Getting Ready for a Fabulous Fall

The Well Dressed Life, End of Summer Supplement

August 2008

Megan Kristel, President, Kristel Closets, Inc.

Local Philly residents know that come July and August, a mass evacuation to the Jersey Shore, Delaware, or the Outer Banks takes place. With everyone away, we thought we would take a break from our usual monthly newsletter for July and August to regroup and prepare for our September edition. While not as massive or anticipated as the September issue of, say, Vogue, we have so many big, BIG announcements, some I still can’t believe, and we want to make sure it is spectacular … which it will be!

Speaking of announcements, I am thrilled that this month celebrates the 2 year anniversary of Catie Joyce joining our team. One of the greatest challenges a business owner faces is finding a team that shares the company vision and pride in the brand. Catie is nothing more than heaven sent. She (literally) showed up at my door one day, willing to do anything to learn our business. I was so taken with her goodness and enthusiasm; she joined the family about five minutes later. She’s not only an extraordinarily talented young woman, whose understanding of style is well beyond her years, but her compassion and love for her clients is evident in all she does. Kristel Closets is so lucky to have her and her clients adore her as I am flooded with raving emails every time she leaves a new appointment, and she is a vital part of my family. Congratulations Catie! We are so proud of you!

I couldn't end this note without thanking our amazing clients.  It is our absolute privilege to serve you.  Our team finds so much satisfaction in building these relationships, and we are truly grateful to be able to do what we love every day.  As promised, this is a reminder to book your fall appointments while there is ample flexibility in the schedule.  If you have been considering a service like this, we would love to answer your questions.  You know how it is, once the kids are back to school, its Thanksgiving, and then it may as well be New Years Eve. Time moves so fast, we are here to help whenever you are ready!

Enjoy these last few weeks of summer and we’ll see you soon with our regular contributors, some new faces and news we can’t wait to share!

Take good care,

 

Happy 2 Year Anniversary Catie Joyce!

	Catie Joyce, Style Expert

Catie is a quick study, and with 2 years of client work under her patent leather belt, she knows a thing or two about getting dressed.  We love to tell you about the little things you can do to start the process of looking fantastic.  This month is no different.

Catie's Top 5 "Do it Yourself to Fabulous Tips":

1.  Overhaul your underwear.  Update your bras every season and be remeasured.  This is important because we change and manufacturer sizes change as well.  If you have been wearing the same size since the 7th grade you must visit a professional fitter.  We love Nordstrom for their great selection and lovely staff always willing to help. While you are there, pick up a new body shaper.  These will not last a lifetime, because as they stretch they lose their integrity.

2.  Polish your shoes.  The key to a cohesive look is in the details and nothing beats clean, shiny shoes.  The end of the summer is a great time to take those winter shoes and boots in for a professional polish.  While you are there, have the soles and heels checked and replace if need be.  Protect your "investment:" if your shoes are real leather, they need to be maintained properly so you get the most life out of them.  Take them in now so you're prepared for the fall.  We all know how quickly the seasons changes around here!

3.  Have items mended.  How many times have you pulled out a blazer from your closet with a broken button, only to put it right back?  Take 30 minutes (yup, that's it!) and run through your closet.  Those pants with a fallen hem, skirt with a broken zipper, pull them and take them to your tailor or dry cleaner for repair.  While you're in there, if anything has a stain on it, try to have it removed.  If you don't think the stain will come out, toss it.

4.  Come up with your plan.  We always recommend leafing through a few magazines and pull the pages you like.  This way, you will have a clear image of what you are looking for and what you are willing to try.  You'll be amazed when you see all the pages together, that you actually have a specific and cohesive look.  Pull some pieces from you wardrobe that you like, but are unsure of how to use them.  Take them with you when you shop, along with your magazine pictures, and ask for help.  Most sales people are dying to assist you in the dressing room.

5.  Try accessories first.  If you are more comfortable with baby steps to the new you, pick up a few accessories.  We love Target, H&M and The Limited, for interesting accessories that are super budget friendly.  Look for long necklaces, hammered metals and color that you may have never considered wearing before.  This is a safe way to test drive a new look and you won't be devastated - spiritually or financially - when you move on. 

Have a question for Catie?  Send her an email at cjoyce@kristelclosets.com and one of your questions will be featured in our upcoming newsletters. 

 

 

 

Book your fall make up session - appointments limited

Béke Beau, Make-up Artist

I'll admit it, a lot of make-up artist scare me, at least the ones I have met in the past. The thought of sending someone who goes by one name, cracking their gum with their lips covered in sparkles to one of our clients, had me both amused and horrified.  My faith, at least in professionalism, was reaffirmed when the flawless, Harvard educated, make-up toting Béke Beau entered our lives. We begged her to join our team, and heavens to lipstick are we happy she did. Talented, intuitive and down right hilarious, Beke's philosophy of "you only better" perfectly defines her approach to make-up.

We asked Béke to share her top 3 tips to prepare for the new Fall season, here is what our resident beauty maven had to say:

1. Now is the time to clean up your make-up collection. Throw out anything broken, smelly or that you haven't used in a year or more. Pick up a new make-up bag to put your newly organized products in - it will give you a sense of accomplishment.

2. Continue to be friends with your bronzer after Labor Day. It can warm up and otherwise ghostly appearance year-round.

3. The best fashion trend this season is embellishment - think of your make-up in the same way and take some gentle risks with color.

We have received dozens of requests to schedule appointments with Béke. If you are interested in having your make-up made over for the fall, please call our office at 610-825-3576. To learn more about Béke's services for our clients please click here. September is booking fast.

Please support Béke's run to be "Best Make-up Artist" on the MyFoxPhilly.com HOT LIST. Go to: http://myfoxphilly.cityvoter.com/b%C3%A9ke-beau/biz/86689, create a login, and vote!

Save the Date in September

September starts a marathon season of great events and parties, several sponsored by Kristel Closets, Inc.

We hope to see you there!

9/9          The Wardrobe Boutique Shopping Reception, Benefiting The Career Wardrobe.  The buzz about their new Spring Garden Boutique is amazing, we can't wait to check it out.  To RSVP please call 215-568-6693. 

9/10         King of Prussia, Fashion Night Out.  More information to come.  Rumor has it Audrey Hepburn's original gown from Breakfast at Tiffany's will be on display at the iconic store. 

9/11         The September Issue - Anna Wintour and the Making of Vogue.  Opening in select theaters.  The trailer alone has the entire office giggling with excitement.  Watch the trailer here.

9/13         Doncaster Trunk Show.  Ladies - it is gorgeous.  New lower prices and sizes ranging from 2 - 24 with petite and women options.  Show ends on October 1st.  Please call the office at 610-825-3576 to book your best time.   

9/20         Soiree in the City - The Bridal and Style Event in Philadelphia For the second year Kristel Closets in delighted to be a sponsor of this premier event.  Visit their blog for more details and to purchase tickets:  http://www.soireeinthecity.com/blog 

9/24         Legal Marketing Association Philadelphia Chapter "State of the YOU-NION"  Information and strategies to empower your career and provide you with personal enrichment.    For more information click here.

9/30         A Night with Image Expert Megan Kristel - in Support of the Breast Cancer 3 -Day.  Sponsorted by the Community Women's Club of Buck County.  For more information and to purchase tickets:                                                                          http://www.meetup.com/Community-Womens-Club-of-Bucks-County/calendar/10901804/ 

To learn more about these events, or to schedule and appointment, please call our office at 610.825.3576 or info@kristelclosets.com 

For more information, please visit www.kristelclosets.com