Exuding that “relaxed elegance” that Garner says is her personal style, she wears a Lily Rain caftan jacket, an Ann Taylor top, Banana Republic jeans, and a Lucy’s Inspired necklace.

Media and Style Icon

Written and styled by Tracy James

Photography by Chuck St. John

You may recognize this month’s Style Icon from her two decades in broadcast journalism, most recently as the host of NBC-13’s Daytime Alabama. A year ago, Wendy Garner stepped away to start her own company, Wendy Garner Media & Marketing. She has always loved telling other people’s stories, and this is a continuation of that theme: helping small businesses identify their stories and then telling them in creative, compelling ways. In addition to public relations and marketing, Garner is producing videos for the web and conducting media training, including crisis media training. With her calm, positive demeanor, Garner seems perfectly suited for the job.

Even when asked to describe her personal style, she deems it, “Relaxed elegance, with an emphasis on relaxed.” That said, you will never see this businesswoman and busy mom looking sloppy. Wardrobe choices are dictated by her surroundings, which range from a client meeting to a date night with her husband to the ballpark with her sons. No matter the venue, Garner always manages to look “put together,” that simple yet flattering descriptor so many men and women seek. As a fitting side note, Garner says that one of her style pet peeves is people wearing sweats on an airplane. “I still like to think of flying as an event that’s worth looking presentable for,” she says.

For the last 20 years, Garner has had unique style training. “Television teaches you to be polished,” she explains, noting, “although sometimes that was tough as a reporter in various weather conditions. I have ruined some shoes in my time!” She cites the ever-polished Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (who probably never ruined any shoes) as a style maven she admires. “She was and still is a picture of grace and strength as well as impeccable style,” Garner says.

This fabulous and on-trend snakeskin clutch with fringe embellishment is Old Clutch, designed by Garner’s friend Leigh Ann Higdon. Ring by Chloe + Isabel.

While Garner may have been concerned about trends in younger years—Madonna bracelets, legwarmers, big hair, and all—she now finds herself more drawn to classic pieces that endure. She may pick up a staple piece that is a seasonal trend, but she doesn’t feel pressure to reinvent her wardrobe every three months. Shopping destinations include Gus Mayer, Altar’d State, and Lily Rain, a relatively new retailer at the Summit next to Lilly Pulitzer, a nostalgic favorite for Garner, who grew up in Palm Beach County. “I remember my mother introducing me to the ‘hidden Lillys’ when I was a little girl. The vintage photographs in the dressing rooms bring back great memories,” she says.

Today, Garner’s favorite things style-wise are items made by creative friends, like Leigh Ann Higdon of Old Clutch and Lucy Farmer of Lucy’s Inspired. “I’m not into designer labels,” she notes. “I am surrounded by some incredibly talented friends, and I love wearing their pieces.” And in turn, Garner has made her style truly personal.

Standing in Circa in front of a painting by local artist William McClure, Johnson wears a Donna Karan velvet bodysuit (the original iconic garment, stolen from her mom’s closet), an American Apparel tube dress worn as skirt, Zara faux-fur stole and Philip Lim shoes.

Owner, Circa Interiors and Antiques

Written and styled by Tracy James

Photography by Chuck St. John

When you feel comfortable in your environment—both at home and at work—it shows. In the case of Whitney Johnson, the 41-year-old owner of Circa Interiors & Antiques in Mountain Brook Village says her personal style is reflected in her home and shop, and vice versa. Rich neutral colors, texture, easy elegance, and a seamless mix of both dressy and casual elements characterize the look.

This Charlotte, North Carolina native always knew she wanted to follow in the footsteps of her mother, who opened the original Circa in their hometown 35 years ago. “There was a need in Charlotte for a shop that carried everything from fine European antiques to edgy accessories and new upholstery,” Johnson says. When marriage brought Johnson to Birmingham, she saw a wonderful opportunity to develop lasting relationships with talented local designers. “There is so much style in Birmingham,” she says. “People take so much pride in their homes, their yards, their everyday appearances.” Pointing out that the Magic City has long been known for great restaurants, Johnson hopes that Circa raises the bar in the shopping department. “Hopefully people come to us looking for inspiration for a stylish way of living,” she adds.

Johnson gathers much of her own style inspiration from her travels while buying for the shop, especially in New York and Europe. (Side note: one of Johnson’s style pet peeves is pajamas at the airport. “Dress to travel!” she says.) She describes her vendors in France as “the ultimate” when it comes to style. While Johnson does most of her shopping on the road—successfully blending high-end items from the likes of Lanvin to more price-point friendly goods from Zara, her go-to for trendy items—she also enjoys shopping local. Jewelry and accessories boutique Etc. is her favorite; for her 40^th birthday, she received a long-coveted vintage Hermes watch from there. As for her Christmas wish list, Johnson admits that her online shopping carts are full at all times. “I’m always dreaming. Right now, I’m dying for all things Isabel Marant,” she says.

Alighted on an objet d’art from Johnson’s coffee table – an antique lead door knocker – is one of Johnson’s “favorite things”: a firefly broach she bought 12 years ago at Capitol boutique in Charlotte for her own rehearsal dinner, and still wears several times a week.

Not only does Johnson enjoy dressing herself, but the mother of three is a big believer of “dressing your babies while you can, lace and all,” noting that you only have so much time to control their appearances. More important to Johnson is that she teach Tipton, Polly, and Jack (5, 8, and 11, respectively) that it is perfectly acceptable to not look like everyone else in the class. And how do Johnson’s children look? “Like little French people,” she describes. “School is like their job, so they should be comfortable, but at the same time, dressed with respect.”

Johnson’s personal style has an unmistakable Francophile flair, as do her attitude and appreciation for beauty. “Everyday life should be pretty,” she says. “Use your silver every morning, light a candle at dinner every night with your family, dress your babies while you can.”

Dent “loves a good romper.” Saylor navy lace romper, Hue opaque tights, Ranjana Khan earrings, Michael Kors watch.

Edgy Classic

Written and styled by Tracy James

Photography by Chuck St. John

“Twelve years of Catholic school can really wreak havoc on a girl,” says Jen Dent. When the John Carroll High School alum headed to college, she had worn a uniform her entire life. “Thankfully, back then, college girls were more into fraternity T-shirts than high fashion,” Dent remembers. “And there was no Instagram to capture it all.” Somewhere in her thirties, Dent (now in her forties) came into her own, and today her wardrobe consists of garments she describes as versatile basics that can be mixed with push-the-envelope items to create a look that is classic with a twist. Laughing at the mouthful of descriptors, Dent asks, “Is edgy classic a thing?” What is a thing, and a wise one at that, is Dent’s fashion philosophy: “I believe in getting dressed for the day, just like I believe in a handwritten note,” she says. “Admittedly it’s really for the happiness it gives me, not for other people.”

If Dent could open a boutique, its specialty would be goods with a dual purpose: like her scarf/necklace with delicate chain fringe, the floor mirror in her master bedroom that opens to reveal jewelry storage, the clutch that charges her iPhone, or the art sculpture atop the bathroom vanity that doubles as a display for long necklaces. In the same vein, Dent wants her wardrobe to accommodate anything from a soccer game with her kids to a black-tie event with her husband, Matthew, a Buffalo Rock executive. Sensing an idea for her imaginary boutique, Dent suggests that she needs to invent clothes that zip off or break away to reveal a whole new day-to-night outfit, without the hassle of changing.

Dent is not afraid to try a trend on for size, interpreting the latest and greatest in an age-appropriate way that makes sense for her lifestyle as a busy mom and wife. One such trend she has enjoyed is capes. “Perhaps I need to feel like a superhero to get everything done?” she jokes. Another favorite is rompers, which Dent has worn dressy, casual, and in between, both before and since they became trendy. Whether “in” or not, Dent states that she will continue to wear them as long as she can find them. That said, not all onesies are created equal, as Dent believes that even living on a farm is no excuse for overalls.

Add glam even in the details: Kate Spade “Niko” glitter heeled suede booties

Another style pet peeve is capri pants. At 5 feet 9 inches tall, Dent finds that the abbreviated length visually cuts off her sihouette. (Style guru Tim Gunn of Project Runway fame takes the capri criticism one step further, stating in his style manual that “The baggy cargo capri is the single worst item of clothing in America today.”) Dent’s height does not, however, prevent her from wearing heels, and in fact, it is unusual to spot her in flats, unless headed to exercise. Lately her Sorel wedge boots have been a go-to, durable enough for her hectic life, but with enough height to maintain feminine flair. Her don’t-leave-the-house-without-it musts? Mascara and Carolina Herrera 212 perfume. Her preferred jeans are AG, and her Cloth & Stone chambray tops get worn more than their fair share. Her favorite blouses in her closet are by Leifsdottir.

So where does Dent shop for her favorites? When Birmingham got an Anthropologie store at The Summit many years ago, Dent felt almost as happy as she did when Starbucks came to town. “Every time I walk in, it feels like the best blouse I’ll ever own could be hanging right around the corner. I love the mix of designers all under one roof.” Adding to the allure is Anthropologie’s resident personal stylist, Debra McCurry, who has become a dear friend. Dent compliments McCurry as “the picture of glamour, one that can only come from the inside.” Similarly, Dent admires the celeb style of Cate Blanchett, “who could not be more cool or comfortable in her own skin.”

Dent wears a Line & Dot gold sequin skirt, Spanx turtleneck, James Jeans cape (from Tuliano boutique in Atlanta), Miss Allbright clutch, Ranjana Khan necklace, and Kate Spade bootie.

