Fashion 101: Weather vs. Season

This past weekend, Punxsutawney Phil, the world's most famous groundhog did not see his shadow hence forecasting an early spring. For some odd reason every Groundhog’s Day my friends and I get into a heated debate about dressing for the weather versus dressing for the season. My best friend instantly wants to pull out the shorts and sandals at the first mention of spring while I’ll wear sweaters until June. Those of us who were fortunate enough to have parents or grandparents remember being scolded for going outside on a nice day in February with no coat because it was “pneumonia weather”. Old wives tale? Maybe. But, what is really the proper way to dress for on unseasonably warm days, those crazy spring days where it begins cold but ends warm, or during the best time of the year known as summer? Never fear, the LBDC team wants to make sure you’re always on the right side of fashion.

Before we begin let’s agree on one thing. There is never any excuse to be overdressed but it is a direct violation of the rules of fashion to be underdressed no matter the season or weather. To dress too plainly or too informally for any occasion is a NO-NO but arriving to work in February with a mini skirt, no pantyhose, and no jacket just because the forecast calls for 70 and sun is attention you don’t want (trust me on this one).

So what’s the answer to transitioning between seasons? LAYERS!!!  Layering your clothing is a tried-and-true way to ensure your comfort no matter the weather. The beauty of this simple concept is that it allows you to make quick adjustments based on changes in the weather.

Layering makes clothes that don’t seem wearable, wearable. Here are few tips to always look FAB no matter what the weatherman says:

 

§  Stick to a maximum of three layers

 

§  Wear lightweight pieces under chunky knits and wools.

§  Don’t layer chunky clothes over other chunky pieces. Keep your look slim by picking lightweight fabrics, like cotton jersey, to wear underneath. That way you can add color and warmth without bulk.

 

§  Show those layers! Make sure that the length of the clothing varies in length (otherwise you just appear bulky)

 

§  No short-sleeved tee’s over a long-sleeved tee. I don’t care if that look was “in” back in high school. It wasn’t cute then and isn’t cute now!

§  Mix your prints! A cute cardigan over printed tank tops is a great way to incorporate three trends into one, without being overwhelming.

 

§  Don’t wear two garments with the same style. If you are layering a ruffled shirt with a sweater, avoid using a sweater which also has ruffles.

So that’s it ladies. Master the art of layering and to always be chic but comfortable when going to school, work, or play. Because let’s face it the lady down the street who goes out in the khaki shorts, USC sweatshirt, sports socks, and sandals in February always looks a bit ridiculous.

 

~Shantell Malachi

Director, LBDC Richmond Chapter

How To Stick To Your New Year’s Resolutions (now that January is gone)

January 1st has come and gone. Have your New Year’s Resolutions done the same? As a society we've come to use the phrase New Year’s Resolutions as a synonym for all of the things we want to accomplish in the coming year. So how do we ensure that we stick to our guns and accomplish all the things on that list? Well you can start by throwing away that list of resolutions!

New Year’s Resolutions are not only outdated but overrated. There, I said it. Goal setting and goal accomplishing is not a onetime occurrence but a lifetime (and lifestyle) commitment. Success does not happen by accident. True success comes from preparation, planning, and execution. My favorite fashion icon, Coco Chanel, once said “Don't spend time beating on a wall, hoping to transform it into a door.” Success will not just happen, you have to seek it! This is probably why New Years Resolutions ultimately fail. We feel that great things will just happen because it’s a new year and a new beginning. WRONG. If you were not working towards a promotion last year, you probably won’t receive one this year. If you were not trying to lose weight last year, you probably won’t fit into that new dress by February (but if you do please share your secret!)

In my other life I serve as a coach to individuals who are often stuck or attempting to make a significant transition in their careers. If I had a penny for every time I’ve heard “next year I’m going to go back to school”, “next year I’m going to ask for that promotion”, “next year I’m going to get more organized”, “next year I’m going to leave this dead end job”…. the list goes on, and on, and on…this mindset is a breeding ground for procrastination. Day 1 doesn’t mean January 1. Day 1 is right here, right now.

Here are a few tips to help you REALLY meet your goals (without waiting until January 1st):

• Once you’ve decided on your goal create a one-year plan, six-month plan, and even a one-month plan of progressively smaller goals that you must reach to achieve your ultimate goals. Let’s say your ultimate goal is to get a new position or a promotion in your current job. Your smaller plans would include things like continuing your education, attaining certifications, and gaining more hands on experience.
• Write your goals down and keep them somewhere visible. My favorite place is the bathroom mirror. Every morning I’m reminded of what I’m trying to accomplish that day, that month, or that year.
• Celebrate milestones (but don’t forget to invite your LBDC sisters!)
• Constantly re-evaluate your goals along the way. If your focus has shifted or things aren’t going the way they should, go back to the drawing board.
• Don’t go it alone. Share your goals and dreams with those closest to you.
• Get a mentor. Take advantage of the experience, education, ability, and imagination of other minds.

