20 Last Minute Gifts for The Gals

The Greer Gift Guide

Top Shop Faux Fur Coat
$150

Baublebar Glitzy Earring Set
$68

Anthropologie Beaded Kimono
$188

Herschel Belt Bag
$25

Asa Kaftans Velvet Turban
$48

Anthropologie Eliana Kimono
$98

Slant Collection Gold Paint Splatter Mug
$20

Calpak Confetti Carry-on
$135

Trouvé Chenille Headband
$25

Madewell Denim Jacket
$95

Rebecca Minkoff Peach Backpack
$135

Rifle Paper Co 2019 Calendar
$30

Tecovas Penny Boots
$195

Patricia Green GLAM Slippers
$72

Slant Collection Champagne Please Bell
$12

Nike Puffer Vest
$100

Baublebar Resin Hoops
$36

Trouvé Faux Fur Mittens
$29

Griggio Striped Frame
$40

Chelsea28 Evergreen Crossbody Bag
$49

3 Fresh Ways To Style Velvet For Holiday Parties

I visited Studio 512 this week to chat all about how to style one of the most oh-so-holiday fabrics into looks you’ll love for all your upcoming holiday occasions. Whether you’re planning lunch with friends, deciding what to wear for the company party or headed to a house party to celebrate the season, I’m giving you fresh ways to wear velvet.

In this video, you’ll learn:

• what velvet dress to choose if you’re unsure of your body type

• the key ingredient your velvet must have if you want to dance the night away

• how to pair two holiday colors in a look you’ll love for the company party

• the outerwear to add to your velvet look to elongate your silhouette

• the classic jewelry and color pairing that always feels fresh and fashion-forward

• how to dress down a velvet business piece for party time

• how to dress up a velvet business piece for cocktail occasions

• the perfect denim to add to your velvet piece for casual occasions

• how to wear white in the winter

And don’t forget to leave me a comment below and share your favorite way to style up your top. I would LOVE to hear from you!

Xx.

R

How To Pack For Thanksgiving Travel

It’s T-minus two days till turkey fills our bellies and I’m once again reminded why stuffing is the greatest food in the world.

But Thanksgiving isn’t just about the food. It’s about coming together with all of the fun/weird/insightful/hilarious people that you’re stuck with till the end of time — FAMILY.

Being with your bunch often means traveling, and traveling means you gotta tackle one big task: packing.

To be honest, I’ve always loved to pack, but after years of working as an image consultant, I have learned that it is a major stress point for so many women.

Which is why this week, I’m showing you exactly how to pack for Thanksgiving travel.

Watch the video below to learn:

• How to turn your comfortable airplane look into a stylish and put together outfit

• How to dress up leggings for your flight

• How to style your Thanksgiving day outfit

• How to dress up a simple black dress so it’s a look you’ll love for Turkey Day

• The right kind of jeans for Black Friday

• The perfect heels to wear for travel, Thanksgiving Day, and Black Friday

• What jewelry to wear on the plane vs. pack in your suitcase

• How to create an airplane outfit fit for two different climates

And don’t forget to leave me a comment below and share your favorite way to style up your top. I would LOVE to hear from you!

Xx.

R

How To Front Tuck Or Tie Up Any Shirt In Your Closet

Ever wonder why some front tucks are perfect and others fall short? There’s a certain finesse to mastering the front tuck, and if you’re practicing on your own, it can feel impossible to get it just right.

This week on Studio 512, I’m showing you exactly how to do the front tuck with a simple step-by-step process that makes your tuck even and seamlessly flow from the front of your shirt to the back (all the things a gal could want from a good front tuck).

In addition, I’m demonstrating one of my favorite ways to bring a button-down from basic to fun, fresh, and feminine: the tie-up. Just like the front tuck, there are a few simple steps to tying up your shirt that will look uh-amazing AND make it easy for you to apply for every occasion from work to brunch.

Watch the video below to learn:

• How to tie up a buttoned up shirt

• How to tie up an open button down with a T-shirt underneath

• How to create the perfect front tuck

• How to tie a side knot in your top

• How to highlight an hourglass or pear shape

• How to highlight high-waisted jeans or high-waisted trousers

And don’t forget to leave me a comment below and share your favorite way to style up your top. I would LOVE to hear from you!

Xx.

R

10 Statement Coats That Will Pop Any Outfit

Turkey Day is just around the corner, and for some Austinites, that means loading up a suitcase to head out to chillier places.

Whether your go-to look for a colder climate involves a skirt/tights/knee-high boots combo or your comfiest sweater and jeans, a statement coat is just the thing to pop your look. Check out my top ten for the season and click each pic to shop the pieces.

The Leopard Coat

The Plaid Coat

The Teddy Bear Coat

The Snakeskin Coat

The Puffer Coat

The Double-Breasted Coat

The Wrap Coat

The Suede Coat

The Wool Coat

The Pink Coat

Now, we would love to hear from you! Leave us a comment below, and tell us your favorite statement coat of the bunch and how you’d love to style it.

Xx,

R

The Biggest Trends For Fall And Winter 2018

Last week I stopped by Studio 512 to chat with Rosie Newberry about the top trends for this season and the next. Even adding one or two fresh pieces to your wardrobe can give you a pep in your step and the excitement that we all want from our wardrobes and style.

Watch the video below and find your favorite trend to rock this season.

As always, we would love to hear from you! Leave us a comment below and tell us your favorite trend of the season and how you love to style it.

Xx,

R

4 Ways To Style A Silk Dress

This month I stopped by Art & Soul Design on South Lamar to see what this little Austin shop is all about. I’m a South Austin gal, so when something pops up in my hood, I’m especially curious to see if they’ve got anything interesting for myself and my clients. And they did!

