Tag: Women’s fashion

Spring Style Watch: Must Have Trends

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Hi! It’s me here, resurfacing after a little blogging break and ready to take on the warmer weather. Sweater weather might be finally behind us, so it’s time to break out the florals and sunglasses to embrace the warmth. Some exciting news on my part, I’m going to be living in New York City for two months this summer which means that I’ll have loads of exciting stories and content to share on here! So, what will I be wearing? Here are some trends to look out for this season from picnics and the beach to festivals and outdoor concerts.

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Trend: Textured Swimsuits

Who says swimsuits have to be all made of the same fabric? Mix up your pool-side look this summer with a fun crocheted, metallic or even denim suit. Brands like Solid and Striped and Oséree are changing the way we see swim style by using unique materials and unconventional designs.

Trend: Barely-There Sandals

We have gone from the blocky platform sandal to a barely-there strap sandal in just a couple of seasons. While a bolder shoe makes a fun statement, sometimes the bare minimal does just the same which is the idea behind this new shoe trend. Embrace a fun sandal this spring and enjoy the freedom of letting your feet breathe outside.

Essential: Light Stylish Coat

I absolutely swear by my Barbour olive green wax jacket because it completes any outfit and goes with any style while keeping me warm and dry in the fickle Upstate NY April weather. Trench coats are another classic that also works well for early spring, and wind breakers are surprisingly having a moment. Have fun with an 80s inspired neon color-block wind breaker or a metallic jacket to brighten up any outfit.

Trend: 80s Style Prairie Dresses

Think 80s Laura Ashley meets Coachella. Puffed-up shoulders and pastel floral prints might be back (whether or not that’s a good thing is definitely up for discussion). For this season’s inevitable floral fix, try something retro-funky and embrace the light fabrics and colors that come hand and hand with the prairie girl look. Look out for Urban Outfitters’ collaboration with Laura Ashley to see this trend go real mainstream.

Essential Trend: Culotte-like Statement Pants

I am all for the bold comfy pants that are starting to become a summer essential. For those days when shorts might not be the most appropriate and a dress just isn’t doing it, wide-legged high-waisted culotte pants are the perfect alternative, especially for spring weather. Find a bold printed pair and wear it with a simple shirt to automatically feel stylish and confident.

Where to Shop Online

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Alright alright, I know that I pretend to be a big supporter of small businesses and brick and mortar shops. And yes, I definitely am since I try to shop local as much as possible. However, living in the middle of farm land upstate New York makes it a little difficult to shop for the kind of quality I want with my clothes. Thanks to my isolation, I’ve somewhat perfected the art of online shopping. I know how to find the deals, the kind of clothes I’m looking for, and the prices I deem reasonable. I have compiled here a list of my go-tos. While I know there are many other stores out there on the web.com, these are what I believe are the best. Whatever you think, anything is honestly better than Amazon* (sorry, Amazoners, but really?).

*It was recently released that Amazon is reigning in more revenue for apparel than any other retailer in the US, more so than Target or any large brand…

Shopbop

Probably my favorite online retailer, Shopbop sells clothes that range dramatically in both style and price. They brand themselves around being trendy and fashionable, so they are the go-to place for all of those latest must haves. A lot of what they sell is from smaller lesser known designers which is both cool to find and good to support.

The OUTNET

The OUTNET will dangerously change the way you shop and what brands you shop from. In a genius way, they drawl in last season clothing from top designer brands, both small and large, and majorly discount them for the internet to buy. It is essentially an online outlet, but classier and larger.

Asos

Asos is a British online fast-fashionesque brand that sells a variety of trendy clothing at very reasonable prices. They have their own brand that is similar to a TopShop or Zara, and then they sell other brands that are usually a bit pricier. A bonus: they have an online student discount and the shipping doesn’t take as long as one might think.

MyTheresa

High-end fashion can be found all over the internet these days. MyTheresa sells a selection of expertly curated clothing and accessories from the world’s top designers. They attempt to duplicate an in-store experience online with excellent customer service at the ready for any shopper.

Revolve

Revolve is similar to Shopbop with many overlapping brands and a similar online experience. However, it’s LA based, so they cater towards a young Cali crowd. Almost all of their brands are US based which is cool, and they stay very up to date on trends, offering amazing edits and inspiration.

