Top Summer Bag Picks 2025 | EP 249

Summer is HERE, besties—and with it comes the ultimate fashion dilemma: to wear shorts or not to wear shorts? Whether you’re a full-time shorts skeptic or already a loyal fan, Episode 251 (add link) of the Fashion Crimes Podcast is here to elevate your style game. Be sure to give us a watch on our Fashion Crimes Podcast YouTube channel so you can see some examples of what we are dissecting.  Join the best friend you never knew you needed in fashion, Holly Katz as she breaks down the do’s, don’ts, and absolute fashion crimes when it comes to shorts. We are cocked, locked and ready to rock some shorts. Are you are too, queens.   Spoiler Alert: Yes, you CAN wear shorts at any age, at any size, and yes—you will look like a rock star, rockin' some shorts.    In this style-packed episode, Holly shares:   👖 A quick fashion history lesson—from Victorian bloomers to Bermuda chic.🩳 The 10+ styles of shorts you need to know, from biker to cable knit to city shorts🧵 Styling solutions for every body type (hello high-waisted hourglass dreams!)👢 Genius layering ideas: think boots, sheer tights, kimonos, and even short suits👜 Accessories that seal the deal: chic bags, summer clutches, and yes, $54 silk socks🚫 And of course—the shorts fashion crimes you MUST avoid (VPL alert!)   💡 PRO TIP: Check out Holly’s curated Pinterest board for all the short-spiration you’ll need. She’s also showing her favorite pairs and styling tips on our YouTube episode (add link) —don’t miss it.   Nervous about showing too much leg? Unsure how to style shorts for your shape? Think you've 'aged out' of shorts? Or, do you just need to break out of your style comfort zone? Fear no more. This is a safe space.  She’s tried the trends, made the mistakes, and done the legwork (literally) so you don’t have to. She's had some of her own fashion crimes committed when it comes to wearing shorts.  Make sure you watch and/or listen to the full episode so you get all the latest and greatest dish on the hottest shorts styles this season aaannnddd, upcoming seasons. Let the Fashion Crimes Podcast be your secret weapon for all things style that you want to know about, but haven't tried yet. Your floodgates will crash open with compliments from your fam and friends, wondering what you've done differently.  🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms + YouTube🖼 Follow along on Holly’s Pinterest Board for this episode📩 DM us on Instagram and tell us how YOU feel about this episode and your summer shorts! — FASHION CRIMES PODCAST | www.fashioncrimespodcast.com We are the best fashion friend you never knew you needed! 😎 #FashionOver40 #ShortsSeason #StyleConfidence #OnlyHollyYouNeedToKnow#FashionCrimesPodacst #HollyKatzStyling #SummerShorts #HowToStyleShorts #ShortShorts #Jorts  

It's our 250th episode, (wwwhhhatttttt), and we’re celebrating in style! #duh Holly Katz is launching her very own online retail store—Wear This, Not That—coming July 15th!   HOT TIP! ** Be sure to watch this episode on our YouTube channel! ** As your favorite personal stylist and fashion bestie, Holly Katz is popping the bubbly and taking a joyful look back at nearly five years of fashion crimes, closet interventions, and style transformations. Whether you’ve been with us since Episode 1 or just joined the party, we are beyond grateful to have you as part of our fashion family. Thank you for listening, laughing, and learning with us every week. Over the past 250 Episodes (every week for 52 weeks, which equals 4.8 years), we’ve covered it all—from body type basics and sustainable shopping to red carpet recaps and fashion over 40 (and fabulous!). Holly has interviewed incredible guests, told it like it is, and most importantly, reminded us all that style has no age, size, or expiration date.    NOW…drumroll, please…Wear This, Not That! is launching on July 15th, so mark your calendars, queens.    Seasonless, ageless, and effortlessly stylish—just like you. See more on THAT, below… Our journey together is just getting started, so buckle up, besties. There are more episodes, more fashion truths, and even more closet cleanouts ahead. We’ll keep you looking better than all of your friends, making you the fashion expert in your circle.     Secret’s Out, Fashion Besties!      This online boutique is born straight from your style survey results and concerns, solving your pain points and fashion dilemmas. Think: seasonless, ageless, fabulously flattering pieces for real women of all shapes and sizes.  Expect a curated collection focused on fit, price, and—yes—free shipping and easy returns.  From statement bags to effortless dresses, every item is Holly-approved for your everyday glam.  Each week, don’t miss our new “Hot List”: a style spotlight with outfit inspo like this summer’s “Coastal Chic”, listen or WATCH the full episode on our YouTube channel to get the full scoop.   Please follow along on Instagram and YouTube for sneak peeks, styling tips, and behind-the-scenes magic. And remember—supporting small businesses that are changing the fashion industry for the better is always in style.    Tune in on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Catch this special 250th episode on our YouTube channel: Fashion Crimes Podcast  Don’t forget to find more at www.fashioncrimespodcast.com Here’s to 250 more, Fashion Besties! 

