Three Haute Mamas

Think a stylist is only for the celebs? Think again. Meet stylist Christen Mitchell

A while back we received an email from the lovely Christen Mitchell, a new to Boston stylist, and we bonded immediately.  Style-wise we jive.  What we do online, she does in real life-like Rachel Zoe, only accessible to everyone.  No Oscar nominations required.  And having all worked in the fashion industry at one point or another, we were impressed at how far she had come in so little time in Boston.  We asked her to do a little guest post and lucky us, she obliged.

 Hi Three Haute Mama’s readers!

I have hijacked the blog today to give you all a little incite into joys of having a Stylist. Sounds fancy like a luxury only reserved for Jennifer Aniston doesn’t it? Actually, this is quite a practical luxury that everyone can and should enjoy.

When someone asks me what a Personal Stylist does, I say that I solve the ‘I have nothing to wear!” problem. When my clients and I confront this problem, we go over their daily routine, what they like, what they don’t, and anything they wish they had. I like to make being fashionable effortless and economical. The solution to the problem is not always solved by shopping. I say let’s check out what’s in your closet instead. I go through your wardrobe and show you how to give new life to pieces you were ready to throw out. In two hours we can put together ten new outfits you never knew you owned. Imagine, you just went shopping in your own closet and never spent a dime.

“How do I remember all of these outfits?” you might ask. During the appointment I will snap quick photos of all the looks we put together and send you a personalized lookbook capturing all the work we did. You’ll never have to wonder what accessories went with each outfit. Also during the appointment I make a list of any needs you might have or certain pieces you’re looking for and then I follow up with an online shopping list full of pictures and links to make shopping easy. Below are some examples of looks I’ve put together for two of my clients.

 

Closet consultations are only one part of what I do. Once we’ve gotten acquainted it’s easy to make small adjustments to your wardrobe on a seasonal basis. This could mean putting some different outfits together or even going on a shopping trip.

Personal shopping trips are fun and easy. Before you show up I pull what we are looking for and organize it in one room. It’s a nice relaxed shopping environment because I am able to give real and honest opinions and you are able to shop without the pressure of sales people. At the end of the trip we review what we saw and pick the best of everything so you know you’re going to get what you need, love, and will actually wear.

Having a stylist isn’t reserved for celebrities. It’s a great way to streamline your wardrobe and make fashion an easy and effortless part of your daily routine.

For a daily dose of style check out my website www.ChristenMitchellStyling.com

If you are interesting in having your own stylist feel free to contact me with any questions or check out my site.

Have a fantastic day!

 

 

Thanks Christen, we always love a new mama to talk style with!

 

'tis the season for holiday parties! Go haute or kick it up a nautch

I love this dress, yet I realize it may not be for everyone.  Someone who isn't a heels and short dress person might shy away from it, but like the dress, life is short.  Add some leggings and flats, and you've got yourself one haute mama, not to mention a comfortable mama!  

For the dress lover, a pair of high heels, some tights (optional! Self tanner works wonders just as well.) and you've got another haute look.  Finish both looks with a wrap or faux fur coat, and loads of fabulous jewelry, both real and costume, and you should be haute to trot! 

go haute or take it up a nautch by threehautemamas featuring rounded toe shoes

Enjoy the season mamas, and don't forget your best accessory....your smile! 

 

On the 3rd day of the holiday, Mr. UPS gave to me....

 

Limited edition of 100 exclusively for Walt Disney Signature, part of the hayden-harnett Tron collection.  Santa clearly had my upcoming trip to Disney World in mind when this fell off the sleigh a few weeks early.  Thank you Santa! It really does pay to be nice.  

available for preorder now, estimated ship 12/15

In the Haute Seat, our Q+A with M.Mavi designer Michele Mavissakalian

 

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.  

Eleanor Roosevelt

Like a big sister or a best friend, Three Haute Mamas wants to support each and every woman out there.  The women business owners, non profit directors, even the everyday mama who's making a difference.  We are starting a series of sit downs called "In the Haute Seat", where we will tackle all kinds of pressing questions our readers want to know.  How they started their journey in business?  What's their secret? How they balance it all?  Glee or American Idol? You know..the good stuff.  Know someone who should be featured "In the Haute Seat"?  Then by all means, let us know.  

Today however, our first In the Haute Seat guest honor belongs to Michele Mavissakalian.  She wowed us with her jewelry line, and was generous enough to sit down and answer a few questions for the mamas.  If you missed our piece on her line, you can go back and read it here.  Michele followed her passion and created a line of jewels that is not only breath taking but also carries deep meaning in each piece.  So grab your beverage of choice, or in Michele and my case, cereal of choice, and enjoy. 