But would Blanchett be brave enough to dress up as a candy corn? When Dent’s son became old enough to talk, she promised him she would dress up for Halloween as whatever he chose for her. Since the candy corn, her daughter came into the picture, so the costuming has become a family affair. Dent has been Charlotte the spider to her daughter’s Wilbur, and when her daughter and husband were Annie and Daddy Warbucks, Dent and her son countered with Olive Oyl and Popeye. As a family, they have been the casts of Harry Potter and The Incredibles. For a recent summer party, all donned incredibly realistic Art Deco era duds for a Great Gatsby theme. Dent’s creativity evident in the costume orchestration also shines when giving parties herself, especially for her children. Elaborating on these Pinterest-worthy affairs would require another article, but suffice it to say they are stylish in themselves. Her daughter’s Project Runway-themed seventh birthday party included the makings of the show right in their own garage, complete with shopping for fabric, design worktables for each guest, and of course, a runway. Tim Gunn himself would have given high marks.

Perhaps what is most refreshing about Dent’s attitude toward style is that fashion and all things stylish can and should be fun, creative, and an outlet to express one’s individuality.

At the Premier Group offices at the Birmingham Airport, Steven wears a Versace blazer, Hugo Boss shirt, J.Brand jeans, and David Yurman ring. On Heather: BCBG top, Alice & Olivia leather skirt, and David Yurman bracelet.

Each February, in honor of Valentine’s Day, Style Icon features a couple worthy of the title.

Written and styled by Tracy James

Photography by Chuck St. John

Young loves Steven Allen Jr., 30, and his wife, Heather, 26, met when they were mere teenagers. Steven was a volunteer firefighter at Riverside Fire Department when Heather and a friend stopped by to visit a mutual acquaintance. Smitten from the start, Steven told the then-15-year-old Heather that he was going to marry her one day. True to his word, the two reconnected five years later and married after three months of dating.

Now with two kids in tow—Tripp, 5, and Ava, 3—the Allens have settled into family life at their home on Lake Logan Martin.

Steven balances being a husband and dad with serving as president of the aircraft brokerage company his father founded in 1976, Premier Group, Inc. For work and play, Steven prefers clothes that are fitted and clean cut and can accommodate any occasion. Heather describes her husband’s style as dapper and kempt. “He has a strong presence, and his style complements him well,” she says. Steven’s look usually involves a custom-tailored suit from Remon’s, or slim jeans, a dress shirt, and a sport coat—perhaps from Saks Fifth Avenue or Gilt.com—all made to fit perfectly by Baldone Tailoring. And perhaps surprisingly, his look always involves a pair of western boots by Lucchese, the renowned Texas boot company established in 1883 by an Italian immigrant from Sicily and his brothers. Donning a pair of killer boots each day has become Steven’s signature, which works well considering his frequent business trips to Dallas and Nashville. His signature smell is Creed cologne in either Green Irish Tween or Silver Mountain Water.

Traveling in style. On Heather: Dior sunglasses, Sofia Cashmere cape, Victoria’s Secret top, J.Brand jeans, Christian Louboutin pumps, Louis Vuitton Cluny bag. On Steven: Burberry shirt and jacket, J.Brand jeans, Lucchese boots, Louis Vuitton Keepall 45 Bandouliere.

The couple share not only their choice of fragrance house (Heather’s Creed selection is Love in White), but also their distaste for ill-fitting clothing. “Any style, brand, or article of clothing can look good,” says Steven, “But poor hygiene or baggy, slouchy clothing can ruin everything.” At 5-foot-7-inches tall, Steven has a fair amount of his clothing altered. At only 4-foot-9-inches tall, Heather has 90 percent of her clothing altered. “I’m a little lady,” she admits. “So alterations are imperative in order to not look sloppy.”

Echoing Coco Chanel who said, “Simplicity is the keynote of all elegance,” Heather is careful not to overwhelm her tiny frame. She keeps accessories to a minimum and shies away from trends, instead choosing timeless items. Her color palette is often neutral, sometimes with a seasonally appropriate pop of color or interesting texture, which she finds an underrated element of style. But things aren’t always so conservative, as Heather loves an extravagant detail, like a fur collar, or an investment piece, like a fabulous Christian Louboutin shoe. And while she loves to shop everywhere from Target to Gus Mayer, she rarely buys for herself, giving Steven credit for selecting the majority of her favorite items. “He has fantastic taste!” she says.

When a new season rolls around, Heather likes to check out what Anna Wintour (editor-in-chief of Vogue magazine) and Linda Fargo (director of women’s fashion for Bergdorf Goodman) have their eyes on.

Both express how aging into early adulthood has brought changes, including in the style department. As Heather says, “Thanks to God’s love for us and our love for each other, we are confident in who we are. And in order to be confident on the outside, you have to be sure of who you are on the inside.”

An example of one of Bibbs’ more casual, urban looks: teal Carbon jeans and printed hooded sweater with Adidas tennis shoes.

Student, Alabama School of Fine Arts

Written and styled by Tracy James

Photography by Chuck St. John

When David Bibbs began seventh grade at the Alabama School of Fine Arts, his father challenged him to select one day of the school week to dress up. When a flurry of compliments from fellow classmates followed, the weekly exception became a habit. Now a 16-year-old sophomore, Bibbs describes his personal style as “spiffy,” collects watches and bowties, reads GQ magazine, and says he enjoys how dressing up makes him feel. No doubt that is the result for which his father, pastor at Repairers Church in Fairfield, had hoped.

Upon meeting in person the spectacled, bowtied, and slim-framed Bibbs, a music major who identifies himself as a hip-hop artist, one cannot help but be reminded of Outkast’s Andre 3000. Bibbs cites as his musical inspiration Christian hip-hop artist (yes, there is such a genre) Andy Mineo, and straight-outta-Compton rapper Kendrick Lamar, who set the 2016 Grammys on fire with a whopping 11 nominations, more than any other artist. Bibbs, whose stage name is “D-Bibbs,” is blazing a trail with his own kind of hip-hop, not hard to believe when you consider he is a viola-playing rapper. Bibbs says he chose the violin-like instrument in elementary school because “That was the only instrument my family and I knew nothing about.” Soon after his arrival at ASFA, Bibbs picked up piano, and he is currently learning to play guitar. At his father’s church, Bibbs plays the drums.

In the main hall between classes at ASFA, Bibbs holds his viola wearing a Haggar windowpane jacket, Stafford oxford shirt, Oscar de la Renta silk tie, red Carbon jeans and Polo Ralph Lauren belt and shoes.

Bibbs’s father has been an important influence in his life, first inspiring musical interest in a young Bibbs and his brother when the two siblings would sit with their dad in front of his computer as he composed music. Today when inspiration strikes, Bibbs retreats to his bedroom to compose and record thanks to the technology of his own computer. Another evolution attributed to his father is Bibbs’s eventual upgrade from clip-on ties to real bowties. “It’s time to switch to the real deal,” his father prompted, and so Bibbs learned the tying technique thanks to repeated watching of online tutorials. What does Bibbs’s mother think of her son’s style? “She tells me when I’ve tied it wrong,” he says with a smile. His mother is a worthy critic but also one of his biggest fans.

Bibbs’ style isn’t limited to dress-up clothes, which he sources from Men’s Warehouse and Burlington. The teenager also digs more casual urban duds, usually enhanced with a pop of color or touch of pattern and found at stores like Rue 21, Aeropostale, and Urban Outfitters.

Bibbs considers the bowtie one of his style signatures, which he learned to tie properly via YouTube videos.

You can check out D-Bibbs’ street style in his music videos posted on YouTube in the links below. Many songs are collaborations with friend, classmate, and fellow rapper Eric Latham aka “ErBeeko.” Their single “Abracadabra (Magic City at Night)” won the 2014 songwriter’s competition held by Alys Stephens Center. See for yourself why David Bibbs is a stylish talent to watch.

In the doorway to his bedroom, McClure wears Bonobos pants, a J.Crew shirt, Club Monaco striped sweater, Harrison Limited belt, and Zara shoes.

Artist

Written and styled by Tracy James

Photography by Chuck St. John

“It is better to ask for forgiveness than permission,” or so the saying goes. That’s the spirit 32-year-old artist William McLure banked on when surreptitiously redecorating his Southside flat. A walk-up in a historic home, the original hardwood floors had disastrously been covered with carpet and linoleum, which McLure took upon himself to remove little by little, making midnight trips to the dumpster. Perhaps the boldness by which he took design matters into his own hands stems from his childhood in Troy, where, as the oldest of four boys, his mother allowed him free reign in his room. McLure was known to move items from other parts of the house he felt better suited for his room and hang sheets around his bed to emulate a canopy. Flash forward to present day, and since the removal of the offensive flooring, the walls and floors of McLure’s apartment have been all white, all blue, and all red and are now back to all white again, changing on his whim with the ease of paint on a canvas. In fact, McLure paints his canvases—primarily oil and by commission—on his floor, simply painting over any spills or splatters. The young artist contributes the success of his art not to his obvious talent but to “Instagram, 100 percent.”

The apartment of the artist, who still dabbles in interior design (which until December was a full-time endeavor with the firm of local architect Bill Ingram) is a reflection of his own personal style. Resplendent in crisp white and vibrant blue, McClure is a key aspect of the Mediterranean inspired decor that surrounds him. Even his fawn-colored Weimaraner, 15-year old Baylor, who dons a blue-and-white textile collar, seems part of the story. If it weren’t for the brick buildings visible outside the open windows, one might think they were in a pied-à-terre on the Amalfi Coast, a feeling bolstered by lack of TV, Internet, or any other modern technology, and the swirling scents of Neroli Portofino (Tom Ford’s fragrances are a go-to) and Sicilian Orange (expensive candles from the likes of Nest, Dyptique, and Malin + Goetz are a vice.) The walls are covered with McLure’s own art, and stacks of coffee table books reside on table tops and ledges.

