Happy New Year

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Have an absolutely wonderful weekend, filled with good times... see you in 2012!

Inspired by... M.

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M. is the beautiful sister of equally beautiful G.  Although they have similarly friendly, and outgoing personalities, their personal styles are very different.  
 
M. and I spent 3 hours organizing her closet - most of the time spent getting rid of pieces that no longer felt like her, talking about how to alter certain pieces so they looked better on her, and placing everything in her closet in a way that she could easily access the pieces she has, and loves.  For M., part of the fun of her day is creating a new outfit to wear, so we didn't spend much time creating new outfits, but we did talk about ways to emphasize the style that feels most like her - vintage classic with a touch of femininity.

New Year's Eve Glam

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If you're heading out on the town for New Year's Eve, there is no such thing as too much bling.  Have some fun, and take your outfit a little bit further than you normally would.  After all, it is the biggest party night of the year!

Beautiful Women

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I found this image early this morning on pinterest, and I knew I had to share it immediately.  The words speak to my heart... and my soul.

Wen xo

Edgy Accessories

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If you're looking for a little pick me up in your classic wardrobe, an easy way to add edge is through accessories.  Edgy accessories take the most classic pieces (like this white collared shirt, and boot cut jeans) to a whole new level.  All of a sudden your style has a new "rock star" feel, and commands attention.  If this is a look you are attracted to, there are a few things that make edgy accessories easily identifiable:

1. Edgy Accessories are usually made out of leather, metal, and stones

2. Edgy Colours tend to be purple, red, black, gray

3. Keep these words in mind: studs, skulls, chains, sharp lines, chunky

Look for cuffs, earrings, bracelets, rings, necklaces, shoes, bags, belts... really any of your usual favourite accessory pieces will do!

If you're not sure if these types of accessories are for you, but would like to give them a go, you may want to head to really inexpensive stores to find a few pieces to try.  If you don't spend a lot on the individual pieces, you can try wearing them a few times, and toss them if they don't feel quite right.  Aldo Accessories and H&M are both good places to start. 

Present Time

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There are so many pictures taken when people open presents, and none of us like looking at pictures of ourselves in our grubbiest pjs with bed head.  You may be extremely grateful in the future if you spend a couple of minutes deciding what you'll wear for this momentous morning occasion!

25 Ways to Wear a Scarf in 4.5 Minutes

I first came across this amazing video through a friend's website - In Life and in Fashion.  It is so well done, I wanted to share it with all of you.

I suggest watching it through once, and taking notes of which ties you like best.  At the end of the video you can click on your faves for more detailed instructions.

You can view other REFINED. scarf tying videos here, here, and here.

Enjoy!
Wendy

Holiday Spirit

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One of my absolute favourite family traditions happens at the large Woods' Christmas Dinner with all of the extended family present.  Instead of buying insignificant gifts for each other, years ago we decided we would do a Secret Santa with a twist.  Each family member draws the name of another - aunt, uncle, cousin, etc - but instead of buying a gift for one another, we buy a toy that represents that person in some way. 

The toy can represent anything from the person's job, to one of their hobbies, to an inside family joke... anything.  Each person unwraps their gift, and the hilarity ensues!  It's great fun for everyone in the family, because when people get creative, the laughs are abundant.

Once everyone has opened their gift the toys get placed in a bin, and are donated to Toy Mountain.  

We love that we all get the fun of opening gifts, and keeping up traditions, but most of all it feels amazing to donate the gifts to charity and really get into the essence of the holiday spirit - it's just awesome!

Happy Holidays!
Wendy

Family Festivities

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Family festivities tend to be a fine balance between casual comfort, and holiday glam.  To get that perfect balance, try pairing a cozy sweater, an easy-to-wear skirt, and flats, with a beautiful pair of chandelier earrings.

Toronto Treasures: Gaspard

Gaspard is the latest clothing and accessories boutique to hit the Queen Street West strip across from Trinity Bellwoods Park.  The boutique is owned by the designers of Mercy Studio, and many of the stunning pieces housed in this boutique are their own.  The Mercy Studio designs, coupled with quality European designers that have been handpicked for the store, create a boutique atmosphere that feels straight from the Paris lane-ways.