Zappos

Probably the most popular online retailer, Zappos is known for their shoes and crazy fast free shipping. If you need any kind of footwear last minute, Zappos has your back with an array of hundreds of brands and styles. The selection is a little less trendy and less curated towards the stylish customer than say an online department store, but it is super convenient!

Saks

The well known luxury department store, Saks Fifth Avenue, has a great online store where you can find nearly everything and more from their stores. While the prices might seem a bit steep, Saks Online will often offer really great discounts and deals that help make online shopping worth it. Nearly everything is returnable for free and shipping is nearly always free.

Nordstrom

Nordstrom online is always a go-to for good deals and easy shopping. They also have one of the best online department stores (not every department store is great online) with a huge selection of all of their brands. As always, they have free and easy returns which really can make a huge difference with online shopping.

5 Trendy Non-Teddy Bear Jackets to Buy this Winter

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The tan fake-sherpa teddy bear coat is arguably the jacket of the year. You know the one I’m talking about, the one you see every young girl wearing around. Recently, while working at my local mall, a group of about 6 high schoolers walked into the store all wearing very similar variations of that same jacket. I wanted one before, but after seeing that, I decided to look elsewhere because do you really want to wear the same jacket of every trendy high schooler this winter? I am not saying the teddy bear coat isn’t cute, but it is probably the most basic trend around (no shame for a basic style though). So much else is out there right in terms of trendy jackets; make it fun! Statement layers are huge right now, making it the go-to investment for this winter. Here are some other ideas to look cute and trendy throughout the long cold season.

1.The understated faux fur bomber

Find it at Revolve.com

Trendy but not too over-the-top, this bomber will keep you cozy and comfortable all winter long. The light pink color (a personal favorite) keeps the jacket feminine and bright.

2. The gold standard puffer

Buy it on sale while supplies last

I am absolutely obsessed with this puffer jacket- the color, shine, it’s all there and it’s amazing. Perfect for skiing or hanging outside, this jacket is filled with down so it will keep you warm while making a bold statement.

3. Feathers galore

This fun and funky coat can be found here at Topshop

While fur and faux fur are still having a moment, feathers are emerging to be the next “it” layer material. Less warm but less bulky, feather coats are a fun and fresh way to spice up this winter season.

4. The Upgraded Teddy Bear

Another reasonably priced Topshop find

If you want to stick to the sherpa but want something a little different than the all too popular teddy bear, this corduroy lined coat is just as fluffy and comfy. Corduroy is having a moment, so you’ll really be on trend with a jacket like this.

5. The trendiest blazer

Buy it at Revolve.com

I love a good blazer, but it is usually not appropriate to wear one outside of a very formal workplace. This shimmery oversized blazer, however, can work perfectly anywhere. The shine makes it great to dress up, but having it oversized allows you to dress it down easily with jeans. Win-win and so trendy!

My Favorite Beauty Products for a Long Long Winter

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I did my first beauty/wellness post this summer and surprisingly really enjoyed it (I mean it is pretty much just talking about yourself…!).  So, I’ve returned with a second post, an undeniably more important one since anyone who lives in a cold climate knows the struggle of that winter’s dryness can bring.  While the winter weather can take toll on hair and skin, these products help make the season more bearable and pleasant.  

  1. Tata Harper Hydrating Floral Essence
Find Tata Harper products here at Sephora
  • This all natural high-end brand is my new favorite skin care line.   Although pricey, Tata Harper uses quality ingredients that help to brighten and hydrate skin. The Floral Essence smells amazing and duplicates as both a toner and setting spray that allows lotions, creams and oils to work deeper into the skin. This amazing spray will not allow your face to dry out. It feels super refreshing too!

2. Lush Lip Scrub

Shop for it here through Lush.com
  • Lush, the niche natural brand, pioneered simple eco-friendly products years ago. Their OG sugar lip scrub remains a favorite today. The formula is seriously just sugar, oil and some flavoring, but the eatable mixture works wonders on dry flakey lips while helping to keep them plump and hydrated. I like the Mint Julips flavor since it tastes/smells nice and fresh, but the scrub comes in all sorts of sweeter flavors such as bubblegum and chocolate.

