Frustrated by Finding my Element!

Sorry to leave you hanging....I promised to originally post last Thursday and I had my oldest's preschool thanksgiving program at his school. Three-year olds dressed in turkey hats singing off-key is by far the sweetest thing ever. Seriously. I wouldn't have believed it until I saw it.

I have been overall delinquent in blogging because, let's face it folks, we are all inundated with a million things to read every day and adding one more thing to the list stinks. So I have been posting tips in the status box of my finding your element page for ppl to quickly peruse (My Facebook Page) But some things take a little longer to go through like today's topic.  I won't lie, finding your element can be extremely exciting....AND extremely overwhelming all at the same time. It's exciting for the fact that it has the potential to make your life super easy, allow you to be fashionable without a high price tag (I love target clearance racks and consignment places ppl!) and enable all of your clothes to coordinate with one another in your closet.  It also has the ability to frustrate you to the point of being paralyzed:(. I've been there. Most of my clients have been there. Most of my futures clients could be there. So what's the solution?  More exposure, more exposure, and, have I mentioned: MORE EXPOSURE?!?!

Other than training with the founder of the elements for six months like I did, how can the average person get more experience therefore making their element easier? Here are three things YOU can do today that won't cost you a thing and will make your element (and life) easier:

Follow me on Pinterest:  most of my clients are already doing this but not all.  Even if the clothes that I pin are not in your size or even style, you can most certainly get benefit from the colors on my element boards: air, water, fire, earth.  You can create your own board on Pinterest and repin some from me and voila! You now have clothes to compare any future online purchases to.  It's simple: my Pinterest will provide you with free shopping but if my tastes don't jive with yours, my Pinterest will at least provide a comparison for items you are considering.  If it's in your element it will go with the rest of the items I have pinned, if not: save your pennies. Here is my Pinterest page!

  "Like" me on Facebook: I provide not just clothing items but tips weekly that pertain to each of the four elements.  I will be addressing makeup and hairstyles for each element I'm the coming weeks.  Here is my Facebook page!

Lastly, reach out to me:  I noticed the people who get the most out of the elements are those who are closest to me.....because they aren't afraid to ask me questions. They send me pics, they text me and they Facebook message me items they want to buy.  It's not hard and it's free.  Snap a pic and send it my way and I will help you out as quickly as possible.  Here is my email!


I hope all of my clients understand that the Elements are what you make them out to be.  It can be all encompassing and life changing....if you allow it to be and are willing to learn more.  Like anything worthwhile, you get back what you put into it.

Be well, live well
K

How to Use your Element to Effortlessly Decorate Your Home

This will be my second attempt at writing this blog (at 1am the night before I am supposed to post).....this is what happens when you procrastinate til the last minute and lose internet connection while saving your first draft.  Here goes!  

I used to be intimidated by a lot of things, decorating included.  I would always default to what I call the "tan trap" where my life basically consisted of a lot of neutrals.  Looking back on it, I would venture a guesstimate that I was also living my life in the neutral zone AKA: I wanted to be in charge of everything and the easiest way to be in charge was to play it safe (PS you are never really in charge).  Fast forward a few years and throw in a husband, two small children and voila!  Neutrals won't keep anything under control in my life anymore.  Also, I have realized that playing it safe, is....well.. kind of boring.  I missed out on a ton and galldarnit I still fight the urge to live in the "tan trap" but I am breaking free a little bit each day.  What the Elements have taught me more than anything else is that we are all different and we all need to not only accept that fact but love it (let's all say it together: I deeply and profoundly love and accept myself).  Let's also just say one more thing before we get into the material stuff below, it's not at all about the material stuff below. A home is about the people in it, even if it's just you....sitting in your house.....with a cat that you adopted from the animal shelter.  It's about how you make others feel when you bring them into your home.  I used to freak out and need everything spotless and perfect before I would dare have my best friend over.  Now, I realize, they also have laundry that might not get put away every day and here's a hint:  I never notice it when I go to their house.  It's about YOU-not your Martha Stewart stuff you found on Pinterest.  Sounds cliche but it's true.  If I had to choose on spending money on a good Jim Rohn seminar to improve myself or a new velvet sofa (I have always wanted a velvet sofa), I would choose the seminar (and I have done it).  This life will flash by-do you remember how much you paid for that recliner you love so much? Or do you remember how wonderful you felt when you conquered one of your biggest, scariest fears?  On your deathbed, you won't be talking about the autumn in the den-you will be talking about the life you lived and those who were important in it.  So commit to escaping the "tan trap" and take a risk.....starting with that velvet sofa you always wanted....right after the seminar of course :) 

Everyone should have a room dedicated and decorated in their Element (first, I guess, you would need to figure out your Element which is where I come in).  Using your color fan can and your descriptive words can break you out of the "tan trap" and into some pretty colorful living that coordinates.  Effortlessly. As I always tell my clients: once your closet is coordinated in your Element, every pc will practically go with any other pc. The same works when decorating in your Element.    

For an AIR remember your colors (as seen on my AIR Board:  http://www.pinterest.com/KatieStockwell1/air-element/) along with your words of whimsical, unpredictable, uplifting movements.  Some pcs that would work well in an AIR interior could include:  

Cherry Blossom Canvas Print @ Shadesoflight.com

Sebastian Gold Damask Wall Paper @Hautelook.com

Cloud Blue Abigail Loveseat @ Worldmarket.com

For WATER's keep in mind not just your colors (as seen on my WATER board:  http://www.pinterest.com/KatieStockwell1/water-element/)  but also downward flowing styles and soft textures....like velvet!

