Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Can Pingree match Snowe's style?

Yesterday's surprise news that Sen. Olympia Snowe will not seek reelection this fall led to all manner of speculations and predictions, including the idea that Rep. Chellie Pingree might run for her seat. During her term, Senator Snowe has developed a distinct and effective personal style. What can we recommend for Ms. Pingree with a newly heightened profile?

We've seen Rep. Pingree struggle with prints in the past, and that seems to continue recently. Consider this black and white print: http://youtu.be/8B6EJX86iXU

Unlike Senator Snowe, who looks best in sharply contrasting colors, Rep. Pingree would be better served by a print with less contrast and softer edges. Maybe something like this:


What she does seem to have down is her best color palette.

Mint green: http://youtu.be/7ZwPYiX43AA

She would be well served by some jewelry or accessories here.

Sky blue: http://youtu.be/-_I_DpXaiD8

Now we have an accessory, but the scarf is a bit too big and full. The tone-on-tone colors really work though.

Powder blue: http://youtu.be/5CUEBRURi7w

And here we have some jewelry. Just right!

Any candidate finds a need for a wardrobe upgrade when the prominence of their office increases. It's a change that can be handled gracefully or not. Whether she runs for Senate or not, it looks like Rep. Pingree is on the right track.

Friday, February 24, 2012

Know your audience

Lisa Murkowski traveled back to her home state to discuss Air Force base relocation with her constituents. She wore a white sweater and black pants: http://youtu.be/OOVbyip58y0

Back in Washington, this sweater/turtleneck/jeans/clogs combination would be awfully rustic. But in Fairbanks, Alaska? It's spot on. She looks neat, clean, put together, and most of all she looks like she belongs there. She even took advantage wearing multiple layers to get one of her good colors (light blue) up near her face with her turtleneck.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Dangling attention

Susan Rice was on PBS last week to discuss UN Security Council actions against Syria. She wore a beaded necklace and long, dangling earrings: http://youtu.be/VOMyLg_SL0k

You remember the last time we talked about long earrings, don't you? They can be endlessly distracting, as they are in this case. Part of the problem is that they are so long, they move even when she is barely moving her head at all. They also catch the studio lights, which draws even more attention to them.

The great thing about earrings is that they are easy and fast to put on or take off as needed. In that last minute check before going on camera, I would recommend taking these off.

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Give Style: My Preppy Valentine

Valentine's Day conjures up all kinds of traditional gift ideas: restaurant meals, chocolates, lingerie, flowers, sports tickets and even plane tickets.

But consider perhaps something that will last beyond the day. What political ladies and gentlemen like best is something that fits into everyday life (or almost everyday). Consider perhaps a trip to Sterling & Burke in Georgetown for fine leathergoods and fragrances. The service is impeccable and many of the products can be customized.

For the gentlemen:
My Preppy Valentine, for Gentlemen


1. J.W. Hulme Bi-fold Wallet. Truly an everyday item, ensuring he'll think of you all the time. And it's crafted from American heritage leather.

2. Filson passport wallet. If you are going for plane tickets, present them in style. I mean really, a loose printout of your e-ticket confirmation is not exactly romantic.


3. Daines and Hathaway cufflink box. If he only has one or two pairs, this could be a nice way to encourage an expanded wardrobe.


4. Swaine Adeney travel bar. Indulgent? Sure. But it's hard to go wrong with indulgence that has this much class.


For the ladies:


My Preppy Valentine, for ladies



1. Halcyon Days bangle bracelets. Jewelry for when you're not ready for JEWELRY yet. These are hand enameled in England.



2. Daines and Hathaway heart shaped box. When you are ready for JEWELRY, it deserves to be presented in suede.


3. Penhaligon's eau de parfum. There's something just a little undignified about celebrity scents, no matter how good they smell. This beautiful line is the perfect alternative. 


4. Sterling & Burke Beatrice bag. These bags are custom made for Sterling & Burke by Swaine Adeney Briggs in England and come in five colors. The quality must be seen to be believed. This is truly a lifetime bag.