Handbag lovers, UNITE! 🎉   This week, Holly is serving up her hottest handbag picks for summer 2025—and spoiler alert: they’re all fabulous and ALL UNDER $500! #yyyaasss If you think a bag is just a bag, think again. The right one can elevate your entire look, even if you’re just in cutoffs and a tee. From sustainable stunners to sleek crossbodies and sculptural clutches that will literally have everyone asking you..." OMG, where did you get your bag?!", YOUR ultimate summer accessory cheat sheet awaits.   But she’s not just naming names—she’s dishing on how to style them, why they matter, and what makes these picks more than just your affordable bag next door. 🎧 Head over to our YouTube Channel to find out: • Which iconic brand is making major waves with upcycled leather? • The handbag so cute, Holly had to buy it on the spot • A new designer discovery that has her rethinking how many bags are really TOO many? • Why you need to put some of these on your next gift list for yourself! • PLUS: New brands you’ve never heard of—but totally need to know. This is not a list you’ll want to Google—trust us, the fun is in Holly’s fabulous commentary. For a sneak peek, head to her Pinterest board, but come back for the full rundown. 👜 Watch the episode on YouTube, listen FREE wherever you get your podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss out on our insight of the week!   #accessoryaddict #bags #designerbag #summerbags #hotlist

  Happy Fr-YAY, Fashion Besties!! This week on The Fashion Crimes Podcast, Holly is joined by the incredibly talented Caroline Leary Brown, the founder and creative director of her eponymous couture house in Philadelphia: Caroline Leary Studio. Caroline designs each piece for women who command both boardrooms and ballrooms, offering garments that exude confidence and elegance. After trading scrubs for silk, Caroline pursued a Master’s in Fashion Design, training under master couturiers in Paris. There, she honed her craft, focusing on reviving 1940s silhouettes with modern precision and incorporating thoughtfully sourced deadstock fabrics. Caroline’s work has graced the cover of Harper's Bazaar and dressed the iconic Maye Musk—proving that her designs age as gracefully as the women who wear them. In this episode, Caroline takes us through her inspiring journey—from her early days in the medical field to following her true passion for fashion. She shares how her vision for couture is rooted in the idea of empowering confident, mature women and why custom clothing is the ultimate expression of self.   HOT TIP: Watch this fantabulous interview on our YouTube Channel! Seeing Caroline showcase her designs is a must! You won't want to miss it.    Key Talking Points: • Career 180: Discover how Caroline transitioned from a career in biomedical sales to becoming a fashion designer, including her training in Paris under master couturiers.   • Design Philosophy: Hear her unique approach to reviving classic 1940s silhouettes with modern precision and why she focuses on the confident, mature woman.   • Craftsmanship and Couture: A look into the artistry of custom design, including the meticulous process behind sourcing deadstock fabrics and sculpting each garment. (We love this!)   • Empowering Women Through Fashion: Her belief in clothing not only enhances your physical appearance but also guarantees originality no one else will compare to.    • Fashion Industry Insights: We dive into the challenges of being an independent designer and how Caroline’s designs have earned recognition in publications like Harper’s Bazaar. The philosophy is simple but powerful: fashion should be a statement of confidence. Her journey serves as an inspiration to anyone pursuing their passion, regardless of how unconventional the path may seem. She is living proof it can be done.  Fashion Besties, you do not want to miss this episode! We love to support small businesses like Caroline's. If you are in the market for a custom piece, you've come to the right place.  Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts, or watch the entire interview on our YouTube channel. Please consider subscribing to our YouTube (Fashion Crimes Podcast) so you don't miss a single interview.      Links & Resources: • Follow Caroline on Instagram: @CarolineLearyStudio • Visit Caroline Leary Studios: www.carolineleary.studio       In Conclusion: The Fashion Crimes Podcast is your best fashion friend you never knew you needed! Hosted by ‘the only Holly You Need to Know’, Holly Katz, we bring you the latest trends and fashion tips for free every single week. Tune in every Friday for fresh episodes wherever you listen to podcasts, and join the Fashion Crimes Podcast "Fashion Besties" online! Connect with us on all social media and at www.fashioncrimespodcast.com.

