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Style Magazine

Buy Smart, Shop Local in Roseville, Rocklin & Granite Bay

Jun 25, 2015 09:22AM ● By Megan Wiskus

FreeStyle Clothing Exchange - Photos by Dante Fontana © Style Media Group

Let’s face it: When it comes to shopping for clothes, beauty products, hostess gifts or even pet food, the choices can be overwhelming—we all could use a little guidance on navigating the aisles, getting the most bang for our buck, and making purchases with panache. With that in mind, we collected 50+ tips, tricks and trends from our area’s favorite non-big-box businesses. Ready, set, shop…


FASHION RULES TO BREAK

“Break all the rules! Wear white year-round; mix patterns and textures; don’t match shoes, belts and handbags; wear your hair long and your skirts short after [you turn] 40; wear black and blue together or black and brown together; mix silver, gold and rose gold.”—Coleen Weeks, owner of Nevaeh Boutique, Spa & Salon, Roseville

“As far as I’m concerned, fashion rules should always be broken. If you want to stand out, you need to be different. Throw out the rule that white ends after Labor Day and wear it all year—it makes you look clean and sleek. Mixing silver and gold jewelry together creates a cool look that is unique. Mixing black and blue outfits/colors together works well and adds some pizzazz to your style. Mix prints, as long as they’re in the same color family. Throw on a sequin top with a pair of jeans—sequins aren’t just for eveningwear anymore. Have fun and be open-minded about clothes. When you go into a dressing room, always take one item that is cute but not ‘you.’ You may surprise yourself!”—Marie Muscat and Dan Williams, owners of Reinvent Clothing Boutique and Consignment Shop, Roseville

Trixie Boutique

 “It’s OK to wear white before Memorial Day, and you don’t need to match your belt with your shoes.”—Robin Taylor, owner of Trixie Boutique, Rocklin

“Rules are meant to be broken. If you want to clash patterns, wear white after Labor Day, or pair something black and blue—go for it! We encourage people to be unique and embrace their personal style, because that’s how trends are started. If you decide to try pattern clashing and it isn’t you, don’t worry—you can always trade past pieces for new, fashionable finds. Don’t play by the book; create your own style!”FreeStyle Clothing Exchange Team, Roseville


TIPS OF HIGHLY STYLISH PEOPLE

“Always have vintage pieces in your closet that you can pull from. Be it an article of clothing, an accessory or a piece of jewelry—you can never go wrong wearing vintage items paired with newer (on trend) items.”—Angela McDonald, fashion marketing manager at Tadpoles Children’s Clothing Store, Roseville

“Get to know your tailor. Off the rack doesn’t always fit perfect; the most stylish people take a good piece and get it tailored—taking it from good to great. Add finishing touches to your outfit, like front tucking your shirt into your belt. Your top will drape better, your legs will be elongated, and it’s overall more flattering. Purchase high-impact pieces such as a great leather fringe handbag, a pair of ultra distressed denim jeans, a standout gold menswear watch, and oversized chic sunglasses. Be consistent with your salon appointments, and visit your esthetician! Brows and hair should always look like you just visited your neighborhood salon and spa.”—Coleen Weeks, owner of Nevaeh Boutique, Spa & Salon, Roseville

“Self-confidence is the best outfit—rock it and own it!”—Robin Taylor, owner of Trixie Boutique, Rocklin

“Wearing expensive shoes and/or carrying an expensive handbag (think Louis Vuitton or Chanel) are what stylish individuals do.”—Jane Powell, co-founder of Designer Consigner, Granite Bay


MUST-HAVE ITEMS EVERYONE NEEDS IN THEIR CLOSET

“For women, a classic white long sleeve button-down shirt, a classic little black dress and a tailored suit. For men, a tailored suit, a casual belt (and a dressier one), pocket squares, nice ties and a tailored tuxedo. Every man, in my opinion, should own his own tuxedo.”—Angela McDonald, fashion marketing manager at Tadpoles Children’s Clothing Store, Roseville

“A great wrap dress, timeless black leather jacket, the perfect pencil skirt, a crisp white button-down, foldable ballet slippers, classic skinny jeans and a perfect white tee.”—Coleen Weeks, owner of Nevaeh Boutique, Spa & Salon, Roseville

