Ann Marshik is a wardrobe stylist who studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology. She brings her classic-meets-edgy aesthetic to editorial and commercial fashion projects and works with clients one-on-one. She's also the co-founder of Fashion's Missing Middle, a platform on YouTube and Instagram that she started with retail expert Anne Mezzenga, founder of Retail Field Report. Together, the two offer practical style advice as they aim to fill the void between investment pieces and more accessible fashion.
We were so lucky to have both of these iconic Ann(e)s at our Mother Of pop-up in Minneapolis, helping women find their perfect dress for a mother of the bride or groom moment.Â
Teri Jon belted taffeta shirt dress
Teri Jon and Kay Unger were two brands that stood out to Marshik at the event. "The Teri Jon shirt dressed looked so good on so many people," Marshik said. "It's very elegant looking, and yet you could wear it to another event or possibly even as a wedding guest. Someone bought it to wear at the rehearsal dinner." (Shop Teri Jon shirt dresses from the event, both tea and floor length.)
Kay Unger strapless column gown
"With Kay Unger, the floral prints are really tasteful and elegantâfloral is a big trend this year," Marshik said, "and they looked really good on [women]."
Marshik offered this advice to improve the mother of the bride/groom shopping experience:Â
- Bring shoes that you may want to wear with your dress. If you donât have the exact pair, bring something similar like a heel, sandal or flat.
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Wear shape wear and your good bra. It saves a step in the fitting room and makes it easier to see how the dress will actually fit.
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Think multiple uses. As you are trying on dresses, think about where else you may be able to wear itâan event, a gala, etc.
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Go bold. Donât be afraid to try a dress in a bolder color or patternâthey look so good on and can be a nice surprise to see!
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Bring a trusted friend. Ask another mother of, or future daughter in lawâit helps to have solid advice!
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Think about movement when trying on a dress. Dancing, sitting, walking up the aisle. How does the dress feel and move with you?  Are you tugging?  Do you feel comfortable?
- Also keep in mind time of year and day. Will you want a shawl? Â Will you be so hot you start perspiring through the dress if it has sleeves?
Wish Ann could just style you? Reach out for an appointment.