Art & Soul Design has a unique approach to retail — the store is all about self-care, wellness, and community. Owner Melissa Hargus says what makes her store special is her “focus on natural goods that are both ethically and sustainably handcrafted by (mainly) local artists/small businesses.” The store is beautifully designed and smells uh-mazing — candles, oils, incense, aaall the things in your nose at once.

They carry everything: western-style jewelry, sage bundles, crystals, silk scarves, dresses, books and more. It’s a collection of random pieces that add up to a really fun place to shop for home, wearables, and gifts.

Among all the goodies, a silk dress caught my eye — with the right jacket, it’s the perfect piece to style for a cool, but not cold, fall day. All the dresses are hand dyed by Carol Hargus, Melissa’s mother and co-owner of Art & Soul. Carol gave me a tour of the back of the shop where she actually dyes the silk garments with all-natural dyes, which made the silk dress feel like an extra special piece to take home.

And today, I’m showin’ ya how I styled it! While Art & Soul is a great place to pick up a silk dress, these styling technique will also work on any simple, silky, above-the-knee dress.

At Greer Image Consulting, I’m all about mixing higher end pieces (like the silk dress) with easy trend items, so your closet and style are a completely unique blend of items that represent all facets of you. So to complete each outfit, I popped over to Target to see what fun fall pieces they were carrying.

I picked up 3 outerwear pieces: an emerald sweater, a fleece-lined jean jacket, and a charcoal corduroy jacket. The rest of the pieces came from my own closet (and you may have something similar too).

And voila! Here’s 4 ways to make your simple, silky dress pop this fall.

Belts & Boots

Western is a huge trend this season, so my first instinct was to pull out my go-to fall shoe: Tecovas cowboy boots. I played into the warm brown leather boot by adding my similarly shaded Anthropologie waist belt and Beaded by W mustard earrings. Underneath the belt is my emerald Target sweater, and to finish the look, I added my Nina Berenato gold cuff.

Use code “GreerVIP” at NinaBerenato.com to get 30% off all full priced jewelry!

photographed by Natalie Beurskens

Texan at Heart

Hats are the perfect addition for weekend fall looks because they add both warmth and style to your outfit. For this look, I pulled out my cowboy hat from Favor The Kind on South Congress to give it some flare. I finished the outfit with gold layered necklaces, the vintage-inspired, fleece-lined jean jacket from Target, and my Steve Madden dusty rose platforms. These shoes are surprisingly comfortable and would be perfect for dancing the night away in!

90’s Inspired

For this look, I went a little grunge and oh-so 90’s with a corduroy charcoal-colored jacket from Target and military-style boots from Kork Ease. I picked up these boots back in March for my honeymoon in Europe, but I loved pairing the corduroy jacket in this look, because it really popped the boots. Both dark colors played into each other and enhanced one another. Since the whole look was neutral, I added an ultra violet (Pantone 2018 color of the year) beanie to bring a playful touch to the whole look.

Power Play

I love to style business pieces for date night looks, so for this outfit, I brought out my classic black blazer by Vince. To make it not-so-business, I added the ultimate date night shoe, the knee-high boots. There are few pieces more dramatic than these. I finished the look with dark wood bangles and resin earrings from The Big Little Box.

more photos from my trip to Art & Soul Design…

Now I would love to hear from you! What was your favorite way I styled the little silky dress? How would you put your own twist on the look to make it perfectly you? Leave me a comment below. I would love to hear from you!

Xx,
R

How To Style A Black Turtleneck In 3 Fresh Ways For Fall 2018

The black turtleneck is a useful staple to have in almost any wardrobe. Like many items in your closet, though, it’s easy to get stuck in the ways that you wear it. Continuously styling one piece the same way can leave you feeling drained and unexcited about something that's super versatile.

Which is why this week on Studio 512, I’m talkin’ black turtlenecks!

Fall is the perfect time to explore your style by repurposing this classic piece in cute, comfortable, and fun outfits for fall.

Watch the video to learn three fresh ways to wear your black turtleneck and make the most out of it this season.

Now we want to know! How do you like to style your black turtleneck for fall and winter? Leave us a comment below and share your favorite way to put this classic to good use.

We would love to hear from you! Xx

5 Essential Sweaters for Fall 2018

Nothing makes me more excited for fall than pulling out my sweaters and styling them into comfy, cute outfits. While you might recycle some oldies from year to year, bringing in some fresh sweaters will liven up your closet and get you in the mood for pumpkin spice and everything nice to come.

Here’s my list of the 5 sweaters that would be the perfect addition to any wardrobe this fall.

Click the pics to shop the sweaters.

THE HIGH NECK

Whether a turtleneck or funnel neck, this sweater style will add a sophisticated pop to any closet. Throw on a blazer over top for the office or add jean shorts and heels for a fun date night look.

THE DEEP V

If high neck feels daring to you, introduce the deep V-neck to your closet first. V-neck is one of the most flattering necklines, because it can make your neck look elongated while exposing one of the slimmest parts of your upper body. In short, you’ll feel awesome wearing it. Pair it with a triple-strand gold necklace and ripped jeans for the weekend or a simple pencil pant and powerful pump for the office.

Worried about showing too much skin at work? Add a neutral tank underneath or add a hook-and-eye clasp an inch from the bottom of the V for more coverage at the office.

THE LONG CARDIGAN

Love love love this piece, because it’s so much fun to style into outfits for day and evening. Play with the proportion by adding a mini dress underneath and knee-high boots for night or go sporty with it during the day by adding straight-leg jeans, stacked-heel booties and a vintage tee.

