Sounds like a good idea given the weather lately across this great land of ours…True, North, Snowy and Freezing.

Sadly, the 2010 Winter Olympics are over – the nonstop excitement and cheering  and TV watching the last 2 weeks has been exhausting, not to mention all those heavy medals Canada won – of course we all need a vacation!

I am not a travel agent – so can’t help too much on the destination front – although I would think somewhere HOT and SUNNY would be preferable – I know it is for me.

Once you have the locale sorted – then you need to pack – aaaah – here I can help!

I personally love to have a vast wardrobe selection at my fingertips (like my whole closet!) because you never know how you’re going to feel day-to-day, right? I would have reveled in the days when you got to pack a whole steamer trunk to go away – and had a valet to transport it for you – LoL.  It’s just not the same in today’s world of weighing (and paying) for luggage – what’s up with that anyway?  So now that you’ve spend a small fortune on the highest tech featherweight luggage out there, time to get down to some packing!

Regardless of whether you’re going to a sun destination or not – here are a few tips to get you past the weigh scales at check-in – and look fab on vacation.

First, consider your destination – look up the long-term forecast.  Granted weather can change but it doesn’t hurt to get an idea of what you may be facing. If you’re going to Mexico – leave the Ugg  boots at home.

Next, think about what you’ll be doing while you’re there.  Lolling poolside with a cold bevvie and a book all week – perfect – then your collection of skimpy bikinis is mandatory. But if you’re going to do some scuba diving or parasailing – then throw in a sturdy one-piece as well.  Planning to do any workouts? Hikes? Sight-seeing?

Once you’ve got that figured out – make a list! Don’t forget the “vacation accessories” – sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses, flip-flops, reading material, chargers for all your electronics (do you need a converter?), blow-dryer (or no blow-dryer?) – all take up precious room and weight  in your luggage.

Write down everything – even if it seems obvious – I’ve heard more than one story of people arriving at check-in without their passport!

Give some thought to what you’ll be wearing. Anything high-maintenance, needs a bevy of special undergarments underneath to make it work – or uncomfortable – leave it at home. Ditto with things that stain or snag easily – you don’t need to be fussing or worrying about ruining your lacey white silk blouse. By the way, the Tide stain remover pens are amazing – add it to your list!

Give some thought to fabric. Cottons blends and silks are perfect in warmer weather – they keep you cool, wick away moisture and they don’t wrinkle as much as cotton alone. No one wants to pull out the iron on vacation.

 Colour-coordinate your wardrobe choices. It simplifies things and allows you mix and match. Make sure whatever you bring can be worn with at least 2, preferably 3 other items…that way you will feel like you have a bigger selection of outfits.  Layering, layering, layering – the golden rule of vacation wardrobe-planning – always!

For me, the biggest dilemma is SHOES…I love to have ALL my faves close by.  Unfortunately, shoes can be both heavy and hard to pack. Rule of thumb – maximum 2 pairs – other than running shoes & flip- flops.  For me, I allow myself one comfy pair and one flashier pair. Remember – comfy doesn’t have to equal ugly – nor does  stylish equal uncomfortable.  Make your selection wisely; ensure they go with everything – or most – of what you’re planning to wear.

And finally – give yourself some time. We’ve all heard this one before:  put everything you’re planning to bring on the bed – and get rid of half (ok – a third) and you’re likely good to go! I have a rule when I go on vacation that I have to wear everything I bring – sometimes that helps cut out the non-essentials when I am packing. And if you’re planning on doing any shopping – allow some room for new goodies!

Bon Voyage – Safe Travels!

Klara Kroupa

Savant Style

www.savantstyle.ca

http://savantstyle.wordpress.com

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 I love it! 

There is barely an event that goes by where one of the TV commentators isn’t giving their two cents about an outfit…from Canada’s Sledders and Speed Skaters (come on! where else are you supposed to look?), to the Norwegian Curlers’ pants (I think they actually add some much needed funk to that sport!), to USA’s Johnny Weir’s flamboyant pink and black – I don’t know what to call that– “outfit” I guess. Although hearing about his search for a pink bath-mat for his digs in the Athletes’ Village was a bit much even for me.  Did you notice on Super Sunday – how all the men’s hockey rivalries were colour complimentary?  Hmmmm…

Remember the rant by the TSN commentator the other day after the first event in Ice Dance? I don’t even know where this poor couple was from, but he was outraged that they were dressed as “trees” (yes, unfortunately true); saying they were “practically nude”  and doing the sport of figure skating a disservice. I personally almost always abhor that flesh-coloured spandex that figure skaters use in their costumes. It is supposed to make them look like they are baring more skin then they really are.  This couple in particular was flesh-toned for most of their body including their limbs; presumably being the trunk of the tree and its branches – with bits of green hanging off them like a Jolly Green Giant advert.  It was out there, to be sure.