 

I have been looking for this chair ever since I found it on Pinterest.....source unknown

 

Paloma Sofa in Charcoal @ Arhaus.com

Storm Cloud (6249) by Sherwin Williams

You can find all of these items and more on my Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/KatieStockwell1/boards/

Next time we tackle the warmth and richness of decorating in the FIRE Element as well as the clean and classic look of the EARTH Element interior.  Until then~be your best!

"You should have a picture of yourself as a kid in your home so that you remember where you came from."—Musician John Mayer, September 09

Katie Stockwell-Finding Your Element-
enjoys helping others find and live in their most authentic, powerful self

Three Things Every Man Should Know (pt 3/3)....

Objective:  To show our male counterparts the importance of going beyond suit and tie-with consideration given to color, style, texture-and how it dramatically affects the perception of you to the following….EVERYONE. 

Evidence:  Ambady & Rosenthal (some smarties from Harvard) performed a study and published their findings in the Psychological Bulletin 1992, Vol. III, No. 2, pg 256-274.  In this study, they proved that not only do we make quick decisions with small amounts of data….*drumroll*…we actually make correct classifications (assumptions) nearly 70% of the time.  Let’s break it down to normal-people lingo:  Several really, really smart people have done studies, to prove that we stereotype everyone….ACCURATELY (big deal here, folks)……within 30 seconds of meeting them. Before you consider stepping up onto your soapbox consider this: it’s not shallow, it’s SCIENCE.  The study goes on to say judgments from roughly 30-seconds of observation were as accurate as those at 5-minutes of observation.  So, whether we are going in for an interview, a big client meeting, a date, or a court appearance the first 30-seconds count and it can take YEARS to mitigate the first 30-second impression you left.  YEARS! Just because you’re a dude and you may think “fashion is for girls” know this: your “fashion” is either helping or hindering you and it can take years to recover from anything less than a positive first impression.  Do you have years to work with a new client and make the sale?  Do you have years to give testimony in court? Do you have years to convince Mr. Target Corp VP to hire you?  Do you have years to convince Sally Sue to date you?  Maybe, but I’m betting if you are anything like any of the men I know you would rather your time is better spent elsewhere:  like showing your prospect your skills and abilities.  Your clothing is always communicating something; the question is “what do you want to communicate?”

Here are three things you can do about it NOW:

See my previous blogs for numbers 1 &2

3.  Don’t accept what your Friends wear or what you read in Men’s Health (one time) as your Fashion Bible:  If there is one thing I could scream at the top of my lungs-other than “no black”-it would be to find what works for YOU!!  There will never be another person like you-so why would you accept that what looks good on your friend, Joe, is automatically going to look the same (and as good) on you?  For example, let’s say Joe is extremely lanky and into punk music.  He doesn’t look bad in Skinny Jeans; he even gets a lot of chicks.  Would the same jeans look good on your 30lbs-over-your-weight-from-college frame?  NO!  I know the value of having integrity beats the best looking guy in GQ with no morals and I am by no means saying that wardrobe makes up for a lack of character.  But if studies by smart people are proving that nonverbal cues have more impact than what you say (ie. Non-verbal actions speak louder than world), I would take a page from their Harvard smarty-pants study and dress in a way that accurately reflects the integrity you should have on the inside.  After all, you only have 30 seconds, why not make it count?

Next blog focuses on:  

How to Use your Element to Effortlessly Decorate Your Home  

Katie Stockwell-Finding Your Element, enjoys helping others find and live in their most authentic, powerful self

Fashion Trend Report Fall/Winter 2013 for YOUR Element

I thought we should take a break from my series dedicated to the dudes to discuss the fall fashion trends and if/how they can work for each of the four Elements.

AIR Element: We saw a lot of mint and coral this spring and summer (hopefully all my AIR's stocked up or are doing so right now while it hangs on all the clearance racks!!) and I am seeing a lot of great stuff for AIR's continue into fall/winter.  The first of which is a pattern that has been hot since 2012, Houndstooth.  We are seeing a lot of it this fall and although it is not your typical AIR pattern (circular, unpredictable), I think a light pattern of it could work on and AIR.  The size of the pattern always depends on the person and the size of their facial features.  A small but important side note:  When you put a pattern up next to your face does it support you-like your Element colors-or does it detract and appear too busy or too large?  The typical Houndstooth pattern we are seeing emerge now consists of black and white which is to be avoided by the AIR but something similar to what I have pictured here should work:

Another trend that will work for AIR's this fall is the sweetheart neckline that is quickly catching on for a lot of designers.  The rounded shoulders would also be most AIR-y.

Lastly:  GOLD GOLD GOLD!  We see that Gold is no longer OLD with the rims on sunglasses and new jewelry being designed in gold!  Go for the gold, AIR's!

Skagen Round Mesh Strap found at Nordstroms.com

WATER Element:  We are seeing quite a bit of the color Oxblood, a lovely WATER color as seen below.

Marc by Marc Jacobs  "Rock" Watch available at Nordstroms.com combines oxblood and rose gold~perfect combo for WATER's

Oxblood is a color considered to be a dark shade of red. It resembles burgundy, but has more purple and dark brown hues. It is sometimes referred to as wine red or bordeaux (source Wikipedia).  Lovely and rich for our WATER friends, the more Oxblood you can stock up on this season the better.  

