The Battle of the Bags

Whose side are you on? Both miniature and oversized handbags were featured on the recent 2016 runways and are going head to head this spring. Miniature bags are pretty little things that can add an elegant touch to any outfit. In contrast oversized bags give off a major cool girl vibe. May the chicest bag win.

Text: TORI CHRISTINE

The “Boyfriend" style

Forget the unbearable gym memberships, and neon colored Zumba pants, because raiding through a male’s closet is workout enough.  The “Boyfriend style”, unlike the tomboy attire, presents comfort, expresses one’s feminine edginess, and is easily buildable.    Whether you take his button up shirt, or a distressed tee, the style is perfectly paired with that layered jacket look, and those dusty boots.

Text: GARRETT YOUNG

How to: Cropped Jeans

Cropped jeans are the latest trend that’s as quirky as they are edgy. This “it” silhouette has been seen on runways and street style starlets alike. Cool and unexpected, this trend can seem a little challenging to pull off. Follow these tips and styling these chic yet tricky pants will be a breeze.

Try a Mid Calf Boot:

Mid calf boots are a classic and compliment ankle grazers beautifully. Go for rich colors to keep this look on trend.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Keep It Sophisticated:

Add sophisticated pieces like a pair of pumps or a classic trench to make this quirky pant a little more wearable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Show Some Skin:

Sex up this cutsie trend by baring a little skin. Try a high waisted pair with your favorite crop top for a flirty vibe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Text: TORI CHRISTINE

How to Dress for Valentine's Date

Valentine’s day is less than a week away. Nothing to wear? Don’t worry. No matter what activity you’ve planned with your man this Valentine’s day, we’ve got you covered.

Candlelit Dinner

You’re one glamorous girl, and your beau knows that. Dress to impress with a low back dress in a daring color.

Outdoor Adventure

You and your man are all about the great outdoors. Whether heading to the beach or enjoying a picnic a whimsical maxi dress will make his heart flutter. Don’t forget your floppy hat.

Dine in

A movie marathon with plenty of snacks is your idea of #relationshipgoals. Keep your day comfortable with your favorite athleisure pieces.

Party Time

Boyfriend? More like partner in crime. Whether hitting the clubs or heading to a concert, try pairing curve hugging jeans with an edgy leather jacket for a look that knows how to have a good time.

 

Text: TORI CHRISTINE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
$17.11 at ASOS

$17.11 at ASOS

 
$390.00 Eugenia Kim at Neiman Marcus

$390.00 Eugenia Kim at Neiman Marcus

 
$159.00 James Perse

$159.00 James Perse

 
$240.00 ASOS

$240.00 ASOS

Flat Shoe Trends of 2016

Looking for an easy to wear shoe that still makes a statement? Whether heading to the office or running some errands, these practical yet beautiful shoes are sure to become your new go to.

Flat mules: Mules are the “it” shoe this season and as easy to wear as your household slippers! Look for simple styles in basic colors for an effortless and elegant touch.

Flat mules: Mules are the “it” shoe this season and as easy to wear as your household slippers! Look for simple styles in basic colors for an effortless and elegant touch.

CLICK TO SHOP

CLICK TO SHOP

Oxfords: Classic and comfy. Reach for this versatile shoe in colorful, printed or textured materials to add a little oomph to any outfit.

Oxfords: Classic and comfy. Reach for this versatile shoe in colorful, printed or textured materials to add a little oomph to any outfit.

CLICK TO SHOP

CLICK TO SHOP

Sneakers: Sneakers are comfortable and surprisingly sophisticated. Pair them with streamlined and classic ensembles to keep your look stylish.

Sneakers: Sneakers are comfortable and surprisingly sophisticated. Pair them with streamlined and classic ensembles to keep your look stylish.

CLICK TO SHOP

CLICK TO SHOP

D’orsay Flats: A subtle twist on a classic silhouette. Fun cutouts on your average flats can add quirky and unexpected edge.

D’orsay Flats: A subtle twist on a classic silhouette. Fun cutouts on your average flats can add quirky and unexpected edge.