Joannie Rochette’s outfit in the Ladies Short Program last night is one of the few times I would say that this age-old visual trick has worked – she had the lovely flower appliqué down her back – and the outfit actually did what it is meant to do –  compliment her fantastic skating – how amazing is she in every way!  

But more often than not – the fleshy-toned parts of the costume merely look good from afar but far from good – as the saying goes.  I have to wonder what the judges think; after all they have the best seats in the house. It fools no one and looks terrible on TV. So that poor “tree couple” – although hardly nude, did look more than a little ridiculous. Who makes the call on that, anyway – and would they like a stylist to work with them? 

As a coach you’d have to be more than a skilled negotiator to talk your world-class athletes into that choice, no? Did they collectively truly BELIEVE – here is an outfit worthy of a gold medal winning performance?  Ditto with the Russian Bronze Medal Ice Dancers and the ghoulish fake blood down the leg of Oksana Domnina. Tessa Virtue’s swan-like elegance – superior performance aside – is just simply much more Golden! What you wear is important – you have to look the part, always – even if you haven’t got the job – or the medal – just yet.

No question, there have been some interesting fashion statements during this Olympics that would keep the fashion police as busy as any event security. Let’s start with the Opening Ceremonies. Who didn’t sit back as a professional armchair quarterback and critique every nuance of every performance and country – especially what they were wearing!  I have since seen the Czech team’s uniform of choice up close – and the pattern of intersecting Olympic rings looks great, in person – but on TV – we all had to look the other way.  k.d. lang – phenomenal, phenomenal performance  – but was the slimming white suit and bare feet something anyone of us would choose for ourselves? Aaaaah, but that’s just it, isn’t it – when you are THAT good – you can do whatever you want – athlete, performer – whoever you may be – and the rest of us viewing masses, expect the outfit to match the personality and level of celebrity/notoriety, don’t we?  Go Lady Gaga!  If nothing else, outrageous fashion always inspires and influences its way down to the street. Case in point:  every 10 year old boy in North America takes a page from snowboard and skateboard culture daily. I should know; I live with one.

Growing up in an aesthetic sport as I did in rhythmic gymnastics, where you were always judged by not only how you performed but also by how you looked – even if they claimed you weren’t – it makes perfect sense to me.  What you wear should ALWAYS give you confidence, strength, resolve, mindset, etc.  It should allow you to draw on whatever it is from within yourself that you need to perform and work at your very best – full stop. It should help you be “ON”. It is critical!

So if wearing red, white, blue and gray harlequin pants gives the Norwegians a bit more swagger to strut their best curling stuff – I say go for it! If dressing like a tree from a childhood fairly tale makes you a more lyrical skater – well, I may consider looking for another inspiration. But you get my point. Have you ever landed your dream job dressed in your pyjamas? Unless you’re a Victoria Secret model, I doubt it.

But, that’s the great thing about events such as the Olympics where all cultures, languages, and ideas gather – and clash. EVERYONE wants to be noticed! I have loved checking out not only what the athletes are wearing – but what the fans are wearing too! The selection of hats and flag-wear alone – has been astounding – everything and anything goes! And lets not forget about those famous little red mittens! Patriotism is alive and well – definitely for Canadians - which has been awesome to see – but all countries. My Czech flag is flying right next to our Canadian one on the porch – and why not. If nothing else, this is the feeling we all hope will linger when the events are done and the party is over. Style always has a place in emotion!

Enjoy the Olympics – wear red & white – just don’t be Beige!

thanks!

Klara

Klara Kroupa

Savant Style

www.savantstyle.ca

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…but better yet, think SPICE…as in Valentine’s Day!  You’ve got no excuses this February 14 – spoil your beloved with an Olympic themed day of LOVE!