3. Dior Lip Glow Color Reviver Balm

Find it at Sephora in many different colors
  • Sometimes, all you need is a nice sheer lip gloss to complete a look. This balm does just that and more, going beyond looks to moisturize and shine lips. Between the color and benefits, the lip balm is the ideal winter lip product. The packaging is also super cool. I’m a total stickler for labels, so I automatically loved this product.

4. Slip Silk Pillow Case

Find it here through Nordstrom’s
  • Turns out that cotton pillow cases aren’t all that great for your skin and hair, especially in dry climates. The material sucks oils out and can cause hair to break. A silk case minimizes those annoying lines you sometimes get on your face in the morning and keeps your hair overall more healthy. Slip cases are super popular and can literally be found anywhere with their cute labeling and portable cases. They come in all sorts of colors ranging from a pretty rose gold to a sleek black.

5. Patchology Perfect Weekend Face Masks

Shop Patchology at the Cosbar
  • If you’re going to do one face mask, you might as well do three. This set of three masks puts forth the ultimate “face care weekend”, each with a unique purpose in keeping your skin healthy. Start with the Exfoliant, follow with the Hydrate and end with the Illuminate sheet mask to recover your face from the winter blues. I usually love any mask I try, but this one truly has working benefits and makes a difference.

5 Trends to Look Out for in 2019

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First off, I want to apologize for totally neglecting this blog the past month.  Finals are rough and I had about 100 other things on my mind (us college students have it hard).  But we are back in business and looking forward to this next year.  I’m hoping to dedicate more time to this blog in shaping a better layout, writing better content, and working on my photography skills.  I cannot wait for what is in store for me, so stay tuned for exciting content.

With that being said, I’m kicking off the new year with what we all should expect in fashion.  2018 saw the rise in popular street style, bold statements, big brands taking center stage and instagram influencers.  Designer fashion has gone mainstream thanks to social media promotions and the like.  2019 will follow all of this, but bigger and brighter.  I mean we are getting close to the roaring 20s, folks.

  • Smaller independent labels will take the spotlight thanks to Instagram influencers
        • The biggest general trend of last year and which will only grow this year is fashion’s influence over social media, specifically Instagram.  I have a lot to say over this matter (more on that at another time), but there is no point arguing that it is changing the fashion industry immensely.  Influencers (people on social media with lots of followers and who are considered to have an influence on their followers) gain their revenue and rewards usually (especially at first) through small brands who want advertising and an online presence for a cheaper price.  As marketing and PR companies continue to expand their dealings with influencers, smaller brands will hopefully continue to seek out advertisers online which will help the industry grow and stay healthy.  Keep an eye out for fun new brands on your Instagram feed!

        https://www.instagram.com/p/Bc8tpV2l7tG/

     

