Sidewalk Style: Know Your Colors

By Rachel Cothran

The stylishly outfitted subject we spotted this week happens to be an image consultant. We tried to get her to elaborate on how one’s skin tone dictates the size of patterns she should wear, but apparently it’s complicated. In the words of Kelis (’member this one?!): “I could teach you, but I’d have to charge.”

Jane Pennewell, 65
Personal image consultant

What she’s wearing: Black Norma Kamali trench-style wrap dress from Neiman Marcus, Amalfi red patent-leather shoes from Nordstrom, tote from Syms in New York, necklace of her own design (available at jpaccessories.com).

What are three things a woman should always have in her closet?
“Hair-color or skin-tone-color shoes. That ensures a balanced look if you cannot match a color you are wearing. Updated jewelry and updated handbags are musts.”

Why is knowing your colors important? Isn't that outdated thinking?
“We relate better to people, and people relate better to us, even subconsciously. It’s a whole new way to think about dressing, actually. And it has nothing to do with body type.”

What rules should mature women follow?
“Stay current with styles and fabrics—know your colors and size of patterns that work with your skin tone.”

Skin tone has something to do with pattern size?
“Skin tone as well as eye color and the natural blush of the skin—they dictate the intensity.”

What’s something you would never wear?
“Large patterns.”

Favorite stores:
Neiman Marcus, Saks, Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, Loehmann’s, Marshalls. Pennewell also hits consignment stores, both for her own wardrobe and with clients: “The important thing is not where you shop but what you purchase. Know your wardrobe, what works for you, and what you need to leverage more looks.” She likes Encore Resale (3715 Macomb St., NW, #201), Secondi (1702 Connecticut Ave., NW, upstairs), and Fashion Exchange Consignment (6663-B Old Dominion Dr., McLean).

Rachel says:
I bumped into Pennewell right after leaving Secondhand Rose (1516 Wisconsin Avenue, NW), one of my favorite consignment stops. Of course, I showed her my purchases: a gorgeously cut linen dress from Piazza Sempione ($60) and a fitted black silk jacket from Tahari ($10). She approved of the jacket but instantly wrinkled her nose at the dress. Apparently, the one color no one should wear is olive. “It’s no wonder the Army chose it,” she said. Oh, well. I’m not sure if I’m sold on this color stuff anyway. What does everyone think?

Weigh in on Jane's look!

What do you think of this week's Sidewalk Style? We want to know! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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Posted by: shoeset, Dec 16, 2010 05:30:43 PM

If you think you need help with colors, style, look, etc., you do and call Jane ASAP! You wouldn’t design your house on your own so why try to figure out your clothes and look on your own? My husband and I are happy clients for over 5 years and frankly need to use her more often than we do. We often say, would Jane approve?

Posted by: Linda, Sep 20, 2008 07:59:48 AM

She looks elegant and also but warm and approachable -- a great combination.

Posted by: Catherine, Sep 07, 2008 07:30:50 PM

Jane’s choices are always right!! I never shop without my color chart. She really knows what she is doing and does it better than anyone I have ever met. Our world would be beautiful if everyone followed Jane’s advice. You should hire her. She is worth every cent and more!

Posted by: Amy, Sep 07, 2008 01:50:19 PM

So put together. She must love her work as it shows.

Posted by: Joyce, Sep 05, 2008 08:13:06 AM

Looking my personal best is easy thanks to working with Jane for 14 years. She has a fabulous eye, a keen ability to see you for who you are, and a caring nature.

Posted by: Suzanne, Sep 05, 2008 05:30:15 AM

Wow - Jane shows how the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.

Posted by: Michael, Sep 04, 2008 01:27:34 PM

Jane has been my consultant for over 20 years. I am stopped daily with positive comments about my colors and wardrobe.

Posted by: Rebecca Brown, Sep 04, 2008 12:16:08 PM

At my house, "What would Jane say?" is a regular question.

Posted by: George, Sep 04, 2008 12:08:08 PM

Maybe she can do a makeover for the Republican VP nominee!!

Posted by: , Sep 04, 2008 12:07:12 PM

Jane looks amazing! The right color does matter.

Posted by: , Sep 04, 2008 09:34:23 AM

Jane is hot! In my book, she can do no wrong.