TESTIMONIALS & MEDIA
August 2010
Stretch Your Wardrobe
by Heather Hudson (MSN Shopping Contributor)
Stretch your wardrobe
Going
through a mid-season fashion slump? Or is your budget holding you back
from a good shop? Take a trip into your closet to see how you can
stretch those simple staple pieces every woman should own.
We've
all been there. Standing in front of the closet wearing nothing but a
towel and a frown, wondering what you're going to put on today. When it
seems like we've worn all our clothes to death it's time to get
creative.
We asked certified image consultant and owner of Toronto-based
Styled Closets,
Joan Cordoba-Petraglia to help us stretch our wardrobe by making our
staple pieces more versatile. Here are four key pieces we all should
own and how you can make them work in a variety of ways.
Dutiful denim
"Every
woman should own one pair of high-end denim that complements her body
shape," says Cordoba-Petraglia. "Dark denim is most versatile for day
to night." With the right pair of jeans, you can go almost anywhere -
the trick is what you wear with them.
For a stylish daytime
look, accessorize with gold or leather jewelry and a hip pair of
sunglasses. Cute sandals or casual sling-backs will keep you from
looking schlumpy and a light scarf, graphic tee, crisp white blouse or
daytime blazer are all options you can play with to dress up or down.
For evening, Cordoba-Petraglia advises you slip on shiny patent heels,
add a statement evening bag, some gold "blingy" jewelry and top it off
with a suit jacket in a rich fabric like wool or one with shimmer. Who
says jeans are boring?
Simply shoes
When
it comes to fashion, footwear is anything but just functional. With the
right pair of shoes, you can transform a basic outfit into a
sophisticated ensemble that looks perfectly planned out.
Every
woman should invest in a pair (or several!) of stylish and distinctive
two-inch heels. "These shoes should be of average thickness for
dressing up or down... and you're ready to walk. I find the best ones
are primarily black with some neutral or nude colour detail that will
match everything."
White shirt
When
it comes to versatility, a simple white t-shirt can't be beat.
Cordoba-Petraglia says to look for one that is well constructed, made
of rich fabric and has unique details such an interesting cut, a bit of
hardware or funky stitching. Dress it up with bling jewelry, a small
statement bag, a blazer and some stilettos or take it out in the
daytime with a scarf, cute sneakers or casual heels. A light blazer
adds extra style for the office.
A word of caution: not all
whites are created equal. "There are stark whites, soft whites and
off-whites," says Cordoba-Petraglia. "There is a white that's best for
you depending on your colouring." Make sure you try them all before
buying!
Little black dress
Whether
you're a business maven or a stay-at-home mom, every woman can use an
LBD. The key is not to cheap out in this solid investment piece. "A
good, overall versatile LBD is one that is made of good fabric and the
right cut to fit your unique shape," says Cordoba-Petgraglia. "The
fabric doesn't have to be super rich, but certainly of good quality."
When
you're stumped, this is the wardrobe item that might surprise you - and
everyone - with its ability to go just about anywhere. Remember, it's
not the dress that has to be memorable; it's what you put with it.
Dress it down with a cardigan or blazer and flats. Or take it out on
the town with a chunky necklace, a chic updo, a unique belt, evening
shoes and more dramatic makeup.
August 2009
By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor
(AP Photo)
Be prepared to see
plenty of plaid this fall as the normally modest patterned cloth appears to be gunning for the spotlight. "It's all about the
plaid shirt," says
Toronto stylist Joan Cordoba-Petraglia.
"The plaid that's coming back in is the lumber jack look from the 80s."
Finally, all of Mary-Kate Olsen's hard work has paid off! Although, the
grunge-loving fashion designer can't take all the credit for the latest
trend. For the most part, we have a deflated economy to thank (or
blame)
for the movement. Plaid
shirts represent a strong work ethic and during periods of high
unemployment, we are desperate to appear ready and willing to work at a
moment's notice! (Although, the last I checked the criteria for EI
didn't extend to wardrobe choices.) There are several variations this
fall on the standard
plaid shirt including plenty of
ruffles, says Cordoba-Petraglia. She says women can also have fun with the look by pairing up the shirt with a
pencil skirt, some
blingy jewelry, a
status bag and
trendy sunglasses. "It totally dresses it up," she says.
Wade MacDonald, The Sheridan Sun
The
Sheridan Sun asked GTA image consultant Joan Petraglia for some rules grads should follow when interviewing for their first job.
Dressing for success
Call
the company you have the interview with and find out what their dress
code is. Dress one notch above that for the interview.