  • Fast Fashion, for better or for worse, will continue to dominate, bringing in celebrity and designer collaborations
    • Fast Fashion is also something that I have a lot to say about.  I am generally against the idea and try to limit my Fast Fashion purchases, but I accept the scarce benefits that it has.  There is no denying that Fast Fashion is huge and will stay huge.  H&M, considered the OG of global Fast Fashion dynasties, has been doing designer collaborations well before other brands even came to US malls.  Most recently, the Moschino collection seemed to seamlessly fuse the two brands together with Moschino’s trendy street style vibe.  Recently, other brands have followed suit (most recently, a scandal with Beyoncé’s Ivy Park and Topshop), but expect the collaborations to become more frequent and publicized due to a growing fascination with celebrity and designer brands. Screen Shot 2018-12-31 at 1.33.24 PM
  • Faux Vegan (otherwise known as fake) materials will continue their rise to power
      • I am not totally sure how I feel about this growing trend.  I love luxe faux fur coats and such, but find some faux materials to seem rather cheap and inferior.  Environmental and welfare concerns have erupted in fashion due to the growing vegan movement, and with that, brands are labeling fake materials “vegan” to attract the environmentally focused.  Major brands such as Gucci, Burberry, and Versace have all pledged within the last year to go fur-free by the next 5 years, so expect others to follow suit do to growing pressure from activists.  I seriously doubt that fur will totally go out of style since it is a luxury material, but we will continue to see lux faux fur everywhere.  Leather is another issue that is waiting to be explored and we can expect the focus to be on vegan leather in 2019 (umm).Screen Shot 2018-12-31 at 1.57.08 PM.png
  • Silver, Gold and Metallic prints and colors will be gracing our Instagram feeds
    • Bold and bright is on the rise, evoking 80s-like style, so why not fully embrace it this year with going all out metallic.  Starting with New Years Eve, metallic hues will be the statement of choose for party goers (including myself).  Runways of late have been sporting shiny attire, and Instagram influencers (or any of us) love a good statement.  I suspect this trend will explode in 2019 along with other bright colors and prints.
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  • Hopefully (so I wish), “dressing up” to go out will continue to gain momentum thanks to our growing concerns over our online self-images
    • This might be my perception or dream, but I think social media has made us more concerned with what we wear going out.  I have never been shy to share my opinions about dressing up, so it makes me truly happy that we are “caring” about our appearances again (or at least I think we are).  Some might argue that we should not worry what others think, but I think it is important to present our best selves both in person and on social media.  Expect Instagram to help fuel everybody’s individual styles that they are proud dress in (in order to “impress”).

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5 Takeaways and Trends from last month’s Fashion Week

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Here I am, better late than never, to recap last month’s fashion weeks (last month, I know…).  I don’t know about you, but I always find it super entertaining to go through slides from the fashion shows and gawk at the sometimes overwhelming over-the-top outfits.  Other times, I’m stricken by the sheer beauty of the designer grab; the most carefully crafted articles of clothing made in the industry.  For this year’s Spring 2019 fall fashion weeks, everything from New York to Paris was bold and bright, fresh and fun.  Come spring, expect eye popping vibrant trends that we can only dream about on dreary fall days.  What I liked most about everything?  The sheer variety in styles; some classic like Ralph Lauren’s 50th anniversary show (was literally obsessed), and some crazy over the top like Rodarte’s creepy graveyard show during NYFW.  Certain looks stand out as notable including these 5 trends below.

  1. Ruffles and Lace
    • All about texture!  These avant-garde frilly looks are totally influenced by Victorian era fashion, and I am all for it!  Behind retro, Valentino and Dolce & Gabbana at MFW both showed high neck-lined layered pieces, while Erdem at LFW spared no expense in showcasing a Victorian by-gone era.  Modest, but stated, these kind of looks can be super fun when worn fearlessly.  Florals really embody ruffles which make for perfect summer time outfits. 

  2. Understated Tan
    • I am all about neutrals, and others seem to agree!  Stella McCarthy at LFW and Max Mara at MFW both had tan dominate shows and it proved to be simple and bold.  McCarthy and Ferragamo also showed oversized blazers which are super popular (and practical) right now.  I’m obsessed with this nautical Hermès look since it is understated, yet classy.  Bright colors are great in the spring, but neutrals always work too!
  3. Feathers Galore
    • Faux fur has been dominate the last couple of years in the realm of textures, and now we have feathers to add to the growing trend of “go big or go home” outfits.  While the former shows no sign of slowing down, feathers are a much lighter alternative that can easily be worn during the warmer months.  During NYFW, Oscar de la Renta made white feathers look effortlessly elegant, while Tom Ford contrasted them with black.  Marc Jacobs took a bold path with color, pairing two hot trends together on the runway.
  4. Strong Solid Colors
    • Who doesn’t like a big blast of color?  In a total contrast to some other major designers, both Chanel and Valentino, among others, showed bright hues that put a twist on both brands’ usual styles.  Chanel, at PFW, opted to bring their usual tweeds to the beach, giving them fun summery colors that we can all definitely get behind.  And for Valentino, red was seldom in Milan.  Instead, orange and neons made a statement.  It might be hard to think of warm colors now with winter almost upon us (East coast, why so cold?), but it’s comforting to think of wearing anything bright next year!
  5. Polka Dots
    • Black and white dots make for a classic statement and Celine, under a new creative director, brought forth the traditional pattern in new and funky ways for Paris Fashion Week.  Other dot expressions were seen with designers like Chloé and Givenchy at PFW, the later whom expressed dots through netting (another popular trend).  Along with other bold patterns, expects polka dots to bring the fun come spring!