THE COZY PULLOVER

The classic pullover is the most nostalgic sweater for me, because it feels like the perfect piece to wear when you’re sitting by the fire or cooking up a Thanksgiving feast. To keep it relaxed, pair it with distressed skinny jeans and velvet fashion sneakers. To make it eclectic, add a leather mini skirt and cowboy boots.

Click the pics to shop the sweaters.

THE COLLEGIATE CLASSIC

This retro style is great for Austin, because it’s easy to pop on and off with any change in temperature. Make is elegant for the office by adding a cream-color button-down and a navy pencil skirt. Give it a downtown vibe by adding a body suit, flare jeans and pointed-toe animal print pumps.

Now we wanna know! What is your favorite fall sweater and how do you love to style it? Leave us a comment below and tell us! We would love to hear from you. Xx

How To Create An Impactful Professional Style

This month I had the privilege of presenting in the HERdacity webinar series about the power of professional style. The majority of my clients are professional woman, so I was thrilled to dive into a topic I consistently tackle here at Greer Image Consulting.

In this video, you will learn:

• The key to creating successful and satisfying style

• What to consider when crafting your professional look

• The 5 tools you’ll use to master every office outfit

• The 1 thing you always need in every outfit

• Do’s and Don’ts of your professional image

Have a question on what I discussed in the webinar? Leave me a comment below or shoot me an email at Raquel@GreerImageConsulting.com to discuss your unique professional style and wardrobe.

5 Shoes To Add To Your Wardrobe For Fall 2018

No matter how much you adore a pair of shoes, they tend to need an update every season or so. For the most special pairs in your closet, a visit to the shoe doc can make all the difference, but as for all the others, it's time for a refresh. 

Here are five of my favorite essential and statement shoes to consider for your closet this season. 

Click the pics to shop each shoe. 

The Red Boot

The Snakeskin Statement

Click the pics to shop each shoe. 

The Fun Flat

The Office Power Heel

The Weekend Block Heel

Now we want to know...what's your favorite shoe this season? Leave us a comment below and share your style story! 

Fall 2018 Trends Inspired By The 70's

Autumn is just around the corner, and I’m oh-so ready for the change – pumpkin beer and apple pies await, but the most exciting part of the season is the emergence of new style trends. Fall fashion has arrived.

Last week, I headed over to the Domain to scope out next season’s trends. I had my heart set on adding a snakeskin piece to my wardrobe. Instead, something else caught my eye: retro 70’s duds.

Trends are cyclical. They come back through various shapes, textures, and colors, but 70’s looks have me hooked this season with their high contrast prints, exaggerated shapes, and sleek silhouettes.  

Check out three of my favorite finds and how I styled them from Friday-Sunday.

High-Contrast Print: Black & White Houndstooth

Houndstooth is a classic print and when used in a light-weight piece like this skirt, it’s ideal for a sweltering Texas fall. In addition, the skirt highlights your legs making you look statuesque and sexy for a date night out. Finish the look with a black T-shirt and a Parisian touch: the beret. The wool beret adds a rugged texture to the ensemble, and also makes the look feel like autumn — nothing adds to a fall outfit like your favorite hat you’ve been dying to pull out of your closet.  

Exagerrate Shape: High-Waisted Flare Jeans

A good pair of jeans are worth appreciating, and these high-waisted flares are no exception. The dark wash makes the jeans versatile enough for work and play, while the color also makes the flare a bit more subtle. Add a funky print, like this wine-and mustard-geometric pattern top, to turn up the 70’s vibes and give it an eclectic feel.

Want to add a flirty touch? Unbutton the last two or three bottom buttons of your top. Then, tie it up. This gives the top a styled and feminine feel.

Sleek Silhouette: The Spread-Collar Jumpsuit

With a spread collar that feels straight out of Saturday Night Fever, this plaid jumpsuit is my most 70’s purchase yet. The color combination of heather and charcoal give the one-piece a sophisticated look, while the red clutch and Vans sneakers make it playful and relaxed for  weekend days or nights.

Now we want to know...
What is your favorite trend this fall?  Leave us a comment below to share the piece(s) you've loved to wear this season. 

About Bailey Bosworth

A California native, Bailey uprooted her life in Los Angeles and moved to Austin last fall, site unseen. She immediately fell in love with her new city and the quirky different styles found in the Live Music Capital of the World. Prior to moving to Austin, she interned at both Trunk Club and The Zoe Report where she learned the in's and out's of the fashion scene. With her newfound residence in Texas, she continues to evolve her style and pursue her passion for the fashion industry. 

11 Style Questions Answered

How do I do a front tuck properly?

Front tucks are the in style tuck right now, so this is a question I get a lot from clients. They take a bit of finesse to get right, but once you figure it out, it's like riding a bicycle. 

An easy way to create the perfect wave in your shirt, which you want to appear slightly above hips or at your waist, is to grasp the shirt at the front, in the middle. Twist the front as if you were wringing out a towel. Take the twisted part and tuck it into your pants or skirt, leaving all other parts out. Once it's in, blouse it out a bit to make a soft fold from the twist to the rest of the shirt. 

Ta da! You've got it. 

A front tucked shirt (like this one) produces the same look as a full tuck, except it's more relaxed and on trend. 

What's the difference between a waist and a hip belt, and which one's right for me?

The difference between a hip belt and a waist belt is where you put the belt on your body. A hip belt goes right above your hips, and a waist belt goes directly around your waist. To determine which belt is the best fit for you, you need to know your body type. If you're an hourglass or pear shape, a waist belt will accentuate the significant difference between the narrowness of your waist and width of your hips. A waist belt will exaggerate your curves. 

