Style How-To's

How To Wear Hats + My Hat Collection

It’s no secret that I love hats. What started as a way to cover up a bad hair day, turned into a full-on obsession and a part of my signature style.

Many of you have inquired about my hat collection, so I figured why not go through it all – hat by hat.

If you haven’t introduced hats into your wardrobe, then you are totally missing out! Hats are the easiest way to add instant cool to your look.

Here are a few tips for adding hats to your wardrobe:

Explore Your Options

So many people are under the false belief that they can’t pull off hats. They think their head is too big, their hair is too short/long/poufy, and the list goes on. The reality is, you probably haven’t tried on enough types of hat. You put on one fedora, looked like a jackass, and never touched a hat again. Explore your options and discover what works and what doesn’t.

Keep Season In Mind

There are some hats you can wear year round, but there are some that just won’t fly at times. Don’t be the weirdo wearing a beanie in July. And I’ll totally give you side eye if you wear a straw hat when it’s snowing.

Make Sure Your Look Matches Your Hat

Keep the tone of your hat in mind while you’re getting dressed. A baseball cap is casual and sporty, dress accordingly. A cowboy hat and a ball gown will earn you a one-way ticket to the loony bin.

Have Fun and Forget The Rules

There are some seriously old school rules when it comes to hats (whether or not you can wear them inside for example). I say forget about ’em. Hats have earned their place in the everyday accessories pool. Embrace your hat game and rock it with confidence.

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6 Simple Ways to Be More Stylish

More style? Yes, please.

Everyone can benefit from having a bit more style in their life – the not-so-stylish and the super stylish alike. To me, style is like money – can you ever have too much? Don’t answer that.

I have identified six easy ways to up your style game.

1.) Layer

Adding a layer is the easiest way to step up your style game. Take a base look (jeans and a tee shirt) and add a layer. The layer could be a blazer, a vest, a leather jacket. Doesn’t matter! Just adding one more piece will take you from basic to baller.

 

2.) Simple Style Swaps

We are all guilty of reaching for those comfortable and familiar pair of jeans in the closet. Instead of putting the jeans on, swap out for leather pants or trousers. If your default is a tee shirt, make a simple swap and try a button down blouse instead.

3.) Embrace Prints

Wearing a printed garment instead of a solid garment is an instant upgrade that is ridiculously easy. The print can be on a garment or baby step it with something like a scarf.

4.) Leave Your Comfort Zone

Many of us get into style ruts, and that is completely normal. Take a risk a try something that’s surprising to your style. If you never wear leather, give it a try and see what happens. The pure shock of it all instantly upgrades your style.

5.) Show Off Your Best Qualities

Have great legs? Wear a short skirt and show off that body with confidence. When you feel good about yourself, you’ll come off more confident, and that is always in style.

6.) Wear Color

Take a break from the neutrals and try a color for a quick style boost.

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Hair and Beauty

The Total Package: How Beauty Plays a Role In Your Style

Have you ever noticed how some women always look amazing?
Like what the hell is their secret level of amazing.
These women can be rocking a plain white tee shirt, jeans, and sneakers – yet still look like they stepped off of freaking runway.
Even I was perplexed by this, so (this was years and years ago) I read this book called

This book is all about beauty, which is a topic I am in no way an expert on and at one time didn’t give two shits about, but I’ve come to realize just how important of a role hair, skincare, and makeup play into your overall appearance and personal style.

So for the past couple of years, I have been focusing more on those areas and man what a difference it’s made.

It has been a journey and a struggle but making these changes have improved my look tremendously.

Hair

Where do I even begin when it comes to my hair? Seriously. I am mixed and have struggled with my hair my entire life. I never knew how to do my hair and most of my time were spent wishing I had different hair. From hot combs to relaxers, to dreads, to braids, to color, from short to long, back to short. I’ve done it all.

I’ve had my hair accidentally dyed blue, and I’ve had it purposefully dyed blue (it also promptly fell right out of my head- there were real tears).

I’ve cried over my hair more times than I care to count and I’ve spent YEARS searching for the perfect hair stylist.

After a good thirty-something years I finally found not one but two amazing hair stylists.

Investing in my hair, learning about hair, and understanding my limitations have been huge. I finally love my hair. Those are words I never thought I would say.

