Style Girl Jess James » Closet Confessions

Closet Confessions with a stylish New Yorker (and grandmother)

admin — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 05:55:35 +0000

My new intern Danielle Dewar recently spent some time in Manhattan. Instead of following up with pretty young things that made the pilgrimage from Wilmington to New York, she decided to profile her latest style icon, which happens to be her best friend’s grandmother. Since Closet Confessions originally debuted with a style profile on my own Nana and I’m an enthusiastic champion for all young-at-heart women with “Advanced Style,” I was all about it!

Take it away, Danielle -

Just four years ago I met my best friend Caitlin, in which a friendship was born over a pair of Coach shoes. She had the flats, while I had the pumps. To be completely honest, I was a little less than thrilled to know that someone owned what I believed to be unique to me, but nevertheless we clicked.
With my recent trip to New York City to visit her, I realized this affinity towards exclusivity was not that unique after all, once we stopped by her grandmother’s home in the Upper West Side.
Clad in a navy and white polka dot Ralph Lauren Black Label button-up dress and Peter Fox oxford-inspired heels, Carol Ferranti is no exception to the aspiration for inimitableness. “I definitely don’t like to do what everyone else does,” she says. “I don’t like to be the same. I like to stand out. That’s just how I operate—if someone else is doing it, I stop.”

This mentality has proved true in more ways than just one. Whether through fashion or life in general, Ferranti has always aspired to be none other than simply herself.
“I graduated from the High School of Music and Art just two years ago,” she laughs. “They encouraged you to be individual. You could wear anything you wanted and I graduated as Best Dressed.”

It should come as no surprise the noted fashionista still receives compliments on her garments. Thus, she offers women everywhere a bit of timeless advice that has kept her fabulous throughout the years: “The most important thing about fashion is to know what looks good on you. If you have good taste, you can go anywhere and find something smart—it doesn’t have to be from Bergdorf Goodman. With discretion and a good eye, you can buy something stunning.”

Aside from fashion and style, her love for antiques has also stemmed from smart shopping and “a good eye”. The talent has enabled her lifelong success in the antique business, which began in an antique center among 40 or 50 other dealers. However, that was just the beginning for the savvy businesswoman.“I went from that shop to my own shop on Madison Avenue,” she recalls. “It was there for 12 years—I opened in 1975 and closed in 1987 due to the burglaries and robberies my shop experienced.”

While her shop may have closed, consolation is unnecessary to say the least. She now works with Skinner, one of the world’s leading auction houses. As a representative, her sole purpose is to bring them business. Well, what has she brought to the table, might you ask? (Don’t worry, I posed the same question.) “I recently got a really good call from a friend of mine who recommended her friend’s college roommate who has major paintings [she is willing to sell] from Gustave Klimt and Egon Schiele,” she explains calmly.

It turns out, [Carol] Ferranti has always been a major patron of the arts. Studying Art History at Syracuse University has given her an undeniable advantage over most. Besides looking for the perfect find, she also frequents museums around the city and not just for the artwork.
“I recently upgraded my membership at the Museum of Modern Art so I’ve been attending openings with my friend and her husband,” she explains. “We spend the first 40 minutes or so just looking at what everyone is wearing, and seeing how individuals put themselves together. It’s very interesting.”

While attempting to decode others’ inspiration, her fashion sense has been acquired entirely through one person—her mother. “She was always elegant, tasteful, and conservative. My mother believed very firmly that you should buy one good thing, instead of many.” While Ferranti may have indulged previously, this mantra has inspired her to make an effort to pull herself away purchasing excess items. In fact, a peek into her closet could potentially cause a designer overdose. Fendi, Dolce & Gabbana, Anna Sui, Yves Saint Laurent, Manolo Blahnik, Miu Miu—you name it, she’s got it.

It’s cliché, but you can take the girl out of the designer, but you can’t take the designer out of the girl. So recently giving in to the fashion urge, Ferranti purchased her most coveted piece of clothing thus far. “I purchased my swing-length Fendi sable fur coat last year” she says. “It was a present to myself. It’s exquisite and absolutely beautiful.”And while the thought of a Fendi coat may make my heart happy and possibly make my mouth water (just a little), the reality is that the caliber of stores that carry such items are simply not available in our radius.

However, according to Ferranti this doesn’t matter. In other words, you don’t have to spend your month’s rent to love the way you look and what you wear. She advises people to “browse everywhere to see the possibility of selections out there. Find what you like and develop a look you feel comfortable in.”