Greens of all shades are also popular this fall, the shade we see most often that would work gorgeously on a WATER would be forest green similar to these skinnies from Rag & Bone:  

Rag and Bone

We are also still seeing the metal: rose gold which is perfect for WATER's, even better if you can find brushed rose gold.

FIRE Element:  Animal prints are right on target for my primal FIRE friends.  The challenge is to find an animal print that doesn't have black nor white in the pattern since neither color is in the FIRE pallette.  I really liked this example I found on Pinterest (too bad there isn't a link as to where we can buy it!!) so check it out, but clearly remember that the white pants will not work for a FIRE.  When looking at this pic, can you tell the white pants stick out like a sore thumb?? ugh! So many ppl need the Elements ;) 

As I mentioned earlier, greens of all shades are in for this fall/winter.  The green to look for as a FIRE is Olive Green as pictured here...  

Lady Love Song Dress from Modcloth.com

Another fall/winter trend that works well for FIRE's is the leather motorcycle jacket in a burnished tan or brown-a classic pc with some edge in the angles for my FIRE's.

EARTH Element: 

The EARTH Element is all about stillness and this fall we see the return of the turtleneck!  I can't wait to tell my friend, Theresa, who thinks they are too "old lady."  I think a turtleneck on the right person conveys a simple elegance and almost sexiness :)   

Another fashion trendy this season is plaid.  Plaid is difficult, I feel, for the fact there as so many different colors, styles of plaid.  Overall, the linear factor of tartan (aka plaid) is great for the EARTH but you need to find the colors and size of pattern that will support you versus detract or overshadow you. Too much movement and it will just end up looking silly on and EARTH.  

Icy yet rich blue made the runway for several designers this year and the blue pictured below is most EARTH-y:  

Open back dress in Bright Blue at CynthiaRowley.com

Lastly, overcoats or winter coats in primary colors and jewel tones are going to be popular come cold weather time (as I right this blog it's tropical humidity here in MN).  

There you have it, your fashion trend report for fall/winter 2013 with what works for YOUR Element.. don't waste your time on that grunge look everyone's doing ;)

Three Things Every Man Should Know (Part 2 of 3)....

This three-part blog series over the next few weeks is dedicated to the dudes. 

Objective:  To show our male counterparts the importance of going beyond suit and tie-with consideration given to color, style, texture-and how it dramatically affects the perception of you to the following….EVERYONE. 

Evidence:  Ambady & Rosenthal (some smarties from Harvard) performed a study and published their findings in the Psychological Bulletin 1992, Vol. III, No. 2, pg 256-274.  In this study, they proved that not only do we make quick decisions with small amounts of data….*drumroll*…we actually make correct classifications (assumptions) nearly 70% of the time.  Let’s break it down to normal-people lingo:  Several really, really smart people have done studies, to prove that we stereotype everyone….ACCURATELY (big deal here, folks)……within 30 seconds of meeting them. Before you consider stepping up onto your soapbox consider this: it’s not shallow, it’s SCIENCE.  The study goes on to say judgments from roughly 30-seconds of observation were as accurate as those at 5-minutes of observation.  So, whether we are going in for an interview, a big client meeting, a date, or a court appearance the first 30-seconds count and it can take YEARS to mitigate the first 30-second impression you left.  YEARS! Just because you’re a dude and you may think “fashion is for girls” know this: your “fashion” is either helping or hindering you and it can take years to recover from anything less than a positive first impression.  Do you have years to work with a new client and make the sale?  Do you have years to give testimony in court? Do you have years to convince Mr. Target Corp VP to hire you?  Do you have years to convince Sally Sue to date you?  Maybe, but I’m betting if you are anything like any of the men I know you would rather your time is better spent elsewhere:  like showing your prospect your skills and abilities.  Your clothing is always communicating something; the question is “what do you want to communicate?”

Here are three things you can do about it NOW:

See my last blog for Numero Uno.....

2.  Don’t Own a Black Suit:  I realize panic may be setting in right now guys….just grab another chip with Top the Tator and hear me out: this is one of the PRIMARY things guys have been told as timeless, confident fashion advice but it’s all wrong…well for 75% of the population.  Only the EARTH Element can wear black-for everyone else it can energetically tell people to “stay away.”  I don’t know about you but I wouldn't want to tell MY clients, date or potential employer to “stay away.”  If you are not an EARTH Element it can also make you appear "dull" (see Mr. Andrew above); the black does nothing for his complexion or features and washes him out.  Depending on your Element, charcoal gray, dark navy, or even dark brown would be far better options to support you. 

Next time I will conclude my three-part series addressing:

Don’t accept what your friends wear or what you read in Men’s Health one time as your Fashion Bible

Until then~ be well! 

-K

Katie Stockwell-Finding Your Element-enjoys helping others find and live harmoniously in their Element of AIR, WATER, FIRE or EARTH.  

Three Things Every Man Should Know....

This three-part blog series over the next few weeks is dedicated to the dudes. 

Objective:  To show our male counterparts the importance of going beyond suit and tie-with consideration given to color, style, texture-and how it dramatically affects the perception of you to the following….EVERYONE.