“A basic black blazer and a nice, crisp white tailored shirt; a few perfect fitting tees; also, every woman needs a pair of nude pumps (they make your legs look leaner and longer); and don’t forget Mom’s advice with the clean underwear.”—Marie Muscat and Dan Williams, owners of Reinvent Clothing Boutique and Consignment Shop, Roseville

“The little black dress!”—Robin Taylor, owner of Trixie Boutique, Rocklin

Freestyle Clothing Exchange

 “Some of our favorite clothing items include a great pair of jeans, a designer bag, a tailored blazer, and the perfect little black dress that you can wear for any occasion.”—FreeStyle Clothing Exchange Team, Roseville


FASHION HABITS THAT MAKE YOU LOOK OLD

“A hairstyle where someone can look at you and know what decade that style came from, is a fashion ‘no no’ and should be updated. Also, wearing dated color palettes in makeup or too much makeup can make one look older.”—Angela McDonald, fashion marketing manager at Tadpoles Children’s Clothing Store, Roseville

“Wearing too many sequins, tops that are too low cut, silly graphic tees, zip-up hoodies (dressing too young), forgoing the tailor, over-plucking brows, wearing your hair too dark or too light (think skin tone), and streaky, high contrast highlights (go for blended).”—Coleen Weeks, owner of Nevaeh Boutique, Spa & Salon, Roseville

“Mom jeans (jeans that are unflattering to your figure). Always go for a smaller stretch jean. There’s nothing worse than a baggy derriere. Blazers with big shoulder pads are also a definite no-no. Although styles will come back, you can always tell when something is old by the fabric, as fabrics change over the years. So if you have some old clothes in your closet—donate them. Always wear what is in style and fresh.”—Marie Muscat and Dan Williams, owners of Reinvent Clothing Boutique and Consignment Shop, Roseville

 “When someone looks at you and thinks, ‘Gosh, I used to wear those!’ Think jeans from the ’80s, polo shirts with the collar turned up. Any outdated fashion makes you look old; stay with the current styles and you’ll forever look young.”—Jane Powell, co-founder of Designer Consigner, Granite Bay


OUTFIT IDEAS FOR WHEN YOU HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR

Tadpoles Children’s Clothing Store

 “For young girls, sundresses or leggings with a top; for boys, shorts and a T-shirt; for adults (women), a maxi dress with a denim jacket; for men, dark wash jeans with a button-down shirt.”—Angela McDonald, fashion marketing manager at Tadpoles Children’s Clothing Store, Roseville

“A white, button-down top with jeans and a black blazer is a great, simple outfit. You can also take any neutral, black or gray outfit you have in your closet and accessorize with colorful jewelry, shoes or a bag to add instant energy and style to any outfit!”—Marie Muscat and Dan Williams, owners of Reinvent Clothing Boutique and Consignment Shop, Roseville

“When you feel like you have nothing to wear and are no longer inspired by your closet, it’s time to reinvent your wardrobe. Experiment with different styles and trade your clothes for some fun, new pieces. When you refresh your wardrobe, chances are you’ll be more motivated to dress stylishly and love everything in your closet.” —FreeStyle Clothing Exchange Team, Folsom

 “Think basics. A great outfit that always looks good is a crisp white shirt, great fitting jeans, and your favorite colored scarf.”—Jane Powell, co-founder of Designer Consigner, Granite Bay


FAVORITE WORKOUT ACCESSORIES

“I would have to say my stainless steel water bottle! It keeps my water cold, so when I’m in hot yoga for instance or in spin class, I get a cool refreshing drink throughout my workout! Also, stainless steel does not gather the germs like plastic often does (not to mention the EPA) so I’m getting a healthier drink. I just throw it in the dishwasher and I’m ready for the next workout!”—Cynthia Besson, founder and CEO of LHT Revolution Family Weight Loss Centers  Granite Bay; founder of Leaner Healthier Today Weight Loss Centers and author of Leaner Healthier Teen Revolution

 “Versa Gripps because they are durable, provide support for heavy lifting, and come in an assortment of colors; Femme Fitale Gloves because they are comfortable and fashionable; Fit Bit because it helps you stay accountable for your calories burned and comes in a variety of colors.”—Jamee Pau, personal trainer and owner of Jamee Pau Fit, Roseville, 

“Rocktape! It helps you work out stronger for longer. As a high-functioning athlete, it keeps you training through aches and pains.”—Amitis Pourarian, owner and 6th degree taekwondo master at The STUDIO, Roseville