Fall Fashion Guide

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Hey guys!  So I’m back at school which means less exciting adventures, but I’ll still have time to write.  September is probably the biggest month in fashion which means there is plenty to write about and so much to be excited about.  It is also a complicated time since you have to try to seamlessly transition between seasons from loose and light summer clothes to fall layers, but it is always super exciting to put boots back on.  This year, patterns are going to be the “it” trend with plaid and florals taking center stage.  The 90s are also, for better or for worse, making a comeback (hello fanny packs:) which is contributing to the raise of a sort of “ugly fashion” moment.  What ever you might think, these 5 trends are definitely emerging to be big this season, so go out, get in the know and shop (potentially?)!

  1. Western Boots, booties, and cowboy style
    • It’s time to embrace our inner cowboy as the American west is inspiring big trends this season.  Go all out with full-on cowboy boots, or create a more subtle look with popular booties.  I have a pair of white cowboy booties which I try to fearlessly wear with any kind of cute dress to create a bold and confident look.  Western-inspired fringe is a popular look now with jeans, bags and belts.  It might sound tacky, but if worn in contrast to more contemporary clothes, it can look super cool.
      Jeffrey Campbell boots
      Rebecca Minkoff white western inspired boots
      Suncoo pink shirt
  2. Belt Bags (the “classy” fanny pack)
    • Probably the most controversial trend of the moment, but also the most popular (thank you Gucci).  Fanny packs have rebranded themselves to be “belt bags” because people don’t want the shame associated with owning a fanny pack (but they are nearly the same thing).  However, the concept has been upgraded to having nearly every big name designer having one this season.  They have also been made more versatile as you can now wear them cross-shouldered or literally attached to your belt or pants.
      The classic Gucci belt bag
      Rebecca Minkoff jean belt bag
      MZ Wallace Fanny Pack
  3. Plaid, by itself or with other prints
    • I know I write about plaid and tartan a lot, but that’s because I love it!  As a total plaid guru, it has been super exciting walking into stores to see plaid everywhere.  I can totally embrasse it now with it being so big.  The classic black and grey suiting plaid is having a huge moment, but so is bright colored plaids which evoke 90s vibes and cater to a more avant-garde crowd.
      Alice and Olivia plaid dress
      Amur ruffled mini skirt
      Petersyn yellow plaid dress

       

  4. Big Knits
    • We’re falling quickly into fall and you know what that means: sweater weather!  This year, large oversized chunky knits are taking center stage with bright colors and patterns designed to make a statement.  Opt to stray away from the traditional cozy fall colors for something a little more happy, yet comfortable in the knit and size.
      Joie color block sweater
      Paul & Joe Sister Turtle Neck Sweater
      Milly striped variety sweater
  5. Fringed and Flared Jeans
    • Skinny jeans aren’t dead, but slowly, other styles are coming onto the scene.  Fall is the perfect time to wear cute statement jeans to complete an outfit since boots don’t need to be in the picture.  Slightly flared jeans look great with booties and mules, while fringed and asymmetrical jeans pair perfectly with a fun pair of sneakers.  The amount of cool jeans style out there right now is enormous making jean shopping fun and different.
      AG cropped flared jeans
      Isa Arfen plaid cuffed jeans
      Ksenia Schnaider striped jeans

May Picks- Summer Style Must-Haves

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Summer has “officially” started (finally), at least for me as I’m back home and enjoying some incredibly warm weather ahead of what’s going to be a steamy Memorial Day Weekend.  Happily, summer means the end of a crazy last month of school, the start of summer jobs, and more time which makes me able to write more!  Leading into June, here are some summer “must-haves” and trends that will be all over the place soon.

Block Heel Sandals

  • Block heels, along with tiny kitten heels, have been seen all over the streets with good reason since they are super stylish and can work perfectly for a variety of occasions (casual to formal).  What’s also fun is that the trend is super broad, meaning that many different styles can have and are having a fun and bold block heel.  For summer, opt for a bright colorful pair to make any outfit stand out.

