Partique

What should I think about before going to my friend’s Style Swap©? Should I have a game plan? Think in terms of “Wardrobe Essentials I Have” and “Wardrobe Essentials I Don’t Have.” With “Wardrobe Essentials I Have” see the offerings at your Style Swap© as possible accents for those pieces. With “Wardrobe Essentials I Don’t Have,” maybe try to fill those in with what’s at your swap, or as accents for those essentials you know you are going to get.

I have checked my list of essentials, and I’m missing a lot of items from the list, particularly ones for work. Should I try to fill in the whole list now, or over time? Definitely over time. You might find some things at the Style Swap©, or you might find just highlights and accents. The other essentials may take a while. If you can’t find specific items that you need right now, Jones New York can help you fill in those gaps. Take a look at their website: www.jny.com

So, you're America's favorite "Style Guy." What do you think differentiates you from all the other stylists out there? Most stylists and TV style experts like myself are linked to celebs. I prefer helping real people through my books, TV Show and live appearances for Jones New York. I like to think of myself as a style teacher, using all that I have access to on the runways and red carpets to help real women and men look and feel better about themselves. I work mostly on TV, offering advice, tips and style strategies for real people. I like showing people what they are doing right, and how to do more of the same -- versus telling them what's wrong.

What makes The Style Checklist different from other books about style? What makes my book stand out is it is simple to follow, empowering and breaks down style in easy terms. I love the classics, style history and outfit solutions -- that's what most people really need.

How would you describe your own signature style? My style is that of a purist. I love clean, simple, easy pieces that can be flared up if needed (white jeans, a black velvet slipper, a henley), as well as, tailored clothes that fit perfectly, and have bespoke details (a great suit with double vents, vests). All together, I am kind of Saville Row Boho -- if that is such a thing.

You have a TV show, Closet Cases, showing on Fine Living Network. What is your show about? How is this show applicable to the Partique Style Swap©? It is a double makeover show where not only do I re-style one lucky woman or man, but they also get a completely renovated closet -- fully edited by me! The two-part surprise is what makes it unique, and the fact that I am a fashion 'therapist' who really cares. That’s also what the Partique Style Swap© is about -- renovating wardrobes using The Style Checklist as a guide and the Style Swap© as a tool.

How do you feel about animal prints? GROOOOOOOWL! I love them! In doses. They never go out of style. And should never be worn head to toe. An animal print dress is great, but never the matching accessories. I even own a pair of animal print velvet slippers for when I am feeling kinda dapper, to wear with jeans, and a black blazer/turtleneck combo. When going animal, pair back on everything else.

What's your favorite trend going on right now? What's your favorite 'go-to' classic piece? Fave trend: loving long, bright, lightweight scarves still. Skinny or wide, the look is hot! Fave classic: shawl-collared sweatshirts. They are comfy, warm and chic

What can a plus-size woman do to look her best? Honor her curves! Three golden rules for my fuller ladies: Buy the size that fits, not the size you hope to be. Avoid those long jackets and sweaters that you think hide your frame. They add volume! Do shorter jackets and sweaters, and let your top ride out longer beneath it (if you have an 'anxiety zone' around your hips/backside. Embrace pattern, prints, and bold color -- in small doses even. No need to avoid all the fun stuff, just layer solids on top -- if you feel they draw too much attention.