Skin

Again, STRUGGLE. Can we say adult acne? I had pimples as a teen, but they got so much worse as an adult.

I tried every drugstore remedy available, slept with toothpaste on my face, changed my diet, everything!!

It wasn’t until I finally decided to go to a dermatologist, that’s when I started to see a change.

I was put on loads of prescription acne medications, but then one day I decided I didn’t want to. I invested in actually taking care of my skin – quality cleanser, serums, lotions, eye cream, etc.

Today I get compliments on my skin! Again something I thought I would never experience.

Makeup

Another area of suckdom. Makeup was always something I wanted to embrace and wanted to be good at, but it seemed too darn hard.

Don’t get me wrong I would wear makeup, but it would be all types of wrong.

I won’t say that I have mastered makeup, but I am learning through regular visits to the makeup counter (high end – they have the most knowledge) and good old YouTube videos.

So what does all of this have to do with style? It helps you to create that total package.

Not only do you look better when every aspect of your appearance in on point, you feel better too. Feeling better boosts your confidence and helps you naturally step your game up.

Start thinking about your style as a total package. Can you make improvements to your hair, makeup, or skin to improve your overall look? A haircut or color may just give your current wardrobe a new edge. I just got my haircut earlier this week, and I am feeling edgy AF.

Fashion Randomness

What’s Inside My Bag

I thought it would be fun to open up my and share what’s inside. Don’t worry; I took out all of the trash, old receipts, candy wrappers, etc.

Don’t tell me I’m the only one who’s purse doubles as a desk and a trash can.

1.) Gucci Boston Bag

Who can say no to a classic? Scored this baby at my favorite high-end consignment shop, Luxury Garage Sale. They have another one if you want to be twins!

2.) Chanel Planner

The secret’s out! I’m a planner nerd. I don’t go anywhere without my Chanel planner.

My Planner!

3.) Productivity Planner

As much as I love my Chanel planner, this productivity planner is giving my planner a run for it’s money. This planner is an absolute game changer. or at Anthropologie.

4.) iPad Pro

Sometimes my iPhone just doesn’t cut it. I always carry around my (with the and the ) so I can do what I need to do on the go.

5.) Balenciaga Wallet

I love , and honestly, it’s probably time for a new one because I have worn mine out.

6.) Sunglasses

I can’t do cheap sunglasses. I want to, but they just don’t look or feel right on me. Right now I am rocking that I found at Saks Off 5th.

7.) Deodorant Wipes

This was an impulse purchase gone right! I wear natural deodorant and you never know when it’s going to crap out, so are an excellent back up.

8.) Hand Lotion

My hands STAY dry so I always keep a tube hand lotion in my bag, totally need to order another tube.

9.) Electric Toothbrush

I have Invisalign braces, which means I have to brush my teeth nonstop. This little electric toothbrush has been an absolute game changer.

10.) Toothpaste

is a favorite of mine but I also swap out other for natural flouride-free varieties as well.

11.) Tom Ford ‘Cherry Lush’ Lipstick

The best red lipstick of all time. Seriously.

12.) Compact

When your iPhone “mirror” just doesn’t cut it (aka selfie cam).

13.) Perfume

My signature fragrance is Blvgari but I keep little samples of new perfumes in my bag – never know when a new signature scent will introduce itself.

14.) Aquaphor

I have a tube of this because I just got a brand new tattoo!

15.) Caudalie Face Mist

I’ve been using this for years! It’s refreshing and gives your face a little pick-me-up throughout the day.

16.) Headphones

Because I’m a podcast junkie. I use Beats by Dre when I fly and basic iPhone headphones when I’m walking my dog.

17.) Fidget Spinner

What started as morbid curiosity became a purse staple. I don’t leave home without my.

18.) Papillon Key Cover

I am obsessed with my dog – like I love that little creature more than anything in this world. So naturally I have a key cover with his little face on it.

What’s inside your bag?

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Style How-To's

5 Reasons Why Your Style Sucks

Sometimes your style isn’t exactly where you want it to be, and sometimes your style just plain sucks.

It doesn’t matter if you are super stylish or not, suck-y style happens to ALL of us.

The question is, does your style suck?

And if it does, why and what the heck should you do about it?!