If you're an apple, inverted triangle or rectangle shape, a hip belt will accentuate your slender legs and balance your proportion. 

For an hourglass or pear, the waist belt should sits directly on your waist to accentuate the curves of your body and highlight the slimmest part of your torso. 

How do I know I'm rolling up my jeans correctly? 

Rolling jeans can give your look an extra element of style, but its main purpose is to make sure your pants don't collide with the tops of your shoe and disrupt the natural flow of a look. 

To properly roll, you can choose a single or a double roll. A single roll is one fold up. A double roll is two even roll ups. With a double roll, you'll get a bit more thickness at the bottom of your pants, so avoid this if you're worried about the jeans looking too chunky. Also, if you're petite, a double roll can bring an onlooker's eye downward, causing you to look less statuesque. 

Since the purpose of the roll is to avoid the top of your shoe, you know you're doing it right when the jean and the shoes aren't bumping up against each other when you stand still. It's okay if there's a bit of friction when you walk, but if it's a distraction, bring your roll up higher. Your outfit should never distract you. Instead, it should allow you to focus more clearly on whatever you're doing. 

How do I only shop for the pieces I need rather than buying a bunch of stuff I don't?

Knowledge is key to creating a mental list of what's missing and needed in your wardrobe. 

You must know what fits your lifestyle. Are you a professional, a stay-at-home-mom, or a little bit of both? This will allow you to shop for clothes based on category. Professionals need business casual clothes, moms needs casual, and if you're juggling both, a wardrobe filled with mostly dressy casual items might also be the answer. 

You also need to know the items that specifically fit your body type, color palette, and personal style. At Greer Image Consulting, I teach you all the components you need to shop with intention and knowledge, so shopping becomes more streamlined and satisfying. 

A service like The Greer Style Session gives you all the tools necessary to do exactly that. 

Where are your favorite places to shop in Austin? 

Austin is filled with boutiques to fit every price point and style. Some of my personal favorites include Beehive in Westlake for playful weekend wear, DYLAN WYLDE on South Lamar for edgy, going-out looks, and The Art of Shoes on South 1st for rare vintage and modern footwear.

You can find the complete list of my 40 favorite places to shop in Austin here. 

A look inside Beehive Boutique in Westlake

A look inside DYLAN WYLDE on South Lamar

A look inside Art of Shoes on South 1st Street

What dress or skirt length is appropriate for work?

Two inches or less above the knee is a good place to stick. When choosing a skirt or dress at two inches, pair a flat shoe (closed or open-toe) to ensure your look is conservative and work-appropriate. For a knee-length pencil skirt, feel free to pair a pointed-toe pump or stacked heel. The longer length of the skirt gives you freedom for higher heels. 

The right dress or skirt length also depends on your height. If you're petite (5'4" and under), you have a little wiggle room to go with a little shorter length (2-2.5 inches), because you’re showing less leg than if you're 5'5" or tall. 

If you're 5'8" or taller, a knee-length or midi (mid-calf) dress is a great option. Not only will it work for your stature, but it will create an elegant silhouette. 

A knee-length pencil skirt is a safe and sophisticated choice for the office. 

How do I know if I can wear booties with dresses and skirts?

Everyone can wear booties with a dress, even if you're 4'11". The key is to choose the right bootie for your body type. If you're petite, try lighter-colored booties in a shorter boot. Colors like taupe and nude will elongate your silhouette and boots that hit under the curve of your ankle won't overwhelm your stature. 

If you're tall, you have more freedom with color and height. Try a bootie above your ankle in colors like grey and red or prints like snakeskin and jacquard. 

How do I know what my best colors are? 

The colors that look best on you are the colors that mimic your natural attributes, a.k.a. your skin tone, eye color, and hair color. Within each of these elements, you can have characteristics like softness, lightness, warmth, clarity, depth, and coolness. A combination of these elements makes up your personal color palette. 

If you're unsure of which attributes you have or you've never had a color analysis to determine your color palette, you can find this service in The Greer Style Tasting. 

Raquel doing a color analysis on a a client. Photo cred: Dos Mundos Creative

How do you transition your wardrobe from summer to fall when it's still hot in Austin?

It's easy to think, in a warm climate like ours, that transitioning from summer to fall is an impossible task. Without sweater weather, it can feel like you're trapped in summer sundresses forever. On the contrary, there are many ways you can incorporate autumn vibes into your outfit without actually adding heavy layers. 

To create your fall look, start with color. Instead of adding sweaters, swap out your summer brights for deep, warm autumn colors like burgundy, plum, olive, mustard, or navy. 

Another way to incorporate fall elements without a full coat is through a vest. Vests are one of my absolute favorite Austin pieces, because they add a little layer, but not too much for the Texas heat. Add a long knit vest over a sleeveless shift dress. Pair a faux fur vest with a mini dress for a night time look. Or try an olive utility vest over a t-shirt and jeans for casual weekends. 

Use light-weight layers to create a fall look that isn't too heavy for Austin. 

What are pills, why do they happen and how can I avoid them? 
 

Pills are those little annoying balls you get on the outside of your sweater or t-shirt that make the garment appear worn out. 

Pilling happens when fibers in a garment get tangled or rub together, creating little balls on the exterior of your clothing. This is common in single-fiber garments like a cashmere sweater, but you may also be noticing it in blended fabrics like a rayon/cotton/wool mix. This occurs because different types of fibers can cause greater friction. 

To avoid pilling, wash pieces inside out and hang dry. If your garment is already pilling, try a pill shaver to smooth out the look and feel of the piece. 

Sweater are often susceptible to pills, so to avoid pilling, hang dry after washing them.