CLICK TO SHOP

CLICK TO SHOP

Text: Tori Christine

 

How to: Accessorize

Everyone knows accessories can make or break your outfit.  But how can you make sure that your accessorizing doesn’t miss the mark? Follow these tips on how to add the perfect final touch to any outfit.

Less is more: Sometimes choosing one accessory is the best option.  Try investing in a beautiful yet simple bracelet or necklace for a great everyday addition to a sophisticated wardrobe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mix Metallic: Mixing Bronze, Gold and Silver creates a look that is modern but still classic.

 

 

 

 

Pop of Color: Adding a single pop of color of color to an otherwise monochrome outfit is not only timeless, but is a great way to add interest to simple pieces.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Be adventures: Don’t be afraid to add a statement piece you love. Just make sure to rock it with confidence!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Text: TORI CHRISTINE

#ExerciseChic

Take these trends out of the gym and onto the streets.  Work out gear is getting an upgrade with these polished exercise staples that can add sophistication to any outfit. Ladies, it’s time to get your wardrobe into shape.

Sneakers: Sneakers add a youthful edge to classic silhouettes.

 

Track Pants: Track pants are a graphic alternative to slacks. Pair them with your favorite blazer and a pair of killer heels to keep your outfit polished.

 

Jerseys: Your favorite t-shirt dress with a twist. Pair jerseys with understated accessories for a sophisticated look.

 

Mesh: Look for shift dresses in this fresh material for an unexpected touch to a closet staple.

 

Text: TORI CHRISTINE

11 Boots to rock this Fall #Fall15

No Fall wardrobe is complete without a pair of rocking boots to get you through the season.
If you are thinking of investing in a pair of good booties for Fall, take a look at the list below.
These boots are made for walking, and people talking. These babies dominate this season and you know it.

staff

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP LOUIS VUITTON ANKLE BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP LOUIS VUITTON ANKLE BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP GIVENCHY LAMBSKIN LEATHER BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP GIVENCHY LAMBSKIN LEATHER BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP MIU MIU ANKLE BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP MIU MIU ANKLE BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP GUCCI LILIAN BIT BOOT

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP GUCCI LILIAN BIT BOOT

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP CHLOE LACE UP BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP CHLOE LACE UP BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP SAINT LAURENT GORED LEATHER BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP SAINT LAURENT GORED LEATHER BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP BURBERRY LONDON BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP BURBERRY LONDON BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP BALENCIALA SMOOTH LEATHER BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP BALENCIALA SMOOTH LEATHER BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP GUCCI HORSEBIT-DETAILED BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP GUCCI HORSEBIT-DETAILED BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP DIOR PATENT LEATHER BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP DIOR PATENT LEATHER BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP GIVENCHY SHARK LOCK LEATHER BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP GIVENCHY SHARK LOCK LEATHER BOOTS

 
 

A Practical Guide to Owning Fewer Clothes

1. Let's begin here! Say it! you own way too much stuff.

2. Choose to wear few colors. Wear those you love most. Wear fewer colors. Wearing few colors means less accessories.

3. Keep all in the counts of one.  One black blazer, one great belt,  one pair of black pumps, one pair of cool sneakers, one great clutch.... and just use it based on the event or day.

4. Sell, donate, exchange with clothing that you no longer wear. You'll be surprised how much you'll find in the pile.

5. Break your habit of constantly shopping. Self discipline yourself. You really don't need as much as you buy.

6. Purchase quality over quantity. Pay attention to fabric, it is the main ingredient.

7. Only buy clothing that you truly love – even if it costs more. If you stock your closet full of things you love, you will have less desire to add to it.

9. Watch out for those sales and remember the rule, Sale should only be used to help you get a better price on something that you really need. 

10. And lastly you should impress with your character and not with things your wear.

Text Miles Socho

 

Hats and High Society: Vintage Photos

Gibson Girl - early 1900s Gibson Girl was the first national beauty standard for American women. Her neck was thin and her hair piled high upon her head in the contemporary bouffant, pompadour, and chignon ("waterfall of curls") fashions. The statuesque, narrow-waisted ideal feminine figure was portrayed as being at ease and stylish. She was a member of upper class society, always perfectly dressed in the latest fashionable attire appropriate for the place and time of day.