“It may sound simple, but a good water bottle and playlist go a long way. Having a water bottle that you like will help you want to hydrate, which is a critical component to ensuring optimal performance and safety. In addition, having a great playlist is the perfect accessory to stay motivated and work out harder for longer durations. Music can also improve your mood on days when you just don’t feel like working out.”—Suzanne Cardenas, personal trainer and group fitness instructor at California Family Fitness (Folsom and Sunrise locations)


BEST CLOTHING TO SWEAT IN

“I was recently introduced to bamboo, and it seems to be great at absorbing sweat, doesn’t have a smell (like cotton can often have), and dries quickly.”—Jimmy Badra, Mr. World, Fitness and Bodybuilding Champion, NASM, co-founder of LHT Revolution Family Weight Loss Centers, Granite Bay

 “I like to wear my clothing line because it’s comfortable and the fit is loose but shows your muscles. I prefer pants, and I like the spandex-polyester blend dry fit.”—Jamee Pau, personal trainer and owner of Jamee Pau Fit, Roseville

“I recommend moisture-wicking, breathable clothing. Most importantly, choosing clothes that make you feel good about your body will help you feel your best, motivating you to stay active no matter what activity you prefer.”—Suzanne Cardenas, personal trainer and group fitness instructor at California Family Fitness (Folsom and Rancho Cordova locations)


TIPS TO LOOK STYLISH WHILE WORKING OUT 

“My favorite tip is to use Bare Minerals foundation, paired with some basic waterproof mascara. This makes me look like I’m not wearing makeup and even if I sweat, it leaves very little residue on my towel (unlike other foundations). I also love using one of the new permanent lipstick stains by L’oreal or Revlon, so I always have a little color on my lips! Put your hair in a high ponytail (do a little comb back on top, put on your rubber band and then use both hands to pull the hair up.) This look, paired with the makeup and a nice matching workout shirt and pants, makes you look like you’re put together, even when you’re sweating!—Cynthia Besson, founder and CEO of LHT Revolution Family Weight Loss Centers, Granite Bay; founder of Leaner Healthier Today Weight Loss Centers and author of Leaner Healthier Teen Revolution

 “Wear solid bottoms with an accent color and match your top to the accent color. Make the accent color your ‘power color.’ Keep in mind, however, that if you look too stylish at the end of your workout, you aren’t doing it right!”—Amitis Pourarian, owner and 6th degree taekwondo master at The STUDIO, Roseville

“Try clothing that complements your body but might be outside your comfort zone, such as a different style or pattern, or a pop of color. You might be surprised to find a new look that makes you feel inspired.”—Suzanne Cardenas, personal trainer and group fitness instructor at California Family Fitness (Folsom and Rancho Cordova locations)


BEST ITEMS FOR AN AT-HOME WORKOUT 

“A workout ball! It’s one of my favorites because someone of any size can perform exercises safely. A few that are good to start with are arm and leg raises (hold the ball between your extended arms or thighs and squeeze). Wall squats with the ball are excellent for people who have a hard time doing squats on their own. (You just put the ball behind your back, lean up against the wall and let the ball roll you down and back up). In addition, bouncing up and down is really good for your lymphatic system and is a great way to change your attitude.”—Jimmy Badra, Mr. World, Fitness and Bodybuilding Champion, NASM, co-founder of LHT Revolution Family Weight Loss Centers, Granite Bay

“I own a set of 10-30 pound weights and a TRX to workout at home or to pack while on vacation.”—Jamee Pau, personal trainer and owner of Jamee Pau Fit, Roseville

 “My favorite pieces of equipment are a mini exercise ball and resistance bands. Both are versatile, can give you a full-body workout and travel easily. If you’re looking to build strength, then I would recommend a kettlebell.”—Suzanne Cardenas, personal trainer and group fitness instructor at California Family Fitness (Folsom and Rancho Cordova locations) 

“A Fitball for core work, stability and strength training; and a jump rope for cardio and plyometrics.”—Amitis Pourarian, owner and 6th degree taekwondo master at The STUDIO, Roseville


COOL GIFT FOR THE PERSON WHO HAS IT ALL

“A bud vase or toothpick holder made from vintage silverware is the perfect gift for the person who has it all.”—Terry Sjotvedt, co-owner of The Vintage Bricoleur, Loomis (inside the High Hand Fruit Shed)