Here are the top 5 reasons why your style sucks:

1.) Mentality

If you think style is stupid, pointless, and a waste of money then your style is going to reflect that mindset. Adjust your attitude and understand that style is here to help you. Fix your mind, and your style will follow.

2.) Fit

It doesn’t matter how cool or stylish a piece is if it doesn’t fit it isn’t going to look good. Budget out the time and the money to visit a proper tailor and your style will instantly be upgraded.

3.) Not Knowing How To Style

Styling proper looks doesn’t come naturally to everyone (hello, that’s why I have a job) but if you start to become a keen observer of outfits that work, you’ll be surprised at how much your style will improve as a result.

4.) You’ve Plateaued

Just how you plateau in your diet/exercise routine, you can plateau in your style too. Sometimes you outgrow a particular look, and that’s okay.

5.) Shoe Game Weak

Shoes are instant game changer when it comes to looking your look. One pair of shoes can change the entire tone of your wardrobe. Look down at your feet, if your shoes are falling apart, cheap, or just a mess – then your style might be sucking.

Have you fallen victim to any of these “suck” traps? Let me know in the comments.

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Shopping Guides

Money Can’t Buy You Style

Money doesn’t mean a damn thing unless you know yourself and your style.

It was a journey for me to become the high/low fashion mixer that I am today.

In my low days, I couldn’t afford a damn thing. I never embraced trends because I couldn’t. I was always two seasons behind so I created my unique personal style from an early age. Even as a teenager I didn’t shop at trendy stores. The once in a blue moon Contempo Casuals and my Limited Too birthday outfit – man do I remember that outfit!

When I was a 20-something with a bit of money, I went on a fast fashion bender for club nights mixed in with my Betsy Johnson pieces that I got with my employee discount.

As I got older and started working in the fashion industry, I was introduced to real designer fashion, and it was ON!

It was all I wanted, and I did whatever was necessary to get the best – warehouse sale, driving to the boonies, outlet shopping, eBay, etc

I went all high but for less.

It was good, and it was bad.

The good – I got to experience fashion on a different level, quality on a different level, and at least I got it at a discount.

The bad? Because a piece was a designer, I assumed it was good – even better if it was on sale. So I ended up with a mismatched wardrobe and a lot of wasted money. This is why developing your style and being clear on your goals is so important.

Today I still believe in buying the best quality you can afford, and I use fast fashion for fun – but only when I shop for it with thought and consideration. Those fast fashion pieces also need to be styled in a particular way to work and tailored when needed.

Recently I’ve been messing with Zara and shockingly H&M! I know, me the H&M hater, is changing her tune a bit.

A few things to think about when buying lower priced pieces

  • Is this a staple? Then skip it and buy high quality
  • Does this align with my style?
  • Would I buy this if it cost more?

What are your thoughts on high/low? Drop it in the comments.

Style Inspiration

Ending The Mean Girls Era Through Style

I’m super into movies. I won’t go as far as to call myself a film buff but when I find a movie I love, I watch it 50 million times. I memorize it; I live it, it’s a thing.

It all started with The Wizard of Oz. This started my love affair with shoes.

The next movie I watched non-stop was Zoolander. My brother and I watched this movie over and over again in college.

Next on the movie obsession train was Mean Girls. OMG Mean Girls how I loved you so.

The year was 2004, and I was 23 and boy I was different. Like WAY different.

The Lauren that you see here today was a PROJECT who took years of work to create.

Frankly put: I was an asshole.

Back then I thought you had to be a bitch to get ahead.

I thought you others had to be put down for me to rise up.

The Mean Girl persona was a lifestyle for me.

The idea of paying another person a compliment was unheard of. I didn’t want other people to look better than me, to be skinnier than me, or to be more successful than me.

It’s painful to reflect on such a time because it’s so far from where I am today.

Today I want people to look good. In fact, I’ve made a career out of it.

When helping women 1-on-1 with their style wasn’t enough, I kicked things up a notch by creating virtually offerings that not only helped transform women’s style but also created a sense of community.

Last month I was blown away by the participation in my 30-Day Outfit Challenge private Facebook group. I was regularly brought to tears by the way these women were lifting each other up.

I have to share this … One woman who was affected by Hurricane Harvey said the group helped get her through it.

“Lauren, this challenge has been an amazing experience, and I have enjoyed being a part of this wonderful supportive community.