A few other designers to note: Jamin Puech a handbag designer from Paris; Iosselliani Jewellery from Rome; and handmade boots from La Botte Gardiane.

This wonderful boutique is perfect for women looking for well-crafted pieces, made from quality fabrics, who covet the Parisian sense of style.

Visit Gaspard at

913 Queen Street West, Toronto

416.546.7480

Wendy 'Woulds' | Stockings with Peep Toe Shoes

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Question submitted by Kelly: "Do I have to wear hose with these shoes, given that it's December, or do I go with a bare leg? I've never been a huge fan of nude stockings, but really need some guidance here. I'm worried an opaque stocking will make things feel heavy below the hem. I originally thought I'd wear an open fishnet to show lots of skin, but that's when I thought I'd end up with black shoes. Now that I have landing on something slightly lighter, I'm a bit perplexed…"

Hi Kelly, you absolutely do not need to wear pantyhose (I agree, they can be so uncomfortable)!

If you need the warmth you could try a black or brown fishnet... they also have nude fishnet out now... or a lace stocking if you would like a patterned tight with softer lines.  They also have sandal foot stockings out there so you wouldn't see the toe through a peep toe shoe.  I haven't noticed whether they offer this option in a patterned tight or not.  As I said though, this is only if you want to go with a stocking option, it is absolutely not necessary.

I do find that some people comment when I wear bare legs, "Aren't you cold?"  The stocking question is a very common one, that many women debate in their heads, so I think that's where this question comes from.

Happy Holidays!
Wendy

Have your own burning style question answered by THE REFINERY.

Casual Holiday Event

Paired together, dark jeans (either black or indigo blue), a beautiful blouse, and patent pumps create a stunning evening outfit for those casual holiday parties.  During the holiday season it is always nice to add a little sparkle to dress things up a bit, even for the most casual events.

Inspired by... J.

When I first met J. she was pregnant with her second charming child.  Now, she is a mom of 2, aspiring entrepreneur, and a self-professed Lulu enthusiast.  Recently, J. called me because she decided it was time to up her style anti, get out of the activewear she'd been wearing for years, and into a smart casual everyday look that would work in each of the areas of her life.  When we started looking through her closet, J. was talking about needing different outfits for three areas of her life - mom, work, evening - and that she would be "ok" coming home to change into different outfits throughout the day.  I wanted her to have a more practical alternative - a wardrobe filled with smart casual clothes that, with a few accessory changes, would make her feel fabulous from morning to night!  

We made a shopping list, and headed out for a few more pairs of stretchy narrow legged pants, which suited her inverted triangle body shape SO well and allowed her to move as if she were wearing Lulus, some embellished shirts so she didn't need to wear accessories when around her youngest child, and a few layer pieces for warmth and comfort.  Once we finished shopping, and mixed the old clothes with the new ones, J. had hundreds of outfits to choose from for her daily life.

It thrills me that J. now has a wardrobe that is practical for her, and that she is receiving so many positive comments from loved ones, and others, since she made these style changes.  Her fun-loving spirit is shining through in her new style, and I'm so excited for the new journey ahead of her!

BBC - Toronto's Competitive Vintage Scene

Wendy recognized, and featured, as a Toronto shopping expert by the BBC in the video,  "Toronto's Competitive Vintage Scene".

iVillage.ca - Canadian Handbag Designers

Check out the article Wendy wrote for iVillage.ca "10 Canadian Handbag Designers to Know".

Holiday Knock Out

Want to be a knock out at your holiday parties?  It is always so refreshing to see a woman wearing colour around the holidays, rather than the standard black.  Also, the shape of this dress makes it perfectly appropriate for any event, including one filled with work colleagues. 