“Much can be gathered about a person based on their book collection,” says McLure. “If I have guests over and am occupied engaging with someone, others can get a sense of my interests by looking at the literature I have scattered about.” Most are about or by fashion designers, photographers, and interior designers—the latter including Miles Redd, Michael S. Smith, and Markham Roberts. However, his favorite interior designer is West-coast-based Mark D. Sikes. McLure says of his mentor, “I want to be him, or at least work for him.”

Blue and white gingham abounds in McLure’s closet. Here, styles by Club Monaco, J.Crew and H&M.

McLure’s wardrobe certainly seems inspired by Sikes, who last spring launched MDS Stripes, a collection devoted entirely to the blue and white stripe, offering cotton dresses, knits, and accessories. “Clothing options are limited when you are a size 28 waist and XS shirt,” McLure explains. While a few of his brands of choice can be found in Birmingham, like J.Crew and Bonobos, he usually has to venture online to find his size. Other resources include Zara and Club Monaco, stores McClure wishes would come to Birmingham. Just as he has a fondness for layered interiors—pillows, paintings, and objets d’art—McLure likes the aesthetic of a layered ensemble. A woven belt for textural interest, perhaps. Or a striped sweater thrown over the shoulders for a touch of print. The result is a look that says, “I’m heading to the Hamptons tomorrow.”

One of McLure’s prized possessions —and the only art piece on his wall that is not his own—is an oversized photograph by Birmingham-based photographer David Hillegas. A man in a bathing suit stands overlooking a rocky Carribean coastline, an infinity pool in the foreground. McLure compares the photograph to the work of the late American photographer Slim Aarons, known for shooting socialites and jetsetters. Aarons reportedly never used a stylist or makeup artist and made his career out of what he called “photographing attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places.” William McLure himself seems to fit into this world. Art imitates life.•

You can view McLure’s art portfolio at williammclure.com.

Both Bob & Hughes share an affinity for a Southern preppy look.

Bob Mitchell, CEO of Odyssey Early Schools Inc. & Father

Written and styled by Tracy James

Photography by Chuck St. John

When it comes to style, Bob Mitchell and his family can often be found donning athletic duds—son Hughes in his Mountain Brook baseball pitcher’s uniform; daughter Sara Chandler in varsity volleyball gear (until she graduated in May); and Mom and Dad dressed for boot camp at D1. A passion for sports bonds the entire family, but especially Mitchell and Hughes, a rising high school junior. The two have a goal to together visit every Major League Baseball stadium in the country. Right now their count stands at six out of 30, but this summer one more ballpark will be added to the list when they visit Arlington Park in Texas. Considering their athletic proclivities, it is no surprise that the Mitchells’ wardrobes lean preppy. After all, key elements of the preppy look have their roots in sporting endeavors. (Think 1920s tennis champion Rene Lacoste mass-producing his signature court attire, and John Brooks of Brooks Brothers bringing across the pond the button-down collars of British polo players.)

Dapper Dad: Cool tones of grey and blue make this plaid sport coat perfect for Spring. Samuelsohn sport coat, Gitman & Bros. linen shirt.

Mitchell is one of those Southern men whose traditional-meets-preppy look seems to exist organically. He doesn’t overanalyze his wardrobe or follow trends. The ability to keep things laid-back but still look polished every day is a quality he downplays, but one that makes him stylish. “Most male celebrities my age look like they’re trying too hard to look young,” Mitchell says, adding, “I don’t want to wear what someone in New York claims to be the latest thing. Plus, from what I’ve seen, most of the more fashion-oriented labels tend to fall apart faster, and all you’ve done is spend extra money to get their label.” The preppy aspect of Mitchell’s style manifests itself in color preference. Blue is a default choice, less because of it being a bastion of traditional dressing and more because his wife thinks he looks handsome in the shade. But Mitchell will also wear pink, coral, lavender, and various shades of green. “And you can never go wrong with white, especially in the summer.”

Most preppy clothing aficionados shy away from malls, instead favoring small, locally owned boutiques, and Mitchell is no exception. The vast majority of his wardrobe comes from the men’s store The Locker Room in Tuscaloosa, a loyalty Mitchell has honored almost his entire life. While fitting that, with his athletic interests, Mitchell would patronize such an aptly named institution, the impetus is more nostalgic. Mitchell’s family moved from Tuscaloosa to Washington state when he was 3, but coming home to Alabama twice a year always involved Mitchell and his father visiting The Locker Room, owned by family friend Alex Gatewood. The store stocks iconic traditional clothing brands such as Barbour, Peter Millar, Ralph Lauren, and Robert Talbott, along with Alden shoes. Speaking of honoring tradition, Alden is the only original New England shoe and bootmaker remaining of the hundreds that began so long ago (Alden began in 1884.) Still a family-owned business, Alden carries forward a tradition of quality genuine-welted shoemaking that is exceptional. In addition to their chukka boots, Mitchell has several pairs of their dress shell cordovans, including the pair he wore in his wedding 23 years ago. “They look basically brand new!” he says. “Alden shoes ever go out of style and simply can’t be worn out.”

Bob and his son, Hughes, sit with dog Sadie, one of their 2 rescued chocolate labs.

When Mitchell was a teenager, Gatewood told him that if he ever attended the University of Alabama, there was a job waiting for him. After transferring from the University of Virginia to be closer to his sweetheart (and now wife), Mitchell did just that, working part-time in college and then four more years during graduate school. “Over the years, I almost certainly spent more on clothes than I received in paychecks, even with the discount,” Mitchell confesses. Today, every suit and sport coat he owns was purchased at one of their trunk shows, which allows him to select from a variety of fabrics and to be custom-fit. “I wouldn’t buy a suit anywhere else,” says Mitchell. Upon thinking about his style in a general sense, Mitchell realizes, “My time in The Locker Room over my nearly 50 years has had probably had as much to do with my wardrobe choices as anything.” The same seems to be trending for Hughes, who is also growing up with visits to the store. Father and son visit The Locker Room before every Alabama football game, even if just to say hello to Gatewood. The store now carries lines such as Southern Proper, Southern Tide, and State Traditions to cater to the younger generation of traditional dressers.

Hopefully Hughes can also inherit his father’s personal style confidence. Says Mitchell, “I know what I like and I’m comfortable in it, so there’s not much need to change.”

Sitting in an aptly-upholstered cheetah print armchair in the den of the Birmingham home to which she has recently returned, Goldstein wears an Urban Outfitters cold-shoulder top, black Karen Kane pants and a Kendra Scott necklace (circa way before the masses owned the ubiquitous pendant.)

Written and styled by Tracy James
Photography by Chuck St. John

At the beginning of my own career in the fashion industry, I was contracted by Birmingham’s “hometown store,” Parisian, to coordinate events, filling in when the permanent staffers were overburdened with requests, which, fortunately for me, was often. Being trusted to travel solo as a proxy for the beloved retailer was thrilling, but the biggest privilege accompanying the job was an invitation each season to attend the trend updates led by Parisian’s Fashion Director, Arlene Goldstein. It was in those conference rooms that my ears were first tickled by the language of fashion, up close and personal–style knowledge eloquently and aphoristically spoken, straight from the lipstick-lacquered mouth of a striking beauty with tightly pulled raven hair and icy blue eyes. Here was this fashion maven with no formal industry training who possessed not only an innate sense of style and fashion-speak fluency, but also an ability to skillfully communicate these messages to women.

When it comes to skincare products, “I’m all about the oils,” Goldstein says. Her current favorite is Laura Mercier’s Flawless Skin Rose Infusion, which imparts a dewy glow and lovely fragrance.

Goldstein was set on the course of what would become a lifetime career when, in the 1980s, the then school teacher was asked by a friend who owned a modeling agency to develop a class in wardrobe planning. “Women were returning to the workforce and needed help updating their closets,” Goldstein explains. Figuring that if she could create a lesson plan, she could create a style seminar, Goldstein accepted the challenge. The program, which she titled “10 Easy Pieces,” identified basics every woman should have in her wardrobe. “Because that’s how you shop—build a base then add the fluff,” she says.

Goldstein had just been reading about the bomber jacket trend when she spotted this floral-lined one in London.

The seminar was well–received, and Goldstein was inspired to make a career change. She joined Parisian as the special events coordinator at the downtown location, where her job was to get customers into the store. To start, she created “Fashion Break,” a monthly how–to seminar that brought women in from all over, especially those working downtown. “It became a phenomenon,” Goldstein says. She parlayed this success into becoming special events director for the entire company, later adding fashion director to her title as well. There she birthed the now infamous “Must Haves” and “Top 10” lists, eagerly anticipated guidelines to the top trends of the season. By attending Fashion Week shows and scouring favorite magazines such as British Vogue, Porter, Harper’s Bazaar and Women’s Wear Daily, Goldstein spared customers the complex task of deciphering for themselves what was deemed en vogue that spring or fall, and thus should be considered as a wardrobe addition.

“Cheetah is my favorite color,” jokes Goldstein, of her signature pattern. Sam Edelman booties and IFO New York vintage handbag

Fortunately for shoppers, the end of Parisian was not the end of Goldstein’s quippy advice. True to her own mantra that, “If you’re standing still, you’re moving backwards,” when Belk purchased Parisian in 2006, the North Carolina–based retailer convinced Goldstein to bring her formidable skill set to their headquarters in Charlotte, as vice president of trend merchandising and fashion direction.