When
shopping, choose clothes based on your body type and shape, your
personality, as well as your colouring. Know what's right for your body
to make your image look just right. It’s a good idea to have a wardrobe
budget allotted for the new job or interview.
Invest in a good
suit and build on it. If the cost involved in is an issue, places like
Holt Renfrew Last Call in Vaughan Mills mall discounts high-end suits.
If that's still too much, a suit from H&M will work.
Only
buy items that are interchangeable with your existing wardrobe. If it
doesn't go with anything you have, skip it. Take advantage of good
sales.
Grooming
It
takes seven seconds to assess a person and form an opinion about them,
so it pays to arrive at the interview as well groomed as possible.
Your hairstyle should be based on your face shape and personality. Short or long is up to you, as long as it’s clean and neat.
Too much perfume/cologne is poor etiquette. People shouldn't be able to smell your presence.
Attitude
Dressing provocatively will give you an image you may want to stay away from.
Being
taken seriously can be a challenge for people in their 20s because they
have more to prove. If you choose to dress dress as if you're going
clubbing, don't complain when people don’t react well to you.
What matters is authenticity. Yes, it's that same old thing your mother told you that couldn't be truer; be yourself.
What’s in for men?
Petraglia
says men should stick to classics and throw in something current.
Rules of wardrobe formality are important. Just like women, dress for
your body type and shape and use the colours that bring you out.
If
you have any concerns about the image you want to create, Mrs.
Petraglia offers her services to grads at a reduced rate in May and
June. Contact her at styledclosets@rogers.com.
Do...
* Be current not outdated. An outdated wardrobe will send the message that you and your skills are outdated.
* Wear clothing that is in good condition. Worn out clothing will send the message that you and your skills are worn out.
* Dress appropriately, usually one level above that which is required for the position.
* Research the organization so you can demonstrate your interest and awareness.
* Be an image maker, not an image breaker.
* Be well groomed.
* Have fresh breath.
Don't...
* Wear clothes that are ill-fitting, or clothing that is cheap or tacky.
* Wear outdated clothing or accessories (don't be trapped in a particular decade).
* Have visible panty lines.
* Have your undershirt visible through shirt or neckline.
* Have body odour or too much fragrance.
* Have obvious hair in your nose or ears.
* Have visible bra straps and undergarments.
* Wear short socks with pants (leg is bared when crossed).
* Show any inappropriate bare skin.
July 2009
By Jackie Burns/MSN Shopping Contributor
Ever
wondered why certain shoes make your feet look monstrous while others
leave you feeling positively princess-like? Toronto stylist
Joan Petraglia says shopping for accessories according to your bone structure can drastically improve your look.
She
says there are three types of bone structures for women; fine, medium
and strong. Simply measure around the top of your wrist to find out
which category you fall under. Those with a fine bone structures will
measure less than 5.5 inches or 14 cm around the wrist. Medium bone
structures fall between 5.5-6.5 inches or 14-16cm while strong bone
structures are greater than 6.5 inches or 16.5 cm.
Here are some tips for shopping for shoes and jewelry according to your bone structure.
Fine Bone Structure
You should to aim for the finest of
details in your accessories; the thinnest, flattest, most
delicate-looking pieces. Chunky shoes will overwhelm your feet but you
can pull off strappy sandals as long as you go with the thinnest of
straps. You will drown in most statement-making necklaces so stick to
more dainty bracelets or hanging necklaces with fine chains and
beading.
Medium Bone Structure
Try sticking to more classic,
medium-weight styles and be sure to avoid anything too thick or too
thin. You’ll want to avoid those fine little strappy sandals as well as
the heavier, chunkier shoes. Both are too contrasting so you should
focus on shoes with more medium-sized straps. Classic-sized pearls and
other medium-weight jewelry works best for your structure.
Strong Bone Structure
You should stick with the details that
are the thickest, heaviest and chunkiest. Avoid the tiny strappy shoes
and opt instead for straps that are thicker with heels and buckles that
are chunkier. People with strong bone structures who try to pull off
fine straps end up busting out of them, which doesn’t do your feet any
favours. You can pull off large, statement-making necklaces and thick
bangle bracelets but be sure to steer clear of lighter pieces like
tennis bracelets or delicate pendants.
June 2009
What Styles Work Best for Your Body Shape?