Canadiana: Sarah Stevenson

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Sarah Stevenson is a woman filled with passion and a "joie de vivre".  She stands out from the crowd by designing stunning one-of-a-kind prints that she uses to make her clothing.  She does an amazing job of keeping her silhouettes simple and easy-to-wear, which allows her prints, and the women wearing her prints, to sing.  

If you're looking to add a feminine twist to your wardrobe, and would love a wearable piece of art in your closet, Sarah Stevenson is definitely a Canadian designer you want to discover!

A Sign

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An image that ever so gently reminds us to stop waiting for things to happen, and instead jump right into whatever our heart desires.

Keeping it Cozy

A warm sweater in a fine knit can be a cozy, yet pulled together outfit for work.  It will be super comfortable, and feel great to wear all day long... without sacrificing the power dressing needed for a well thought out work outfit.

iVillage.ca - Winter Boots

Check out the article Wendy wrote for iVillage.ca ~ "Winter Style: 10 Boots to Warm Your Feet".

DIY Toronto Holiday Gift Shopping Guide

Love every minute of your holiday shopping this year. (Truly.)

You are far too busy to spend December in the mall, pushing through crowds to line up to buy another sweater from The GAP. Not that there’s anything wrong with The GAP, but you, you want to give gifts that are original, that make the recipients feel special. What you really want to do is delight the adults and teens on your list, as much as the kiddies!

This do-it-yourself, digital shopping guide will make your gift-giving heart flutter if you:

• love the idea of hitting a well-respected professional shopper's favourite, in-the-know, spots for affordable luxuries (without having to do a lick of your own research)
• would prefer to make an experience of your shopping ~ a gorgeous day perusing beautiful, welcoming boutiques with a pause for a leisurely lunch (maybe even champagne?)
• want to support independent, interesting, friendly businesses with wares you and your “giftees” probably haven’t already seen everywhere else
• would love some fresh air and the scent of pine garlands while you shop

The Toronto Holiday Gift Shopping Guide from THE REFINERY will help you: 

• define your list, and the gifts you need to buy ~ with inspiration in four essential categories: host gifts, stylish gifts for her, stylish gifts for him, and stocking stuffers (three boutiques for each category to give you choice but not to overwhelm)
• plan and map your shopping strategy – whether you’re familiar with Toronto or not – so you’ve got plenty of extra time for eggnog and revelry
• find stores with truly exceptional service that you might not have known about, with special gifts – in any price range! – for the (tough to buy for) adults and teens on your list

Save time and have your most pleasurable year of holiday shopping in 2011. 

This Toronto Holiday Gift Shopping Guide and Map is a fully digital, easily downloadable document, lovingly researched by THE REFINERY. ~ $23

To purchase this beautiful document for only $23 click the "Add to Cart" button below, and receive the digital download instantly to your email box.

You're far too stylish, darling, to even think of lifting a word of this copyrighted material,  written in good taste by author Wendy Woods of The REFINERY. (If you're a professional who'd like to use it with your own clients, by all means, be in touch so we can discuss a tailored licensing agreement.)

Toronto Treasures: The Cat's Meow

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If you're searching for a one-of-a-kind cocktail dress, The Cat's Meow is a must hit shop.  This vintage boutique is filled with luxurious "couture" finds at a fraction of the price you would pay for the same quality new.  (Think fully hand-beaded dresses, that would take days to complete.)  You will also get peace of mind knowing you will be the only one at a party wearing whatever you have on, and what an amazing relief that is these days!  

The large selection of vintage jewellery, handbags, shoes, and clothes make this boutique a possible one stop shop for an entire evening ensemble... or you could find that one special piece to up your wardrobe's style anti.  

So... if you happen to be in love with the styles of the 50s and 60s, or you're just looking for somethings a little bit different, take a wander into The Cat's Meow - you may just find your perfect little treasure.

Visit The Cat's Meow at

180 Avenue Road, Toronto

647.435.5875

Approachable Softness

Soft colours can be both feminine and approachable.  This is an easy to wear outfit that requires little effort to put on in the morning, but has huge impact throughout your day.

Be Yourself.