“It reminded me of a Dolce & Gabbana design,” Goldstein says of the French Connection dress that features a sheer overlay and allover embroidery. A Leith duster acts as a “completer piece,” a Goldstein-favored wardrobe building block, while Diane von Furstenberg pumps, a w. kleinberg belt and Dior-inspired black ball ear jackets accent the look.

Goldstein is quick to point out that her bits of advice have never been intended as rules. “Today fashion offers an incredible menu of style options for women to explore and embrace if they so choose,” she says. “I find it annoying when so-called fashion authorities give women rules that label, limit, and pigeon hole them, stifling that experience.” In fact, Goldstein so avoids labeling, that, to my inquiry about her own personal style, she admits she has never analyzed it. Reflecting, she says, “Like many women, in my closet there are way too many clothes…black basics and not-so-basic jackets, skirts and pants popped with of–the–moment seasonal statement items.” But never gimmicky. Never contrived. Another one of Goldstein’s notorious tidbits is, “The look is in the mix,” with designer duds and vintage finds hanging beside bargain gems. Increasingly popular “fast fashion” discount retailers such as Zara, Forever 21, and Topshop are the result of the “trickle–down effect” Goldstein looks for when scouting trends. She notes, “Miuccia Prada said herself, ‘My fashion gets to H&M before it gets to Bergdorf’s.’”

Goldstein’s brother founded in 1984 and still operates w.kleinberg, a design house in the Buckhead area of Atlanta that manufacturing belts, handbags and sterling silver buckles. Using old world artisan techniques, w.kleinberg has a strong expertise in exotic leathers such as alligator, calf, lizard, ostrich and snake.

When asked about the effect of social media and the internet on fashion, Goldstein proffers another one of her oft–uttered sayings, “The fashion world is flat.” Elaborating, she says, “Someone from Topeka, Kansas, can receive the same style information as someone attending the shows in Paris. We can all be clever purveyors of trends.” That said, true trend forecasting is achieved by scouting the world’s fashion meccas, such as London and Paris, where Goldstein visits to primarily learn from observing street fashionistas—or “early adopters,” as Goldstein calls those willing to take fashion risks. “If you don’t go, you don’t know,” she exclaims, encouraging opening our eyes to the world around us to be “gatherers of information.”

During her time at the Belk corporate office in Charlotte, Goldstein admired and often complimented an abstract portrait hanging in a Belk executive’s office. The subject turned out to be model Kate Moss, painted by Neal Turner, an artist based in Nice, France. At Goldstein’s retirement party, the Belk executive presented her with the painting as a parting gift. Next to the frame lie Hermes silk scarves that belonged to Goldstein’s late mother.

At the end of May, Goldstein’s last day at Belk happened to coincide with her 70th birthday. Fashion legend Diana Vreeland famously quipped, “The best time to leave a party is when the party’s just beginning.” Now that Goldstein and her husband, Milton, have moved back into their longtime Birmingham home and have more time to spend with their three children and nine grandchildren, perhaps the celebration has just begun. “One of the joys of my career has been to meet and support so many diverse and talented people,” Goldstein says. “Those faces and personalities are etched in my memories forever.” No doubt the many she influenced feel the same way.

Demonstrating her well-known affinity for the day coat, Goldstein wears one by COS, along with a Theory top, Trina Turk pencil skirt, and Diane von Furstenberg pumps. Her mesh and pearl statement necklace is by successful jewelry designer RJ Graziano, with whom Goldstein developed a friendship during her time in the fashion industry. In the background, a painting by late Alabama folk artist Jimmy Lee Sudduth.

Written and styled by Tracy James

Photography by Chuck St. John

One of the things I set out to do when beginning my career as a wardrobe stylist almost 16 years ago was to dispel the myth that a stylist was a luxury only afforded by celebrities or wealthy people. Thanks to stylist-to-the-stars Rachel Zoe, who has made a name for herself dressing A-list clients and having her own TV show, the general public now knows what the heck a wardrobe stylist is. However, Zoe has not done much to promote the image of a stylist as accessible to all, as the majority of people don’t spend their lives walking red carpets. I wanted to be—and believe I have become—a “real world stylist,” if you will: approachable, non-pretentious, and accomodating to clients from all walks of life. In my view, just as not everyone has a knack for decorating their home (so they call in an interior decorator), nor does everyone have a green thumb for making their yard bloom (so they employ a landscaper), so should those who lack the skills or desire to put together an appealing wardrobe be able to seek style assistance. In order to reach that audience, I have to continually banish assumptions. Here are the top five myths about stylists that I hear most often.

Myth 1: Stylists only buy the most expensive brands.

“I’m sure you only wear designer clothing.”

Even if I made Rachel Zoe money, I wouldn’t exclusively buy designer clothing. I am brand conscious in the sense that certain ones tend to fit my shape better than others, but I would never select an item solely based on the brand. And I loathe blatant logos. Take one walk down Rodeo Drive, and you will see that money doesn’t buy taste. What matters more than how much you pay for your clothing is how you outfit pieces together. As my July Style Icon, fashion industry legend Arlene Goldstein, said, “It’s all in the mix.”

Like Goldstein, in my closet you will find high and low end: Topshop next to Theory, H&M next to Helmut Lang, and so on. What is fun for me is to observe designer looks, whether in magazines or on runways, and then reinterpret them for my own lifestyle, figure, and budget. When clients lament that they love but cannot afford designer duds, I encourage them to use those styles as inspiration to create their own “looks for less.” That said, as I’ve aged and feel less obliged to follow every fashion trend, I make an effort to choose quality over quantity. Tommy Hilfiger hit the nail on the head when he said, “Quality always wins. If you’re wearing something of incredible quality, it will outshine any trend, any fashion idea, and anything that’s funky or groovy.”

Myth 2: Stylists have no fit issues.

“You’re small so you look good in anything.”

At 5-foot-1, clearly I do not have a runway body, just like the vast majority of women do not. At 5-foot-1, I am below the national average of 5-foot-4, and shy runway stature by almost a foot. I’m pretty sure that my legs are the same length as Giselle Bundchen’s torso. Some assume that just because I am small, I can wear anything. Consider that the average fit model (the bodies upon which clothing sizes are based) is 5-foot-7 and a size 6. If that is your size, congratulations, you are in the tiny percentage of the population who can successfully wear off the rack.

The rest of us have to take proportion into consideration, and either strategically mix our pieces, invest in alterations, or both. Proper fit is absolutely key to looking polished, but it doesn’t always come easy. From my mentor Tim Gunn I have borrowed the phrase, “Make it work!” Looking great is, after all, a bit of eye trickery. The idea is to camouflage those parts of our body we’re not crazy about, and accentuate those aspects we do like about ourselves. Have killer legs? Wear more skirts and shorts. Love your collarbone? Highlight it with boatneck tops. As a “super petite,” I find I am best flattered in hem lengths above my knee, shoes with at least 2 inches of heel, pants no shorter than my ankle bone, and sleeve lengths no longer than my wrist bone; and I avoid ruffles and bows lest I resemble the 12-year-old girl whose height I mirror.

Myth 3: Stylists follow fashion rules.

“I bet you never make fashion faux-pas.”

In our current “anything goes” fashion world, what is a fashion faux-pas these days anyway? Those who know me well know that I usually roll with the motto, “It is better to ask forgiveness than permission.” Rule following isn’t my strong suit. When advising clients, I might invoke guidelines, but I never use the word “rule.” In fact, in my typical wardrobe seminar for businesses, I have a whole segment based upon antiquated fashion rules now meant to be broken—like wearing white only between Memorial Day and Labor Day or
avoiding color combinations like pink and red or black and navy. I’m not a proponent of limitations when it comes to creativity, especially when it comes to personal style. I must admit that when a new client tells me that according to her Color Me Beautiful chart circa 1996, she is a “Winter” and can only wear certain colors, I roll my eyes (but on the inside of course, most of the time). I’m a fan of wearing what makes you happy. Love yellow despite the fact it’s not on your color wheel? Wear it! Want to wear white in December? Go for it! Finding one’s personal style is achieved though channeling one’s authentic self, so avoid censorship.

While I loved the 2-piece Tibi ensemble ($625) on the top, a midi length skirt isn’t flattering to my petite stature, and a strapless cropped top not practical for everyday wear. So I was delighted when I found a dress (in Petite sizing no less!) with a similar feel at the LOFT Outlet for $19. I wear it to beat the Alabama heat while running around town, therefore pair it with my comfortable Qupid wedges from Fabrik Homewood.

Myth 4: Stylists never make fashion mistakes.

“I’m sure you never have buyer’s remorse.”

Sometimes when I get undressed at the end of a day, I think, “Wow, that outfit was an epic fail. Thank goodness I never have to wear it again!” And therein lies the beauty: Fashion is not permanent. If anything, it is a lifelong experiment. I give myself, and my clients, permission to constantly evolve. While I admit it is rare (thanks to years of experience), I do from time to time make fashion mistakes. And guess what? That doesn’t make me a bad person or stylist. Give yourself a break.Buying mistakes are all part of the learning process, whether you’ve stepped a bit too far out of your comfort zone with a particular garment or played it too safe and brought home something exactly like 10 other things in your closet. Analyze your mistake so you can avoid making the same mistake twice, then move on. To keep your closet clutter-free of such items, I recommend keeping nearby a bag for giveaways. If you put something on then take it off for whatever reason, into the bag it goes. When my bag fills up, I take it to my local charity bin. Comedienne Rita Rudner once joked, “The saleslady told me the dress looked better on. So I took it home and put it on and I wondered, ‘Looks better on what? On fire?’”

Myth 5: Stylists are judgmental of the fashion choices of others.