SCHUTZ SHOES- Clarcie heels with braided detail. https://schutz-shoes.com/products/clarcie-s2000102380002?variant=2197924511753&ranMID=43056&ranEAID=l9GZgFEIZzs&ranSiteID=l9GZgFEIZzs-NzBQwumiO5VJOd_gWxE27g
Via Spiga from Nordstrom- Kamille Block Heel Sandal in red, many different colors available. https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/via-spiga-kamille-block-heel-sandal-women/4817106?origin=category-personalizedsort&breadcrumb=Home%2FWomen%2FShoes%2FSandals&color=poppy%20red%20suede
Jeffrey Campbell from ShopBop- Minuit PVC Sandals (the definition of trendy!). https://www.shopbop.com/minuit-pvc-sandals-jeffrey-campbell/vp/v=1/1581887599.htm?folderID=6734&fm=other-shopbysize-viewall&os=false&colorId=11456
Bruno Premi Pearled Platform Sandals from Anthropologie in blue. https://www.anthropologie.com/shop/bruno-premi-pearled-platform-sandals?category=shoes&color=040

 

Cage Bags

Wide Leg Pants

Matching Sets

Slide Sandals

February Picks (Fashion Week Roundup)

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It’s that time of year when fashion capitals around the world come alive in what would otherwise be dreary February.  Haute Couture might seem like a distant fairytale-like dream, but, in reality, following the avant-guard trends of supermodels can be super helpful in figuring out the ins and outs of upcoming seasons, and keeping up with the world of fashion.  I love looking at the design that goes into the shows and reading about what everyone is wearing, so I came up with a list of the most common and most crazy trends that have been appearing on runways for my February article.

  1. Mini bags

High fashion tends to draw in the extremes with mostly everything over the top and big, but, in this case, the extreme is tiny with the idea that something subtle can easily catch attention.  The trend of mini bags comes at a time when people don’t need a huge purse to carry their lives with them since all that is really needed nowadays is a smartphone and credit card.  It’s a crazy concept, but it’s also super convenient and easy.  Who really wants to tote around a large bag all day anyway?

Screen Shot 2018-02-23 at 1.55.15 PM.png

Gigi Hadid spotted walking in Milan with a mini purse.  Vogue.com

 

A mini Chloe cross shoulder bag.
A popular and colorful Tory Burch mini bag.

2.  Suit wear and blazers

A bit of a surprising revitalization, but professional wear has been getting a fashionable makeover with elaborate blazers and classy suiting skirts.  I personally love this trend since it is very sophisticated and shows that dressing up never goes out of style.  Oversized blazers and embroidery are really spearheading it and allowing suiting to be an edgier concept.

Screen Shot 2018-02-23 at 9.43.27 PM.png

A model in Gucci’s Milan Fashion Week show sporting a New York inspired suit that had a very classic retro feel.

 

A retro blazer with floral print from Club Monaco.
Theory pant suit found at Saks.

3.   Fringe

This fun trend is perfect for spring and summer, and can really add a lot of character to an outfit.  Practically every kind of clothing can be found this season with fringe from skirts and formal dresses to sweaters, shirts, and purses with tassels.

Seen on the streets of Milan- a super fun fringe skirt.
This bright patterned jacket was spotted in London complete with tassel lining.

 

 

A chic Zoë Jordan Sweater from Saks
This is a super fun little bag from 3. 1 Philip Lim also found at Saks.
I am obsessed with this Lilly Pulitzer skirt.

4.   Athleisure

Athletic clothing is starting to move more into high-end fashion with the growing trend of athleisure style.  It is pretty much a cross between athletic clothing and fashion that can be sported both inside and outside the gym.  This growing trend is perfect for busy days and really helps to keep you motivated and fit.

Screen Shot 2018-02-24 at 6.38.43 PM

Leggings as apart of a gym ready groutfit were found at the Alexander Wang New York show.

 

An Opening Ceremony sport sweater.
Mark Jacobs track pants in bright red. Perfect way to stay stylish at the gym!