How do I move away from the same outfits I wear all the time and get some fresh ideas on how to style what's in my closet?

It's important to look at your closet as your creative outlet rather than a puzzle you have to solve. There are many ways to put together a successful and stylish outfit, and know that you can do it using only the pieces you have currently in your closet. 

Use colors with similar characteristics to pop two pieces off one another. Pair two brights like an aqua earring and a coral sundress or try mixing up neutrals by adding a navy shift dress under a black blazer. 

Think outside the box, consider what occasion you wear certain pieces to. Try repurposing your weekend graphic tee under a blazer, along with a dressy denim, for the office. Pair your high-waisted work pencil pant with a crop top for a night out look. Throw your jumpsuit on under a blazer to create a business casual look that's edgy and clean. 

Always finish your look with accessories and a bag that link to the whole look. 

If you've still got questions on how to think differently about your wardrobe, and how work with what you've got in more interesting ways, check out my 90-minute, in-home personal styling session, The Greer Style Tasting. This session is dedicated to helping you put the magic back in your closet by helping you learn how to work with what you've got in ways you'll love. 

To fully enjoy your style, you need to use 100% of what's in your closet to make outfits that feel authentic and perfectly you. 

The Greer Guide to Austin: Kiki Nass

For Kiki Nass proprietor Joannah Hillebrandt, clothes aren’t just a commodity: they’re a calling. After attending FIDM in L.A., she worked her way up in the footwear industry, becoming then the youngest buyer in Nine West’s history. Though undeniably a go-getter and fashionable force in her own right, Hillebrandt credits much of her early success with having good managers to work for, and it’s an experience that she says motivates her to make Kiki Nass a positive, supportive space to work in every day.

The positive energy in the shop is undeniable: from the light and airy spaces to the enviable selection of clothing, jewelry and home goods that would make any Austin woman swoon. For Hillebrandt, good business is just good karma: She talks about how studying Buddhism has influenced her commitment to being present and fostering good energy around her.

“I wear the hell out of my clothes,” Hillebrandt says, adding that she tells everyone she knows to invest in quality over quantity when it comes to their wardrobes. Hillebrandt stocks exclusively from vendors whose values align with her own.

What to Expect at Kiki Nass: 

• looks for every closet: premium denim, breezy tops, and on-trend dresses
• boho, yet super versatile jewelry
• unique, artful pieces for home and baby
• an elevated, yet totally accessible overall vibe that epitomizes "Austin cool"

Though in the Lamar Union complex for nearly three years, Kiki Nass first opened in 2005, at a location on 12th St. until it shuttered in 2009. Hillebrandt was there from the beginning, and after moving to Florida following the shop’s closure, she eventually returned to Austin to re-open Kiki Nass in its current location.

“Clothing is an all-day hug.” - Joannah Hillebrandt

What sets Kiki Nass apart is its staying power: Coming back after a post-recession closure, it remains committed to doing good business and providing an excellent retail experience, maintaining a human connection with the clothing it sells. The shop is very much a physical manifestation of Hillebrandt herself, putting her money where her mouth (and heart) is. Kiki Nass is all about paying homage to the connections and the luck that she’s had throughout her career, and the results are magic.

Now we want to know...
What is your favorite boutique in Austin? Leave us a comment below and tell us which Austin shop you'd love to see on The Greer Guide to Austin.

The Greer Guide to Austin is a monthly column written and photographed by Liz Feezor of Liz Feezor Creative. 

Greer Image Consulting loves supporting local small businesses and Austin brands that celebrate individual style and our community. To cultivate your unique style and for more information on Greer Image Consulting services, click here to schedule a complimentary 1-on-1 call with Raquel.

How To Pack A Carry-On For Two Different Climates

Packing is one of my favorite things to write about because it's all about adding the perfect ingredients to your suitcase to ensure you'll be stylish and successful on your next adventure. 

It can be tough to find the exact recipe that suits your mood and activities on the trip, and this time I'm taking on my biggest challenge yet. 

Next month, I'm heading out of town for three weeks to vacation in Cape Cod and attend a wedding in Maine. These two stops mean I'll be juggling a suitcase filled with options for the beach and cooler weather activities in Maine. The forecast is predicting both highs in the upper 70s and lows in the 50s. 

If your vacations take you to places with both mountains and water, like Colorado or Oregon, this one's for you.

A couple things to know 

For this trip, I'll have access to a washer/dryer the whole time (unlike my Europe trip), which is allows me to pack less and continuously utilize essential pieces over and over again during the trip. 

My clothes and accessories will all be going in my carry-on, but I'll also be taking a tote to carry my computer, wallet and miscellaneous items I'll need on the plane and for daily adventures. 

How I'm doing it

First, I'm conceptualizing my special event outfit. This trip only requires one, the wedding outfit, so that will be the easiest part of the pack. For this, I chose a top and pant set similar to this one. To finish the look, I'm adding black platform heels to dress up the outfit and Beaded by W mustard tassel earrings to pop the pattern of the set. Below is the set I've chosen. 

Next, consider the vibe of where you're headed, then pack a handful of pieces that play into that atmosphere. Cape Cod has a classic/preppy/retro feel, so I packed light-colored tops to mimic the laid-back, beachy mood of this seasonal spot. This step is really your time to inject the pieces you love that you'll be really excited to wear. 

Finally, get practical. Add in all the elements you'll need to do all the activities you want to do. In this step, I'm adding a sweatshirt, a swimsuit, a cover-up, and workout clothes -- all items I will definitely need during my travels. 

