Hey everyone. You know how I always talk about how much I love meeting all these fabulous, like-minded people as one of the benefits of being out here in the blogosphere? Well, recently I had the ultimate pleasure of hanging with Allison Josephs of Jew in the City, when she asked me to be her stylist and help her put together some great looks for upcoming videos and all the other amazing work that she does. For those of you who are not familiar with her, read what she writes in her mission statement on the Jew in the City website:
"So many people have a very negative perception of Orthodox Jews and Judaism. When they think of Orthodoxy, they think things like backwards, repressed, outdated, sexist, and anti-scientific. Scandals that reinforce these misconceptions hit the papers all too often. Popular movies, books, and TV shows repeat negative stereotypes about religious Jewish people and their lifestyles. Allison publicizes the message that Orthodox Jews can be funny, approachable, educated, pro-women and open-minded—and that Orthodox Judaism links the Jewish people to a deep and beautiful heritage that is just as relevant today as it ever was."
And we can dress fabulously too!
I was truly flattered to be able to work with her. As I got to know her, I realized she is a complete sweetheart, extremely down to earth, and talented enough that she doesn't actually need a stylist at all! Hanging with her was like shopping with a friend...and friends we became! We really had a great time.
Here are some random shots of Allison during some of our shopping excursions...excuse the amateur quality of the iPhone photos...like I said we were having too much fun to care ;)
We loved the vivid blue of this tunic (100% Kids) and figured it would really pop on camera. It also made Allison look really thin. But we decided that it was just a little too simple on its own...
To style this tunic I approached my friend at Finale, a boutique in Lakewood, where we tried to find some accessories to spruce up the look. Here are some of the different options using necklaces and belts...they were nice, but not amazing enough...
Although I was trying to get Allison out of her typical style 'box' by insisting she try a faux fur vest (100% Kids), we both agreed that fur just added too much bulk and completely overpowered her!
At Junee's we tried some more outfits. We loved this first top because of it's gorgeous draping and metallic colorblocking....and notice the earrings too...they worked fabulously to frame Allison's face with a nice touch of bling...
...but the camera never lies, and we agreed that the draping actually didn't lay smoothly enough to be flattering.
The next top was absolutely gorgeous on the hanger but I got the feeling it wasn't right for Allison...and I was right. The styling lesson here is that even if you have a great figure (like Allison), what looks good on a hanger may actually not look so great on.
I know so many people who get upset when they go shopping because so few things work for them. This is really true for everyone. Always try to find pieces that bring out the best in you!
This top was really nice, but we all agreed it wasn't special enough for a video with it's muted colors. It was just a 'top on Allison' instead of 'Allison in a great outfit'.
I loved this dress. It had such beautiful colors and a slight pleating that made the style interesting, plus it was super flattering. Allison was not sure about wearing cool colors because she usually wears warmer colors to go with her skin and hair tones, but I thought she looked great!
Allison and I loved the combination of the burnt orange paisly pattern of a pretty blouse and a brown gucci inspired leather belt...
...and it looked fabulous on too!!
Stay tuned for Part II, to find out what happens the next time Allison and I get together...
Until next time,
xo
Sharon
Thank you 100% Kids, Junee's, Finale Boutique and Bitz of Glitz for all of your styling help!! Looking forward to many more projects together.
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14 comments
It looks like you are a great stylist dear! I love how you said not to get frustrated when something doesn't work right on you- I tend to do that and it was a great reminder.
ReplyDeleteXO,
Sam
Www.ThePeakofTresChic.com
i can't stand judgmental people, i say allow people to be who they are and thats when they will be happiest and at their best.
ReplyDeleteyou two did great with these outfits i love them all, my favorite is the blue dress
Sharon, well done. I am swooning over the vivid blue top. It is amazing and the accessories made it look totally out-of-this world fantastic. I have never heard about the Jew in the City. Just went over to the website and checked out a few videos. They are very clever. Allison is on an important mission.
ReplyDeleteSharon I love the last ensemble however the blue print dress looks great on her as well!
ReplyDeleteHappy New Years and All the Best in 2012!
I hope you will come to enter my Giveaway from Serena & Lily!
xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
Such beautiful outfits! You are a very talented stylist!
ReplyDeleteGreat work! Lovely looks! Love the blue dress!
ReplyDeleteI liked that you were honest and said when something didn't look good. People are always quick to post only great looks.
ReplyDeleteMaybe we should have your next project be redesigning a booth at a wholesale giftshow! Boy is that a challenge, but your style is wonderful!
LOVELY OUTFITS HUN!
ReplyDeleteMAGNOLIA MAGZINE
www.magnoliamag.com
Shes lucky to have you as her "stylist' love the last look....but the bright blue top is quite pretty too, great color. You are a good person and a good friend!
ReplyDeleteI love the last 2 and I can totally see you and Allison hitting it off.I know Allison.
ReplyDeleteThat blue dress is amazing!
ReplyDeleteLovely outfits dear!
xxx
S
http://s-fashion-avenue.blogspot.com
Allison was a good sport to model for us and then you hit on a winner....the last, the orange paisley blouse flattered her the most. This looks like so much fun and I can't wait to see more!
ReplyDeleteHugs!
Debra
Great outfits. Sounds like you guys had a lot of fun together.
ReplyDeleteDaphne.
http://fashiondivamommy.blogspot.com
Great styling, Sharon!! xoxo
ReplyDelete