Evidence:  Ambady & Rosenthal (some smarties from Harvard) performed a study and published their findings in the Psychological Bulletin 1992, Vol. III, No. 2, pg 256-274.  In this study, they proved that not only do we make quick decisions with small amounts of data….*drumroll*…we actually make correct classifications (assumptions) nearly 70% of the time.  Let’s break it down to normal-people lingo:  Several really, really smart people have done studies, to prove that we stereotype everyone….ACCURATELY (big deal here, folks)……within 30 seconds of meeting them. Before you consider stepping up onto your soapbox consider this: it’s not shallow, it’s SCIENCE.  The study goes on to say judgments from roughly 30-seconds of observation were as accurate as those at 5-minutes of observation.  So, whether we are going in for an interview, a big client meeting, a date, or a court appearance the first 30-seconds count and it can take YEARS to mitigate the first 30-second impression you left.  YEARS! Just because you’re a dude and you may think “fashion is for girls” know this: your “fashion” is either helping or hindering you and it can take years to recover from anything less than a positive first impression.  Do you have years to work with a new client and make the sale?  Do you have years to give testimony in court? Do you have years to convince Mr. Target Corp VP to hire you?  Do you have years to convince Sally Sue to date you?  Maybe, but I’m betting if you are anything like any of the men I know you would rather your time is better spent elsewhere:  like showing your prospect your skills and abilities.  Your clothing is always communicating something; the question is “what do you want to communicate?” 

Thus begins my three-part series on things you can do about it NOW:

1.  Get Lazy:  You heard me.  Get Lazy Guys.  You want more time to golf with your college cronies, watch football while eating Top the Tator, or take your beautiful wife to dinner (hint hint) then you gotta find something that works for you and shop quickly and effectively.  Heck, if you had, let’s say, something like a comprehensive palette that includes colors, styles, textures that you know will support you and your message-you could even have someone else shop for you! (Hallelujah!)  I don’t know how many guys enjoy shopping….even if they do, generally, it’s not for very long.  When you find your Element, it’s a one time deal, and you will know with 100% certainty for the rest of your life what will “work” with you and enhance your message and you will also learn how to avoid what has a large potential to distract people from your message.  Saving time, money, confusion while shopping means more football, golf memberships, a happy wife AND confidence J

Next Week:  Part 2:  "Don't Own a Black Suit"

WATERS Don't "Just go with the flow"

Photo:  Pinterest

Sorry for my month and a half hiatus.....going through a lot of changes right now.  WATER's unfortunately do not....exactly....well....go with the flow; we like to have everything planned down to what we will eat when we get to the restaurant (typically we research the menu online and pre-select when going out).  I HATE change.  Which is probably the reason the Universe sent me, ahem, certain situations for my life:  unplanned, pre-wedding pregnancy to name a big one and now the latest situation surrounding my entire family's future: the potential of divorce.  I used to have to plan every detail in my day, then I had kids.  I used to have to plan every detail of my future, then I left my marriage.  I am living in limbo and finding that trusting in God (insert Higher Power if you are not a fan of the Lord-PS you are completely missing out) is more fulfilling than any plans I could have "created" for myself.  I am finding God is truly in the details-not just the imperfections that I typically find there.  I never thought I would be where I am right now, with two small kiddos, but my husband is actually the one doing more of the tough work with where he is at right now:  changing himself.  I don't know where my marriage is headed and at first that drove me crazy.....for now I am just happy focusing on what God has provided thus far and looking forward to HIS plans for the future.  Guess you could say this WATER is just going with the flow ;)

Be open to change or it may open you....don't worry though, "it's always darkest before the dawn."

All my best~

K

Eight Things Everyone Should Have in their Closet....you be the judge!

I was so excited to watch a segment on the local news last week informing me the “must haves” I should have in my closet...okay sarcastically I really wanted to pick the segment a part to merely reinforce that you cannot trust any fashion experts who have never met you.  You, your body, your opinions influence what works for you and what makes you feel like a queen (or king) and we all are as unique as those darn snowflakes everyone keeps telling us will never match another.  We don’t just have a personalized color palette in the Element work; we also have different styles, textures and even sheens to our skin!  I recently was a part of the Elements Advanced Workshop hosted here in Mpls and it went so much deeper and personal with respect to patterns, sheen and even shapes found in our individual bodies.  Clearly that was a total sidebar but I really hope one day we won’t be trusting magazines, TV shows, or even our close friends and family as the ones left with the decision as to what will make us look and feel our best….the decision lies with you and only you.  And now onto the segment I watched…..

It started out rather promising!  I was kind of amazed.  They discussed how most of us only wear roughly 20% of our current closet (yes that reads 20%).  Don’t believe me?  Why don’t you experiment with this theory in the next week….or I could just save you the trouble and remind you that I am always right J we come up with excuses about how we might wear it eventually or perhaps once we finally lose those love handles or maybe once we get our butt back that we had pre-baby it will finally fit just right.  I don’t mean to be a bad news bear here but it probably won’t happen.  The trend expert on this segment then goes into the fact that your closet should be in “real time” you should be able to wear anything that is hanging in there and I couldn’t agree more.  Then they went into eight specifics men and women should have in their closet.  Let’s just keep this in mind:  I have recently read everyone should eat bananas as part of their diet.  Sounds like sound advice for the masses right?  Well my husband gets super sick from eating bananas, just as I do from eating “whole grains.”  My point? You, and only you, know what’s best for your body.  But if you really would like a little personalized guidance, that’s where the Element Workshops come in quite handy (shameless plug concluded). 

