When Stacy London calls, ladies come in droves

Stacy London and Wendy Standel

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While most of us get our style tips from reading women's mags, gossip rags and style blogs, a handful of lucky local gals recently had the good fortune to score some tips straight from the style queen herself, the sassy and fabulous Stacy London of TLC's popular "What Not to Wear," who made a guest appearance this week at Georgetown boutique Urban Chic's launch party for their new blog, "Living Chic."  

It was your typical boutique affair - a steady supply of champagne, chocolate dipped strawberries and other sweet treats were available for noshing while ladies perused Urban Chic's adorable collection of new inventory - until one very famous fashionista strolled in.  It's not often that you see a crowd of women throwing themselves at the feet of another female, but like the last handbag remaining at a Fendi sample sale it was now or never for gals to get pointers from the raven-haired stylist who helps dress celebs such as Kate Winslet and Katie Holmes. Amidst the blatant air of girl crush and the stomping sounds of stilettos jumping up and down, Metromix got the firsthand scoop from Stacy on current trends, her thoughts about the fashion climate of the nation's capital, and the little fashion secret that will be taking DC by storm later this year!

When asked what one item of clothing women should have in their closet, without hesitation Stacy says "A neutral pair of trousers. A wide trouser leg compliments most women really well when the fit is right and the material forgiving. I used to say black, but now I say neutral!"

If there's a current trend on the runways that drives Stacy bonkers, it's shoulder pads.  "Thank god we don't see a lot of women on the street emulating this trend, because shoulder pads belong back in the 80's. They should stay there. That Vulcan look is just no good for anyone. I mean, who wants to look BULKIER?"

As for following celebrity trends, Stacy warns "Take the smaller style cues from celebs, and by that I mean look at colors, textures and the accents or details of a garment. Start with your frame, know what cuts and styles work best for your shape and from there you can incorporate the smaller trends that inspire you."

If you love watching Stacy on "What Not to Wear" but wish you could get some of that sharp-tongued wit to invade your own closet? Well ladies, your prayers have been answered as Stacy announced that in the fall she'll be launching "Style for Hire," her newest venture, here in Washington, DC Why DC? "A whole new crop of young professionals with different style needs are migrating to this area in droves, especially considering the new administration and all of the brainpower that accompanies it. Smart is the new black!" Style for Hire will have a slew of stylists on staff, all selected and trained by Stacy, that can be called upon to help revitalize an entire wardrobe or simply pick out the perfect cocktail dress. In addition to being an online fashion resource, www.styleforhire.com will offer local shopping tours and host other style related events.

Speaking of DC, what does Stacy think of our fashionable First Lady who is constantly making headlines for her style? "Her belts are just too high. She's beautiful and I don't dislike her choices but more the fit of what she wears."

If nothing else, Stacy wants women to know that being stylish isn't about wearing what's trendy but rather clothes that are flattering. "That what you wear is modern and relevant is far more important than whether it's trendy. Without a good fit you have nothing. You can purchase the most adorable dress in the world and if it doesn't fit or flatter your shape you're doing nothing for yourself."  

Stacy can also be found on Twitter under @StacyLondonSays, where she shares everything from budget friendly wardrobe finds to style tips and other helpful fashion updates. London's calling ladies, so pick up those shoulders and put your best fashion foot forward....just leave the shoulder pads at home.