By Jackie Burns/MSN Shopping Contributor
Many of us may be inadvertently picking clothing that isn’t doing our figure any favours. Toronto stylist Joan Petraglia
reveals some of the most flattering styles for the various female body
shapes so that we can put an end to fashion faux pas once and for all. Find
the description that most relates to your body shape, read up on the
do’s and don’ts and then sit back and wait for the compliments to roll
in!
Standard: Waist and the hips are in proportion with one another
Petraglia
says standard body types look best in fitted clothing that shows off
the fact they have a waist and the top part of their body is in
proportion with the bottom (see Miss Sixty dresses).
“They are the kind of people who can pretty much wear anything,” she
says, adding that while they have plenty of options open to them,
height should be taken into consideration. Generally for shorter
people, it’s advisable they wear shorter skirts, while taller people can wear longer skirts, she says.
A (or pear) – Hips are wider than the bust
Petraglia suggests a higher neck line
to try to even out the top and bottom visually. The lapel, or collar
spread, should be narrower, she says, adding that shoulder pads might
even help to even out the bottom and the top. Clothing should not be as
fitted at the waist, she warns, adding that most of the detail should be in the top half, rather than the bottom. “When they are wearing pants, they should be wearing the flat front vs. the pleated and dark colours are more flattering,” she says. Things As should avoid: Raglan shirts because it forms an A on your top which you are trying to avoid.
V – Bigger on the top and really small on the bottom (hips are narrower than the bust)“They should go for fitted jackets or blazers and tops that show their waist,” says Petraglia, adding a V-neck line is good. “They can wear pleats or some kind of gather on the bottom, whether it’s pants or a skirt, because it defers the smallness on the bottom,” she says, adding that skirts that have diagonal draping would be perfect. Things Vs should avoid: Pockets or detail on the top half. (Any detail should be on the bottom to make it more balanced with the bigger top half.)
H - Don’t have much of a waist (the waist is thicker than standard)
“Don’t
define your waist because you don’t have one!” says Petraglia. She
suggests giving the illusion that you have a waist by making sure
jackets are less fitted and keeping a lot of detail on the top half. “Straight skirts are better and flat front pants
are more flattering,” she says. Petraglia advises sticking to more
tailored bottoms, keeping jackets or tops below the waist and making
sure jeans or pants sit on the hip. Things H’s should avoid: Pleats, raglan sleeves and fitted jackets.
O (or apple) - waist is thicker than the bust
“You don’t want to define the waist, so go for unstructured or looser jackets
as opposed to being fitted so it takes away attention from the middle,”
says Petraglia, adding it’s best for a one or two button jacket because
if you have any more than that, it shows the O. She suggests wearing straight skirts and flat front pants, keeping any details on the top half and making sure the jacket or top is below the waist to cover the O. Things Os should avoid: raglan sleeves and pleats.
X - waist is smaller than the standard (top and bottom are proportioned but with a smaller waist)
“It’s
the whole Coca-Cola bottle shape – it’s sort of the most desired
figure,” says Petraglia, adding that it’s like the V body shape but
slightly different on the bottom. She suggests fitted jackets or tops, V-neck line shirts as well as flat front pants.Things X’s should avoid: pleats
May 2009
Hot Summer Fashion Under $20
By Jackie Burns/MSN Shopping Contributor
Who said
rocking the latest summer styles had to put you in the red? We’ve found
some of the hottest looks for under $20 that will allow you to update
your wardrobe without having to update your budget!
Understated Sexy
When it comes to your top half, Toronto Stylist Joan Petraglia says shorter is better this summer and that halter tops
will definitely have you winning points for style. “Something with a
sexy back, but nothing too revealing,” she says. “I’m finding that the
revealing thing is not happening. It seems to be much more understated.” When it comes to your bottom half, you might want to shelve your Capris this year. “I’m seeing a lot of cropped pants that are more mid-calf rather than the Capri which is just below your knee,” she says. as well as more loose-fitting flowing skirts are all part of the whole Bohemian, hippy chic trend that continues to be big this summer, she adds.
Dressing High-Low
This summer is all about taking fashion
risks and mixing pieces that you might not normally pair. “Contrast is
the big thing,” says Petraglia. “If you’re wearing a top that’s striped you can wear it with a skirt that's polka dot.”
She says taking a fancier dress and then dressing it down with a denim
jacket or boots is extremely hot as well and mixing different fabrics,
like satin or mat. “You don’t want the whole matchy-matchy thing,” she
says.
Bold Colours & Metallic
“We’re seeing a lot of bold colours
mixed with neutrals this season,” says Petraglia, adding that whether
you go for purple, blue or pink, it’s the stark version that you’ll
want to choose. “The whole glittery, metallic look
is all over the place too,” she says. “Whether it’s the pants or the
top or the jacket, every woman should have one item that’s going to be glittery or sequined that she can incorporate into her regular wardrobe.”
