DC Metro Mom: As a style and wardrobe consultant, can you tell us what will be the new trends for Spring 2012?  What is the new "it" item?

Joyce: This spring there will be something for everyone! Hot colors: include: Tangerine, Pink, Blues, White, Green, Neon yellow, Neon pink, Powder Pastels, Metallic Gold. You name it, it was on the runways for Spring 2012!

There will also be lots of floral (floral pants, matching tops and bottoms, blazers, etc…), lace and sheer overlays, graphic prints, black and white together as well as black and yellow.

As far as inspirations you will see styles fashioned after eras. 1920’s, 1930’s, 1940’ and 1950’s. Expect to see sporty chic, peplums, fine pleating, exotic animal prints and tribal and more.

So how do you make sense of it all? Simply by choosing what you like and what looks good on you. Never before has the door been this wide open. Denim- Flair jeans, skinny, cropped-whatever flatters your body.

DC Metro Mom: As you know, getting children out the door in the morning can be very difficult.  Mothers are so preoccupied with breakfast, backpacks and the bus stop that there are precious few minutes to focus on getting ourselves ready. Can you recommend an easy, stylish outfit for those busy mornings?

Joyce: It takes just as long to put on well-fitting denim and cute flats as it does to put on exercise pants and sneakers. In fact, less time because flats have no laces to tie. And to cover those “mommy dark circles” choose a great pair of sunglasses. Dressing shouldn’t take brain power. Have your closet sorted and neat and dressing will be a snap!

DC Metro Mom: As a new mother, I know all too well how difficult wardrobe choices can be just after having a baby.  Do you have any advice for dressing a post-baby body?

Joyce: To work with a post baby body, try lightweight layers. Don’t try and squeeze into pre-baby jeans just yet, be kind to yourself. Leggings or stretch denim, layer a sweater over your blouse, wear flats or cute pair of flat/low-heeled boots. Also, apply a dab of pink lip-gloss to your lips for the finishing touch.

DC Metro Mom: What are your favorite shops both online as well as local brick and mortar retail shops?

Joyce: For me, picking a favorite shop is an impossible question to answer. It really depends on one’s budget and body type. If you are shopping online choose stores that you know and trust. Select online shops that offer free shipping and easy returns. When shopping in a store for new items, also make sure that returns are accepted. Don’t forget about consignment shops. Some of my favorite shops are consignment stores. I love being green, but I also love scoring great pieces for ridiculously low prices.  (See the DC Metro Mom list of consignment shops in our GUIDE by clicking here)

Local Consigment Favorite - Second Time Around Washington DC

Always know your product. Compare prices and never be afraid to ask retailers to match a price. And remember…just because it is in the store does not mean it is “buy” worthy.

DC Metro Mom: What are your best "Steals and Deals" for clothing, shoes and accessories?  How do you get the best selection and price?

Joyce: For weekly “Insider Secrets” on sales and promos readers should go to my Facebook page to see my weekly picks and discounts! FACEBOOK.COM/THATMOMINC.

DC Metro Mom: You are a personal shopper and wardrobe consultant for many local moms.  Can you tell us a bit more about your services and why your clients rely so heavily on your expertise?

Joyce: Now more than ever people want to watch their money. Women want to look good but are fearful of making costly mistakes. As a stylist I help my clients create high functioning wardrobes with what they already have and by adding a few new pieces. I can help clients select items that fit their budget, lifestyle and find clothing and accessories that compliment their body. I know the tricks to making your body look it’s best in clothing!

DC Metro Mom: Many people think of a personal shopper as being a service only for the wealthy.  Can you dispel some myths and take us through the benefits of using a wardrobe consultant? 

Joyce: Many people feel that a stylist is for the rich and famous but that isn’t so. Think of me as a consultant, one that actually saves you money! If you look through your closet pulling out what you have bought that you haven’t worn because you can’t figure out what to wear with it, or items that simply don’t fit and/or still has tags on it you will see that it really adds up. You will soon realize how much money you have spent on mistake pieces. With me you pay for advice not mistakes.

To see other words of advice from Joyce from That Mom, Inc, view our previous interviews. 

http://www.dcmetromom.com/easy-blog/entry/what-your-mother-never-told-you-about-fashion.html

&

http://www.dcmetromom.com/easy-blog/entry/for-the-cost-of-one-bad-sweater.html

To find out more visit http://www.thatmominc.blogspot.com/ and http://bethatmom.com/.

Image Credit: JCrew, Second Time Around & That Mom, Inc.