Here are their Eight-must haves for men: 

1. Grey wool suit:  this suggestion would actually work for three of the four elements, it would never work for a FIRE so not exactly a home-run but not quite terrible….not sure if I would trust advice based on this criteria
2. Blue blazer:  Similar as last suggestion, not horrible, would work for half or potentially 75% of the male population, but certainly not all.  (and some poor FIRE dude went out the next day to buy a blue blazer and it will just going on hanging in his closet….oh the tragedy)
3. Crisp White Shirt:  Every man thinks he needs a crisp white shirt.  Only one man should own it:  EARTH Element with a potential for AIR as well.  WATER and FIRE dudes: save your pennies-don’t do it!
4. Casual t-shirt:  no issue with this suggestion since it’s not really much of a suggestion. Okay. they are NOT talking about the shirt you received at the last 5k you walked in, they mean t-shirt but still dressy enough to wear to the office in a professional environment
5. Casual Sweater (preferably cashmere).  Similar to suggestion above-not much of a suggestion.  If you know anyone who doesn’t have a casual t-shirt or casual sweater we can certainly stage an intervention. ASAP.  But I would not suggest that everyone wear cashmere.  If a texture is NOT in your element, you won’t wear it.  It’s that simple.  So if cashmere is not part of your element (which it won’t be for 75% of the population) don’t bother.
6. Well-fitting khaki’s:  I bought one pair of well-fitting khakis in college to wear to a bartending job.  I hated wearing these things, they were too well-fitting.  Granted I’m a lady but lets think about this:  the color of khakis will look seriously stupid on some of the guys we know.  I saw President Obama in khakis once and I almost puked.  He is an EARTH and these did nothing for him-except make people even more uneasy about his decision-making processes…..just trying to add some humor here folks. 
7. Brown Oxford’s:  Will NOT work for all elements, and if they don’t work for you, they will continue to sit in the closet.  My husband just recently got rid of a pair of these because he naturally NEVER (not even once) wore these expensive shoes but couldn’t get rid of them…..ironically because he had never worn them.  Welcome to my life. 
8. Dressy Jeans:  Fine with me for people to own dressy jeans, just don’t get black: your chances are very slim that you will look good (or slim) in them. 
   
   

Next blog I will be discussing this segment’s top eight suggestions for women.  I am warning you they start off with a staple being the “little black dress”….heaven help us. 

Uncovering the Earth Element...more than meets the eye

Design-seeds.com

I must mention that the EARTH Element is in fact where I began my journey with the Elements.  The owner of the small company I had been working for a few years back, waltzed in one day looking gorgeous and announced that she was going to go gray.  Day after day she wowed us with her new clothing selections and eventually her gorgeous silver white hair!  My friend, Theresa, and I looked on in amazement.  This lady was about 30 years older than us at the time (guess she still is-ha!) and us twenty-something’s wanted to know what her latest secret was to looking fabulous….even her presence seemed different.  She told us she recently took a class and found her Element…EARTH.  The rest, as they say, is history J

We would never type an individual based on personality, we can only type them on their physical body but some EARTH personality traits include their ability to see the whole picture and quickly notice what is missing and how to make it better.  When I first got married I thought my husband,  Jason, was just extremely critical and unemotional.  When I started my training in the Elements with Barbara (the founder) she explained to me that the criticisms, as much as I may not see them this way, are actually Jason expressing his love for me from his EARTH element.  The EARTH sees how to make the situation better and wants to do so out of love.  Also, the unemotional piece is just how they actually express their emotions-the irony is not lost on me.  The EARTH generally tends to not wear their heart on their sleeve-think Jackie O at her own husband’s funeral. The EARTH has all the same emotions that every other Element does, they just tend to keep them inside. 

The colors that work best on an EARTH are what we call the “pure” colors, there is nothing added nor nothing taken away from the colors that comprise their palette.  Some of their colors include black, white and the jewel tones.  They are tone ONLY Element that can wear black, I repeat the ONLY Element (most likely this is not you, reading this blog).  Whenever we are wearing colors that that not in our Element (like black for most of us) it will emphasize our flaws-such as bags under eyes, blemishes, wrinkles-rather than accentuate our body’s natural energetic vibration. 

Happy 35^th Birthday this week to the EARTH I married 3 years ago, Jason J

Focusing on Fires: A look into their world

Theresa, one of my Fire friends, is on the left
"I feel more confident and people seem drawn to me when I am dressed in my element."

Fires.  Where in the world would we be without Fires?  You never have to wonder what a Fire is thinking because they typically just tell you.  They think it, they say it.  Some people of the Water Element (like myself) may initially question their, ahem, directness, but in due time every Element can come to appreciate the Fire’s honesty.  My friend, Theresa, attended my very first Element workshop.  At the end, she handed me an itemized list of things I could and should improve on.  Guess what?  No one else would do that, but I am so happy I have Theresa (and other fellow Fires) in my life to do this work!  She also told me recently that a flier I made was not the best and doesn't get my message across. I used to get offended by Fires with their "straight to the point" demeanor, now I have realized I couldn't live without them and I envy their ability to put things quickly into motion where other Elements may have hesitancy. They are better at setting up boundaries than I ever will be and for that I am grateful. They say what no one else will and I never doubt a genuine heart filled with care behind every comment.  

The personality piece is always fun but we don’t (and couldn't)  type people based on a personality quiz.    The true way to determine someone’s Element is to be in person and feel their energy when certain fabrics are next to their body.  We are looking for the color, texture, style that is in energetic harmony with your physical presence.  For a Fire the colors and textures that would be most in harmony would be more of the burnished, rich, and spicy colors such as cinnamon red, copper, a warm brown, an olive green or shelled teal with lots of texture!  Style would be more asymmetrical, v-neck, may be a little closer to the body vs. long and flowy. They have more of a “primal” looking palette including leopard print.  They tend to have angles throughout their body:  calves face, feet, etc.