“I didn’t know I’d run into you today. Don’t look at what I’m wearing!”

I truly hate the fact that some people feel the need to greet me with a disclaimer: “Oh my gosh I just threw this on to run errands, you must think I look awful!” Actually, Suzy Q, I was thinking how nice it is to see you. Sigh. Contrary to the belief of some, I do not have a filter through which I see everyone with black bars over their eyes. (Also, see Myth #4.) If asked to critique, I can certainly shift into that mode and do so. Otherwise, I’m “off the clock,” so to speak. In a similar vein, I don’t expect my style to be your style. A prospective client once asked me, “How do I know you aren’t going to try to make me look just like you?” To which I retorted, “My style is MY style, you can’t have it. You’ve got your own, and we will find it!” Part of my job is to help people find their best selves and learn how to communicate to the world that self through his or her style choices, even if those are choices I wouldn’t make for myself. •

Written and styled by Tracy James
Photography by Chuck St. John

Wardrobe wise, living in the South has its pros and cons. On the one hand, summer heat lingers longer than most would like, confusing many on what the heck to wear when it’s almost October but still pushing 90 degrees outside. On the other hand, the lack of seasonal extremes allows for a more streamlined wardrobe, as many pieces can multitask their way through various temperatures. We’re Birminghamians, not Bostonians, so there’s no need for a closet full of woolens. Expand your existing clothing collection by learning how to adapt for different weather conditions, while staying seasonally appropriate and on-trend.

The piece: Tunic dress

Wear NOW: The warm caramel tones and inclusion of suede in this outfit keep it visually transitional but comfortable temperature-wise. Rachel Zoe silk dress ($495), Stuart Weitzman “Sunflower” sandal in Amaretto ($455), Rebecca Minkoff clutch ($245), all from Gus Mayer. World Market necklace ($24).

Wear LATER: For core warmth, layer a Coobie tank ($22) underneath the dress, and then pop on a Adrienne Landeau fur vest ($295). Finish the grey story with a Rebecca Minkoff handbag ($345) with Linda Richards fur pouf and Stuart Weitzman “Tieland” boots in Anthracite ($798). All from Gus Mayer.

The piece: Silk blouse

Wear NOW: Think it’s too late to wear shorts? Not when they are in a saturated color like this cobalt and a sturdy, lined construction. Equipment silk butterfly-print blouse ($258) and Pelle Moda “Kacey” suede sandal in Lemon ($145), Gus Mayer. J.Crew Factory shorts ($54.50); Banana Republic cuff ($48); Good Works trio bracelet ($30), Mia Moda in Vestavia. Earrings are the stylist’s own.

Wear LATER: When weather turns colder, layer the blouse under a cashmere sweater. Allowing the collar, cuffs, and tail to peek out keeps the look casual and modern. Kate Moss for Equipment sweater ($278) and Franco Sarto “Yogi” boot ($138), Gus Mayer. DL 1961 “Cindy” jean in Milk ($178), SOCA Homewood.

The piece: Printed sleeveless top

Written and styled by Tracy James
Photography by Chuck St. John

Like a doctor who in casual conversation describes an aching arm as lateral epicondylitis as opposed to tennis elbow, we fashion industry folks like to throw around the Pantone colors like they are part of universal vernacular. So who is Pantone, and why do they get to decide the colors for the rest of the world? By their own definition, Pantone is “the world-renowned authority on color and provider of systems and technology for the selection and accurate communication of color across a variety of industries.” Powerful in the world of design, their seasonal hue forecasts are key for every company who designs physical products, from fashion designers and cosmetic companies to car manufacturers and graphic designers. In fact, Pantone has a hand in the color of roughly half of all garments sold in the U.S., according to NPD, a market
research group.

Pantone makes three major color announcements every year: The Color of the Year (between fall and December), Spring Fashion Report (around September), and Fall Fashion Report (around February). These color forecast announcements are purposely made well in advance so they can be used to create for the seasons in question. 

How do they choose color trends? An international committee of 10 operates like a secret society, meeting twice a year in Europe at the invitation of Pantone to make selections. This diverse group of people travels the world observing average people in different countries, documenting attitudes towards life and politics, street fashion, and beauty trends. Gathering in an all-white room, these anonymous individuals each present their suggestions, and with sound reasoning and picture proof, then vote on the final colors. According to Pantone, “the purpose of the colors is not just to set a trend. There is so much psychology behind colors and color theory; the reports are meant to represent the zeitgeist of the entire world.”

John Crocco, creative director at Perry Ellis, says that if designers choose to follow the color forecasts, they will be a “part of what ultimately becomes the trend.” But when designers overlook or flat out ignore trends as they relate to design, they will eventually become irrelevant.

This year, Pantone describes their fall palette as “…a unity of strength, confidence, and complexity. The desire for tranquility, strength, and optimism have inspired a palette that is led by the blue family. Along with anchoring earth tones, exuberant pops of vibrant colors also appear throughout the collections. Transcending gender, these unexpectedly vivacious colors in our Fall 2016 palette act as playful but structured departures from your more typical fall shades. Blue skies represent constancy as they are always above us. Grays give a feeling of stability, Red tones invite confidence and warmth, while the hot Pinkish Purples and Spicy Mustard Yellows suggest a touch of the exotic.” A perusal of Birmingham stores makes evident Pantone’s influence, as pictured this month. 

Aurora Red

Banana Republic “Sloan” pant, $88 Eileen Fisher jacket, $378 (Belk) Alexander McQueen dress, $1,965 (Gus Mayer) Michael Kors “Marti” sandal, $125 (Belk) Mineral Fusion “Firery Lava” nail polish (Whole Foods) Maybelline “On Fire Red” lipstick (CVS)

Airy Blue

Kate Spade “Hemsley” bag, $358 (Belk) Free People sweater, $128 (Von Maur) Banana Republic top, $68 Banana Republic “Avery” pants, $88

Dusty Cedar

BCBG shirtdress, $248 (Belk) Flying Monkey jeans, $62 (Von Maur) Free People suede jumper, $168 (Belk) Glamorous blouse, $52 (Von Maur) L’Oreal “Saucy Mauve” lipstick (CVS) Banana Republic sweater, $78 Michael Kors “Westley” mule, $165 (Belk)

Lush Meadow

Banana Republic blouse, $78 New Directions jewelry, $14 & $26 (Belk) Pacifica “Psychedelic Jungle” nail polish (Whole Foods) Monique Lhuillier, $595 (Gus Mayer) Banana Republic suede handbag, $158

Riverside

BCBGeneration dress, $98 (Belk) Brahmin “Brinley” handbag, $375 (Belk) Hyfve jacket, $44 (Von Maur) Pacifica “1972 WPool Party” Nail Polish (Whole Foods) Lucky Brand “Eller” boot, $139 (Belk)

Spicy Mustard

Love Always sweater, $34 (Von Maur) Lulu infinity scarf, $22 (Von Maur) Lush blouse, $42 (Von Maur) OPI “I Just Can’t Cope Cabana” nail polish (CVS) Cesca shoulder bag, $38 (Von Maur) Tahari dress, $128 (Belk)

Warm Taupe

Karen Kane jacket, $179 (Belk) Banana Republic dress, $138 BCBGeneration “Sawyer” Boot, $159 (Belk) Cover Girl “Toasted Almond” nail polish (CVS) L’Oreal “Silverstone” lipstick (CVS) Drew silk top, $225 (Gus Mayer)

Potters Clay

Sanctuary sweater, $69 (Von Maur) Helmut Lang suede shirt jacket, $995 (Gus Mayer) L’Oreal “Ginger Spice” lipstick (CVS) One the Land skirt, $36 (Von Maur) Lucky Brand “Ysabel” bootie, $129 (Belk)

Sharkskin

Banana Republic dress, $118 Metamorfosi pant, $415 (Gus Mayer) Stella McCartney sweater, $1,375 (Gus Mayer) Michael Kors “Keaton” slip-on sneaker, $125 (Belk) Steven hobo, $98 (Belk) *Mineral Fusion “Slate” nail polish (Whole Foods)

Bodacious Pink

Equipment blouse, $238 (Gus Mayer) Trina Turk dress, $328 (Belk) Banana Republic belt, $38 Kate Spade wristlet, $148 (Belk) Essie “Play Date” nail polish (CVS) Maybelline “Brazen Berry” lipstick (CVS)

Before Alchemy 213 opened last September, boutique owner Graham did extensive renovations to the former bar/restaurant space on 20th Street North, including removing plaster from walls to expose the original brick.

Written and styled by Tracy James
Photography by Chuck St. John

“New York. Birmingham. Bologna.” These are three cities you would not normally expect to see grouped together, yet they encircle the logo for Birmingham’s newest upscale men’s boutique, Alchemy 213, located in downtown Birmingham. Owner Ace Graham, 32, explains the connection. His business partner, Nelz, lives in New York City, and until recently, Graham lived in Bologna, Italy. There he served as a business consultant, helping fashion brands insert their product into the U.S. market. Before this life-shaping European experience, Graham grew up in a military family and lived all over the country. His love for fashion began early. At age 14, Graham worked at Kids Footlocker without pay until he was old enough to get a work permit. By the time he was 15, he estimates he owned at least 50 pairs of sneakers.

Like the high-end city streetwear the boutique carries, which includes but is in no way restricted to limited-edition sneakers, the space—with its high ceilings and exposed brick walls—has an urban, hip feel that is unique to Birmingham. After extensive renovations to the 20^th Street venue, Alchemy 213 opened last September. Graham admits to being about two years early on the project in terms of the surrounding area’s development, but he felt strongly about being downtown. As for the name that is prominently displayed in many areas of the store, Graham says, “We named the store Alchemy not because of its traditional definition of transmuting metal to gold, but in effort to transmute our lives—in which many people saw no value —into something more precious than gold. Through Alchemy we have the ability to effect change in the lives we come in contact with, and that for many people fosters their own sense of alchemy.”

