Category: Fashion

Are You Dopamine Dressing?

A few years ago I stumbled upon this amazing article on Dopamine dressing.  But it wasn’t until recently that I was reminded of it after seeing two Instagram bloggers I follow (@alwaysafashionparade and @girlwithbellsandwhistles ) bring up this topic.

So here I am wanting to share this with you ladies as well!  Basically, dopamine dressing or styling is all about how clothes make you feel- and in this case- mostly in a happy way.  There’s a lot of research on how wearing color can boost your mood and why it is that we choose certain colors over others.

In the case of dopamine dressing, it’s all about how good, lucky, hopeful (you get the gist) you feel when you wear a certain outfit (hence the superstitious wear of the lucky this-or that).  But there’s clear evidence that the clothes you wear can have a certain effect on your mood.  I wouldn’t limit this happy feeling to only wearing colorful clothing though…as some of us can be flying high just by wearing black!

3Dopamine Dressing

So it’s really about yourself and the importance you place on particular pieces from your closet.  In fact, it may also be the reaction you get from others when seeing you dressed in a certain attire.  Take for instance some feisty logo on a tee you love to wear…when you’re walking around you don’t necessarily focus on that logo, right? But it can be the smile that lights up the person who crosses your path that has you smiling right back at them.  And, there’s nothing like a smile to change your mood.

Which leads me to asking; who doesn’t want a feel good hormone in their life?  If it’s as easy as just getting dressed up for happiness, then why not give this a try?  Take a good look at what’s in your closet- guaranteed you’ll find special moment outfits (good or bad); lucky sweaters; first date shoes; promotion dress…

Lastly, when you’re out shopping, let this be a new determining factor for purchase.  Ask yourself not only how good you look in it- but also, how does it make you feel? Do you feel comfortable?  Does it make you feel glamorous, artistic, young (fill in the blanks for what you aspire)…and ultimately- does it make you feel happy?

Sometimes it’s good not to over-analyze and just go with the feel.  It may probably turn out that these are the pieces that will live the longest in your closet (and in your life!).

#Confessionoftheday: Was my all-time dreary mood all of January’s fault?  Come to think of it…I did very little dopamine dressing.  Hmm, time to change things up for February!

Dopamine dressing 1

For more outfit ideas and inspiration, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @lucybertoldi

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How to Wear Your Vintage Hats

Hats give the special finishing touch to outerwear.  But I’m talking especially about the vintage ones living somewhere in our closet.  Do you have a favorite hat that you swear next winter you’ll wear for sure…and then you never do?

There’s a good chance that something’s holding you back. There was a time when hats were de rigueur…now, unless it’s on the Runway, we often feel reluctant. Maybe there’s the glamour aspect that makes it feel like it’s a bit too much- it feels too elegant.

For me, it’s always been a question of practicality.  Like if I’m gonna wear a hat, it better keep me warm, and, it better look good.  And then there’s the whole fur ordeal and my new outlook on this (I’ll never buy real fur again).  But what do you do with all the fur vintage hats you have stashed in your closet?

Mine have real sentimental value, since they mostly all belonged to my mom, grandmother, or another close relative.  I don’t want to throw them out…So I do want to wear them- if only for the ode of respect for the animal as well as the environment (don’t want them in a landfill).  So now that I’ve made my peace with that, what do you do when because of the fashion back in the day, these hats are not in the least bit practical?  Meaning, yes, they’re made to keep you warm; yet they don’t even cover your ears?!

Hat collage

If you’re one of those ladies who’s bought a few winter hats because of how cute they are- but can’t figure out how to wear them with purpose…Then, take a look at my video clip for some practical styling tips.  Try these out and see if you can revamp those beauties you’ve got hidden in some pretty hat box at the far end of your closet.  And…do let me know- send me a pic- I love seeing women styling hats!

Watch my Video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErCxVULXYzU

#confessionoftheday: I secretly long for those days when, as a little girl, my mom used to take me to Eaton’s (remember that department store in the 60’s- 70’s?)- all the customers were elegantly dressed.  The women wore fancy hats, gloves and marvelous coats. Shopping was a chic and very big ordeal (well at least that’s what I thought!)  I used to love taking the elevator just because it was operated by the ladies in uniform.  Do you guys remember that?  I guess that’s wear my love of hats…and styling of course, began.

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Why (not ‘What’) Are You Wearing…?

Doors are symbolic to me.  Whether it’s in real life or in dreams, I always get some sort of message or feeling when I see doors.  I took this photo several weeks ago and yet it only speaks to me today.  New beginnings, new things, are coming my way.  Like we’ve heard before; when one door closes- another one opens.