As I began to learn more about the Elements I learned that we spend most of our lives “hiding” in other Elements for many different reasons:  security, fear of being rejected as ourselves, resentment that we don’t “fit the mold” yet when we try to live in any other Element other than the one we were born into it comes off as inauthentic.  Fires have this stereotype of being witchy-not the case.  They are direct-they cut to the chase….immediately.  But the more they try to “hide” their Fire-ness the ironic thing is they come off as more witchy!

Some celebrity FIRE’s would be Halle Berry, Rachel Zoe, Oprah Winfrey, and of course, my very good friend, Theresa J

Next blog topic:  Uncovering the Earth Element...more than meets the eye

   Going Gray….Is it for you?

“Gray Hair is a Crown of Splendor…” I find natural gray hair-if done right-to be hands down one of the most gorgeous things on a woman or man at ANY AGE.  Due to genetics and other factors some of us will gray faster than our friends, but hopefully knowing your Element will make a difference in whether or not you decide to go gray with confidence once your time is right.  Here is the Element breakdown:

AIR Element:  You will gray nicely but I have seen a slight golden tone to AIRS who gray……usually goes well with their complexion.  AIR’s CAN GO GRAY!

WATER Element:  Just take a moment and please Google the following:  “Helen Mirren Gray Hair” (go ahead this blog will be here when you get back!)….Helen in her light lilac cowl sweater is an example of a WATER going gray…. A perfect example:   WATER’s WILL GRAY BEAUTIFULLY!
Any WATER Wanna-be-Gray” needs to remember:  “blended/subtle”.

FIRE Element:  I am so sorry to be the one to tell you this my FIRE-y friends….YOU ARE THE ONLY ELEMENT THAT CANNOT GO GRAY L  It will actually make any imperfections on your face more noticeable-it will never work for you.  It will make you look old and haggeredly (new word I just made up) compared to stunning like the other three Elements.  You have my blessing to go ahead and buy a lifetime pass at your neighborhood salon.

EARTH Element:  Some of the MOST stunning people to go gray are in the EARTH Element: think George Clooney.  My husband is an EARTH and I get excited with every strand of gray I see on his head.  EARTH’s are the only Element that could also do some contrast like a white piece around the face and the rest of the hair black.  If you are trying to eliminate coloring your hair this will clearly not resolve that problem but man does it look awesome!!  I saw a young lady while traveling in San Fran this past fall with that exact style and she totally pulled it off!  Looks stunning, not old.  Think Stacy London from “What Not To Wear.” L.O.V.E.

Now that we know WHO can go gray, let’s get to the best way HOW to get there: 

If you are a naïve 29 yr old like myself you will just assume you can just stop coloring your hair altogether and bask in your gray-haired glory.  Not the case as I found out in my research.  It will be tough to just wake up and “be gray” unless you are Harry Potter so here are some tips during the transition and how to maintain the gray goodness:

1. Consider getting your hair lightened (either your entire head of hair or by highlighting).  This is most certainly easier and way better looking if you get it done by a professional. 
2. Snip Snip!  It will make it easier (and again look better) to get that mane of yours cut to either shoulder length or higher.  Some people want long gray hair.  That’s great but it will take some time to get there.  Be patient (I am starting to see why this wouldn’t work for FIRE’s J …..inside Element joke)
3. Enhancing the gray by getting a professional to put in blue-toned streaks can make your gray really pop!  Everyone is different thus everyone grays differently –you will know if you need a little “help” and if you cannot tell on your own ask a trusted friend or your spouse assuming they are unbiased and completely direct about what makes you look your best…..like my husband. 
4. Lastly, to maintain your hair throughout the process you will need some moisture.  Lots of moisture actually.  Aveda has a shampoo called Damage Therapy-by stock in this product.  Seriously, use it at least once/week and for daily purposes (or whenever you wash your hair) they have a fabulous blue tinted shampoo/conditioner:  Blue Malva.  Good Luck Going Gray!

Next week’s blog:  Focusing on Fires:  a look into their world

Photo:  Pinterest.com

Finding Your Element Workshop Before & After Pictures

A lot of people have been asking me lately what the heck these Elements are all about….well I could go into a lengthy conversation about how it’s a holistic way of determining the colors/styles/textures that best fit your body but really?!  If I were wondering I would wanna see some pictures!  Can people really tell the difference?  This past weekend I hosted a Finding Your Element workshop and below are the before and after pictures of some of the attendees along with their feedback.  Does dressing in your element make a difference?  Why don't you be the judge J

“Had an awesome day figuring out my Element with Katie yesterday! Today I got started adding some new WATER clothes to my closet!” -Anika (WATER)

 “I have gotten such great compliments … on my hair and clothing this week - amazing.” –Janel (AIR)

“Love, love loved the workshop!  I cant wait to start acquiring clothes in my element (water). I used to “hide” in jeans all the time even though I had a desire to wear soft, flowing clothes.  And now that is exactly what my element says I should do.  Thank you, Katie!” –Karla (WATER)

“I meant to say thank you for making me feel more confident in myself! You have me more motivated....to dress more confidently!"
–Ashley (AIR)

Lastly, my mother, Carol another WATER (FIRE’s & EARTHS do exist people-we will highlight them in the coming weeks).  She is not really looking forward to being a part of my blog today but she is a good sport and being an only child we have determined she will do almost anything for me-well almost.  I love her dearly and find her beautiful no matter what for all her sacrifice raising me but she is just beyond stunning while dressing in her Element (PS when I asked her where she got this stellar WATER shirt she replied:  “Kohl’s or Shop-Ko!” which proves my point that you can shop anywhere to find great stuff when shopping in your Element!!)....