 I was on Robson Street today on yet another warm and sunny day in Vancouver – and you can get a Maple Leaf emblazoned …well, just about anything.  I saw everything from candy – always acceptable for Valentine’s Day – to knickers and lounge wear…aaaah lingerie. Sugar is nice…but always better is a bit of spice!

If you haven’t got a sweet tooth – and things are spicy enough in your life then consider this:

www.danier.com – Danier – GREAT deals on beautiful laptop bags in every colour – plus their Yellow Tag Clearance on tons of outerwear – 50% OFF or more!

www.roots.com  – Roots – the quintessential Canuck store – has bags, purses, messenger bags, key chains, coin purses, luggage tags, books, watches, t-shirts, sweaters, hoodies, cosy sweats, even baby and kids’ wear – all Olympic themed – even if you’re not rooting for Canada (huh?) They even had tea towels and pillow covers  – Olympics, Olympics, Olympics!  

Whatever your plans are this Valentine’s Day…. may the joy of your giving only be surpassed by the love in your heart!

Savant Style

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The key word here being – WINTER – as in WHERE IS IT? Don’t get me wrong, if you’re a visitor, tourist, or non-resident of any kind coming to Vancouver – this is precisely the weather you would want for sight-seeing in and around our amazing coastal city – mild, sunny, barely a jacket required.  Last fall marked my first endeavour to plant tulips in the garden – and they have already sprung, cheeky things!  Running the seawall and trails of Stanley Park, one of my favourite things to do, has never been better! In fact it is so mild that Vanoc, I am told, has been trucking in snow around the clock from the interior of BC. Not ideal for a Winter Olympics setting. Even Letterman is making a plea on our behalf – good to see his glass house is intact – LoL.

And well, isn’t that just Murphy’s Law. Last year we couldn’t get out the front door we had so much of the stuff.  Anyone not having the good fortune to have grown up or lived in most other parts of our great land – especially the prairies, as I did – where mastering winter driving is de rigueur – barely  bothered to sweep the snow off their cars.  My kids were overjoyed that they couldn’t go to school and spent hours digging tunnels and caves and sliding down anything that resembled a hill around the neighborhood.  Transit couldn’t run, people couldn’t get to work – it was quite comical actually. Cold – but comical.

Nonetheless, whether we are willing to admit it or not, most of “us locals” normally pray for this kind of winter. After all, isn’t that we most have going for us over other parts of Canada? The saying goes that in February in Vancouver, you can ski, golf and sail – all in the same day – not that I know anyone who does that – but still – doesn’t get much better than that, at least not in Canada!  Weather was definitely the main reason I moved here almost 15 years ago – minus 35C in March, in Edmonton just wasn’t working for me anymore.  I fell in love with Vancouver and have never looked back!

Now, when I travel to other cities as I often do for work – Calgary, Edmonton and Winnipeg in particular – I literally shriek at the cold! Yes, I have become a weather wimp – I admit it.  I was in Winnipeg last week – where at the infamous corner of Portage and Main – the temp clocked in at a harsh MINUS 33 Celsius – with the windchill! Holy Mother of God. And that wind was a blowin’ – I can attest to that.

Anyway, besides all that, my inner fashionista has to ask – isn’t it hard to be stylish in months and months of those subzero temps? For my business trip last week – I had to dig out my big, bulky coat – which in of itself is no easy feat getting through airport security, the way it is these days. Then, I had to apply tons of layers (thankfully layering is “in” much more that it was back in the day!) I had forgotten about the staticky hair and clothes clinging to me all the time like I had been vacuum-packed – not to mention frosted over & steamed up glasses, salt-stained boots; I even wore tights under my suit! I guess the bonus is you get a bit of a  work-out hulking around all that gear all the time. Still, I was surprised when I got to Calgary and was walking around through the city’s very clever, and very necessary, “+15” walkways that connect much of downtown.  I spotted many (read: more than several!) women in open-toed shoes and bare legs – I kid you not. Mind you, it was only minus three that day – balmy by winter standards, no question. And I am also very aware that we’ve abolished the “no white after Labour Day” and “your bag and shoes have to match” and “blue & green should never be seen” – all those archaic fashion rules – but still – isn’t that a fashion faux pas somewhere?!

Anyway…the Olympics are coming! The Olympics are coming! Throw on as much red and maple-leafed gear as you can find (and need to stay warm!) – crack open a Molson product – and enjoy the Olympics!

GO CANADA GO!

 stay warm  – but don’t be beige!