It's here...The Super Bowl of fashion! THE MET GALA was on Monday, May 5th, and in this exciting episode, Holly shares her everlasting love and devotion for the Met Gala this year  - and her fashion insights on this year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," encouraging guests to interpret menswear and tailoring in a creative way. The theme is inspired by the Costume Institute's spring exhibition, which explores the importance of clothing and style in forming Black identities.    HOT TIP: Follow along with Holly’s “Blue Carpet Fashion Review” on our YouTube channel to see all the details discussed in this episode. You can also see every outfit on our Pinterest board for this week’s episode.    Honoring Monica L. Miller's book, Slaves to Fashion, Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity, this book was inspired by the influence of Black dandyism, exploring the history and impact of Black style in the Western world. It highlighted the power of fashion as both a tool for enslavement and liberation, while also focusing on the art of tailoring, particularly in menswear.   Holly dives super deep into her favorite looks of the night and dissects the sartorial masterpieces on the blue carpet, celebrating the creativity and boldness of the attendees.   From Coleman Domingo’s stunning Valentino Zoot Suit to Zendaya’s flawless Louis Vuitton tuxedo, we're raving about nearly every look, with just a few fashion crimes.  Tune in now to hear which fashion choices left her in awe and which celebs committed the worst fashion crimes of the night.   Who wore it best? Who knocked us off the couch? Who made us cry? Listen in for the full breakdown...you won't want to miss a second   Be sure to follow us on our YouTube channel for a visual experience of the fabulous fashion moments from the night, and catch this episode wherever you get your podcasts.     The Fashion Crimes Podcast is your best fashion friend you never knew you needed!     Hosted by ‘the only Holly You Need to Know,’ Holly Katz, we bring you the latest trends and fashion tips for free. Every. Single. Week.   Tune in every Friday for fresh episodes wherever you listen to podcasts, and join the Fashion Crimes Podcast "Fashion Besties" online. Connect with us on all social media and find us at www.fashioncrimespodcast.com.  

Happy FRI- yay Fashion Besties! Holly Katz, your hostess with the mostest, and your favorite personal stylist, is bringing you another exciting episode of the Fashion Crimes Podcast.   The countdown to summer is on like Donkey Kong, and we are about to make sure your wardrobe is on point for this current and coming up season.   This week, we’re diving into one of Holly’s favorite trends for spring and the upcoming summer... Summer Pants. Yes, it's a thing.   HOT TIP: Looking for new style inspo this summer? Be sure to follow along on Pinterest while you listen or hit up our Fashion Crimes Podcast YouTube Channel for your viewing pleasure.  Why Summer Pants? o Embrace the change: Let’s move beyond dresses and shorts this summer for an unexpected, chic, hip option to keep your style elevated.  o You'll be more put together: Summer pants give you the same polish as your fave jeans, only with a more structured, unexpected vibe. o Versatility: Wear them to brunch, on vacation, or even a night out. They will be "in" for seasons to come and will exceed your comfort expectations. Tune in to the episode now so you don't miss any of these style suggestions...but here's a teaser to get your summer pant list going. Types of Summer Pants on Your Hot List: o Leggings:  They’re still going strong with a more structured, designer fabric. They come in all price points from super high-end to more budget-friendly options. o Jeans: White and cream jeans are timeless. Focus on quality, thicker denim (make sure they're not see-through!), and experiment with trendy cropped or flared cuts. o The Cobain Pant: Inspired by Kurt Cobain’s laid-back grunge style, these wide-legged pants are making a comeback with striped patterns and relaxed fits. o Silk Pants: Perfect for lounging or a beach day, silk pants add effortless sophistication to your wardrobe.  o Cargo Pants: These are back with a twist! From industrial styles to silky, dressier versions, cargo pants are the perfect balance of chic and utilitarian.   And so many more styles. Be sure to follow along on your Pinterest board for more!   How to Style Summer Pants: o Pairing with Tops: T-shirts, blouses, and even blazers – these pants go with everything. Keep your tops light and breezy for a balanced summer look.     