Be Yourself.
Stand out from the crowd.
Shine like the bright star you are.

Wendy 'Woulds' | About Consignment

Finally, have your burning style question answered

Question submitted by Beth: "I am just wondering exactly how selling clothing on consignment works?" 

Hi Beth, thanks for your question!  

I often help my clients source the proper consignment store after we've done a closet cleanup.  The store you choose really depends on the labels you are trying to consign, the percentage profit you would like from your clothes, and how far you are willing to travel to bring your pieces to the store. 

Many consignment stores are looking for designer labels (like the labels you would find at Holt Renfrew, etc.)  Some may take the odd piece from more mainstream stores like Jacob, or Banana Republic if it's a really special piece, but it's unusual.  If you have specific pieces to sell, I would suggest phoning stores in your area to see if they accept the labels you would like to sell. 

When you bring your pieces to your chosen consignment store, they will choose the pieces they would like to keep.  The store will set the price - although sometimes you can have some input - and let you know the percentage they will keep, and the percentage you will receive.  Keep in mind that the lower the price, the easier it will be to sell.  There is a fine balance setting the right price for used clothes, whether they've been worn, or not, so I tend to trust in the store owner to help decide what price to set.  Keep in mind that what you keep will usually only be between 30 and 50 percent of the set price. 

You will sign something that states the pieces you left, and the price each is sold for.  Some stores also have a method for pricing "sale items" for pieces that haven't moved in a while.
Once the item is sold, the store owner should cut you a cheque for the amount they owe you.  If your items don't sell, they will be given back to you.  You can try to sell them at another store, save them to sell at a later date, or donate them to charity. 

I would recommend following-up with the store every 3 months if you don't hear from them sooner.

Hope this helps!
Wendy

Hip & With It

Sometimes, just adding one new piece to your wardrobe, like these brightly coloured jeans, can update everything in your closet.

Holiday Glam Event at Lola & Gigi

Come get your Holiday Glam on!  

On Saturday November 19th, Wendy will be spending the afternoon at Lola and Gigi, helping women size 12 to 24 find the perfect holiday dresses for all of their upcoming events.  

To reserve a free private consultation with Wendy on Saturday November 19th, please email Laura at Lola & Gigi. Appointments available from 10:30am to 2:30pm. 

Lola & Gigi is located at 92B Carrier Drive, Etobicoke - 416.674.1077.

Stylish Hallowe'en Costume

If you still need to pull together a Hallowe'en costume for today why not think outside the box and use the clothes you already have in your closet.  You'll be amazed at what you can come up with!

LBD Alternate

A little black dress is a staple piece in most women's wardrobes.  However, with a black sweater, and a black and white patterned skirt, you can get a similar look, with pieces that are easy to mix and match.  In other words, with these separates you get a little more bang for your buck by pairing each of them with other pieces in your closet - think black sweater with a pair of jeans, skirt with a white collared shirt... and the list goes on.

Canadiana: Smythe

photo from Smythelesvestes.com

THE REFINERY has been a long time fan of Toronto designer Smythe and their stunning blazers and jackets... as have our clients. It's the classic styles, impeccable craftsmanship, but most of all the amazing fit that hook women into these fabulous blazers.  The fit, the fit, the fit!  Smythe knows how to tailor a blazer so that it's flattering for the female figure, which we all know is an amazing accomplishment!  These jackets nip in at the waist and float away at the hip, to create a tailored feminine silhouette.

They are investment pieces made to last, that can be worn to work just as easily as they can be worn with jeans.  A staple go-to piece for any woman who has one in her closet.

If you haven't had the pleasure of trying one on, please do... even if it's just to see how a good blazer is supposed to fit the female figure.

ivillage.ca - Fix it, or Toss it?

Check out the article Wendy wrote for iVillage.ca about "Vintage Clothing: When to fix it, and when to toss it".