Alchemy’s “I [heart] BHM” design, with the heart encasing the names of city neighborhoods, first existed as a t-shirt, and still does, sold at The Civil Rights Institute as a fundraising piece. But Graham wanted a more permanent version, so had the design painted as a mural on Alchemy 213’s entry wall.

If that sounds like a lofty goal, it is. Alchemy seeks to be more than just a retailer that carries a man’s favorite denim and designers found nowhere else in the state (often, nowhere else in the country except NYC and LA). Graham and his team want to be a platform for everything that is cool. “It’s for us to display things that we love,” Graham says. “We want to be a platform for someone that makes great jewelry or tea or whatever it is that you do. If it’s dope and it fits with what we are doing, we want to be a platform for that.”

In addition, Alchemy collaborates on a community event each month, from artistic to philanthropic endeavors. October’s event was hosting an Energy Zone along the Susan B. Komen Race for the Cure route, part of their #AlchemyCares initiative. “Alchemy wouldn’t exist without the support of others,” says Graham, who, incidentally, employs as the store’s painter a homeless man from 7^th Avenue South and as the cleaning lady, a resident of First Light shelter around the corner. “We have a duty to give back and enhance our community.,” Graham says. “Philanthropic endeavors are amongst our company’s core values.”

One of Alchemy’s in-house models wears EFM’s Liam Sweater Blazer and Ward Tracker Trouser, and Yuketen full-grain leather messenger bag. The Nike Air Presto Olympic shoes are exclusive to Alchemy 213 in the state.

Upon my first visit to Alchemy 213, I loved the fact that every item I picked up had a story behind it. Like the deliciously scented 100 percent soy luxury candle that, come to find out, is produced in-house via Graham’s design company, Acasa, which means “always at home.” With scents blended in Italy, they present three varieties per season. Eventually Acasa will offer exotic leather goods as well. The majority of Alchemy’s merchandise is internationally sourced, and I was fascinated by Graham’s brand knowledge. Some of the lines that make Alchemy special include:   

Stampd-Founded in 2011 by Chris Stamp, the west coast “avantstreet” lifestyle brand represents contemporary luxury that has evolved past street-wear while retaining its iconic styling cues. In 2015, the brand was awarded Best New Men’s Wear Designer in America by GQ.

EFM-Design house EFM (Engineered for Motion) integrates sophisticated design, applied technologies, and innovative features, pushing comfort and urban minimalist aesthetics to new levels. From innovative fabrics to complex garment dyeing, sonically welded seams to hard shell membranes, EFM continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in luxury menswear.

Nudie Jeans-This Swedish denim label is changing the ownership model for jeans and providing benchmark stewardship for transparency. Not only does the company use organic materials and fair labor, but each pair of jeans also comes with a lifetime warranty and free repair service.   

Off-White-At the helm of this hot streetwear brand is Virgil Abloh, Kanye West’s creative-director-turned-fashion-designer, who in 2015 was nominated for the prestigious LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers. Much like the conception of Alchemy 213 itself, Off-White sees itself as a bridge between the worlds of streetwear and high fashion.

Nike Official Boutique-Alchemy 213 is one of 100 official Nike boutiques in the country, meaning they receive the company’s highest end and limited edition merchandise. When it comes to Nike, Alchemy stocks some women’s sizes as well (I’ve got my eye on a pair of woven grey suede Mayflys) and caters not just to sportsmen. True to Nike’s motto, Graham says, “There’s an athlete in each of us.”

Nike’s Lebron Soldier 10 has a 3-strap velcro system that offers lightweight lockdown and was created specifically for disabled individuals. In the background, part of a triptych that is a collaboration between the estate of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat and The Skateroom. These limited edition skateboards feature some of Basquiat’s most famous work from the 80’s, and is part of The Skateroom’s mission to empower youth, with proceeds going directly to non-profits that give children the chance to explore art through skateboarding.

JayZ Capsule Collection-To celebrate the 20^th anniversary of the hip-hop mogul’s fist album, Reasonable Doubt, 14 stores in the United States, of which Alchemy is one, will receive a capsule collection inspired by this classic album.

Needless to say, it comes as no surprise that Graham says, “We don’t randomly pick anything.” Stop by the 20^th Street boutique to hear the stories for yourself from the incredibly knowledgeable and friendly team at Alchemy 213, the kind of progressive business our city needs.

Written and styled by Tracy James
Photography by Chuck St. John

December delivers smiling family photo-emblazoned greeting cards, as well as invitations to gatherings with stressful dress code instructions like “festive attire” and “holiday cocktail.” First of all, let’s talk about what NOT to wear to these seasonal fetes. While I am a wardrobe stylist who rarely quotes hard and fast rules, this is a worthy exception. Do not, do not, DO NOT wear any garment that features reindeer, wreaths, snowmen, holly berries, etc. In fact, resist the temptation to wear red and green together, period. You will just end up looking costume-y, cliché, and like you are headed to assist the local mall Santa. The fact that there are tacky Christmas sweater parties being held across college campuses should be a huge red flag. Also, resist seasonal accessories that include but are not limited to ceramic or plastic (gasp!) snowman pins, bell earrings, themed scarves, and flashing Christmas tree broaches. Rudolph’s red nose blinking in the 1964 stop-motion animation classic is one thing—on your lapel is quite another. With the exception of a watch, jewelry should not have batteries.

Now, I can appreciate the desire to be a little festive during the holidays; I welcome the opportunity to kick up the flash a notch. But there is a way to be high-spirited without being hokey. Metallics and sequined garments have evolved from trendy to firmly classic, and both accents are a great way to add a little sparkle to an ensemble. Think black sequin pants paired with a cold-shoulder metallic knit sweater. Fur embellishment (either real or faux) can add a celebratory element, as can bold color. Look for rich jewel tones, such as emerald, plum, and peacock blue, as well as vibrant shades, such as tomato red, cobalt blue, and fuchsia. Incorporating black is a great way to ground bolder tones as well as keep the look decidedly nighttime.

Accessories are an important part of holiday dressing. Select beautiful, interesting jewelry that will last you throughout the year and coordinate with a variety of outfits, not just holiday attire. Even then, don’t get carried away. Choose focal pieces, instead of over-accessorizing, but don’t be afraid to try statement pieces. Anything too delicate will simply get lost on you. Try chandelier earrings, chunky cuffs, multi-layer necklaces, and sparkly cocktail rings—just not all at the same time. The statement that a piece of jewelry is trying to make gets lost if there’s too much going on all at once. A good rule of thumb is to give some breathing space between bold pieces, so instead of big earrings AND a big necklace, try big earrings and a cocktail ring or embellished cuff.

Above all, be joyful! ’Tis the season to spread cheer, so start with your appearance. When you feel good about what you have on, it shows and inspires others.

TRACY’S MUST-HAVES FOR HOLIDAY PARTIES

1. A Sassy, Short Cocktail Dress – either in a metallic, a dressy material like double ply silk satin or jacquard, and/or with a little sparkle or embellishment
2. A Chic Evening Clutch – sized only to hold the essentials like lipstick, an iPhone, and a credit card
3. An Evening Coat, Jacket, or Wrap – Nothing ruins a party dress more than throwing on a big bulky overcoat over it. Even worse is wearing your husband’s suit jacket by the end of the night! An appropriate outer-layer can be anything from a knee-length satin coat to a cashmere wrap to a tailored leather jacket. To ensure the most wearability, choose black or a metallic.
4. Bold Jewelry – like a statement necklace, jeweled cuff, or cocktail ring
5. A Statement Shoe – With gorgeous options in stores this season, shoes are a great opportunity to add color, texture, or bling to an ensemble.

For the classic ladies: The exaggerated shoulder-to-back bow detail on this Tahari ASL floral jacquard shift dress (Belk, $138) makes it dramatic and demure at the same time. The addition of pockets makes it even better. To match the boldness of color and texture, a perfect addition is statement accessories in the form of a stretch rhinestone cuff (Etsy, $35) and limited-edition Nina “Isabell” crystal-covered black suede pumps (Belk, $129).

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For those who want long sleeves: This Nanette by Nanette Lepore ruffle-neck shift dress is a great go-to. To amplify it’s cocktail appeal, add a dramatic chandelier earring (vintage, stylist’s own) and a statement shoe  – here, the festive Nina “Reign” merlot velvet peep-toe pump (Belk, $99). This look could be taken in a slightly more casual and edgy direction by paring it with opaque hose (my favorite are Hue’s Super Opaque) and black suede high-heeled booties.

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For those who prefer pants: A slim, tailored ankle pant in a dressy fabric is not only tres chic, but versatile as well. Pair with a structured jacket, Jackie O inspired knit, or evening blouse. Trina Turk “Aubree” pant (Saks Fifth Avenue, $268); Calvin Klein flutter-sleeve top (Belk, $79.50);  Pour La Victoire “Camilla” Pom-Pom pump (Belk, $325); Betsy Johnson “Garden of Excess” necklaces: mesh bow and lightweight gold (Belk, $52 and $75).

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For the bohemian: Someone who prefers flowy over structured might like this Michael by Michael Kors Leopard Print Cold-Shoulder dress (Michael Kors, $225). Jessica Simpson “Bliths” Booties (Belk, $119) keep the look modern, while an Ann Taylor jeweler leopard broach (Ann Taylor, $39.50) pinned to a Nina “Keiko” clutch (Belk, $55) adds sparkle.