TIPS FOR DECORATING ON A BUDGET

 “Chalk Paint® decorative paint by Annie Sloan is great for the person wanting to decorate on a budget. It’s fast, because it will adhere to anything with no priming or sanding, and easy to use. Just one can covers three pieces of furniture.”—Terry Sjotvedt, co-owner of The Vintage Bricoleur, Loomis (inside the High Hand Fruit Shed)


WHEN TO SAVE AND WHEN TO SPLURGE ON DÉCOR ITEMS

“When it comes to one-of-a-kind items that are either found or handmade and you see something you want to splurge on, do it—it may be gone the next time you come in.”—Terry Sjotvedt, co-owner of The Vintage Bricoleur, Loomis (inside the High Hand Fruit Shed)


BEST SKIN CARE PRODUCTS & TIPS

“Pharmaceutical-grade copper peptides to strengthen the vessels and lighten; stem cells to heal and restore; growth factors to tighten; Retin-A to remove sun damage; and antioxidants to protect and nourish from the sun and environment.”—Danielle L. Atherton, master esthetician at Dolce Vita Day Spa  Granite Bay

 “A natural exfoliation, or a natural facial is great for those with acne or rosacea. Clay and water are combined to create a cream. The cream is spread over the area to be treated. Using only the fingertips the clay is moved around using a featherlike touch. As the clay penetrates the skin, dead cells are loosened and roll off the skin. There are no machines, chemicals or peels used in this procedure. The entire treatment takes one hour and 15 minutes, and when the client is done—they leave with baby cells forming.”—Myriam Liberman, owner of The Tiger’s Eye Skin Care, Granite Bay

“I recommend the Micro-Retinol line from Pevonia.”—Noki Ellison, spa manager at Atrium Salon and Spa, Granite Bay


HOT WEATHER HAIR & MAKEUP SECRETS

“Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Sunscreen Colorescience SPF 50 portable powder brush with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide for face and body, the Colorescience SPF 20 primers for your specific skin type, and Colorescience natural SPF 30 beautiful antioxidant lip gloss.”—Danielle L. Atherton, master esthetician at Dolce Vita Day Spa, Granite Bay

 “Luxe Liquid Foundation from Glo Minerals sets and becomes a silky, smooth texture. If your skin type is oily or you want a photo-matte finish, the Luxe Setting Powder is a weightless and colorless powder anyone can use.”—Noki Ellison, spa manager at Atrium Salon and Spa, Granite Bay


BEAUTY PRODUCTS EVERYONE NEEDS

“All skin types, in the evening, must have Lira Clinical Pro Retinol to repair and lighten already damaged skin; in the morning, they must have Rengenica Moisturizer with growth factors to tighten and lighten, and Lira Clinical BB Tint 4-in-1 stem cell treatment sunblock and foundation.”—Danielle L. Atherton, master esthetician at Dolce Vita Day Spa, Granite Bay

 “Sunscreen and eye cream! The skin is thin and shows aging faster, and because the eye area is constantly in motion you have to keep it hydrated day and night (try Pevonia’s Power Repair Eye Contour). Everyone knows why we should wear sunscreen—to keep us youthful and cancer-free, so wear it, wear it, wear it!”—Noki Ellison, spa manager at Atrium Salon and Spa, Granite Bay


TIPS FOR GIVING THE GIFT OF FOOD

Nothing Bundt Cakes

 “Giving the gift of food is about creativity, thoughtfulness, and creative wrapping or a handwritten note for that personal touch. Make it fun!”—Cameron Diviak, owner of Nothing Bundt Cakes, Roseville

“One of the first things to ask yourself is if the item is perishable. A fruit basket is a wonderful gift, but you will need to ensure a timely delivery. You may also want to consider any food allergies and read labels carefully, especially for our friends who have celiac disease, for example. Pick a theme for the basket and use a reusable bag or crate for a beautiful presentation. Your only limitation is your imagination!”—Jill Miller, marketing & community relations team leader at Whole Foods Market  Roseville


HOW TO SPOT A QUALITY “FOODIE” PRODUCT 

“It’s practically impossible to spot a quality ‘foodie product.’ That is why Pairings is a tasting room. Come in and talk to us about the chemistry of the products, but more importantly taste the products. We can make you a ‘rock star’ in your kitchen.”—Deb Manley, co-owner at Pairings, Roseville

“It all starts with the highest-quality ingredients (fresh eggs, real butter and real cream cheese). Details matter: handspun, small-batch baking with a commitment to quality.”—Cameron Diviak, owner of Nothing Bundt Cakes, Roseville