Klara

Savant Style

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Well, a few words to the shopping-wise. If you don’t want to be an impulse shopper – consider this: when you come across something you absolutely LOVE – but don’t necessarily need – think about what you already own. If the coveted item doesn’t already go with at least 3 things in your closet, walk away.  Collect your thoughts.

Better yet – go home and make an actual list of “must-have” items!  Divide it into 2 columns: ESSENTIALS  (great white blouse, kickin’ black boots, lbd, great oversized bag, killer jeans…you get where I’m going) and BONUS…those items you don’t really need, but “wow would it ever make that outfit a knockout if I happened to find it” like a great belt or some sexy hoop earrings or a cashmere sweater (wait a sec, maybe those should be ESSENTIALS) – LoL!

But the rule of 3 is a good one if you’re prone to impulse shopping. Unfortunately, the elusive lure of that four letter word – SALE – certainly doesn’t help to deter us vulnerable sort, especially at this time of year. After all who can resist the enthusiasm of the sales girl as she explains that today everything is reduced an additional 50% off the last 30% off the lowest price. Huh? That makes it practically free! You see the dilemma.

So, as a last resort – if you can’t stop thinking about your beloved over night – all rules go out the window.  Drive like mad (you’re a good driver, right?) and get back there and get it – before someone else buys it!

(Don’t forget to enjoy it!)

Life is short – don’t be beige…

thanks!

Klara

Klara Kroupa

Savant Style

www.savantstyle.ca

http://savantstyle.wordpress.com

778*898*4251

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Style is something that has to be felt. What are the best and most unique qualities about YOU? Having trouble figuring out what those are? Ask those who love you the most! Let them heap it on you – after all, that is how THEY see you – do you see yourself like that? Drown your negative voice by instead, looking for evidence that what they say about you is true!

Own that – celebrate what other see in you - and then present yourself in such a way that the world gets that about you immediately!

That will always guarantee your best style!

Life is short – and precious. No time to be beige.

thanks!

Klara

Klara Kroupa

Savant Style

www.savantstyle.ca

http://savantstyle.wordpress.com

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I was browsing thru my local paper the other morning when a headline in the
“At Home” section caught my eye – “It’s one consultant’s mission to free us from the ‘beige trap.’”  Gotta love it – I say it all the time – “Don’t be Beige” – meaning don’t be blah, boring, banal, predictable, commonplace, ordinary, dull – you get the idea.

Now, this consultant was referring of course, to home décor, but it got me thinking. What is the trap we most fall into at this time of year with respect to our wardrobe?  Black – perhaps? It’s cold, dark, rainy outside and black is an easy default… black coat, black shoes or black boots, black gloves, black bag or black briefcase, black gloves. Any takers? Now add to that maybe some; black slacks, black blazer, black socks, black knickers or briefs, black lingerie, black scarf maybe even. Does this sound about right?

Well, you’re not alone – I did my own informal survey over the weekend as I went about my normal activities and I would say that black and shades of gray is about 80% of what I saw out there. Add to that black running tights and workout gear as well. I say we can do better than that!

Just for fun! Take the 5 day – “Beat Back the Winter BLACK Blahs” Challenge!

Each day – see if you can root through your closet and replace your default black _______ (insert as many items here as you dare: Coat? Gloves? Shoes? Bag? Lingerie? Accessories?) with some COLOUR!

What a fantastically easy – and not to mention cheap – way to inject some excitement into your winter wardrobe! We’ve all got those little gems of colour lurking in the back of our closet – that seem just a bit too colourful? Daring? Risqué? because they don’t…what? meet the winter black uniform criteria? I am not saying break out your summer clothes (please no!) …but why not throw colour-caution to the wind. Break free of the black shackles…GO FOR IT!  You will surprise yourself.

Report back – I would love to hear & see how you make out – inspire and wow the rest of us! Share your pics, finds and COLOURS! Pass it on to your friends, family, co-workers…January is a long month – let’s make it less black…and beige

; – )

thanks!

Klara

Klara Kroupa

Savant Style

www.savantstyle.ca

http://savantstyle.wordpress.com

778*898*4251

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For most of us, it is cold outside these days. So…that means the first thing you’re stating about yourself is… your COAT. Just like shoes, the shape your coat is in says a lot about you. Have you had it cleaned lately? Is it pilled or stained or torn? Does it fit properly? Do some inventory – Guys and Girls!