So today, this is still a styling post, but with much more meaning to it.  I’m to let what has passed, be at rest and in peace…and look ahead to what more, life has to offer.  I’m to not look behind in grief, but rather be graciously thankful for that past that is now allowing me to go forward.

I wasn’t thinking such thoughts when I took this picture; it’s only now that I was browsing through which pics to post, that it spoke to me this way.  Grieving is a personal process, but when you feel you get a strong message that you alone can interpret, then it’s something real that you can’t just set aside.

My message came in strong for me and I just love the way this pic has such a ready-to-go feel.  It’s a happy and ready photo.  Styling is a passion and so is fashion- but it is way for me.  There’s always something behind what you choose to wear and what pics you choose to post.  I really believe styling up is a creative outlet and a form of expression.

Today I encourage you to look back at some of your photos and see what you can read from them just by how you styled up your outfit- or where the pic was taken.  Everything is pre-conceived; even when you just throw on ‘any old thing’.  It has meaning- and basically, by wearing; you’re expressing.

Which outfit styling photos of yours speak out to you?

#confessionoftheday: My dad (95), who recently passed away during the holidays this year, would not want me to put my life on hold.  He would want me to move forward and lunge…after all, it’s from him that I’ve inherited my strong will and perseverance.  Thanks Papa.

IMG_6469

I support sustainable fashion and wearing and re-styling what’s already in your closet;  Thrifted vintage Givenchy.

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Let Mother’s Day Sparkle and Dazzle!

Do you love glitter and all that shines? Then I wish you could have joined me at the Katherine Karambelas sample sale that took place a few weeks ago! The place shone with the most precious sparkling temptations!

I can’t begin to tell you how crazy I am about this line of exquisite semi-precious jewelry. Every piece is a true work of art- seriously. The jewelry is created using precious and semi-precious stones and metals, as well as, Swarovski crystals.  The epitome of chic, and, all meticulously hand-made.  Incredibly fashionable and suitable for women of all ages and styles, well-priced and original…the Katherine Karambelas line is perfect for us, Darlings:)

There’s much that I admire and adore about this brand. Besides, beauty, quality, originality, and authenticity, for me, the fact that Katherine, a Montreal designer of Greek origin, works alongside her three daughters, heading, creating and developing a business for women, by women- is a true heartwarming inspiration. A wonderful mother and daughters’ story…

I can’t fathom anything more appropriate for Mother’s Day! Thinking of offering something splendid for this wonderful day?

So…Without further ado, let me whet your appetite- drum roll please!

Here I am with two of the beautiful and talented Karambelas sisters: Nektaria and Faith.

A little bubbly and more sparkles…

Here’s one of the pieces I purchased.

This is what it looks like on me..

And I just couldn’t resist this piece!!

And one more! Haven’t worn this one yet but with the warm sunny weather ahead- and vacation time; I can see myself wearing this one all summer long.

So these were my beautiful purchases!

And just when I thought I’d had my heart’s content…earlier this week I was surprised with this arrival in the mail! Thank you so much Katherine Karambelas. I’m a true KKit Girl now!

Magical!

Katherine Karambelas also takes special orders to create unique pieces for clients. Here are two necklaces in Swarovski created just for me. I wear these all the time, dressed up or casual…

And this one in darker stones…

 

Mother’s Day is almost here! Check out Katherine Karambelas’ splendid creations here at:

katherinekarambelas.com

Instagram @katherinekarambelas

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November’s Fashion Review: What Lucy Wore

November is gone! This year, October’s gloomy sister was a cold creepy nag wouldn’t you say?

I personally believe that November is the perfect month to break up the gloomies with a quick getaway. Somewhere that makes you feel like summer wasn’t too far gone; while the holidays are on their way…Welcome American Black Friday! A shopping girl’s ‘almost’ favourite time of year. Doesn’t make November seem so dreary after all!

This November I enjoyed quite a few favourite outfits. Blacks win my heart- that’s just the way it is. So this short cape over a grey turtleneck and tights seemed just right. Most of these pieces are from Le Chateau. Le Chateau offers great style at affordable prices- you never can miss.

Still in black mode- I love to take it up a notch with a bit of a retro look. This outfit was so practical and comfy. H & M short knit skirt; Guess wool sweater, Roberto Cavalli handbag, Givenchy sunglasses; Le Chateau boots.

It was also time to take out my reversible leopard print coat. Animal print makes me feel so glamorous.

I just have to tell you about my new tights obsession!! Have you heard of From Rachel? She is a Quebec designer who makes the most original tights. They are so stylish!! I bought several pairs with different motifs. Here I’m wearing them with my knit green sweater dress from Le Chateau (have you noticed how much I like shopping there?).