So let’s accomplish some goals this year and be sure to share your accomplishments with us. We want to know that you’re living life to the fullest. Burn those old fashioned resolutions and start realizing new success!

~Shantell Malachi
Director, LBDC Richmond

Shantell’s Weight Loss Chronicles: Yummy Chicken Veggie Soup

This year, like so many of you and like so many years before, I resolved to lose weight BUT this time around instead of doing the latest, greatest fad diet I decided to consult a dietician who helped me create a balanced, healthy eating plan. But with a schedule that includes a full time job, two businesses, a LBDC chapter to lead, and a dissertation to write I quickly came to the realization that making sure I get all of the required portions/nutrients/good stuff in one meal is a CHALLENGE. Per my dietician’s advice dinner should include 6oz of protein, ½ cup of starch, and unlimited veggies. So I’ve decided to sweep the dust off the crock pot and make meals that meet all of my dietician’s requirements in one convenient pot.  

Here’s my yummy chicken veggie soup recipe (Disclaimer: the measurements are approximate. I’m a “season to your taste” type of cook so feel free to adjust to your taste). Feel free to use frozen or canned veggies.

What you need:
4-6oz chicken breast
2 tbsp. of olive oil
1 tbsp. of black pepper
1 tbsp. of garlic powder
1 tbsp. of seasoning salt
2 tbsp. of parsley flakes
2 cups (or 16 oz.) of whole kernel sweet yellow corn
2 cups (or 16 oz.) of cut green beans (I prefer fresh cut over French cut)
1 cup (or 8 oz.) of sweet peas
1 cup (or 8 oz.) of sliced carrots
2 cups (or 16 oz.) of tomato sauce
1 cup (or 8 oz.) of water
½ cup (or 4 oz.) of tomato paste

What to do:
Warm olive oil in a large pan. Season chicken using a little of the seasoning salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.  Lightly  brown the chicken in the olive oil. Slice chicken into strips or chunks while it’s browning. WARNING: Do not let the chicken get crispy! Drain the oil from chicken.

In your slow cooker add the tomato sauce, remaining black pepper, garlic powder, seasoning salt, and parsley flakes. Add veggies and chicken. Add tomato paste and water. Stir.

I usually let this soup simmer all day but it’s actually ready to eat in about an hour, freezes well, and is very filling (i.e., no bread/rolls/crackers necessary). In one serving you have 6 oz. of protein, ½ cup or less of starch (carrots), and unlimited veggies! The perfect balanced meal.

If you’d like to know more about the meal plan I’m following please feel free to email me by clicking here.

Enjoy ladies!
Shantell Malachi
Director, LBDC Richmond Chapter

LBDC Welcomes Shantell Malachi!

The LBDC has recently relaunched their chapter in Richmond, Virginia. Having had a great member base for quite awhile, all the chapter needed was an exciting and enthusiastic new leader. Shantell Malachi has stepped up to the plate.

Shantell grew up in Richmond and, although she’s lived in other big cities, she says she is always drawn back to Richmond. “It has rich history, beautiful landscape, and lots of hidden treasures” she says. Wanting to get out more and wishing she could meet some new and like minded women in her area, Shantell was super excited when a friend referred her to the Richmond Meetup Page.

Hearing on Facebook that this chapter was already formed but waiting for a new director, Shantell jumped at the chance. “I love the concept and felt compelled to take the lead in making sure that women in this area continue to have an awesome resource for socializing” says Shantell.

First on her agenda is to get the ball rolling with events. After quickly reaching out, making introductions and announcing her role as the new Richmond Director, Shantell has been incredibly swift at getting events on the calendar for the next few weeks. With a 2013 goal of 2 events per month, Shantell’s first event will be what she considers a “soft launch” of her chapter, partnering with a local women’s entrepreneurship for “Little Black Dress Night: Ladies Night Out with a Networking Twist.” Shantell is excited that this event will be a great opportunity for her members to come by and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere while learning more about LBDC and what she has in store for her chapter.

Shantell believes in the mission of the Little Black Dress Club because she believes that keeping strong, positive connections with other women is important to our emotional, physical and even spiritual health.
She wants to ensure that as we grow older, we don’t lose sight of the importance of having girlfriends, and she thinks the LBDC is a great way to start.

In her spare time, Shantell also runs a local nonprofit, coaches entrepreneurs, and writes. Her idea of a good time is a trip to the spa, wandering through her local mall, or heading out to a local winery or museum. She tries to live her life by the quote “be the change you want to see in the world.” Her philosophy on life comes from her personal favorite style icon the late, great Coco Chanel and that is “A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.”  If you live by those words you can’t go wrong!

We happen to agree with you there, Shantell. Welcome to the team and good luck with the Richmond chapter!

Shay Ashcraft
Social Media Director, LBDC