First, figure out if your coat is doing what you need it to – is it meant to keep you dry? warm? or both? Dress accordingly.

Second, keep jackets for what they were meant for. By that I mean, don’t wear your “hockey-mom” (or dad!) or snowboarding jacket over a suit…tacky.

Be careful where and how you wear leather – they have a time and place and are fabulous when done right; usually more casual/edgy than dressy/professional. Err on the side of overdressed – after all, you can always take your coat OFF!

Ladies, your jacket doesn’t have to cover your hemline per se anymore but don’t wear your microfiber rain jacket over an evening dress either.

That being said, rules are always meant to be broken. A cropped leather or denim jacket over a lbd – worn with a funky scarf, just the right amount of bling, cool bag and some OTK boots can completely rock! Layering and belts works for coats too so experiment-away! You’ll know if it “works”!

All retailers are trying to move out the winter goods and make room for spring –so if you are in the market for a new coat – this is the time to get some great quality alongside that magical phrase “ON SALE.” Again, determine what you need. Fabric is important. If you need it to keep you warm – look for wool or cashmere blends. Not only are they cozy but they wear better & last longer and it is worth spending a bit more. Sportier coats come in all various materials and price ranges as well. How warm, windproof, waterproof – they run the gamut so do your homework.

And as always, try and pay it forward. Almost every community has an organization that has a need for good quality used coats.

There are just too many different types and styles of coats to mention them all – so if you’re in the market – here are a few websites with great pics of coats to inspire you!

GIRLS! http://allwomenstalk.com/most-fashionable-winter-coats/

GUYS! http://images.google.ca/images?sourceid=navclient&rlz=1T4ADBR_enCA271CA272&q=mens+winter+coats&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=TzZOS_2lN5GyswO96pDNBw&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&ct=title&resnum=4&ved=0CC8QsAQwAw

Stay awhile and stay warm…but don’t be beige!

thanks!
Klara

Klara Kroupa
Savant Style
www.savantstyle.ca

http://savantstyle.wordpress.com

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Pull out anything that is too big (really!), too small (dress the body you have NOW; if you lose weight, all the more reason to reward yourself with something new!), ripped, tattered, pilled, stained, torn – or – and here is the tough part – anything you haven’t worn since 2008 (a little lee-way is in order – a year goes by too fast) or anything that screams “Thelma & Louise” (altho’ a great movie) was your fashion inspiration. If you’ve been hoarding it since the 90’s its gotta go! Be ruthless it will feel great!

Next…make 3 piles. Here is where your voice of reason can help.

Pile #1 – Set aside anything that is still in good condition like coats, suits, handbags, shoes etc. and donate it to a worthy cause in your community – always, always pay it forward!

Pile #2 – Next, anything that is really worth hanging onto but maybe you just don’t wear it enough (we’ve all got THOSE pieces) – set aside for a recessionista party with your bff’s. Themes instantly make a party infinitely better – and what better way to spend a cold, dark winter night – than drinking wine and swapping clothes, shoes, bags and bling with your girlfriends! Ours are always a blast. Everyone walks away with something-new-to-them – and if you ever need to borrow it – you know who’s got it! ; – )  Donate anything that’s left over – don’t let the clutter back into the house!

Pile #3 – is for all that stuff that you wish you could compost but can’t – so if you can’t turn it into rags for cleaning – then throw it out!

I guarantee a leaner closet will inspire you to a leaner – and lookin’ finer – you!

Happy New Year everyone!

Klara

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So call your friends, family too - and especially all those feeling a bit blue.

Put on some bling, glitz it up a bit (why not!) Take the time from shopping to park it - and sit.

Sip on eggnog, have a bite. Embrace your loved ones, hold them tight.

Rejoice at all that you have that is good and wonderful. Be thankful your life is so blessed and bountiful.

Merry Christmas season everyone! I think this is an excellent time of year to revive my blog…it has certainly been a while. 

In an attempt to simplify things a bit -  I have added Savant Style as a FACEBOOK page.

Become a “FAN” of Savant Style – and I will keep you “posted” on all kinds of lifestyle & fashion tips and tricks, humor & insights, where its at to shop, what’s hot, what’s not! 

Send your questions, comments, photos and ideas - they’re always welcome!

Be Merry…!

Klara @ Savant Style