Final Thoughts:   The key to making summer pants work for you is all about balance. Keep your pants the star of your look and highlight with accessories.   Don’t be afraid to try something new out of your style comfort zone. Summer pants are just the start.  There you have it, Besties! Summer pants are your new go-to for 2025, and we are here to help you master the trend.   We’ve got Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, and all those beach trips coming up, so it’s the perfect time to update your wardrobe with this pant trend. Let us know how you style it!   If you’re ready to step up your summer game, you’ve got all the tools you need. Make sure you’re following us on Instagram and checking out the Pinterest board for even more styling ideas.   Reminder: New episodes drop every Friday, and we’re always ready to bring you the best in summer fashion. Don’t miss out – tune in, follow along, and let’s take the first steps to elevate your style this summer.   

Hello, fabulous fashion friends! Happy FRI-YAYYYYYY!! Welcome back to the Fashion Crimes Podcast, your weekly dose of style, inspiration, and all things fashion. Featuring your favorite personal stylist and the hostess with the mostest, Holly Katz, we are here to show you how to look chic without breaking the bank.   Wanna see us in the flesh? Check out our YouTube channel for the video of this episode!   This week, we’re diving into a super fun topic – How to Mix High and Low End Pieces like a pro! We are about to give you all the secrets on how to elevate your wardrobe with a perfect blend of luxury AND affordable items.   Trust us, by the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly how to rock designer accessories with budget-friendly staples. So grab your favorite earphones, turn up the volume, and let’s gooooooo!   Outline of Key Topics Discussed:   1. Why Mixing High and Low Works o Create a balanced, effortlessly chic look that reflects your unique style. o Moderation is key. You don’t need to wear all high-end or all low-end pieces. o The magic of blending designer pieces with more affordable finds to achieve that high-low vibe.   2. Identifying High-End vs. Low-End Pieces o High-end items: Designer accessories (bags, shoes, jewelry) and classic investment pieces. o Low-end items: Budget-friendly but stylish basics like tees, denim, and everyday items that don’t need to break the bank.   3. High-End Accessories: The Key to Elevating Any Outfit o By spending your hard-earned dollars on high-end designer accessories, these are the staples that support and elevate any outfit. o Designer pieces should be used to create a polished, sophisticated look that will "level up" your lower-end pieces. o Example: Pair a $5 vintage baseball hat with a designer handbag and shoes for the ultimate high-low combo.   4. Low-End Staples: The Foundation of a Flexible Wardrobe o Find affordable yet stylish options like Levi’s jeans, vintage tees, or a well-cut jacket that won’t drain your wallet. o HOT TIP!  Mixing costume with your real jewelry makes all of your jewelry look more refined.  o Example: A vintage rock tee layered with a blazer, paired with designer shoes with an affordable statement earring: priceless!   5. Where to Shop for the Best High-Low Mix o Check out designer second-hand marketplaces like The RealReal or local consignment shops in your area for amazing finds. o Vintage stores and online sites like ThredUp can carry high-quality, less expensive options. o Shop strategically for sales or shop off-season to make sure you’re investing in pieces that will last.   6. When to Splurge o Invest in timeless pieces that hold their value over time, like a designer handbag or quality jackets and scarves. o Always shop with fit and quality in mind—don’t just buy for the label. o Think about longevity and versatility when selecting high-end pieces to mix into your wardrobe.   Final Words: Mixing high and low-end pieces is not only fun, but it’s a savvy way to build a wardrobe that looks unexpected, sophisticated, and totally unique. Remember, fashion is about creating a look that feels true to YOU—whether it’s from a luxury designer or a thrift store gem, mix it up and make it yours. And as always, we are here to help guide you through the process. You can give this a try, no matter your budget or current style.   Don't forget to check out our YouTube Channel for all the inspiration you need, and connect with us on Instagram for all the latest updates and style inspo you need. Connect with us for a shoutout on the next episode!   #styleinspo #outfitinspo #womenswardrobe #highlowmix #accessories #designer #consignment