1. What prompted you to start your own business? 

I've always been a creative person, which has its pluses and minuses.  After breaking away from the arts trying to make my way as a writer and actress I fell into a corporate job as an agency recruiter here in NYC.  It was my first real corporate job and in a way, working as an agency recruiter was like running my own business within a business.  It was a commission based position which was quite rewarding in many ways and I think gave me the confidence to later do something on my own that I wouldn't have had if I had been in a salaried position.

2.  What inspires you?

Coming from the theatre, I'm very much inspired by words and poetry which is why I guess my first collection is named after Victorian writers.  But I'm also inspired by the reaction of making something that others find beautiful.  It's very satisfying to create something and then to have someone else enjoy it.  It has in a way become it's own form of performance for me.

3. Do you have favorite pieces, or is that like choosing a favorite child? 

Oh that's tough and yes a bit like choosing a favorite child.  When I started making jewelry as a hobby I made one of a kind semi-precious pieces and it was indeed hard to part with them but that makes it hard to run a business!  If I had to choose I'd pick the Emily Bronte 4 piece necklace.  It has a classic feel to it but it's also bold and you can wear it with just about anything for any occasion. 

4.  If you weren't designing jewelry, what would you be doing? 

I'd be decorating.  I took Interior Design classes in Paris for a semester when I was living there for a while.  But it's a lot more practical to design jewelry unless you have many different homes at your disposal.  If anyone out there is interested in a decorator though, I'm available!

5.  Do you have children, (how many? ages?) and if so, how do you balance it all? 

I don't have children but I'd love to someday.  I don't know how moms starting a business do it but I see them do it and admire that tremendously.  I hope I'll have children soon.

6.  What is the one piece of advice you would give to women starting their own business? 

 
Ah...I have a bit of advice but it's really simple.  Pick something you absolutely love, believe in yourself and give yourself permission to invest in yourself whether it's hiring a consultant or a part time assistant.  It's hard to do it all alone and investing in help will push you to work faster!

7.  Favorite guilty pleasure (ie shoe shopping, chocolate, reality tv)?

You name it!  I wouldn't be human if I didn't fall prey to just about all of them would I? Lately my guiltiest pleasure has to be spending more than my share of time in front of the TV streaming netflix, episode after episode when I should be doing other things.  24 and Dexter and high on my list.  Put some cereal in front of me and I'm set.  I know it's odd but I LOVE cereal and consequently never have it in stock because I could eat the whole box at once.

Thank you Michele, for sharing your advice, designing such lovely jewelry and also validating my cereal addiction (I'm a Multi-grain Cheerios type gal!).  

For more information please visit M.Mavi Jewelry

 

On the first day of the holiday, Mr.UPS gave to me..ONE

Pretty Penelope Dress from French Connection

Oh Santa..I've been nice. Well..I tried really hard.

Having seen this dress in person here, I can assure you that you will outshine the angel atop the Christmas tree in this little number.  Layers of chiffon in an almost blush color topped by a sweetheart neckline with an embellished neckline.  Swoon..

And. For those of you on the naughty list, it is also available in "comet".  

 

 

The Mavi-leous designs of M.Mavi Jewelry

There was a time when I'd lounge footloose and fancy free with a stack of fashion mags, and pour through them, studying every detail like a forensic scientist. These days, it's three months of back issues and 4.5 minutes, and if something catches my eye, it's like hitting the jackpot.  Sure enough, while perusing last month's People Style Watch, I hit gold. 

Ever been in a situation where you just cannot google something fast enough? It was that good.   M.Mavi Jewelry.  And it got better....

and better....

and it just didn't stop getting better...

And clearly this Queen Bee just about died when I saw 

M.Mavi was started by Michele Mavissakalian, who actually began making jewelry while working in the competitive field of New York City recruiting.  It's so wonderful to see someone take a leap of faith into their true passion, which takes a lot of courage.  But like the Lion in the Wizard of Oz, searching for courage, perhaps Michele had to only look as far as her jewels:

When her paternal grandmother passed away, among the jewelry she was offered was her grandmother’s large blue turquoise bead hanging on a gold chain, a symbol of protection in many Middle Eastern cultures. All M.Mavi pieces are imbued with as much meaning as her own personal pieces have to her. The blue bead, hidden on each creation, is now a trademark of M.Mavi Jewelry and the love, luck, protection and happiness it offers the wearer.

The love, luck, protection and happiness she needed was right there.   And it's in every piece she creates.  What an amazing gift to give this holiday season to a loved one! Not only is the jewelry stunning, but it's also something that could become a timeless keepsake to be handed down.  

Of course you know I had to contact Michele, because that's just how I am.  And out of the kindness of her heart, she agreed to answer a few questions for our readers and for those of you hoping to start your own business.  So come back tomorrow for a little Q+A for the "mavi-leous" Michele Mavissakalian, designer of  M.Mavi Jewelry

 

Jessica Simpson for the holidays

There's been a lot of Jessica Simpson in the news lately.  First off, newly engaged (clap, clap).  Secondly, her new Holiday album is sitting on the top download charts on  iTunes (clap, clap) .  And thirdly, as I whipped through Macys like a streak of lightening on Black Friday, I couldn't help but stop in my tracks upon the sight of these:

 

And then my mouth dropped.  Jessica? Simpson? Huh? Fo' reals? Well I'll be.