The messages of support from the ladies of this group have helped more than you know during this period of the hurricane. Seeing your smiling faces gave me welcome moments of respite during this challenging time.

My family and I were able to get through the storm without damage. Others here in my beloved city and state did not fare as well. We are still waiting to see what the cresting of the Brazos river will bring… We will get through this…

This may be the end of the challenge, but the spirit of this community will be with me always… Thank you for such a wonderful experience.”

 

The 30-Day Outfit Challenge is over, but the sense of community is kicking inside of PSU, where women lift each other up DAILY.

My mission has always been to change the way women get dressed, but recently my mission has taken on new meaning through all of you.

So ladies, help me end the mean girl’s era, and let’s start lifting other women up DAILY in regards to their style.

Here is my challenge to you:

Compliment at least one women a day on her style. Double points if it’s a stranger.

You can do it online; you can do it in person. Doesn’t matter just spread the love.

Can you imagine the chain reaction? Think about how you feel when you walk around with a little extra pep in your step because you KNOW you look good?

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Style How-To's

Your Style Solution Has Arrived!

Exciting news … I wrote a brand new book, and it’s finally available to purchase. This book is a serious master plan for your style. It’s fun, it’s actionable, and it works.

 

I created ‘The Style Solution: 30 Days to Your Signature Style’ for women who are ready to take style into their own hands. Women who are sick of trying to “figure it out” and are ready for a proven plan of action.

I guarantee that if you go through this book and do what it is says your style will change dramatically.

Before you order, let me give you the lowdown on what this book is and what this book isn’t.

‘The Style Solution’ is a workbook, straight up. It’s fill in the blank, it’s answering questions, it’s adding in photos and inspiration, it’s tip-sheets, checklists, and resources.

This is not a novel, it’s not a “real page turner” – it’s work.

Fun work!

I want you to print this puppy out. I want you to add stickers. I want you to use your colorful markers.

This is style self-discovery and action plan to get your signature style created in the next 30 days.

If you want to read, don’t buy this book (buy this one instead).

If you want to take action, have fun, and get your style in order – then THIS is your book.

I’ve been going through this workbook (yep, I use my own products) and I’ve been having a BLAST.

When you get your book send me a pic of it all printed out and pretty, and I’ll shout you out on my Instagram page.

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Business Badass

What To Wear to an Industry Conference

I’m kind of a business nerd and spend a lot of time with top-performers (none of which are in the fashion industry). Since I’m the “token fashion girl” I get asked a lot of questions about style and my job as a personal stylist.

I also ask a lot of questions. Like, “How has style impacted your bottom line?”

I’ll never forget the story Dave Kerpen shared during a talk he did for an entrepreneur group I’m in.

The story of the orange shoes.

Dave wanted to build a professional relationship with a very important person. This person didn’t believe in emails. VIP’s email auto-responder said, “Find a more creative way to get in touch with me.”

Dave thinking he had cracked the code, attended a conference this VIP was attending. The problem was, Dave wasn’t the only person who had this genius idea. Thousands of people attended with the same goal in mind: meet Mr. VIP.

So how did it end up that Mr. VIP approached Dave – instead of it being the other way around?

Dave Kerpen’s orange shoes.

The shoes helped him stand out from the crowd.

The shoes were the conversation starter.

The shoes were the magic ticket that landed him the contact and a fulfilling business relationship.

Dave Kerpen understood the power of style, especially in a business conference setting.

Want to know what you should be wearing to an industry conference? Watch today’s video to find out.

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A Day in the Life of a Stylist – Daily

A few months back when I posted my Paris vlogs on my YouTube channel, you wanted more.

When I shared my ‘Day in the Life of a Stylist’ videos – you definitely wanted more.

It baffles me, but apparently “Real Life Lauren” is interesting. Haha!

Because I have so much other content to share on YouTube (style series, fashion questions, Facebook live replays), I can’t always squeeze vlogging in there too.

Then it occurred to me; I vlog every single day on my Instagram account!

From my IG stories (#LaurenRant – it’s a thing) to the pictures I post – you get “Real Life Lauren” 24/7.

So I invite you to follow me on Instagram for fashion fun, BTS action, and a glimpse of what’s on my mind.

See you on the ‘gram!

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