Red mood…as I was psyching myself up for the holidays soon approaching. Love these Cowboy boots that I’ve had a few years now. Such a conversation piece!

All geared up for work in black (the only color I’m actually allowed to wear – I’m almost thankful for that!). Totally in my element;) Marciano dress, and From Rachel tights (dressy ones!).

And then it was off to Florida! My November fashion turned into a Summovember mood! Jeans and loose blouses were favourites.

My Trussardi shorts and a pair of ruffled pants by Lucca Couture, that I got at the Black Friday sales, became my go-to’s.I also brought along a short white leather jacket, by Guess- perfect with almost all my outfits.

I could not live without my Mathilde handbag! From the plane, to shopping, to out for dinner- I wore this bag everywhere. In its gorgeous camel beige color; it just fit right in, always! Both my Gucci belt and my vintage Nina Ricci; worn all the time.

Back home- back to black! I love these leopard print booties by Charles David!! I got them for a steal at Saks Off while in Florida.

Last day of November, for a Blogittogether Event here in Montreal, I wore my Miu Miu skirt with boat top and Fiorucci top (and my can’t-live-without Gucci belt of course!) I was tanned enough and the weather mild enough that I wore my over the knee platform boots without tights (Montreal weather!)- but hey…it wasn’t quite December yet!

#confessionoftheday: I could not hold back on that American Black Friday…boots, boots, and- more boots. Le sigh.

Ready for December?  Stay tuned!

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Animal Print: Purr-fect Yea…or Nay?

There’s no question that animal print can add flare to your look. But is that always true? Flaunting your edgy, fashionable side- let alone being gorgeous, luxurious and stylish,-these faux-furries are all-around complexion lovers! Plain and simple, they just suit everyone. So can there actually be a downside to that adorable leopard look? I’d say, a reluctant, and unfortunate, yes. In my opinion, animal print can sometimes also layer on the years… Age is just a number, but, no one wants to look like an old cat! So, how do we avoid that?

 

Diva TIPS: Animal print, as the magnificent animal it represents, wants the throne to itself. This kind of pattern needs no help from loud accessories and other over-the-top adornments. It makes a statement all on its own. That’s not to say that you can’t wear any accessories at all though! Just keep in mind that anything you match up with animal print should be way more subdued- or, avoid wearing it altogether. Because, here it is ladies…this is where your glam look can suddenly turn into a dress-up costume…and that is not fashionable; nor, is frumpy. It’s just overkill.

Ok, so what can you wear with, say, leopard? I love a great red lipstick with subtle makeup. Gold, as in a chain, bracelet, earrings or cuff- is also great because it brings a natural glow to the skin – adding warmth to the tone of the look. Of course all other clothing pieces should be one colour. Stick to neutrals, as these compliment best; allowing the print its spotlight. Avoid patterned scarves altogether.

And by the way, animal print is also considered a neutral. So when worn as an accessory rather than the outfit, it can immediately add a touch of luxury and glamour. So go ahead and wear that printed scarf, belt, bracelet cuff or booties to accentuate any plain color outfit! You’ll notice how once again, even such a minor detail will still somehow end up as the conversation piece that will steal the show.

So my darlings, wear your kitties to your heart’s desires, but paw-lease, wear them well!

 

 

What I’m wearing:

Hat: Fiorrucci

Reversible coat: Patrizia Pepe

Faux leather pants: Guess

Booties: Syle Design &Co

Red Lipstick: Chanel Rouge Coco: Arthur

Vintage red sunglasses

#confessionoftheday: I have myself done the no-no-overkill look on occasion (this is why I know how off it can look)…But who knows, maybe I was just letting out the eccentric in me! If you’re going for that look- then hey- go for it!

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Quebec Designers- Montreal Fashion You Just Can’t Resist

La Braderie de la mode Québécoise is a yearly showcase and sale of Quebec’s designers. It takes place at Marche Bonsecours in Old Montreal. Here you can find the finest of our home designer’s specialties. The fashion is incredible and the talent, exceptional.

I absolutely LOVE going to this event which takes place every year, right here, in Montreal’s most historic site, by the Old Port. Every year I try so hard to contain myself from buying just about everything and anything. Too hard on myself! Not only is the merchandise fantastic- I’m just so incredibly proud of our home talent.

This year, I was sad that my beloved Ophelia (hats!) was not there (or did I just miss it in all the hustle and bustle- sigh!). But! I fell upon a fabulous handbag discovery! Do you know Mathilde CRIQUI (www.mathildec.com)? Love at first sight!