I jest.  A bit.  I gather Ms. Simpson has redirected her energy away from acting and into marketing, because as I perused the collection, I was genuinely impressed.  Kimberly has more than a few JS pieces in her wardrobe, and I am always floored when she tells me what line they are.  Her collection is well thought out, she covers the gamut from shoes to bras.  So let's crank up our new Jessica Simpson holiday album, and pick up a few goodies for the seasons parties and dinners out.    

Never mind pennies from heaven...How about this copper number? 

This silver showstopper should flatter almost everyone, tucks just below the breast, lays flat at the hips, and hits somewhere around the knees (depending upon your height).  Concerned about it being sleeveless?  Add a wrap or better yet-a faux fur wrap!

Every mama deserves a lovely evening coat, and this one in winter white is just the trick.  And don't feel like it belongs just after dark, ohnonono, pair it with denim and you're haute to trot.  

Ms. Simpson..you know your shoes, and while we mamas love us a sky high heel, not everyone agrees.  Christina and Kimberly are in tears about this fact, but even they know, it's all a matter of preference, and this is a perfect alternative.  Still a heel, yet not so thin  you feel as if you're wobbling on a toothpick.  And yes.  Still haute. 

My crush on cross body bags having been revealed, I can honestly say this bag is on my Christmas list.  Holiday cocktail parties leave no room for free hands-cocktail in one, cocktail in the other, hors d'oeurvre in the other.  What's a gal to do with her purse?  Cross body bag to the rescue!

Call this your relief clutch player.   Wallet by day, yet cute enough to play clutch in a pinch by night.   

Haute pink clutch.  Just go for it. 

All items Jessica Simpson Collection

And from her new album, a song clearly penned for her new fiance.  I'm sure he'll be kissing her for Christmas, New Years, Valentines Day, Presidents Day.....

 

A Thanksgiving Day Tribute to American Style Icon Ralph Lauren

Hello Mamas,

If I were to have a designer to Thanksgiving dinner it would be Ralph Lauren.  Ralph Lauren epitomizes American Fashion. Often designing lines inspired after the Wild Wild West! Cowboys, Cowgirls, Denim, Horses. I sit online every season and watch his fashion shows on his website... Sigh.. to be that girl, to wear Ralph Lauren! 

I remember living in Telluride, Colorado in the early 90's and posing in front of Double RL Ranch! What would I say if Ralph himself were to pull up in his pick up with his denim shirt on and cowboy hat. Well I remember thinking ... besides can you adopt me! Okay, all kidding aside. I would say thank you for staying true to your American roots and to the love you have for our country.  In 1998 Lauren announced that his company would donate 13 million to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., mainly to preserve the original American Flag that inspired the writing of " The Star- Spangled Banner" in 1812.

I'm an American Girl thankful for my country and all who love and embrace it!! I'm thankful that when people around the world see Mr. Lauren's designs they see the heart of America!

Thanksgiving wear

Still not sure what to wear to Turkey day festivities? Try shimmying up to the table in these festive frocks and such and see if anyone notices the turkey's overcooked and Uncle Morty's half stewed.

Alice by Temperley, Ghana beaded crepe dress.  Heads will turn, and it won't be because of the carrot souffle

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania, Draped Jersey Dress.  True fact-see how fast your husband shuts off the football game when you walk in wearing this dress. 

Bottega Veneta Oxidized sterling silver earrings-for those who need to color coordinate right down to the last side dish. 

Michael Kors wool boucle dress-meeting the future in-laws for the first time.  Stay cool, calm and chic in this haute, yet classic dress?

Issa printed silk kaftan-go on.  I dare you.

 

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania, Fulfilment washed-silk top-the belt hits a little higher in the waist, allowing for some flattering extra room should you choose to indulge.  Not that you would. I wouldn't either. 

Christina's Thanksgiving Day outfit courtesy of Banana Republic 

Kimberly's Thanksgiving Day outfit top $69!! Oh and I am sooo wearing this with elastic waist leggings!! Seconds Please!! XO  

Glamour's 2010 Women of the Year, Haute or Naute? Fergie

If you're attending an award ceremony held by Glamour magazine, you'd better shoot for the moon.  Fergie got the memo, and was smoking haute in a one shoulder dress by Zac Posen.  Accessories included the uber hot actor, and husband, Josh Duhamel at her side.  

Fergie, you get a definite HAUTE for the night.  Well done mama.

That is soooo a Kimberly Dress!!! LOL!! Love it!!

For complete coverage and more photos visit Glamour