Chunky Jewelry
When it comes to jewelry accessories this
summer, Petraglia says the chunkier the better. “It’s all about bold,
chunky and layered,” she says, adding that you will often see these
dramatic beads or jewels right on the clothing itself. While she says statement jewelry
is great for taller and more dramatic people, smaller woman should opt
for more medium-sized accessories. “Otherwise, it’s going to overtake
you,” she says.
Hop on the Butterfly Bandwagon
By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor
When I heard recently that butterflies were uber hot for summer '09,
I have to say I got a little sentimental. In my first year of
university back in (cough) 1995, I owned the hottest little
butterfly shirt as part of my expansive 'bar top' collection. It was by
far my favourite, and got paraded out regularly as I set out on
my freshman quest to hit all of Toronto's sweatiest nightclubs. Stylist Joan Petraglia says the return of the butterfly motif is part of the whole Bohemian, hippy-chic look that's continuing to take the summer fashion scene by storm. She says cute floral t-shirts
are also rolled into this look. While it's fun to shop ahead for
summer, we should be mindful that it's been known to snow on the May
long weekend so don't perform the complete closet overhaul just
yet. Here are Lisa Charleyboy's top five spring transition options.
April 2009
Glow Magazine Spring 2009 issue contributor for Style Editor Vanessa Taylor's 'The Bright Stuff' page 124.
CHANGE ROOM TRICKS If you are unsure which tone works for you, hold the garment up to your face. The right colour will make your eyes pop & instantly brighten your face, says Joan Petraglia, owner of Styled Closets Wardrobe in Toronto. Alternatively, the wrong shade will wash you out.
RULE OF THUMB When wearing brights, the focus should always be on the individual~the colour or item should never take over, says Petraglia.
IF YOU'VE FALLEN FOR THE WRONG COLOUR If your new favourite colour is a blinding neon orange that just doesn't compliment your skin tone, find it in piece that are worn away from your face, like a belt or flats.
"The best color in the world is the color that looks good....on you!"
~ Coco Chanel
What They're Saying....
When
I was unsure about my wardrobe, what colours were my best, or why I
kept wearing the same boring clothes...I needed help, that’s when I
found Styled Closets. Joan Petraglia's passion and enthusiasm introduced
me to a world of colour and style I never understood before. But since
meeting Joan, I’ve now learned a great deal and feel like a new person,
I’ve found my colours!. With Joan’s expert advice and gracious approach, she helped me refine my wardrobe and understand my colour palette. I can now finally walk into my closet and confidently select clothing, shop according to my colour
palette, body type and figure and best of all know confidently what works and what does not. Thanks so much Joan, You’ve added colour to my life!
Paul T.
Brampton May 2010
Thank you again for squeezing me into your schedule. I learned so much in
such a small amount of time and can't believe we went through all of Winners in roughly two hours...you're amazing!
I'm really happy with our finds and can't wait to get started on mixing
and matching with different outfits.
Vickie A.
Toronto, ON
Thanks for the shopping spree - I can tell I'm learning! And you'll be
proud of me - I've picked up 2 practical black tops and a grey sweater
since then - lucky finds, was out doing other errands.... I don't hate shopping anymore.... you've unleashed the monster shopper in
me....my husband approves of all the purchases, but he doesn't realize
what he's started!
Your help has been a huge benefit to me - and that's coming from
someone who was a bit of a skeptic! I have to give some of the credit
to my husband - he could tell I'd be comfortable with you and I was. I think
I could learn a lot more - but in the time we had, I learned enough to
make my shopping much more efficient - there are things I don't try on
anymore, racks of clothes I don't bother going through! And although
my wardrobe needs more work - I'm less at a loss as to what to wear!
Marion K.
Mississauga, ON
Thank you for the wonderful job you have done to
help me create a new, casual look for my new stay-at-home life. I was uncertain about my hair style and colour, I
didn't have any make up to speak of and my closet was full of outdated
business clothing. Your
recommendation for hair has produced awesome
results! I've got the low maintenence cut I wanted with a lot more
style. I love the colour palette you advised and the style profile you
created. They have increased my confidence and make choosing makeup
and clothing much easier.