Fashion Besties happyyyy Friii-yayyy! This week on the Fashion Crimes Podcast, we’re diving into the world of eyeglass frames—something many of us overlook, but can dramatically make or break our style. Tune in to hear how the right pair of glasses (and sunglasses!) can become your new secret style weapon! Catch this podcast episode wherever you get your podcasts – or watch right now on YouTube! This episode is packed with expert tips to elevate your eyewear game. From choosing the right shape to upgrading those tired frames, you or someone you know will benefit from an eyeglass frame makeover. #trustme   Holly's Tips for Upgrading Your Eyeglass Frames:   1. Have a Variety of Frames:   Owning at least three pairs of glasses with updated prescriptions will give you plenty of options to change up your look. These should include one classic or neutral style (think clear or wire frames), one bold and fun option, and one edgier style frame. Changing up your frames guarantees an instant style upgrade.   2. Switch Up Your Styles Regularly:   If you've been wearing the same frames for years, you might be stuck in a style rut. Try different shapes, colors, and materials—get adventurous with geometric shapes or even a funky cat-eye. Trying them on in person is a must. You will have more options and it will help you decide what complements your skin and hair best.   3. Eyeglasses as Part of Your Wardrobe:   Your frames are a key accessory to your outfit, just like shoes or a handbag. Don’t let them become an afterthought—choose frames that work with your overall style and personality.   Want to see these frame suggestions in action? Head over to your Pinterest board, where we've curated some of our fave frame styles for every personality and look.   Hot TIP!  Don't forget, if you're ready to level up your style, watch the full episode on our YouTube channel for a closer look at the frames discussed. You won't want to miss this!   In the market for new frames? Send us your pics for a shout-out next week! Also, don’t forget to share this episode with someone you love who probably needs to up their eyeglass frame game.  Listen to full episode for style suggestions and more updated eyeglass frame inspo. #eyeglasses #frames #funkyframes #wirerims #titaniumframes #accessories #accessoryaddict

Special Guest: (yaaassss) Tracy Gold – Personal Stylist, Designer, and QVC Show Host Watch this full interview on our **YouTube channel** to get the complete immersive experience, just like you are in the room with them. Happy FRY-YAAAAAY!! This week, on the Fashion Crimes Podcast, we have the fabulous Tracy Gold, a personal stylist and designer who specializes in creating fashion that empowers women through their body changes during perimenopause and menopause. #tellmemore Learn about her journey from styling to designing clothing that helps women feel confident, stylish, and comfortable during some of the most challenging changes in their lives. As always, please consider downloading and subscribing to our YouTube channel to tune into the interview here! Key Topics Discussed: 1. Tracy's Journey in Styling and Design • 20+ years of experience as a stylist for women over 40. • The transition from styling to designing clothes for women going through body changes, particularly due to perimenopause and menopause.   2. The Importance of Clothing That Adapts to the Body • How her own experience with perimenopause changed her approach to fashion design. • Creating a collection of customizable clothes that always fit, designed to adjust to changes in size and shape. • Focus on styles that make women feel confident, including adjustable waistlines and breathable fabrics.   3. The Wear 3 Ways Dress • Tracy’s innovative design allows for multiple styling options with one dress. • Features include a triangle-shaped silhouette, which offers both comfort and flattering waist definition without feeling too tight or restrictive. • Practical tips for using belts to create a personalized look that works with any body shape.   4. Sustainable and Ethical Fabrics • Tracy’s commitment to using sustainable fabrics that are breathable, beautiful, and good for the environment. • Fabrics that use 50% less water and are compostable, combined with designer-quality prints and breathable materials perfect for hot flashes.   5. Styling Tips for Women Over 40 • Her best advice on wearing prints,and how they can disguise areas women want to minimize. • How to style them without feeling overwhelmed. • Key styling tips: choosing the right fabric, creating waist definition, and how small adjustments like flutter sleeves can make a huge difference in flattering the body. • A focus on creating illusions with clothing, such as the Magic Blouse that enhances the upper body while camouflaging trouble spots.   