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For the Tomboy: Staying true to your own personal style year-round is important. Just because you’re not a dressy girl doesn’t mean you can’t don appropriate party attire. Familiar textiles like leather and 90’s vibe plaid combine with minimal accessories for an overall look that is holiday-ready.  Jessica Simpson “Rosalind” dress (Belk, $119) French Connection “Chariot” jacket (Belk, $218), Stella & Dot “Marcel” Collar necklace (stelladot.com, $39); Nadri oversized gold hoop earring (Belk, $65); Nina “Alexy” clutch (Belk, $45)

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For those who demand comfort: Festive doesn’t have to mean structured, certainly should never be stuffy. If you have a relaxed style, try this Vince Camuto metallic cold-shoulder sweater with Free People’s “Just a Dreamer” sequin pant (Free People, $148). Betsy Johnson “Skeletons After Dark” long necklace (Belk, $75) + vintage strands (stylist’s own); Jessica McClintock lurex miniaudiere (Belk, $36); Jessica Simpson “Bliths” bootie (Belk, $119)

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Other Favorites

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Limited-edition Nina “Isabell” crystal-covered black suede pumps (Belk, $129)

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Nina “Reign” merlot velvet peep-toe pumps (Belk, $99)

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Betsy Johnson “Garden of Excess” necklaces: mesh bow and lightweight gold (Belk, $52 and $75)

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Nina “Keiko” clutch (Belk, $55) and Ann Taylor leopard broach (Ann Taylor, $39.50)

Written and styled by Tracy James
Photography by Chuck St. John

Now that we’ve all finished holiday eating, drinking, and auld lang syning, it’s time to get busy working on that list of resolutions. Amid the pledges involving health and finances, how about including a few in the style category as well? Just as your doctor might suggest to cut down on carbs and your financial advisor to save for a rainy day, I consider it my duty as Birmingham’s wardrobe stylist to proffer a few resolution recommendations to keep our city chic and your life simpler! 

1) Shop smart.

First off, if you’re a sucker for sales, this is your month. Contrary to popular belief that Black Friday is the best day to find deals (spoiler alert: it’s not), January is actually the choice month for bargains. That said…and hear me when I say this…resist the urge to buy merely because of the discount. Sure, that designer feathered cape used to be $750 and is now $99, but do you live the kind of life that is going to frequently require donning a feathered cape? Do you have other items in your closet that coordinate with said cape? This is where people get into trouble—they buy an item because of the deep discount, then end up having to purchase four other items to go with it, or else don’t wear it at all and there it sits, gathering dust with tags still attached. Suddenly that “great buy” wasn’t such a deal after all. Ask yourself a few questions before making a purchase: Do I already own the correct items to make this garment into a complete outfit? Do I own something very similar and, if so, do I need a duplicate or am I willing to get rid of that item and replace it with this one? Can I think of an occasion to which I would wear this item? In addition, I advise always shopping with a list of wants and needs—shopping with a purpose, if you will—rather than aimless browsing.

On left: DVY Yeva olive top ($328), Etro scarf ($485), Frame Sutherland flare jean ($209). On right: Equipment Signature blouse in Nature White Multi ($268) and Ondine sweater ($298), AG Super Skinny Midrise in Emerald velvet ($198). All from Saks Fifth Avenue.

2) Pay attention to proportion.

As I am known to often say, “It’s only fashion, not rocket science.” And so is this simple formula: short tops with wider leg bottoms/long tops with skinny bottoms. The goal when dressing is to flatter, so keeping proper proportion in mind is key when putting together an outfit. Skinny jeans have had a monopoly in the jeans world for the past several years, and while there is certainly nothing unstylish about them, I grew weary of the silhouette. Therefore I have been thrilled to see the return of flare-leg jeans which has opened the door to wearing a fresh crop (pun intended) of shorter tops. Many of my clients have wondered why they weren’t wearing certain tops only to realize that they just didn’t have the right bottoms to make them work. To keep your wardrobe interesting, I encourage you to not be a one-hit wonder, with only one proportion in your closet. Mix it up!   

Luda at Saks marks the hem of a Black Halo Vision Quest dress, $390. Jimmy Choo Romy in Black Patent, $595.

3) Visit your tailor—often.

Fit is everything. You can have on the most expensive designer garment, but if it isn’t tailored to your figure, don’t bother. By the same token, a less pricey garment can look like a million bucks if it fits like a glove. As I have said before in this column, very few of us fit “off the rack”—we’re taller, we’re shorter, we’re wider, we’re slimmer, we’re curved and concaved where the fit model was not. This is all to say: embrace alterations. I know it takes time and costs a little extra, but it is worth it! Not only will your clothing look better, but it will feel better too.

MZ Wallace Black Lacquer Large Metro Tote ($225), Spanx Perforated Panel Leggings ($98), Elie Tahari Sport Margie Jacket ($160, Loeffler Randall Logan Sneaker ($350). All from Saks Fifth Avenue.

4) Upgrade your workout wear.

Goodness knows a lot of Birmingham women like their active wear, so let’s make it nice, ladies! One of the benefits of exercise is improving mood, but there’s nothing inspiring about a shapeless tee and ratty gym shorts. With selections now available in premium fabrics, fun prints and every color under the sun, there is no excuse to be boring. And don’t forget the accoutrements needed for to/from the gym, like a stylish carryall, and post workout, like a jacket or wrap. Local fave resources for workout wear that kicks it up a notch include P2 Platinum Pilates at Lane Parke and Whole Foods in Mountain Brook (yes, really).

5) Upgrade your underwear.

Underwear is one of those clothing categories that becomes an afterthought for many because “no one sees it.” Well, you see it, and style begins with confidence in oneself. Underwear garments are often called “foundations” for a reason—these are where an outfit begins. Whether a lacy set that has you singing “I’m bringing sexy back,” or a high-tech shaping garment that makes clothing fit and feel sexier, let it not fall by the wayside. Your inner voice (and perhaps significant other) will thank you. Note: I know what you’re thinking…“what, no pictures?!” Stay tuned for a lingerie feature in Style Icon for February, just in time for Valentine’s. Consider yourself officially teased.

In Bloom by Jonquil chemise ($48) & robe ($68)

Written and styled by Tracy James

Photography by Chuck St. John

The origins of lingerie trace back to 3000 BC in Egypt, but the term—derived from the French word “linge,” meaning “linen”—was not frequently used until the late 1850’s. Since then, this category of clothing has taken on many forms and functions, from those perhaps not as commonly known: to protect the body, to show piety, to indicate wealth…to those more associated with the delicate garments today: to shape, to sleep, to seduce. I believe one of lingerie’s most powerful aspects is its ability to evoke a secret, inner glamour within the wearer that inspires women to feel even more beautiful in their clothes or state of leisure. •

Natori gown/robe set ($300)

 “Lingerie is the maximum expression of a woman’s femininity.” – Dolce & Gabbana

Hanky Panky boy short ($29); Mad Mac rose print chemise ($92)

Natori chemise ($160) & robe ($120); Jacques Levine bedroom shoe ($96)

“Without proper foundations there can be no fashion.” – Christian Dior

Wacoal bra ($50) & panty ($27); Oscar de la Renta robe $58

In front of their downtown Woodlawn shop, Morgan wears Taylor Stitch “Adler” women’s jean, Royal Apparel tee, vintage Ray Ban aviator sunglasses, and Club Duquette custom military jacket, a refurbished Korean war era design. Duquette wears a Taylor Stitch white tee, jean in Indigo Broken Twill, and Utility shirt in Indigo Jacquard woven on a loom from the 1800’s, detailed with indestructible Japanese buttons. Jewelry on both is handmade by Morgan under the name of their lifestyle brand, Rugged & Fancy.

Written and styled by Tracy James//Photography by Chuck St. John

From pop-up shop with REV Birmingham to brick-and-mortar storefront in Woodlawn, Club Duquette is the brainchild of musician Duquette Johnston, 44, and his artist wife Morgan, 32. Opened September 2016, Club Duquette hosts a curated collection of goods—both domestically made and globally found—that reflect the couple’s philosophy on living, a lifestyle brand of sorts they have named “Rugged & Fancy” (the title of one of Duquette’s past albums).

Club Duquette is proud to be an official stockist of Opinel knives, which have been made the same way for nearly 200 years in Savoie, France. Opinel was the knife of choice of Picasso and many great French explorers, and is even used in the kitchen by Chef Robby Melvin, former Style Icon and current Southern Living Test Kitchen Director and Club Duquette customer.

The philosophy encompasses their desire to offer items that allow for “long wear and easy living” at an accessible price point, as well as to promote small businesses, especially those that give back to the community. “Fair manufacturing really matters to us,” Morgan says. This is not surprising, considering that Morgan grew up on a sew-and-cut factory floor in Cullman. Four generations of her family worked in the business that eventually saw jobs outsourced to Egypt.

Duquette, the “rugged” in the mix, grew up splitting time between a ranch in Wyoming and Birmingham. He was then and is now a free spirit anchored by his longtime career as a rock musician, singer and songwriter. Despite the bohemian vibe both Duquette and Morgan exude, they stress that living as full-time creatives in fact takes discipline. The couple currently live in Eastlake, only minutes from the store, with their toddler son, Tennessee Wolf Johnston. 

Another vendor unique to Alabama is Juniper Ridge. Their products are 100% wildcrafted and produced using classic perfume making techniques including distillation, tincturing, infusion and enfleurage. “A hundred years ago, all perfumes were made this way,” the California-based company says. “Today we’re the only ones who handle every step of the process ourselves, from beginning to end.” Their products include trail soap, incense and cologne, and formulas vary from year to year and harvest to harvest, based on rainfall, temperature, exact harvesting location, and season. Every Juniper Ridge product has a harvest number stamped on it, which can be looked up on their website to view photos of the source plants and extraction techniques.