Given what we started with, you were able
to pull together several outfits from my existing wardrobe to get me
through a November wedding and Christmas social season so I could start
shopping for my new wardrobe in January when winter sales are on. I see from the items you have already helped me choose that I'm going to
end up with a lot less clothing but a better collection of items that
look good together and look great on me. You are doing a great job of
finding things that fit me well, are stylish and still age appropriate.
Oh and did I mention that you have accomplished all this without me
blowing my budget!?!
Pam M.
Toronto, Canada
Joan has provided me with more clothes without me entering a
store! With her creative eye, attention to detail and ability to
listen, she created a variety of outfits that fit my lifestyle. Items
I never would have put together, she did with ease...and I love them!
Thanks to Joan I look forward to opening my closet and finding a different look each day.
Jo-Anne
Toronto, Canada
"Let me tell you how many times I thanked you because you were right, it
almost seemed like I could only see my colours in the racks, and
nothing else!!!! Where before I could have spent the same
amount of money and bought tons of clothes which would just sit in my
closet, this time I was able to pick a few key pieces that will work
now, and I can wear underneath sweaters and cardigans and also with my
business suits. I absolutely loved it, especially since
I was under budget!!!"
Shani S.
Ontario, Canada
"When I travel, I typically pack too much with the fear that I will need
to bring everything 'just in case'. Joan came over and put together my
entire wardrobe for the trip. I used every outfit and packed only half
of what I usually pack. Thanks Joan."
Natalie H.
Oakville, ON
"I'm really starting to notice how different I feel on the days when I'm wearing the 'right' things vs. the days I'm having to use the ok stuff. I'm looking forward to more
and more good days!"
Brenda F.
Toronto, ON
"My boyfriend surprised me with Joan's services for my 28th birthday.
Before that, I was constantly saying how I wish I had someone to tell
me what looks best on my body type, what to wear, etc. After spending
the entire day with Joan, I now feel more confident with my body and
how to dress it and I feel empowered when I shop because I now know
exactly what I am looking for. It was the best gift I have ever
received; it is a gift that keeps on giving and I can use this valuable
information for the rest of my life!"
Sara D.
Peterborough, ON
“I was buying an outfit just about every time I had somewhere to go. I have a ton of clothes yet I still couldn't figure out what to wear! I had my closet 'styled' & organized by Joan & I can't believe the amount of outfits she came up with that I had never even though of! She made recommendations on what I should buy & helped me pack for my last trip! Since she organized my closet, I'm excited about how easy it is to come up with what to wear in the morning.”
Trixie F.
Toronto, ON
"I get really stressed out packing for a trip, trying to figure out which outfits are worth taking, what looks good & what I can do without. Joan went through what I had & reaffirmed what I should bring & not bring. She picked outfits, shoes & specific items that are all interchangeable with one another to avoid over packing & to have options if for some reason I'm not "feeling" the originally planned outfit. She took the guesswork out of the planning & the packing & I am stress free! I will be hiring Joan for my next project: sifting through my entire pack rat wardrobe to see which will stay & what's gotta go!"
Carol Alba
Toronto, ON
"Joan is energetic and passionate about her work. My closet was a disaster that I couldn't even look at anymore. Joan got right down to business and re-organized the mess into something I can now easily work with. I can actually see my entire wardrobe and put outfits together easily. I now save tons of money and shop my own closet !"
Linda S.
Toronto, ON
Thank you for getting
me sorted out. Not only did you find great outfits in my closet that I
never knew existed you set me straight on key pieces I need to buy to maximize
my existing wardrobe. Your pointers on shape, lengths and fabrics (there
is life beyond cotton) are invaluable tools in building a wardrobe that bests
compliments me and explains why certain combinations just didn’t work.
Thanks again and all
the best.
Cathy H.
Georgetown, ON
Joan has helped me make the most of what I've got in my wardrobe. She took my modest means into account and her suggestions were economical as well as sensible. For the beginner, she gives helpful and personalized tips, both about what I might buy and where I might buy it. She also suggests the ways in which fashion is both an art and a science, both a sense and a study. I feel much more confident about dressing following my consultation with Joan, and just plain happier about myself.
Thanks again,
Darryl S.
Toronto, ON
I
had gotten to the point where all my clothes were outdated. Being over
60, I felt that the current fashions did not suit my figure or my
lifestyle. Walking into a clothing store was overwhelming. Joan is a good listener.
She heard what I wanted and she analyzed what I needed. She
helped me pick colours and styles and she gave me strategies for
shopping on my own. For those in need of direction, Joan is a real
fashion find!
Cheers,
Nancy L.
Toronto, ON
Joan Petraglia 416.725.7175
styledclosets@rogers.com