Mathilde designs all her handbags-the leather is Italian- but they are designed and manufactured here in Montreal. My heart cried out for this mustard/beige backpack/ handbag. To keep it practical and hands-free, use it as a backpack. But then, the belts just slide up and poof! It turns into a shoulder handbag. So practical! With a front pocket that can carry my tablet, and a larger pocket perfect for my Chrome notebook (or Mac notebook), there’s still extra space for all the rest us Divas like to stash in there.

Honestly, I wasn’t shopping for a handbag, but when I saw this gem- I could not resist. It took all of 10 minutes and-sold! It was mine:) It was also a great pleasure for me to meet the designer herself- she’s a sweetheart. You can find Mathilde’s beautiful handbags at most luxury boutiques on Laurier street- or of course, through her website.

I do hope you get a chance to get to the Braderie (you must because it ends this Sunday!)…oh- and I forgot to mention; prices are at least 50% off regular retail price!

If you do go to the Braderie- let me know!

I should also mention that after all that shopping you may want to step out – right next door for some refreshments at Pub Brewskey.

Cheers!

#confessionoftheday: I promised myself I would be good. Would not buy a thing other than a pair of gloves. Could not keep my promise.

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Vintage – Only Gets Better with Age

Due to fast fashion, the Vintage rule has now changed from 50 years to 10. Meaning that if you bought something in, say, 2008, it can now be called one of your vintage collectibles. But let’s be clear here, unless it’s a sentimental piece or a high quality item, we can’t just be calling any old thing, “vintage”. That being said, everything’s relative- because if you’re not planning on reselling, then the value you place on it is your own.

I personally hold on to stuff I really love and that is also dear to me. When it comes to housewares- I’ll keep almost all that’s valuable that was passed on to me through generations. Same goes for jewelry and heirlooms. But-When it comes to clothing, I don’t always care in the same sentimental kind of way. Clothing pieces that I keep are first and foremost quality items that I originally purchased because I loved them. Secondly, they must fit me well while being versatile and adaptable enough for me to re-wear and give it a new beginning.

There are just some things that I cannot part with…jackets are my big, big weakness. (We’ll get into handbags another time;) I prefer my vintage items to be suitable for the times and have an edgy and original look. I don’t really mind if the look is rather quirky and a bit outrageous.

If I can give one bit of advice that I use for myself…just make sure that your ‘oldy’ does not actually date YOU. What do I mean? Well, let’s just say you want to wear a look from the 50’s. For some younger women, a whole entire look may work just fine. However, there’s a good chance that if, for example, I were to wear this, I could be mistaken for being stuck in an era. It can be an automatic ‘ager’. That’s not so cool. Avoid this by making sure you always match up your vintage with something very ‘in’ right now. This will add pizzazz, novelty and trendiness to your look. Basically, don’t unnecessarily bring old age upon yourself- just modernize it!

Remember: Vintage is for fashion, glamour, reminiscence, colour, texture and originality. Vintage should be artsy and FUN!

Jacket by Victoria Kyriakides, bought in Thessaloniki, Greece (about 20 years ago- I swear it’s brand new- I’ve only worn it maybe 5 times!). Maryjanes haven’t graduated to vintage yet…Spring 2018, Isaac Mizrahi.

#confessionoftheday : I’m secretly more excited about re- wearing a good vintage piece, than when I wear something new for the first time. Maybe it’s like that saying about women and wine…I’ll drink to that (wink, wink;)

What’s your favourite vintage piece?

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Honour thy Hairdresser…

What do you look for in a hairdresser? Mine is excellent. No. I’m serious. She just gets me. She’s intuitive, fast, fashion forward and genuinely concerned about the health of my hair- and of course- how I feel:)

I need to look stylish and upbeat- while keeping my mane luscious and healthy. I’ve learned that to get all that, you just need to listen to your stylist and…get ready for it: Trust and Obey. That’s right: especially, Obey. Yep- even us hard types MUST learn to do this. So if Cynthia says ‘it’s time to cut, colour, or treat… well, I now Obey.

I learned the hard way. I almost lost all my hair when I insisted on incessantly bleaching it (against Cynthia’s recommendations). I went from : “Wow, who does your hair?!” To: “Woah..wtf happened to your hair?!!”

Thankfully, she did not let me whither away…yes, my hair was now short, but Cynthia put a halt to my commands and started treating it like mad. She also suggested extensions to make me feel and look better. And, soon enough, my hair started growing back…fully and healthy once again.

Now, I get my hair streaked, cut and treated REGULARLY…as Cynthia dictates. And guess what? She’s right! My hair looks GORGEOUS!

If you are ever in the Montreal area (Laval), check out Concept Elite and ask for Cynthia or, the boss herself, Elvira. Both are Fabulous!

Call for an appointment and tell them I’ve recommended! 450- 936-8877

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