New Year, New You Evening

I was fortunate to share the hosting duties for an event for ladies, last night. Everyone had a fabulous time. I got to see so many of my favorite people. I shared the stage with Dr. Karen Harkaway who is the Director of the Center for Skin Refinement in Delran, NJ. We both did presentaions on how to create a new you this new year. Of course, I spoke about Carlisle and Per Se but I also went over seven trends for Spring 2009. I will review those here in upcoming posts. Dr. Harkaway spoke about some of the wonderful services she offers like SmartLipo and Juvederm injects. A few lucky ladies were able to participate in a demonstration. If you want to learn more here's the link: http://www.drharkaway.com/Center.html

I also had an informal fashion show featuring a preview of the Spring 2009 collections. The ladies there loved the Elite dress which fit our model perfectly, they were wowed by the Bright jacket worn with the Marmalade top and Pegasus pants, I also heard a lot of comments when Staci, our model, came out in the Gypsum jacket carrying the Fireburst red patent leather bag. It was a great night for everyone. Thanks to all who came by!

Bags and Belts

If you think about your very favorite outfit, does it have a favorite accessory that goes with it? Mine does...the "Bianca" belt, a white belt from Summer 2008. I love it with a black cotton skirt suit that has white pickstitching. Accessories add the finishing touch to outfits. Some may say that they are not necessary but accessories make a huge difference. A contrasting belt on a black dress can completely change the dress' look. The accessories in the Spring 2009 collections will not fail to impress. Let's talk bags......there are seven of them, all amazing. There's a beaded wristlet....do you remember the silver "Goddess" bag from the Fall? This bag is an ivory version. Talk about an eye catcher. There's a fire engine red croc embossed patent leather bag and the perfect sized black satin clutch called "Socialite". You won't believe the price. Did I tell you that it's solid black? There are 4 more bags that you can look for when you come in for your appointment.

Belts come in a rainbow of colors: Tropic Pink, Admiral Navy, Poppy, British Khaki, Silver, Blonde and Black to name a few. The collection has all kinds of black belts: thin belts, wide belts, belts with gold buckles, belts with nickel buckles. We even have a black and white belt called "bullseye" . Did I mention we have a lot of black belts?

Make sure when you are looking at the accessories that you also consider the jewelry. I think this Spring, we have an especially wonderful selection!

Back To Black

When it comes to fashion nothing is more fundamental than the color black. It is the anchor color of every wardrobe, the one color that is not only comfortable in any situation, but entirely appropriate, even elegant in every situation. While other colors, tones, shades, and hues may come and go black is enduring.

Carlisle believes the best place to be is in the BLACK. As a result, Carlisle has announced a 20% discount off all black pieces in the Carlisle and Per Se Spring 2009 line. Simply said, anything that is solid black in the collections are 20% off. Belts, Bags, Knits, Skirts, Pants, Jackets, Bodywear, Tops, Dresses, and Blouses. So now is definitely the time to be back to black!

New Per Se Website

Many of you have already discovered the wonderful clothing that makes up the Per Se collection, you know that the Per Se line truly represents the quality and design details that are Carlisle. This Spring, Carlisle introduces Per Se as a collection all its own — bold, modern clothing that is sophisticated — but with a playful twist. For those who have not yet discovered Per Se, I have a great new website for you to check out. http://www.persecollection.com/ showcases the clothing that makes up the Spring collection. It's a Per Se collection that has grown. There are close to twenty more pieces in this Per Se collection. What's on the top of my Per Se wishlist? Per Dapple, a black and white silk doupioni coat. I love the poppy trim on the sleeves, neck and side slits. It will be wonderful with leggings or skinny leg black pants like Per Vespa. I also love the Per Linea sweater set because it is so versatile! Use the link about to see the new website, I am sure you will find pieces you love too.

Fall Must-Haves

So I have returned from a trip to unsunny Florida. That explains the weather. Inside the main ballroom, it was bright and colorful. That's how you can describe the Fall 2008 Carlisle Collection. The palette was pumice, pumpkin, blueberry, chocolate and gray! The fabrics were tweeds, leathers, boucles, and double faced wool to name a few. There were plaids, animal prints, houndstooths, and stripes. I will point out some of my favorites then I will give you a must-haves list.

Okay, my absolute favorite piece in the collection is Luxurious. It's a snakeskin print rabbit jacket. It is a cropped length and it has a little swing to it. After that jacket, for casual days, I like Per Steller sweater with Per Mocha. I just love Starry Night, it's a very feminine business suit that is extremely versatile. If you want to take a look at what's in the collection. Here is the link to the website. Enjoy.......I can begin ordering July 11th.

Carlisle - http://carlislecollection.com/collections/collection.php?c=carlisle&s=fall&y=2008

Per Se - http://carlislecollection.com/collections/collection.php?c=perse&s=fall&y=2008

Here's a must haves list:

1. A Show-Stopper Coat

2. Charcoal Gray Pants

3. A Blouse with a Bowtied Neck

4. Something That's Animal Print

5. A Jacket with Lots of Texture

6. A Pair of Long Fitted Leather Gloves

7. An Oversized Handbag (Check out Nutmeg)

Fall Preview

This week, I am excited to be traveling to West Palm Beach for a very special meeting. I am going for my first look at the Fall 2008 collection. As always, the collection is all about ease, all luxury, all about looking fabulous and our designers are obsessed with what is beautiful. There are ten groupings in Carlisle and two in Per Se. I can't wait to touch and feel our fabrics and to get a chance to see the details that make each of the pieces special. When I get back, I look forward to sharing with you all the wonderful pieces that will make wonderful additions to anyone's closet. Stay tuned.

Fabric Care

Now that we are past the long awaited official change of season, you are probably thinking of wearing your lighter weight clothing. While thinking of Spring and Summer clothing is wonderful, you also need to make sure to take good care of your Fall and Winter clothing. Remember, if you purchase Carlisle Collection clothing, we intend for you to be able to wear the clothes for several years. Here are some tips:

• Always clean all clothing before packing away for the season.
• If dry cleaning is recommended, be sure the cleaner is experienced and has a reputation for cleaning fine fabrics.
• Remove clothes promptly form plastic coverings to allow them to breath.
• Hang the garments correctly and use a hanger that fits properly. Do not hang knits, fold and store them flat.
• Store clothing carefully. Plastic coverings should not be used.

To properly care for the pieces that are in your active wardrobe....your Spring and Summer clothes, keep these things in mind:

• Empty all pockets between wearings. Heavy objects strain pocket seams and pull fabric out of shape.
• Press and clean clothes periodically to preserve their life and beauty.
• If you are caught in the rain, dry garments away from direct heat.

Always remember to use a dry cleaner who is reputable and has experience with fine fabrics. Remember, if you give proper care to your timeless Carlisle Collection clothing, you will be wearing them and getting complements for a long time to come!