WHAT TO BUY A HUNGRY HEALTH NUT

 “We have many recipes that employ the use of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), which is one of the healthiest fats (monounsaturated) one can consume. This type of fat doesn’t oxidize, and minimizing oxidation in our body helps reduce the risk of cancer. Lastly, our high polyphenol oils have a lot of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.”—Deb Manley, co-owner at Pairings, Roseville

“A true health nut would appreciate a piece of seasonal fruit accompanied with fresh ground almond butter. Another great option would be a Vega One All-In-One Meal Bar that contains 12 grams of plant-based protein!”—Jill Miller, marketing & community relations team leader at Whole Foods Market, Roseville


BEST PET TOYS FOR YOUR MONEY

 “You can never go wrong with a KONG. It’s a hard rubber cylinder that you can stuff with all kinds of goodies. We recommend things like kibble, soft dog food, chicken, cheese, cottage cheese, and then plug it with a bit of peanut butter. Put it in the freezer and when you leave or put your dog in their crate, give it to them. It keeps them busy and provides you with a little time to get things done.”—Robin Mizell, owner of Bark Avenue, Rocklin

“Treat-dispensing toys are the best! They last a long time and are reusable. Most dogs don’t destroy them because they’re focused on getting the treat out—plus it keeps them from eating the treat too quickly. Some can be filled with peanut butter or yogurt, other with small packaged treats. Good choices are the KONG Original Toy, Petsafe Busy Buddy Toys, or JW Treat Ball.”—Katie Love, marketing manager at Incredible Pets, locations in Roseville, Auburn, Carmichael and Sacramento


WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN PET FOOD

“When looking for pet food, we recommend looking for brands that are grain-free with no by-products; food that’s rich in meat, low in carbohydrates, and made with whole fruits and vegetables. Minimally processed fresh ingredients are preferred. Avoid propylene glycol, BHA and BHT, as these chemicals are known to cause cancer. Natural preservatives are always better. Anything with soy or wheat is not unsafe, but a lot of animals are allergic to it, which causes some concern.”—Barb Poteet, co-owner of The Natural Pet Tooth Fairy, Roseville (opening soon!)

“Our number-one tip for pet food selection is to find out the cost-per-day of a bag of food, rather than focusing on the total cost of the bag. You might see a 30-pound bag for $30 and another for $45 and think that the $45 bag is more expensive. However, high-quality foods require less cups per feeding, therefore the bag lasts longer. If the $30 bag lasts 30 days and the $45 bag lasts 45 days, then the cost-per-day is exactly the same! All of our staff have a cost-per-day calculator and can help you find a food that fits your pet’s health needs and your budget. There are many things to look for in pet food. The first ingredient as fresh meat or a specifically named meat meal (like chicken meal, lamb meal or salmon meal) is a good sign that the food is high quality. Always avoid wheat, corn, soy and byproducts. Every pet has different health needs, so it’s best to talk to one of our pet nutrition experts and find out more information.”—Katie Love, marketing manager at Incredible Pets, locations in Roseville, Auburn, Carmichael, and Sacramento


TIPS FOR DRESSING UP PETS

 “If you have a desire to do this, we always recommend starting them at a young age so that they’re used to it and enjoy it. If you’re starting later with your pet, we recommend to start off with basic clothing—T-shirts first and then move into other items such as dresses and/or hoodies and sweatshirts. This helps the pet adjust well. Also, recognizing your pet’s temperament is helpful when dressing them up—for example, some like hats, some don’t, so being cognizant of when your pet is uncomfortable will ensure you’re not constricting them or giving them anxiety. Summertime heat is important to consider. Don’t put clothing on your pet that will cause them anxiety and make them warmer.”—Jennifer Kirk, president/founder of Posh Puppy Boutique, Rocklin

“Consider the following three things when dressing your pets: comfort (Is your pet comfortable in the type of clothing selected? Does the hood fall in his face? Does his leg fall out of the leg hole? Is the neck too tight?); proper sizing (This is more important in male dogs—if the body is too long, the dog will pee on the fabric.); climate (Make sure the dog isn’t too hot or too cold.) You don’t want your dog to overheat, but if your dog is small with very little fur, you need to protect them.”—Robin Mizell, owner of Bark Avenue, Rocklin


Fashion photos by Dante Fontana © Style Media Group. All other photos courtesy of their respective companies.