Ferranti emphasizes the importance of timelessness in fashion, stating that once she likes something, she always does. Fashion is about exuding yourself as an individual, and in the words of Carol Ferranti: “Wear what you feel good in, not necessarily what someone else thinks (you should wear).”

Q&A – Some Style Musings from Carol’s granddaughters, Caitlin and Julia Ferranti:

FF: Describe your style and inspiration. 

Julia: “I would say I am laid back and preppy. But my inspiration comes from my friends and people I see walking around the city.”

Caitlin: “My style is definitely laid-back casual. And as someone who fluctuates in weight, I try to find clothing that is both comfortable and flattering.”

FF:   Where are your favorite places to shop? And why?

 Julia: “I like to shop at Forever 21 and H&M for the affordability and selection. I also love Free People (as well as We the Free) and smaller boutiques in the city. They all have affordable clothing that fits my individual style.”

Caitlin: “My favorite places to shop are Lord & Taylor, BCBG, Anthropologie, as well as specialty boutiques. I believe price should not be a factor as long the clothes are durable and attractive, of course.”
 

FF: What are some of your current must-haves?

Julia: “Handbags! I love them all. I love the over-the-shoulder bags, clutches, satchels…everything.

 Caitlin: “My eye is drawn towards bright colors and funky designs right now. I’ve always been into the tasteful floral patterns as well.”

FF: What’s one style tip you believe to be applicable to everyone?

 Caitlin: “More is not always better. A simple outfit can be tasteful and classy, as well as interesting.”

 Julia: “Always wear what makes you feel good.” (sound familiar?)

SG FASHION FIX – Closet Confessions with The “Vintage Queen”

jess — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 21:33:50 +0000

Back by popular demand! For my second installment of “Closet
Confessions,” I couldn’t imagine a better way to spend the afternoon
than getting a behind the seams tour of Charleston’s “Vintage Queen” Lori Wyatt’s
closet. Her extensive collection, from lavish silk Oriental robes,
embellished party frocks to a barrage of baubles, is enough to make
anyone with a penchant for vintage to go weak in the knees.

Watch the VIDEOS (below) to see Lori’s most precious vintage finds as she shares her
favorite style musings on the thrill of the hunt, styling tips and
tricks and her enduring love affair with vintage clothing along with
her stylish sidekick, Natalie Miller.

CLOSET CONFESSIONS: Vintage Queen Lori Wyatt (Part 1)

CLOSET CONFESSIONS: “Vintage Queen Lori Wyatt (Part 2)

* Click on photos above to watch the videos, please! *

Photography of Lori Wyatt’s Collection

by: Charleston Photographer Benjamin Williams

MEET LORI WYATT October 6th

at the Vintage Trunk Show at Paysage

READY FOR FALL? GET YOUR TICKET TODAY!

First 25 guests to get their tickets online are registered to

WIN the “Fall Fabulous” package

VIDEO: Watch CapeFearTour’s

video tour of Castle Street’s Antique District

September 17

FashionSPARK

RALEIGH

WHAT: The fashionSPARK
Fashion Show, now in its 5th year, showcases the area’s top local
fashion talent with fashion shows featuring 25 fashion designers.

WHEN: Friday, September 17th 8pm
WHERE: City Plaza in Downtown Raleigh

WANNA GO?

General admission to the fashionSPARK Fashion Show is free &
open to the public. Standing room is limited. Arrive early.

September 18

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes

WHAT:
The international men’s march to stop rape, sexual assault and gender violence, is coming to Wilmington! Calling all boyfriends, husbands, fathers, brothers and sons – we need YOU to walk a mile in
downtown Wilmington – while donning a pair of high-heeled shoes!

WHEN: September 18

WHERE:
Starts at Elijah’s (2 Ann Street in Downtown Wilmington) and ends at
Elijah’s with a reception, awards, refreshments and live music.

WANNA WALK?: Contact Ashley Garner at agarner@intracoastalrealty.com today!

More details coming soon at www.walkamilewilmington.com. Need some style tips on where to wear with your heels? Style Girl’s got ya covered. Give me a holler.

September 23

Fun in the Fall Runway & Trunk Show

Sonny B / Landfall Center

WILMINGTON

WHAT: Sonny B Boutique presents “Fun in the Fall,” a red carpet event featuring A to Z
Clothing, Runway & Trunk Show, Wine, Fun, Friends and Raffle Prizes
benefitting DREAMS Center for Arts Education

WHEN: Thursday September 23rd at 6:3opm

WHERE: Sonny B Boutique at Landfall Center

September 25

Fall Fashion with Flair Luncheon & Fashion Show

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort

CHARLESTON

WHAT: The Jasmine Porch restaurant at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort will host the second annual fashion luncheon, emceed by Charleston Magazine Style Editor Ayoka Lucas and benefiting Charleston’s Center For Women, the only comprehensive women’s development center in South Carolina.