The breakdown

shoes

Vince slides, black platform heels, Tecovas cowboy boots

From left to right: platform heels for the wedding, Vince slides for the beach, Tecovas boots for the whole trip

tops

spaghetti strap grey blouse, Rails striped button-down, Rails Hawaiian printed top 

My Rails striped shirt is perfect for the retro vibes of Cape Cod. 

I've decided to pack this heather grey spaghetti-strap top, because it's an easy throw-on for layering or by itself on the beach. 

bottoms

white jean shorts, ripped jeans, cropped flare jeans, black leggings

From left to right: Mih cropped flare jeans, Topshop white jean shorts, Forever 21 ripped jeans, black flat-brim hat

outerwear

black sweatshirt, black puffy coat

From left to right: Champion black sweatshirt, Mountain hardware black puffy coat, flat-brim black hat

accessories

black flat-brim hat, pink bandana, mustard Beaded by W tassle earrings, gold Mango hoops, black round cocktail ring, black long cocktail ring, wooden bangles 

Clockwise: wooden bangles, Mango gold hoops, black cocktail rings, Beaded by W mustard tassels, black flat-brim hat

the extras

3 gym outfits, wedding outfit, sleep wear, Rails striped beach cover-up, bathing suit 

Private Party one-piece custom bathing suit, Rails bathing suit cover-up

How I'm layering

My puffy coat can work over any of the tops I've chosen, and I can also add the sweatshirt between the two layers if it gets extra cold. 

I've also packed my go-to Tecovas boots to make the transition from warm to cool seamlessly. I wear these boots year-round, so they'll be perfect with my white shorts and striped Rails top or with my ripped jeans, sweatshirt and gold hoops in Maine. 

In addition to the outerwear, I've added my wool hat to the mix, which adds a touch of style to my warm weather looks and a bit of warmth to my cool weather outfits. 

And remember, keep it simple. Don't overthink this. Your style is all about you, and if you're sticking within your color palette, individual style, and shapes that fit your body type, pieces in your wardrobe will naturally flow together. Understanding these key parts of your style will make it easier, less time consuming, and more fun to pack in the future. 

Want me to help you pack for your next trip? Let's chat. Your wardrobe and style are unique, and I would love to help you fill a suitcase with outfits you'll love throughout your whole trip. 

The Greer Guide to Austin: Limbo Jewelry

When it comes to shopping local, the famous South Congress stretch of buildings is home to as many stories as it is retail gems. Perennial favorite Limbo Jewelry is quintessentially "Austin," and its origin story is rooted in lots of love and hustle. Co-owner Anne Rutt-Enriquez didn’t even have pierced ears until after she met her husband, Edson Enriquez, co-owner and in-house jewelry designer, yet the duo are arguably setting the pace (and the trends) for Austin-based jewelry designers and style.

Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, Enriquez took a metalsmithing class as part of his university coursework. The women in his classes fawned over his designs, yet when he moved to the U.S. in 2004, landing in San Antonio to be closer to family, he was told his jewelry was “too weird” and that he should try selling in Austin, where his pieces might fit in better with the city’s aesthetic. He borrowed a table from his mom and set up shop at the first Thursday art events in the dirt lot next to what is now the business owners' brick-and-mortar flagship, and Limbo Jewelry was born.

What To Expect at Limbo Jewelry:

• a collection of local Austin makers’ jewelry and accessories 
• in-house jewelry designs that fit for any occasions
• Texas-themed gifts, housewares, and irresistibly fun tchotchkes
• works by Austin artists, both inside and outside their two locations

While Enriquez was setting up his first table of jewelry, Rutt-Enriquez was waiting tables at Vespaio. The two soon met and started dating, sharing their first kiss in that same dirt lot where the art market took place. They took the plunge full-time with the jewelry business together in 2008, and in the 10 years that followed, Limbo has grown from a studio in East Austin to a tiny 400-square-foot retail space downtown to what is now their flagship store. Both the shop and their love story have come full-circle, back to the 1600 block of South Congress where it all began.

The couple opened a sister concept store, Triple Z Threadz, next door in 2015, and added a second location at the Domain in November 2017--establishing them firmly in the local Austin retail scene. Their current number-one seller at Limbo is the silver lariat necklace in brushed Italian silver: it’s as versatile as it is stylish, and its goes-with-everything appeal is the "Austin look" in one sleek accessory. 

The husband-and-wife team are always scouting for new vendors to stock, and they look for pieces they both genuinely love that fit within the Limbo vibe. Local favorites Betty Alida and Hatton Henry are among their growing lineup of Austin design talent. When recruiting for positions at their retail shops, Rutt-Enriquez recalls her days as a server at Vespaio, saying that they look for people who are good with customers and don’t think twice about going above and beyond. “We hire for the hustle,” she says. 

Now we want to know...
What is your favorite boutique in Austin? Leave us a comment below and tell us which Austin shop you'd love to see on The Greer Guide to Austin.

You can visit Limbo at www.limbojewelrystore.com or in person at their two locations at 1604 S. Congress Ave. and at 3211 Palm Way #152 in the Domain.

The Greer Guide to Austin is a bi-weekly column written and photographed by Liz Feezor of Liz Feezor Creative. 

Greer Image Consulting loves supporting local small businesses and Austin brands that celebrate individual style and our community. To celebrate your unique style and for more information on Greer Image Consulting services, click here and book a 1-on-1 call with Raquel.

8 Ways To Style Your Top And Pant Set This Summer And Fall

As summer comes to a close, everyone seems to be flocking to malls and hitting up Amazon’s Prime Day in order to get in on the last of the summer trends. One trend exploding both in stores and on social media is the matching set. Printed tops and shorts can be spotted everywhere from music festivals to summer weddings. We’ll always look back on head-to-toe prints as part of the Summer 2018 look.