Amelia Earhart traded in her aviatrix hat for some Ascot millinery before leaving her hostess's London home

Sophia Loren in Givenchy, 1964

Mary, duchess of Beaufort
 
Louise Cromwell Brooks, circa 1911, was a Washington, D.C. socialite.
Jean Jacques Bugat, Vogue France 1948
Jacqueline Kennedy with a Pillbox hat
The Princess channeled Old Hollywood in her turban during a March 1989 tour of Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

British Royalty, Princess Catherine

Bucket Bag by Mansur Gavriel #StyleWatch

You might not be familiar with the name, but Mansur Gavriel has what The Telegraph has dubbed “the most popular bag in the world,” and rightfully so. In fact, this bag has been purchased a whopping 56,732 times, and that is just from the beginning of 2015. It is also currently sold out, and according to The Telegraph this is not an unusual thing. Especially with the Bucket Bag being priced at under $500.

Founded in 2012 by Rachel Mansur and Mariana Gavriel. Two days after the duo met (at a concert, mind you)  they started designing. Their philosophy behind the design is an emphasis on quality leather and workmanship with a minimization in the cost towards hardware. Obviously, these bags are gorgeous. The demand for these bags is so high that when these bags are finally restocked in August, there is a limit on the number of bags that a customer can buy. Customers are limited to one bag at the time of purchase.

They come in a variety of colors, and to make the bags even more personalized, you can choose the color of the interior as well. The bags are made of Italian Leather from the Veneto Region of Italy. You can purchase the Bucket Bag in three different sizes: the Bucket Bag, the Mini Bucket, and the Mini Mini. Mansur Gavriel also offers backpacks, totes, and clutches that are all made with Vegetable Tanned Leather with no synthetic top finishes, meaning this season’s It Bag wears beautifully over time.

Needless to say, my name is on their newsletter and I will be praying for one of their bags come August.


Text Katrina Elisabeth Duran

 

Pin a Brooch

On days when you dress in all monochromes and necklaces seem to be a repetitive accessory, it’s the brooches that come to the rescue.  The brooch is making a surprisingly chick comeback.  Brooches were seen all over the Spring 2015 runways.  New and unusual crop of brooches on your sweater, hats,  handbag and even hairdo will be slowly appearing.  To the modern woman, the word “brooch” conjures images of a grandmother.  Get ready!  This season, the brooch, appearing across the fall runways is ranging from  retro to typically demure. Both Chanel and Vera Wang had trendy pieces incorporate in spring collections.  “I liked the idea of adding a feminine touch to the very tailored jackets by creating floral brooches from silks reminiscent of a man’s necktie or handkerchief”, Mr.Armani said.

The interesting thing about brooches is their versatility.  You can make the brooch the entire focus of your ensemble. You can place large sterling-silver brooches squarely on the chests of austere suit jackets and sheath dresses as Tomas Maier did at Bottega Veneta.  You can neatly pin one to the breast of a blouse or jacket.  As a piece of jewelry it has limitless possibilities.   Today’s modern acceptance of the brooch comes in the form of both vintage and ultra chic designs.  Even men prefer a stick pin which adds a personal touch to a monotone look.  Everyone wants to make a memorable statements, and brooches are the perfect way to do that.   They can serve to be a subtle expression of your current mood or a reflection of your personality.  They can be simple and elegant, glamorous or inspiring.  There’s no limit. So, how do you pull off this legendary look and make it modern?

Here are a few quick ways to utilize a brooch:

  • Dress up a plain hat.  Attach the pin in the center a little up from the base around the band of the head
  • Pin a brooch at the collarbone of a neckline on  your favorite blouse
  • You can even attach the brooch to a long necklace, either a chain or pearls.

See more of our brooch collection here and start pinning!

Text by Maria DeSilva