Models will display fashions from Charleston’s top fashion boutiques
and designers, Eden Boheme, Cose Belle, Cavortress , Monkee’s of Daniel Island and Lori Wyatt Vintage and accessories from Candy Shop Vintage and Tasshki Handbags. Jasmine Porch will provide a sumptuous three-course menu with bubbly during the show. Shopping pop-up style and gift bags will follow lunch.

WHEN: September 25 / Noon-2pm
WHERE: Jasmine Porch restaurant at The Sanctuary at Kiawah

WANNA GO?: Cost of the event is $45 (+ tax and gratuity) per person
with a portion of the lunch proceeds going to The Center for Women.
Luncheon guests will be offered a discount coupon on treatments at The
Sanctuary’s Spa, one of 13 Forbes 5-star spas in North America.
In addition, guests will receive complementary beach & pool access
at The Sanctuary. For more information or reservations, call
843-768-6253.

Paysage presents “Week of Wow” – October 5, 6, and 7th

October 5

SPOIL YOURSELF AND YOUR HOME

Complimentary yoga & LULULEMON ATHLETICA trunk show, followed by CAMEO 1900 healthy brunch cooking class, and an afternoon of trunk shows, classes, and workshops offered by PAYSAGE, HARBOUR CLUB DAY SPA, AIRLIE MOON,
ZIABIRD, and many more.

October 6

TARA SHAW LUNCHEON

Join New Orleans’ designer, Tara Shaw
at the Landfall Country Club for a luncheon while Tara shares her
antiquing sagas! Shaw specializes in French, Swedish, and Italian
antiques, and will introduce her new furniture line, Maison.

11:30am – 2pm: TARA SHAW luncheon and fashions by MONKEES, BEANIE + CECIL, ALLIGATOR PIE, ZIABIRD, and ISLAND PASSAGE

3pm – 6pm:

TARA SHAW antique collection in the Paysage tent, and a vintage fashions trunk show with “Style Girl” Jess James featuring

one-of-a-kind vintage finds from the James + Dunne Collection and pieces from Lori Wyatt,
“The Vintage Queen of Charleston.” End the day with the fabulous sounds
of The Doug Irving Trio, while sipping a glass of wine, compliments of
Paysage.

October 7

HIGH STYLE HOLIDAY PREVIEW

11:30am – 2pm: Eric Gebhart cooking class, learn how to make delicious and festive fall dishes from “Wilmington Top Chef.”

2:30pm – 6:30pm: Holiday Gift Preview, trunk shows galore.

6:30pm – 8pm: Holiday decorating and floral class with Jane from Paysage

Please call Paysage for ticket requirements, schedule, and more information. 910.256.6050 or visit www.paysage.com/events

October 9

Dock Side Fashion Show II

Charleston Maritime Center

CHARLESTON

WHAT:
Join Charleston fashion designers Sarah Maxwell, Rachel Gordon of
O.N.E., Ashley Reid of Clewis Reid, Anna Lassiter and Lucinda Robinson of Eden Boheme, and Julie Wheat of Cavortress for a fashion show event to benefit Charleston Waterkeepers. Inventive Environments and Snyder have planned an event to remember under the stars on the harbor at Charleston Maritime Center. Hair by Salon Capelli and models from TOUT. Electric Friends will set the mood. Over 20 Vendors will be onsite in the STYLE LOUNGE, including “Style Girl” Jess James and “Vintage Queen” Lori Wyatt!

WHEN: Saturday October 9th / 5-9pm
WHERE: Charleston Maritime Center

WANNA GO?: Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door

For more info, contact: info@onecharleston.com

October 14

James + Dunne’s Fall Fashion Preview

Blue Hand Home / The Forum

WILMINGTON

WHAT: Jess James of James + Dunne Styling is gearing up for the annual Fall Fashion Preview, presented by Cape Fear Jewelry and Antiques and J Nelson Designs Goldsmiths, featuring
must-have looks for fall, style secrets, age-appropriate essentials
& deals you won’t wanna miss! Beauty tips & tricks from Bangz Hair Salon & Spa owner Frank Potter and Amy Kennison of MAC Cosmetics, jewelry trends and custom designs from Pait Skipper and Jonathan Nelson of Cape
Fear Jewelry, as well as de-lish bites from Private Chef Lori Eaton and The Dessert Divas and wine and bubbly courtesy of Art Soup.

