Let's Ask Maggie!: I'm a bit of an addict...

Dear Maggie,

SO I have this thing where I love sunglasses. If I see a cool pair I buy them and rotate which pair I wear. I won't get into how many pairs I have here, but let's just say double digits. I know you are a wardrobe editor--and storage solutions may not be your thing--but do you have any tips on how I can showcase the sunglasses and save space in my tiny studio?

Addicted to Sunnies, Sunnyside, Queens

Dear Addicted,

Wow! I would LOVE to see your collection. A good pair of sunglasses are hard to find!

You are correct, I do help clients edit their wardrobes, so if you need me to help you sort out which pairs are keepers and which should be given away, I'm your gal! (It's that time of the year, reach out if you'd like a wardrobe edit or a personal shopping consultation in person or via SKYPE!)

DIY and storage solutions are not really my thing, HOWEVER, I have a clever friend who has a simple idea she uses for her many pairs of sunnies I thought I would share with you: she attached a sturdy piece of ribbon to the back of her closet door (using nails--you may know a better fastener) and hung a row, then repeated. See the photo below:

Photo courtesy of Christy Denton

If using nails isn't your thing--too permanent--I've made a Pinterest board: Sunglasses Storage for your perusal. I have not used any of the systems, but they look nice!

Hope this helps!

Reader, do you have any stylish storage settings? Sound off in the comments below! In the meantime, send in your Let's Ask Maggie! questions in and follow @letsaskmaggie on twitter!

with love,

Maggie

Let's Ask Maggie!: I look 18 but I'm 30 - help!

Dear Maggie, 

I am blessed to look years younger than I am, and I promise I'm grateful. I'm also an artist, so I'm not terribly taken with corporate getup or investing in suits when I want to work for myself one day. But the consequence is that when I'm schmoozing at conferences and press events, I'm often treated as if I'm fresh out of college, rather than as the experienced, connected manager that I am. 

Can I update my wardrobe in cross-functional ways that will help me be taken seriously, without investing in a wardrobe I'll have to toss when I'm a full-time artist in a few years?

Help.

Charity, New York, NY

Dear Charity,

Congrats on EXCELLENT genes! I know being treated like an inexperienced newbie probably feels extremely irritating and dismissive. I absolutely believe that there are ways to update your wardrobe that you'll be able to use for years to come no matter your career. I also believe you can come across as that experienced kick-ass manager that you are without the antiquated power-suit of the last 4 decades. 

I would start investing in pieces that: 

1. Fit Well. It's amazing how a well-tailored blouse, skirt, blazer, or slacks compliment your silhouette--no matter your size.

2. Show a Bit of Individual Personality. Purchase pieces that when someone sees you in them they think, "THAT IS SO YOU!" Whether that be a vintage brooch that is paired with a velvet blazer or a hot-pink mini skirt. You know your personal style. OWN IT! (and if you don't know your personal style--allow yourself the freedom to experiment. It's fun!)

3. Are of Interesting Color and Texture. Pair unusual things together. I am still in love with the furry leopard coats matched with a luxurious floral tapestry bodysuit--a look I mentioned in an earlier post. (I know this is an insane thing and if you wore that to a board meeting you would get some strange looks, but, it's currently my favorite example.)

4. Classic Shoes and Handbags and a Trench Coat. Sometimes a classic pair of black heels, a sleek handbag, and basic trench add elevated elements to an otherwise casual look. With these simple accessories you can get away with so much--it's very easy to look "put together".

Or, you could simplify your life and do what I have done: wear all black clothing with statement jewelry and bold makeup. *YAWN* (I know).

I created a board for inspiration on Pinterest for you: Professional Looks for an Artist. Hope this helps!

Reader, what have I forgotten?! Let us know in the comments. 

With love,

Maggie

PS Send in your wonderful questions! Reviewing them is my favorite part of the week. The next post could be inspired by you! (Talk about bragging rights! :) ) and don't forget to follow @letsaskmaggie on Twitter!

Let's Ask Maggie: How should I dress for an interview in the creative arts?

Dear Maggie,

Question: what do I wear for a job interview in the creative arts? A suit seems too formal, but I don't wanna blow an interview before I even start talking!

Sonja, Woodstock, NY

Dear Sonja,

These days it's nearly impossible to land an in-person interview so I'll do all I can to help you look the part before you start! 

On your behalf I contacted one of my nearest and dearest, Leah, a Creative Director based in Atlanta. Since she is often on the Interviewer side of the table she knows what she's talking about. (Plus, I've always had a severe style crush on her.) According to Leah, it's not necessary to wear the suit, but you should always do your best to look sharp.

3 tips from Leah to help decipher interview style:

1. If you want the job, look like it. "If you're not putting effort into the initial impression you are going to make, it can appear you're likely not that interested in the position. It also makes me question the level of effort a potential candidate might put into the job."
2. Your wardrobe has a voice. "A candidate's personal design aesthetic often comes through in their appearance. When someone has a strong creative point of view, you can usually see it in all aspects of the interview, including how they visually present themselves."
3. Statement pieces FTW. "Don't be afraid to wear a big accessory, bright color or bold print. It may spark a conversation or help make you memorable to your interviewer." 

Thanks, Leah for your excellent pointers! Thank you dear readers for tuning in to the 6th(!) edition of Let's Ask Maggie! Don't forget to send in those questions and to follow me on twitter! @letsaskmaggie

With love,

Maggie