler

Christian Cowen

Tiffany Brown Designs

Frederick Anderson

Ian Alexander Studios

The Art of Rodarte Exhibit and Talks

Colin LoCascio

The Asia Fashion Collections

Claudia Li

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.

www.fashioncrimespodcast.com

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:

• Leather (she's obsessed)
• Faux leather and faux fur
• Velvet
• Silk and more!

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:

• Block heels
• Wedge heels
• Booties with a shorter heel
• Fancy flats
• Tall Boots

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

• A wallet on a chain
• A small clutch bag
• A folded-over envelope bag

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

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:

• Wearing clothes that fit you well, and items that are meant for your body type
• Getting a bra fitting, and wearing bras that fit you perfectly
• Having the basic foundations of a wardrobe: pants, skirts, dresses, blazers, tops, and seasonal items in your closet BEFORE you need them
• Having proper shoes for all occasions
• Learning how to stretch your wardrobe with accessories like bags, scarves, belts and jewelry.
• Investing in quality, good-fitting style, instead of "what's in style" at the moment.

"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

www.fashioncrimespodcast.com

Hosted by your favorite personal stylist and the only Holly you need to know, Holly Katz

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:

• Joggers/Shorts
• Hoodies/Sweatshirts
• Dog Hoodies
• Accessories
• Beach Towels
• Kitchen Towels
• Ice Dyes
• Reverse Dyes
• Custom Dyes
• Custom Shoes

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.

FASHION CRIMES PODCAST

"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!

www.fashioncrimespodcast.com

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