MODELS:
Jess will select fall’s most fabulous pieces from your favorite local
boutiques and designers (Cape Fear Jewelry, Hallelu, Island Passage, J+D Collection, Lula Balou, Oliver, Paradise Yoga, Personal Touch, Taashki Handbags of Charleston, Torri/Bell, Vintagely New) to create fashion forward, age appropriate “looks” for every
age group with favorite features such as “1 Fall Essential, 3 Different
Ways and “Runway to Real Way.” From 20s to 70+, we are looking for local women to “work it!” on the runway. If you would like to recommend a local model (age 25-80), please post a photo and
contact info on the James + Dunne Facebook page. Click HERE.

WANNA GO?: Tickets are on sale NOW at www.jamesanddunne.com

First 50 guests to get tickets are registed to win the “Fall Fabulous” package!

To watch the video (produced by CapeFearTours.com) from the Spring Fashion Preview, please click HERE.

October 15

4th Annual Rock for the Cure

The Reel Cafe

WILMINGTON

WHAT:
The fourth annual Rock for the Cure breast cancer benefit concert
presented by the UNCW Communication Studies Society will feature The Schoolboys, a local classic and modern rock band. The event is held to support the Pink Ribbon Project and recognize breast cancer awareness month, which is October.

WHEN: Friday, October 15 from 7-10pm

WHERE: The Reel Café in Downtown Wilmington / 2nd floor

WANNA GO?: $5 and all proceeds benefit the New Hanover Regional Medical Center Foundation’s Pink Ribbon Project. For more information, please visit student.uncw.edu/rockforthecure.

About FASHION FIX

Everyone needs a fashionable friend who knows the
best places to shop. Looking for the insider scoop on the most
sought-after deals?

Once a week (FASHION FRIDAYS), get your fashion fix with Style Girl’s style tips, style on the street + more!

Please forward on to your oh-so-fashionable friends!

Contact Jess James and subscribe to the Fashion Fix
Newsletter at www.stylegirljessjames.com

Style Girl FASHION FIX – Closet Confessions Debut

jess — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 05:03:43 +0000

FashionFix Newsletter Template

I like to think that every piece of clothing in a person’s closet tells
a story, not only of who they’ve been, but who they’d like to become.
The art of dressing is a personal statement that is constantly
evolving. Each and every day we stretch the canvas and call on our
imagination and creativity to craft the “look of the day,” as Little Edie liked to say.

In celebration of those who possess great personal style and those who
appreciate it, I’m introducing a new segment into the “FASHION FIX” mix
called “Closet Confessions” where we explore the essence of a person by
taking an inside look at their closet, collections, memories and
favorite style musings.

I decided to start with one of my style inspirations, my 91-year-old
Nana, Anna Seaboldt. Due to her spunky nature, I fondly remember her telling us about the guy she “nailed over his head” with her high heel
after he tried getting fresh with her during her stint as a nanny in Brooklyn or the special cream blouse with gold cufflinks my grandfather
brought home for her during one of his trips abroad. And most memorably, her treasured mink cape she wore at her husband’s funeral
while her home was being robbed by a mobster and his girlfriend whom, she likes to add, ran off with her other fake mink.

As Alzheimer’s sets in, these memories have began to fade from my Nana’s conscious, but for a day, she slipped into one of her favorite
yellow knit suits, stepped inside her closet and tried her best to remember through the threads of time…

VIDEO:

Background “Commentary:” Buster’s
heavy panting and incessant comments from my Aunt Tinker (Nana’s 80+
year old sister, who happened to be visiting from California).

FASHION SHOW TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

First 50 to get tickets online get a FREE pair of earrings and are registered to win an Alice + Olivia top.

CLICK HERE.

Alice + Olivia Makeover Madness

Alice + Olivia designer Stacey Bendet chose three lucky
Wilmington women to win an Alice + Olivia outfit (chosen with the help
of the Alice + Olivia style team in the A+O Airstream), hair cut, color
and style by Lavish Salon, makeup by Blush, jewelry from S. Burke and a
chance to walk the runway during the Monkee’s FASHION + FLASH runway
show.

Top Left: Angie Fortuin

Top Right: Lisa Nez

Bottom: Kirsty Piper

Both Angie and Kirsty were nominated by their thoughtful
husbands. Robert Piper, a Marine who is currently deployed and has
spent 24 of the last 36 months away from home, says, “I think
(Kirsty’s) perfect as is personally, but I know every beautiful woman
dreams of her “Pretty Woman” makeover and with all we’ve been through, Kirsty deserves that dream to become a reality.” Lisa Nez, nominated by Shannon Dunne, is a mother of two, a college student, and promising
entrepreneur who waits tables at night to raise funds for Drifted, a line of belts she designs with her husband.