Here are 8 ways to maximize this trend for late summer and bring this bold look into early fall:

Stick with the set.

It’s important to not overpower the full set with busy accessories, so for this silky printed long-sleeve/pant combination, I’ve paired a white clog – my favorite shoe right now. These heels pick up the bright white in the floral print to enhance the set, while still playing a supporting role through their simplicity.

Switch up the top

Add your personality to the look by unbuttoning the set top and adding a graphic tee or plain top underneath. By unbuttoning the top, you’ve now converted it to a light-weight summer jacket. Tie up the tee and add a structured bag to complete the look.

Add a neutral top

Ditch the band tee and add a neutral top for a sleek, downtown look. I picked a form-fitting tank top to coordinate with the color palette of the set and balance the billowy nature of the pant. If you’re an hourglass or pear shape, try a summer set with high-waisted pants like these to highlight your shape and curves.

Set them apart

While there are several ways to style the set as a whole, there are many outfits you can create using just one piece of the set. With the right finishing details, like these nude open-toe heels and white power blazer, the pants alone can take you from the office to an after-work networking event.

Make it daytime

A floral printed pant is perfect for a day of shopping with friends or attending a birthday brunch, because the pattern plays into the lighthearted and fun filled events. Pair your pant and tee with a nude flat to add a comfortable and practical touch.

Ditch the pants

Styling the shirt in different ways can shift the overall vibe of the look and give the outfit a more put-together feel. Tie up the shirt up with a high-waisted skirt or pant to add a feminine and flirty touch. Tuck in half of the shirt to add the trendiest tuck of the season.

Rock the blouse with a neutral bottom like this white denim skirt or ripped boyfriend jeans. I finished the look with a small hip belt to make the outfit classic and polished.

Bring in the essential

No outfit roundup is complete without a good pair of jeans. I paired the top of the set with bootcut, cropped jeans I found at a thrift shop. The button-down is perfect to throw on over an outfit for a night at a rooftop bar. A pair of playful sunglasses are an easy way to complete the look.

Now we want to know...
What is your favorite trend this summer?  Leave us a comment below to share the piece(s) you've loved to wear this season. 

About Bailey Bosworth

A California native, Bailey uprooted her life in Los Angeles and moved to Austin last fall, site unseen. She immediately fell in love with her new city and the quirky different styles found in the Live Music Capital of the World. Prior to moving to Austin, she interned at both Trunk Club and The Zoe Report where she learned the in's and out's of the fashion scene. With her newfound residence in Texas, she continues to evolve her style and pursue her passion for the fashion industry. 

The Greer Guide to Austin: The Art of Shoes

Tucked in a shaded grove of trees on South 1st, in a 1920s pink and white bungalow with a sherbet-hued sidewalk leading up to it, Selena McCartney has built a shrine to every shoe-adoring woman’s dream. Part retail space, part workshop, the ART of SHOES is more an interactive experience than a transactional one. From the collection of vintage designer gems to the gallery setup of contemporary offerings, McCartney’s taste is evident in every selection and corner of the shop, and her immersive approach to the art of shoes is just, well, art. 

A shoe designer for over 15 years (her bona fides include Steve Madden, Katy Perry and Teysha, among others), McCartney has created a dreamlike museum for shoes. The shop is as much an homage to the craft it is as a well-rounded retail space: Stepping into shop, the "Carrie Bradshaw’s closet" vibe of it all elicits a smile. Store manager Deitra Ramos worked in fashion merchandising prior to coming on board, and her enthusiasm for shoes and "playing dress-up," as as she calls it, is infectious. 

What to Expect at the ART of SHOES: 

• a curated, yet well-rounded collection of contemporary trend shoes, in a range of price points 
• a "best-of" from local favorites Suavs and Teysha
• an impressive collection of vintage designer pumps, sandals and sneakers
• a shoe-shopping experience that is undeniably fun (and perhaps dangerous for die-hard shoe fans)

In a space steeped in creative immersion, mood boards and sketches hang among framed art on the shop’s walls, and a luxe, oversized green ottoman invites customers to have a seat and try on a pair (or five) of the shop’s best sellers and current favorites.

With a selection that would make even a seasoned shoe collector swoon, McCartney and Ramos are truly elevating the art of shoes in Austin. Now offering classes, shoe lovers can participate in the process themselves: recent offerings include sneaker making and shoe painting classes, with additional courses planned for the future.

Now we want to know...
What is your favorite boutique in Austin? Leave us a comment below and tell us which Austin shop you'd love to see on The Greer Guide to Austin.

The Greer Guide to Austin is a bi-weekly column written and photographed by Liz Feezor of Liz Feezor Creative. 

Greer Image Consulting loves supporting local small businesses and Austin brands that celebrate individual style and our community. To celebrate your unique style and for more information on Greer Image Consulting services, click here and book a 1-on-1 call with Raquel.

The Trendiest Bag of Summer 2018 Is The Straw Bag

If you’re anything like me, you’re watching Season 2 of the summer’s hottest Netflix show, "Queer Eye." Each episode is dedicated to making over one person’s life and look — grooming, cooking, home design, culture and fashion included. Tan France, the show’s fashion guru, always finds ways to refine the person’s clothing choices while staying true to the individual’s personality. The relationship between style and identity that Queer Eye points out inspired me to revisit my closet last weekend and analyze which pieces make me feel most like myself.

After a brief but thorough assessment of my closet, I recognized that handbags are an essential aspect to any look I’m creating.