Next Week's Topic:  "Going Grey....Is it for you?"

Myth #3: " Black is Classic" (pt 3 of Why You Should Never Own a Little Black Dress)

Myth # 3 Black is classic.  Looking your best is the most classic thing out there and believe me, for a large majority, black ain’t doin’ it for you.  Husband and I just went to an Awards Gala in Las Vegas….everyone was dressed so beautifully!  Some in their Element and others not….but what I really noticed was that almost every lady had a black wrap or coat to cover their gorgeous dresses.  Black creates a sense of trying to use clothing to “hide”-we all have different reasons to hide, some have painful memories of when we did show up and got noticed in a negative way.  Others feel they don’t have the perfect body.  Yet for others it’s a subconscious safety net.  Whatever your reason(s):  If you are not an Earth Element, I can guarantee you that your beloved black will only make you look bigger, tired, washed out, show every imperfection on your face and even make you look older.  Since the Elements are all about allowing your inner essence to come forth; we suggest an experiment to folks who are skeptical of leaving their black behind….replace one of your black tops with a chocolate brown top or even a dark marine color (pictured below).  Sidenote:  they have a lot of stuff at thrift stores too if you don’t already have one hanging in your closet....they actually have a lot of amazing things in consignment stores once you know your Element-and they are usually arranged by color which makes shopping even easier!  Your wardrobe doesn't have to be expensive to look like a million bucks-that is where the Elements come in ;)  See the response you get from others when wearing the different top and most importantly notice how you feel…..I think you may be amazed J

Photo from DavidsBridal.com

The Most Beautiful Thing You Can Do For Yourself!

The Most Beautiful Thing Anyone Can Do for Themselves Right Now…..

Me doing my celeb style pose at Sugar MGM Grand  Las Vegas post-workout (please note:  no sugar was purchased during the making of this photo)

We are taking a break from the “Black Myth:  Why You should Never Own a Little Black Dress” this week and talking about the most beautiful thing that anyone can do for themselves right now. Hint: It doesn't have anything to do with how you dress, how expensive your shoes are or even how you style your hair and make-up.  The MOST beautiful thing you can do… drum-roll please… is to take care of yourself through diet and exercise.  Oh cliché, right? Wrong…..

The Husband and I recently went to Vegas for a Remax Convention and we saw the Founders of this International company speak.  The opening address wasn’t about making more money, looking like a West-Hollywood rockstar or even having a Kardashian-sized family…he talked to hundreds of us about how important your health is.  He had an infection leaving him paralyzed and he said in that moment he realized it doesn't matter how much money you have, if you don’t have your health you got nothin’

I applied this to the Elements, fashion, and really everything on the exterior.  It doesn't matter if I am waltzing around the room in a long lilac purple Grecian goddess style dress….if my body is not feeling the best, my focus will be on my ailments (migraines, lack of energy, chronic stomach aches…I had all of these before my Natural Doctor came into the picture) and I won’t be able to be the best me! 

After coming home from our anniversary trip to Costa Rica I visited my Natural Doctor at Valeo Health & Wellness Center (well that’s what I call him-he has a much fancier title) and we found out that I had picked up a parasite while on my vacation…I have come up with a slogan for parasites after dealing with one:  “Parasites:  the Gift that keeps on taking”  I wasn't able to take a deep breath, I had itchy red hives all over my body, a rapid heart rate, and I was losing tons of fluids…..all from a pesky little parasite!  After two visits to my natural doctor (and 45 whole food supplements per day for two months later) I have my energy back, and all of the above symptoms are GONE!  I feel like a million bucks! I’m sure some of you at home are saying “well, glad that worked for you, but it’s too expensive for me and I don’t have the time”:  I couldn't afford to live everyday of my life in pain, sickness and not feeling my best.  We spend lots of money on magazines, clothes, and junk food-when will you make your health a higher priority?  As for time? When you are sick and not able to perform your daily activities as well as you would like, play with your children, or enjoy time with your spouse/friends…believe me you will MAKE time. 

Diet:  I am not a doctor (this is a phrase my husband I love to say to one another before we give our opinion but you really should speak with your own doctor before embarking on any changes to your diet/exercise routine) but I have noticed that cutting out gluten, most dairy (except organic butter and eggs) and trying to limit my sugar intake makes me feel like I did when I was in college….scratch that…BETTER.  Pizza is my favorite food group-Ben & Jerry’s is my second.  I do still eat these items on occasion but usually when I do I am doubled-over for the next 2 days L If I follow a more Paleo plan I naturally get up earlier (no clue why), no belly aches, and it isn't hard to maintain a healthy weight.  My favorite new snack:  Bacon (the nitrate/nitrate free kind from Trader Joes), apple, spinach salad with olive oil and lemon….hmm I think I will go make one now….I also dropped roughly 20 pounds after high school when I dropped processed garbage.  I am far from perfect in the diet dept. but maintaining a healthy diet about 75% of the time works for me (note: it doesn't happen 100% of the time).

Exercise:  I like me some Pilates.  I do Mari Windor’s 20 minute Pilate workout (20 minutes folks-how much time do we all invest in our healthy daily!!) almost everyday along with some kind of cardio or strength (aka:  walking around the neighborhood with my kids, elliptical, grocery shopping…it’s a workout if you have two kids).  I even cheat and watch one of my guilty pleasures-like The Bachelor or Vanderpump Rules-while doing my Pilates and I don’t even notice that 20mins has gone by.

