Who: Helen Ruebel, 55, homemaker and hosta-growing hobbyist.
The Story: Helen’s daughter, Genevieve, nominated her mom for much-needed pampering. “When most people are calling a handyman, my mom is putting on jeans and fixing the pipes before you can pick up the phone. My mom is one of the toughest chicks out there, but underneath the brassy exterior is a lady who deserves to be treated like a queen.”
The Style Inspiration: Helen loves Katherine Hepburn.
Our Stylist’s Take: “Helen was a spitfire. She’s kind, sweet, and happy-spirited. We wanted to give her a real wardrobe adjustment—take her out of ‘mom jeans’ and give her the basics that would also meet her lifestyle needs. We call this one ‘organic fashionista.’”
Word to the Wise: Green is Helen’s favorite color—and was a favorite on the runway, too. The tone-on-tone greens, long layers, and prints added length and leanness to Helen’s figure.
Last Look: Helen left the shoot feeling empowered. “I’m going shopping and then my husband is taking me out to dinner!”
Where to Get it
The Outfit: Chalet dress, $79; Adore sweater, $154; both @ Fawbush’s, Galleria, Edina, 952-922-5717, fawbushs.com. Turquoise and sterling necklace, $220; Martine Sitbon handbag, $598 @ StyledLife, Galleria, Edina, 952-928-8888, styledlife.com. Dolce Vita boots, $210 @ Ladyslipper, 4940 France Ave. S., Edina, 952-224-1900, ladyslipperboutique.com.
Before:
“I can plan a beautiful garden but I have trouble planning a wardrobe,” Helen told us.
After:
Style staff on the set agreed: Helen looks like Meredith Vieira!
Cool prints mixed with drapey layers add up to a rock-chic look
Tall boots lengthen the leg line and look great at any age.
