Color is one of the easiest and most powerful ways to change your look.  Many women get really good at choosing colors that work well on them – while others struggle with it.  A surefire way to know that the colors you’re wearing look great on you is to take cues from your own personal color palette.  Your body colors (hair, skin and eyes) are unique to you. Wearing your body colors is a simple way to get it right every time.  You’ll be amazed at how many compliments you will receive!

Keep in mind that our body colors change as we age — colors that may have been great on us in our 20s are not likely to flatter us in our 40s and 50s.  Color enhances your beauty at any age, at any weight. Never settle for “good enough” when you can stand out and be fabulous!

Here are some tips for using your body colors to make an impact:

Hair: Your hair color is your most valuable neutral.  If you change your hair color (or nature does it for you) be sure to pay attention and look at your wardrobe with fresh eyes.

Look for these wardrobe items in your hair color:

• Shoes/Boots
• Suits
• Pants/skirts
• Coat

Skin Color: Shades that match the skin are wonderful for undergarments so that they do not show through clothing (especially in summer under white). When wearing your skin color as outerwear it’s best to go to a deeper shade. All of your skin tones will be wonderful as part of a print or pattern as long as the majority of colors in the pattern are also flattering.

Eye Color: Your eye colors are the most beautiful when worn by the face. They will intensify your eye color and draw the viewer into your eyes, promoting communication .

Look for these garments in your eye colors:

• Pashmina or shawl
• Coat
• Earrings & Necklaces
• Sweater
• Blouse
• Scarf
• Dress
• Suit

Color is a very effective form of communication. We say a lot about ourselves through our choice of color.  When you wish to project a quieter, gentle personality, use the lighter and softer colors in your personal palette.  When you wish to appear more powerful and effective, wear your more vibrant or darker colors in your palette.  Get to know the colors that tell the story you want to tell and you will capture your audience’s attention!

If you’re ready to take the guess work out of it once and for all, take advantage of my special offer of $50 off a Color Analysis package through May 31, 2010. Call or email me to schedule your appointment today!

©2010 Laurie Mandato

There were no stars in sight, no fanfare, just the opportunity to see the Boston premiere of “Sex and the City 2” before it officially opens on May 27^th (thanks to Style Boston for the tickets I won on Twitter).

I attended the premier with my gal pal Aimee. We got dressed up and hit the Ritz for a cocktail afterward so we could discuss our favorite outfits and scenes in the movie.  I know it’s only a movie but I was envious of the SAC women, who arrive at every event looking fabulous and perfectly accessorized. They are always ready for any opportunity or invitation.  How amazing that would be!

I was in awe of the incredible designer pieces that were put together, and although most of us would not wear most of those looks, it somehow looks amazing on their characters. The clothing budget for SAC2 is rumored to be (are you sitting down?) $10,000,000 and they started gathering the clothing and accessories many months in advance.

According to WWD reporter Jessica Iredale, “Costumer Patricia Field wasted no chance to beturban and bejewel the ladies to cartoonish extremes, which is by now par for the course. And King seized every opportunity to play on the cultural divides (and unifiers) between the way American and Middle Eastern women are expected to dress. In his world, the women of Abu Dhabi wear Vuitton under their burkas.”

Carrie’s closet is what I aspire to have one day!  Well lit, organized and an absolutely gorgeous home for all of my treasured clothing.  How much fun would it be to wake up and walk into a room filled with gorgeous clothes that you love to wear and choose your outfit for the day? Heavenly!

Here’s what I learned from the ladies of SAC2:

• They only fill their closets with clothes that fit, flatter and fulfill them – clothes that reflect their essence and style.
• They are always prepared for any opportunity, event or adventure
• They never limit themselves, they always think BIG!
• They are always true to themselves.
• They value their friendships and relationships.
• They make a point to get together with their girlfriends.
• They know what they want and don’t settle for less then they deserve.

If you get the chance to see “Sex and the City 2″ — tell me what you think!

Whether you’re just stepping into the spotlight or you’ve been there a while it’s important to have professional headshots to energize your marketing – both online and off. You’ll want to engage a professional photographer to capture your unique personality and style so your photos will help your clients and potential clients get to know who you are.

Here are my top tips for getting fabulous headshots:

1. Put Your Best Face Forward – In order to do that you need to pay attention to Your Essential Self Care.

• Get plenty of rest.
• Eat healthy nutritious foods that nourish your body.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Exercise your body so you feel energized.
• Meditate. (more…)

Now that the weather is finally shaping up, it’s time to get outdoors and do the same for our bodies. Go for a walk or a run, head to the gym – whatever motivates you to shed those extra pounds that somehow crept on during the winter months. But before you do, be sure that you’re wearing the right undergarments!

85% of women are not wearing the correct size bra. Isn’t that an astonishing number? When was the last time YOU had a professional bra fitting? This would be a great thing to do on your next “Self-Care Saturday.” Make a date to sort through your undergarments too – getting rid of any that are worn or don’t fit you well.

A properly fitted bra is essential under your clothes, and that includes your workout wear. 80% of doctors believe that supporting the breasts with a good sports bra greatly reduces breast stress and damage. Many women — especially those with a larger cup size — wear two sports bras trying to contain or minimize bouncing. Did you know that compression is the WORST way to support your breasts?

Watch and listen to bra expert Susan Nethero of Intimacy (aka the Bra Whisperer) for some important tips on selecting the right sports bra for you.

Intimacy has locations across the country, we are fortunate to have one here in Boston.  Go to www.myintimacy.com to schedule an appointment for a free bra fitting at the location closest to you.  They are now carrying bra-sized swimwear — great for women who have a tough time finding the right fit.  Check it out!

If you live north of Boston, visit Night and Day Lingerie www.nightanddaylingerie.com. They too can help you find the right size and style for your shape.  Tell Merit that I sent you!