Why You Must Listen: This episode is a must-listen for all who are battling body issues or changes. These styles are ageless and can easily transition from day to night.    Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, menopause, or simply want to feel great in your clothes, this episode is filled with the inspiration you need.   Links to find Tracy Gold • Tracy Gold's Website: Tracy Gold New York • Instagram: @tracygoldnewyork   "We are the best fashion friend you never knew you needed." Tune in every week as we help women over 40 feel fabulous and confident in their style choices.  Don't forget to subscribe to the Fashion Crimes Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts! #fashionover40 #fashionover50 #tracygold #womensstyle #womenswardrobe #styleinspo

It's our fave day of the week, and we sure hope you're tuned in for the next 30 cause it's Friii-yyyaayyy! Ageless and timeless, the white button-down is the ultimate versatile piece, and Holly explains why it is a must-have for every woman, no matter her age. HOT TIP! Watch this week’s episode on our **YouTube Channel**  and check out Holly’s Pinterest board ! Key Topics Discussed in This Episode: Holly breaks down how to style a white shirt in a variety of ways, ensuring that it’s not just a basic garment but a statement piece that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.   1. Why a White Button-Down Shirt is a Must-Have:   o Timeless Appeal: A white button-down shirt is a classic staple that never goes out of style, making it a valuable investment piece for any wardrobe.   o Versatility: The white button-down serves as a neutral base that can be styled in countless ways, allowing you to create multiple looks with a single item.   o Ageless Style: It’s a shirt that works for every age group, from young professionals in their 20's and up.   2. Classic and Casual Styles for a White Button-Down:   o Tied at the waist: A simple yet polished look. Pairing a white button-down with well-fitting jeans (skinny, straight-leg, or boyfriend) offers a clean, timeless style.   o Layering Over a Tank or T-Shirt, or a 'Shacket': For a laid-back, breezy vibe, leave it unbuttoned and layer it over a tank or t-shirt.   o Rock an oversized fit: A great way to add a casual touch while still looking chic. Roll up the sleeves 2-3 times and tuck in just the front for a modern twist.   3. Dressing It Up: o Under a Blazer: Your white button-down coupled with a fitted blazer creates a polished, professional look that’s perfect for day or an evening out.   o Pairing with Tailored Trousers: A white shirt with tailored pants and a heel creates an elegant, sophisticated silhouette ideal to be the best dressed in the room.    o Accessories are the answer: By adding statement jewelry, you can transform the shirt by adding any or all of the following: Chunky necklaces, statement earrings, or layered bracelets—to create a new look with the same shirt.    4. Creative and Bold Styling Tips: o Belt it: Try something different by adding a bold colored belt around the smallest part of your waist. Could be a thin or thick belt.    o Wear It as a Dress: For longer, tunic-style shirts, unbutton it all the way down and wear it as a loose, belted dress with leggings or shorts.    o Under a Sweater: Layering a white button-down under a sweater adds depth to your outfit while keeping you warm. The shirt’s collar and cuffs will peek out, creating a sophisticated layered look.   5. Perfect Fit Tips for a White Button-Down: o Check the garment details! o Play with Proportions   o Look for a substantial fabric that will last     Final Thoughts   No matter how you choose to wear it, the white button-down shirt is a timeless piece that should be in every woman’s wardrobe.   Holly encourages listeners to try different ways of styling their white shirt, from buttoning it up all the way for a classic look to experimenting with knots and layering pieces.   LET’S TALK!   Please share your unique white button-down shirt styling tips and experiences with us on social media! We love seeing how you make this versatile piece you own!   For more fascinating fashion insights, make sure to subscribe to our **YouTube Channel** and check out Holly’s Pinterest board for more style inspirations!   Have a fabulous fashion week – join us next Friday – and every Friday! – for fashion news you can actually use!    #fashionover40 #fashionover50 #whiteshirt #whitebuttondown #highlowfashion