Come on out and cheer them on!

Tickets are on Sale NOW! $10 in advance at Monkee’s or online / $20 at the door. Proceeds will
benefit the Betty H. Cameron Women & Children’s Hospital.

Cheryl Kent, one of Wilmington’s most sought-after hair stylists, is collecting hair for non-profit Matter of Trust, which is creating mats from recycled hair to naturally collect oil spills from the ocean.

Talk to your hair stylist about connecting with Cheryl to join this “Hair Cares” effort.

To find out more details, become a fan of Cheryl Kent Hair on Facebook or

contact Cheryl at Ward Hair Salon – 910.395.0771

Photo: Leslie Koehn of Gloss Photographic

TONIGHT!

Alice + Olivia / Monkee’s Fashion Show & Trunk Show

Lumina Station

WILMINGTON

WHAT: Alice + Olivia’s nationwide traveling retro Gulfstream is setting up shop at Monkee’s
at Lumina Station. An evening of glamour is in store with a tented
event, a high-style runway fashion show and a trunk show where Alice +
Olivia’s stylists will be on hand to offer style tips and tricks.
Hair by Lavish, Makeup by Blush and yummy bites and libations from 19 Hundred. Fashion Show styled by James + Dunne Styling!

WIN:
Alice + Olivia will be giving away 3 makeovers to 3 lucky Wilmington
women chosen by A+O designer Stacey Bendet. The makeover winners will
also have a chance to walk the runway the night of the event. To WIN,
post a photo or video of yourself and 1-2 sentences on why you should
win on Monkee’s Facebook Page. To enter, click HERE.

WANNA
GO?: Tickets are on Sale NOW! $10 in advance at Monkee’s or online / $20 at the door. Proceeds will
benefit the Betty H. Cameron Women & Children’s Hospital. First 50 guests to purchase tickets will be entered to win an Alice + Olivia top from Monkee’s!

June 25 – 27

Lumina Gem Fine Jewelry Show

Hampton Inn & Suites

WILMINGTON

WHAT:
Gemologist Brad Bass of Lumina Gems (based upstairs at Lumina Station)
is hosting an inaugural Fine Jewelry Show benefitting The American
Heart & Stroke Association featuring fine estate jewelry, designer
jewelry, local jewelry artists, loose diamonds, watches & more.

WHEN: June 25: 3pm – 9pm / June 26 & 27: 10am-7pm

WHERE: Hampton Inn & Suites @ Landfall Park (behind Port City Chop House)

WHY:
FREE Admission – Enter to Win Free Jewelry, bring gold jewelry in
exchange for cash $, and if you come Friday and spend over $100, Brad
will present you with a ticket to see the Alice + Olivia Monkee’s
Fashion Show at Lumina Station! For more info on Lumina Gem,
click HERE.

June 26

Cotton Candy, Confetti & Kiddie Couture

A Boxed Event

WILMINGTON

WHAT:
Join us as we bid adieu in style to Fashion Designer Amanda DeLeon as
she showcases her children’s line “Rabbits Foot” clothing in Wilmington
one last time before she packs her bags for Austin. While you – mom and
dad (yes, dads are welcome) are mingling, both boys
and girls can enjoy storybook style refreshments, fashion forward fun
and fabulous giveaways, including Silly Bandz for everyone!

WHEN: Saturday June 26 / 1pm – 4:30pm

WHERE: A Boxed Event’s premier event in their almost-finished studio at 130 North Front Street Suite C.

WHY: This is an amazing opportunity to grab some amazing pieces limited edition pieces from Amanda’s collection.

For a sneak peek at Amanda’s line, visit her Etsy Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/rabbitsfootclothing

About
FASHION FIX
Everyone needs a fashionable friend who knows the
best places to shop. Looking for the insider scoop on the most
sought-after deals?
Once a week (FASHION FRIDAYS), get your fashion fix with Style Girl’s
style tips, style on the street + more!

Please forward on to your oh-so-fashionable friends!

Contact Jess James and subscribe to the Fashion Fix
Newsletter at www.stylegirljessjames.com

Style Girl Jess James » Closet Confessions

Closet Confessions with a stylish New Yorker (and grandmother)

SG *FASHION FIX* – Closet Confessions with The “Vintage Queen”

Style Girl *FASHION FIX* – Closet Confessions Debut

SG FASHION FIX – Closet Confessions with The “Vintage Queen”

Style Girl FASHION FIX – Closet Confessions Debut