The perfect bag has the ability to really pull an outfit together, but this season’s hottest trend bag, the straw bag, does so like none other. Seen on celebrities and social media influencers alike, the wicker/woven/rafia bag trend can be found at local shops and department stores alike and screams “summer."

This piece is not just for the beach. It’s much more versatile than that and can easily be incorporated into your everyday look.

THE OCCASION: Casual Saturday

Whether your Saturday consists of running errands or meeting friends for lunch, a straw bag is the perfect complement for your look.

To highlight the bag, I paired a simple white tee with gingham shorts. I tied the tee up for a fun and flirty touch. The details on the structured shorts gave the look a romantic flair as well, without overwhelming the texture of the bag. To finish the look, I added a pair of ankle-strap kitten heels.

The result was a perfectly balanced Saturday ensemble to leave me feeling trés chic all day long.

bags to shop

folk fortune bali rattan bag from Madewell.com

cylinder woven crossbody bag from Nordstrom.com

THE OCCASION: HAPPY HOUR

Pop your clutch off an outfit that will make the transition from the office to girls’ night out seamlessly: a jumpsuit. The vertical stripes in this Forever 21 jumpsuit create an elongated silhouette, while also playing into the pattern of the woven bag. For a softer look, you can also pop your straw clutch off a muted jumpsuit in trend colors like lavender or blush. Both the striped and solid options work well to balance the lightness of the straw bag.

Pro tip:

To enhance your look, always add accessories that fit with the rest of the outfit. For this jumpsuit, I added simple, silver hoop earrings and reworked the purse by turning it into a clutch for the night. These two elements are clean, fresh and perfect for a night out.

bags to shop

urban renewal remade small straw handbag from UrbanOutfitters.com

fernanda woven basket bag from Anthropologie.com

DATE NIGHT

This summer outfit is easy as pie to pull together. All you need is a printed dress! Any floral dress will work. This particular dress is a wrap. Wrap dresses work for every body type, and for my shape, it’s able to emphasize the curve of my waist.

Like the striped jumpsuit, the bold pattern balances the architecture and simplicity of the neutral bag.

Throw on a pair of heels and you’re ready for the evening!

Now we want to know! Leave us a comment below and share your favorite way to rock your summer woven bag. 

About Bailey Bosworth

A California native, Bailey uprooted her life in Los Angeles and moved to Austin last fall, site unseen. She immediately fell in love with her new city and the quirky different styles found in the Live Music Capital of the World. Prior to moving to Austin, she interned at both Trunk Club and The Zoe Report where she learned the in's and out's of the fashion scene. With her newfound residence in Texas, she continues to evolve her style and pursue her passion for the fashion industry. 

The Greer Guide to Austin: Prototype Vintage

Audrie San Miguel knows good vintage. A self-described lifelong vintage lover, and with beginnings in a rented space within Room Service Vintage back in the ‘90s, San Miguel has been a part of the Austin vintage scene for nearly two decades. As the owner of Prototype Vintage since 2005, she’s cultivated an Austin retail mainstay.

An Austinite for 25 years, San Miguel came from humble beginnings. Raised in a low-income family in Corpus Christi, thrifting and repurposing items were concepts and skills she grew up with. She prides herself on Prototype’s mantra of “all killer, no filler!” as San Miguel and her staff strive to create a vintage selection that is well-curated, well-priced, and well-rounded. She has created a space in which there is so much (Prototype Vintage now occupies 1,600 square feet of space!), yet it still has an intimate feel of an impeccably curated vintage lover’s closet. From vintage tees to shoes and accessories to dresses and jumpsuits and now with a selection of vintage children’s clothing, there is literally something for everyone in the shop. When asked for a current favorite piece, San Miguel was hard pressed to choose just one.

Prototype Vintage has been in its current space for more than 13 years, and has witnessed the boom that Austin has experienced in that time along. Feathers Vintage opened up adjacent to Prototype at around the same time -- the shops were in fact originally part of the same space, separated only by a beaded curtain. The evolution that the neighborhood and the shop itself has undergone in the last decade-plus is astounding, and Prototype continues to grow and change along with its surroundings.

Prototype started out selling predominantly vintage furniture and housewares, with only a tiny clothing selection. As San Miguel learned her market and discovered what sold the best, Prototype Vintage slowly became a mecca for almost exclusively vintage clothing. Prototype got into events styling for the music and film industries (San Miguel’s husband is an Austin music industry paragon and co-creator of seemingly sadly defunct Fun Fun Fun Fest). Though she still does some events styling here and there, San Miguel is very selective about the projects she undertakes, with the majority of her focus on sourcing and merchandising for the shop itself.

With its signature lime green, can’t-miss-it storefront just steps from the constant bustle of South Congress, the ladies of Prototype Vintage are functionally ambassadors for the city of Austin, and it’s a role they happily embrace. A constant stream of tourists, locals, and the occasional celebrity come through the shop, and San Miguel and her staff are happy to answer questions about what to eat, where to catch a live show, and point customers to other vintage shops in town to find some treasures.

Prototype Vintage has has become a vintage shop that sets the trends rather than follows them. Their devotees know they can always come in and find something they adore, and the thrill of the hunt for stellar vintage style is a labor of love for Audrie San Miguel.

NOW WE WANNA KNOW, WHERE ARE YOUR FAVORITE SPOTS TO SHOP? LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW AND TELL US YOUR FAVORITE AUSTIN BOUTIQUE.

The Greer Guide to Austin is a bi-weekly column written and photographed by Liz Feezor of Liz Feezor Creative. 

Greer Image Consulting loves supporting local small business, and vintage style is a daily dose of self-expression that is truly unique, sustainable, and supports a network of men and women committed to bringing the best of past style into your wardrobe.