Holiday Accessory Event with TruFaux Jewels

On Wednesday November 2nd, Wendy Woods and TruFaux Jewels, will be spending the evening at The Tea Leaf, helping women select vintage costume jewelry that will refresh your favourite holiday outfit and enhance your unique personal style.  Bring the holiday pieces you want to accessorize and see how the jewellery you select can also be incorporated into your everyday wardrobe.  

Join us on November 2nd from 5:30pm to 8pm to find your perfect piece!

... And enjoy a cup of tea!

The Tea Leaf is located at 270 Carlaw Avenue, unit 102, Toronto (between Queen and Dundas).

RSVP:  barbara@trufauxjewels.com or call 416.690.7766

Fall Shopping Event at Long Legs

On Thursday October 27th, Wendy Woods will be spending the evening at Long Legs boutique, helping tall women find the perfect pieces to add to their fall wardrobes.  

To reserve a free private consultation with Wendy on Thursday October 27th, please call Long Legs at 416.440.8255. Appointments available from 4pm to 8pm. 

... AND receive 15% off everything you choose to purchase that night!

Long Legs is located at 2717 Yonge Street, Toronto - 416.440.8255.

Cleanly Tucked

Wearing a silk blouse with a pair of dark jeans is an easy  way to dress up your casual wear.  It also adds style mileage to a blouse you might normally only wear to work, and makes it more realistic to invest in the piece.  When you tuck a silk blouse into a pair of high-waisted jeans, that are tucked in to a pair of boots, you create a body conscious casual outfit that is effortless and easy to wear.

Feast on this...

It's always a good idea to wear expandable clothing for a big Thanksgiving dinner with family - the episode of Friends with Joey's turkey pants comes to mind!  Here's the thing... you can still look good while wearing comfortable clothing, all you need is a knit dress, tights, and an open blazer.

Falling for Outerwear

Even the simplest of wardrobes can get a boost with a new fall coat.  When you choose a show stopper like the one pictured above, you will feel like a million bucks every time you put it on.... AND you will get stopped in the street and complimented on an ongoing basis.  Talk about an ego boost!

Evening Elegance

White pants in winter are definitely a show stopper!  You will get comments from traditionalists who ask about wearing white after labour day, but really it is a confident style statement that shows you know what you're doing, and aren't afraid to break the rules!  Pair them with a blouse you already own, and a stunning vintage clutch you can hopefully find in the back of one of your relatives' closets.

Fall Shopping Event at Lola & Gigi

 

Cool Autumn temperatures are just around the corner!  

On Saturday October 1st, Wendy will be spending the afternoon at Lola and Gigi, helping women size 12 to 24 find the perfect pieces to add to their fall wardrobe.  

To reserve a private consultation with Wendy on Saturday October 1st, please email Laura at Lola & Gigi. Appointments available from 10:30am to 2:30pm. 

... AND receive 15% off everything you choose to purchase!

Lola & Gigi is located at 92B Carrier Drive, Etobicoke - 416.674.1077.

Sequins for Day

Make a splash during the day!  A really simple way to update your wardrobe this fall is by mixing a sequined shirt, which you may have normally saved for evening events, with your usual day wear - that could be jeans, work pants, or a casual skirt.  The juxtaposition of the sequins with everything else will make you look up-to-date, and stylishly in the know.

Vintage Vibe

This vintage inspired green dress is so stunning it begged to be shown off!  Paired with classic accessories it can be worn to work, out for brunch, or for a day shopping with friends.  This fall, feel inspired to pull out your favourite dresses for daytime fun.

Work Transitions

 

At this time of year, the idea of pairing a new blouse with a skirt you've been wearing all summer, is a brilliant one.  It will make you feel updated and fresh at work, while being practical during transitional temperatures.

Wendy paired up with sweetspot.ca to create a video demonstrating three unique ways to tie a scarf - none of them around your neck... enjoy!

iVillage.ca - Pixie Cuts

Check out the article Wendy wrote for iVillage.ca and discover the "Pixie Cut: should you sport this daring 'do?"

Backyard BBQ

As August evenings cool down, don't forget to bring a sweater to all those backyard BBQs on your calendar.  You might even want to show off a new fall fashion find!