Part of Club Duquette’s purpose is to share good vibes, product and creativity with others. However, true to their commitment to community, if a certain something a customer seeks isn’t part of their repertoire, they don’t hesitate to promote other local businesses. After all, as Duquette notes, “The rising tide raises all ships.”

One of Club Duquette’s specially selected vendors is One Feather Press, which specializes in hand made, custom bandanas. They wash, cut, sew, print, and wash again each bandana in East Nashville, TN. Soon Club Duquette will be selling these bandanas featuring their own designs.

Proud of their community, Club Duquette had “Woodlawn High” tees made and donates half of the proceeds to the school’s music program.

On the right, light tan leather wallets from Birmingham-based leather accessories designer Alan J. Slattery, 2016 graduate of Savannah College of Art & Design and winner of Birmingham Fashion Week. On the left, Wayfarer Journal, “the perfect companion for all of your adventures,” by Needle & Thread Manufacturing Co., a leather goods company created by 15-year-old artisan Cole Armistead from Rainbow City, Alabama. Specifications include: Horween Brown Chromexcel leather, natural stitching, cash flap, and pen holder. Edges waxed & burnished for durability.

Morgan wears a Club Duquette custom military jacket, a vintage Korean war era design refurbished with hand-drawn patches and stencils, created by Morgan herself.

Jiffy Steamer E-Steam Personal Handheld Steamer, purchase here: http://amzn.to/2nBwK7c. Canvas bags by Fairhope-based MB Greene (Marguerite’s Conceits, $76 & $28).

Personal Steamer

I discovered this little baby 20 years ago when I first began my career, assisting backstage at Parisian runway shows. Unlike the wimpy handheld steamers I had tried in the past, which seemed to spit more water than steam, at 120 volts the Jiffy E-Steam is the most powerful handheld steamer on the market. When Parisian corporate closed its doors (RIP), I was gifted the E-Steam I had used, and it ran steady and strong for five more years, right up until it was swiped from an event! (Clearly someone knew the jewel that it is.) Not to be deterred, this just gave me the opportunity to upgrade to a pink model. While I do own a full-size industrial steamer, its cumbersomeness makes it less than fun to cart around, so I find that I more often use my handheld, including for personal use at home and when traveling. The only difference in performance is that the handheld has to be refilled about every 15 minutes. Tip: Use distilled water to keep the minerals in tap water from gunking things up over the long run.

Downy Wrinkle Releaser, purchase here: http://amzn.to/2ncf4hn. Jealous Tomato top ($50, Belk).

Wrinkle-Release Spray

Wrinkle-release spray will change your life. As a committed non-ironer, I rely on this stuff quite frequently. I first tried it out of necessity when styling a beach photo shoot without electrical outlet access. Soon after, a bottle of the Downy variety (the easiest to find, at Publix and online) became a staple in not only my stylist kit but also my closet, laundry room and suitcase (it comes in travel size!). Tip for use: Don’t be afraid to saturate the fabric, unless pure silk (which I have not used it on). Spray the wrinkled area, then use both hands to pull taut. After a few tugs, let dry and be amazed as the wrinkles disappear! 

Seam ripper, purchase here: http://amzn.to/2mGBZNX. Harvest Jewels pave diamond bangles, ($1270 & $1750, Regina Jewelry & Treasures at Gus Mayer).

Seam Ripper

When I ask clients if they have a seam ripper, most of them respond with a look of bewilderment. A seam ripper is that thing you need to cut the thread on the vent of a new skirt or blazer or to remove the itchy or visible tag out of a garment. You know, the things you have used scissors for in the past but probably damaged the garment while using or as a result weren’t able to completely remove the tag, making that itchy situation worse? This is one of those tools you didn’t even know you needed and then wonder how you lived without it.

Carbona Stain Devils, purchase here: http://amzn.to/2mGkD3O

Specialty Stain Remover

I’m no Messy Marvin, but every once in a while a stain will show up on a clothing item that regular washing and even OxyClean will not deter. Desperate for a solution, I thankfully found Carbona’s Stain Devils, a line of stain removers specially formulated for different kinds of stains: dairy, oil, grass, ink and so on. Genuis! Publix has recently started carrying a few of the formulations, or go online to buy a set so you will be ready to conquer any kind of stain!

Evercare Giant Fabric Shaver, purchase here: http://amzn.to/2mGFNyu

Fabric Shaver

Ah, the dreaded clothes pilling. So what causes these ghastly little fuzz balls? Fabrics consist of either long fibers or short fibers and, generally, short fibers—like cotton—are more likely to pill. There are more tiny ends (as opposed to one long, continuous fiber, like silk) that can get tangled together and create pills, which usually happen when the fabric is rubbed or abraded somehow. Another factor is twist. In other words, how tightly the fibers are held together in the garment. The higher the twist, the firmer the feel of fabric. Pilling occurs on a lot of loose knits because there’s more area for the abrasion to take place, and it’s not as tightly twisted. One solution is to hand wash garments or machine wash inside out. Even then, pilling will occur, making a fabric shaver a must. While manual options exist, as simple as a straight razor, my go-to is Evercare’s battery operated version, which includes a compartment in the handle that catches the fuzzballs you pick up. (Emptying this little bin is very gratifying indeed.) Tip for use: Don’t think you can de-fuzz a garment right before wearing. Depending on the amount of pilling, a sweater can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes of shaving to truly revive the look. So gather the culprits and camp out in front of the TV to shave away while you binge-watch the latest show on Netflix. 

F’lint Travel Lint Roller, purchase here: http://amzn.to/2mGsi20. 7 for All Mankind The Ankle Skinny Jean in English Botanical Print, ($199, Belk).

Lint Roller

If you have a pet, you are likely no stranger to a lint roller. Even without animals around, lint is an unfortunate given. I love the surface area my good ol’ 3M roller allows, but it is not conducive to carrying in one’s purse, unless you want to pull out your lip gloss in the bathroom of a chic restaurant with your lint roller attached. F’lint is a cute, colorful, reusable, refillable, and more importantly, retractable lint roller. Keep one in your purse and car to keep your clothes looking kempt and polished.

Written and styled by Tracy James//Photography by Chuck St. John

Written and styled by Tracy James  Photography by Chuck St. John  Model: Amanda M with Red Models

Nanette Lepore Mozambique Cold-Shoulder Lace-Up Caftan ($168, Everything But Water) & Harvest Jewels Turquoise Necklace (Regina Jewelry & Treasures).

Tankinis Invest in one–or some–cute cover-ups

Invest in one–or some–cute cover ups.These days, if you’re wise, you’re not baking in the sun to perfect a tan. Long gone are the bronzing marathons of sundial-like rotating on space blankets, iodine and baby oil cocktails, and Malibu Barbie sporting tan lines. So you might as well cover it up. Especially when on vacation, I like a swimsuit cover-up that I can slip on and feel comfortable enough in to wear to lunch by the pool. Whether you want one to cover your arms, your legs, what-have-you…there is a style out there for everyone. Resist feeling obliged to match your swimsuit—a worthy coverup should hide your suit anyway.

Trina Turk Pacific Paisley Halterkini Top ($100, Zappos) Tie-Side Hipster Bottom ($88, Everything But Water).

Tankinis don’t have to be matronly.

Tankinis have gotten a bad rap over the years, thanks to some god-awful versions out there. If this two-piece style is your jam, opt for a fun print and look for details like a strappy back to keep it from being too basic. As for the bottom, NOT a skirt. NEVER a skirt. Save that look for the tennis court or golf course. If you want more coverage on your bottom half, opt instead for a hipster style, swim shorts, or ruched retro-style bottom.

Rethink the one-piece.

The one-piece swimsuits of today are not the swim team Speedos of old. In fact, one-pieces have made quite a comeback and are sexier than ever, with plunging necklines and strappy details accenting open backs. A variety of styles available allows one to highlight certain areas while camouflaging or distracting from others. In my opinion, prints are more flattering and more fun, and less likely to make you look like you are about to put on a cap and swim laps or break into a gymnastics routine. 

Rollover bikini bottoms are your friend.

Love handles? What love handles? Just like your favorite yoga pants, swim bottoms with a fabric rollover feature can hide a multitude of sins, allowing the wearer to adjust what to cover—the lower waist, the hips or both. Unlike bottoms with a single layer of fabric, the gentle rollover prevents the wearer’s stomach from doing the rolling over!

Nanette Lepore Mozambique Stargazer Top ($96) & Charmer Strappy-Side Bottom ($72), both from Everything But Water.

High-cut necks are universally flattering.

Don’t believe me? Go try one on. There is something about the eyes being drawn up that complements the figure. As a petite, I appreciate the fact that this visual trick elongates as well. Whether in a bikini top, tankini or one-piece, this style offers support for busty women or the illusion of volume for smaller chests, and has the added benefit of offering sun protection to the décolletage, an area prone to both burn and damage. Just say no to crepey skin.

Consider a swimshirt.

When I flip through an Athleta catalog, I want to look like every one of those fit women on those pages. And while a swimshirt can’t give me a Crossfit bod or the ability to surf, it does make me feel like one of those women. Even if I don’t start a day in the sun with a swim shirt, I usually finish with one, once my skin has said “enough, already” to the rays. I keep both a long-sleeve and cap sleeve version, like the one pictured, in my beach bag at all times.

Swimsuits courtesy Swim & Sport