Taking care of yourself and making an investment in one of the most important things-your health-will not only improve your life dramatically but result in a more beautiful one inside and out :)  

Be Well!

Myth #2: "Black is Slimming on Everyone"-pt 2 of "Why You Should Never Own a Little Black Dress"

Left: Me in my "Slimming" Black Dress 

Right:  Me in my Element, feeling more comfortable, confident 

I am not sure who came up with this cliché, but if I could impart one quick tidbit to save you time, money and a terrible picture I would scream from the top of my lungs:  "Please Please Please Do not let any black fabric touch your skin! …..well unless you are an Earth Element (think Liz Taylor or George Clooney)."  So why do people (like myself pre-Elements) own and wear so much black?  We are on Week 2 addressing the traditional "Black" myths along with easy fixes to help you look your best whether running to get groceries or going to a gala!  

Myth #2 "Black is Slimming on Everyone"  Unfortunately, any color that is not in your Element can actually have the opposite effect when placed on your body.  If it is not in harmony with your body and the energy you are constantly projecting, your clothing will constantly be fighting you not supporting you (see picture above).  The black is a stark contrast to my skin-and my body's energy-which in effect makes me look larger compared to the photo on the right where the color (and style) comes from my Water Element.  The black is also too "still" for me and makes me look like a monochrome blob despite being at one of my lowest weights here....picture on the right I actually weighed more.  Summary:  The most figure flattering outfit is one that comes from your Element (color/style/texture) and closely follows your silhouette. 

Finding Your Element is a holistic way to find the colors, styles and textures that compliment you through transformational workshops and personal appointments.

Share in the Element Experience or Ask Questions on Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/FindingYourElement

Why You Should NEVER Own A Little Black Dress…. Myth #1 Black Is Simple

Left:  Trying to Make Black Work For Me
Right: Allowing my WATER Element colors to support me

I am not sure who came up with this cliché, but if I could impart one quick tidbit to save you time, money and a terrible picture I would scream from the top of my lungs:  Ladies Please Please Please Do not let any black fabric touch your skin…..well unless you are an Earth Element (think Liz Taylor or George Clooney).  So why do people (like myself pre-Elements) own and wear so much black?  In the next few weeks my blog will be addressing the traditional  "Black" myths along with easy fixes to help you look your best whether running to get groceries or going to a gala! 

Myth #1 Black is Simple  Well I guess that could be true, but so are a lot of other colors like chocolate brown -which is a great substitute for black if you are not an Earth!  Black is the densest color in the color spectrum and energetically it stops movement.  People who are typed in the Earth element need this.  They stand strong, almost stoic, very symmetrical and can wear black, white and the jewel tones-the purest colors in the color spectrum.  The rest of us (myself included) cannot and should not wear this color.  I just recently gave away every last bit of black that was in my closet.  If I want to wear a more subtle color, I just wear my “tranquils” within my Element which-for me-include browns, darker or grayed blues and cool, calming purples. So contrary to popular belief you CAN go back after Black....and unless you are an Earth Element you most certainly should ;)   

Stay tuned for next week's "Black" Myth and Quick Tip to Look and Feel Your Best....

Finding Your Element is a holistic way to find the colors, styles and textures that compliment you through transformational workshops and personal appointments

Share in the Element Experience or Ask Questions on Facebook:
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Peplum Please? Perfect for AIR Element

Peplum....the trend that I would say refuses to die.  I am not a peplum person. My mother has been noted to say that I have good birthing hips-people with anything going on down below do not need to add a frill to accentuate.  Case in point:  Whoever told Kim K. she needed more "oomph" to give her some curves must also study Braille.  So how does this relate to the Elements and who, if anyone, can wear the stuff?

Webster's definition:

peplum [ˈpɛpləm]

n pl -lums, -la [-lə]

1. (Clothing & Fashion) a flared ruffle attached to the waist of a jacket, bodice, etc.

2. (Clothing & Fashion) a variant of peplos

[from Latin: full upper garment, from Greek peplos shawl]

My Definition from an Element perspective:  the ONLY people who should EVER dream of wearing Peplum HAVE to be typed in the AIR element.  Peplum is playful (hello it's a ruffle), accentuates the waist, creates movement upward all of which are AIR clothing qualities.  The other two things to look for in a new peplum addition to your wardrobe if you are an AIR, would be texture, and color.  Below is similar to what would look best on an AIR with more of a boyish figure:  style (peplum with capped sleeves), texture (crisp), and color (coral-only AIRS can wear coral) .....Imagine Cameron Diaz at a premiere with gold hoops and tousled hair in this outfit.  Goosebumps. 

So if you are contemplating peplum, consider this word of caution:  you WILL look like clown when you are trying to be trendy and the style/color is NOT in your Element (this actually goes for ALL trends). Save your pennies for something that will rock on you.  There, world, you have been warned ;)

Source and where to buy dress:  http://us.asos.com/A-Wear-Peplum-Bombshell-Dress/zgqwo/?iid=2818892&cid=15801&sh=0&pge=12&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Coral&mporgp=L0EtV2Vhci9BLVdlYXItUGVwbHVtLUJvbWJzaGVsbC1EcmVzcy9Qcm9kLw..&utm_source=google_product_search&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=google_product_search&WT.tsrc=Google%20Product%20Search&WT.srch=1&affid=2365&WT.srch=1