5.   Bold Prints and Stripes

Floral print, animal print, stripes (you name it) are super popular with brands showcasing a ton of color and bright bold patterns on their clothing.  Shake off the winter blues with fuchsia stripes (yes, fuchsia is trending), or floral everything to start off summer on the right foot.

Screen Shot 2018-02-24 at 6.39.21 PM

A look from the Michael Kors NYFW show that shows all sorts of prints at once.

A fun green striped shirt from Club Monaco.
A Caroline Constas blouse with fun sleeves from Shopbop

 

A Nicholas ruffle dress from Saks that has a bold topical print. Perfect for Spring!
A beautiful formal Kate Spade dress that is super trendy with the print and elaborate lace.

6.   Plaid

Plaid is all over the place right now, literally everywhere!  Many designers are carrying out collections of vintage plaid suiting, tartan, and even rainbow plaid.  Burberry turned to color during London Fashion Week, and Versace had what is being deemed a Cher Horowitz Clueless moment with 90s style colored plaid everything outfits.  Plaid is a great timeless style that can be worn anywhere.

 

Fendi kept the plaid rather neutral and traditional for its MFW show
Versace’s “Clueless” look from Milan.
They kept the common theme of bright retro plaid throughout the show.
Gucci with a very vintage look (notice the oversized blazer)

 

A whole outfit of classic tartan from J Crew. Although a little wintery, the pants could definitely pass in the summer with a white shirt.
An Amelia Toro shirt dress from Shopbop with very interesting colors.

7.  Big Sleaves and big shirts

Make a statement with big sleeves and wrap shirts this summer.  Last year, off the shoulder and cold shoulder dresses were all the rage (and expect that to continue this spring/summer), but this year, the shirts are going to get even bigger.  Abstract wrap shirts are the perfect way to look put-together and fashionable, as they stand out and look chic.

 

A classic wrap blouse from J Crew
Bell sleeves are still very popular and bigger than ever as seen with this Leal Daccarett blouse from Shopbop
Another great statement shirt from Shopbop by Self Portrait. Polkadots are also huge on the runway!

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12 Tips for Smarter Online Shopping

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In this cyber-obsessed world that we live in, shopping has become completely associated with the internet.  Commercial malls are dying a painful death, department stores are suffering, and small businesses are loosing more and more customers as people become reliant on their screens.  What has flourished as a result, however, is online shopping.  With everyone connected to their phones and computers, buying clothing online is becoming easier and easier.  It’s easy to see why with the convenience and accessibility; every possible thing is available online right at your figure tips.

Screen Shot 2018-02-12 at 9.30.45 PM

It is truly amazing being able to shop all day long on your computer, but the kicker is how fast the prices of everything add up.  I live in a rural town which means I am constantly relying on online shopping for every need, and being a college student who enjoys splurging on clothes, it’s vital that I try to save every penny I possibly can.  Here are 12 ways to help save money while shopping online:

  1. Promo Codes are your best friend
    • One of the biggest benefits of shopping online is the existence of promo codes which are essentially online sales that don’t usually happen instore.  Brands will have them all the time, and they range from “free shipping” to “25% off entire store”.  Using them is definitely the greatest weapon when it comes to saving money online.
  2. Stay clear of buying things at full price (unless you absolutely love or need that item)
    • As a general rule, don’t buy anything at full price (including the price for shipping).  It does not take long for items to go on sale, and, unlike stores, it is much easier to find great “full price-like” clothing online.  I usually spot something that I like and then wait for it to either have a promo code discount or for it to go on sale.  For me, there is literally never a need to pay full price.
  3. Discover online retailers
    • With a changing fashion industry and the growth of online shopping, the “online retailer” has emerged as a new and very popular concept for shoppers.    Many sites focus on curating a great selection of well-known (as well as new) brands with an emphasis on style and quality.  Shopbop is a fabulous online retailer that specializes in both boutique designers and haute couture to create a trendy mid to high range priced vibe.  Net-a-Porter and Moda Operandi are both well known high-end retailers that, unlike physical stores, make buying designer couture more reasonable with generous sales.  Asos is a British brand that focuses on more fast fashion with great prices.  It is super convenient and has a wide variety of clothing.
  4. But also check out department stores online
    • Department stores have been steadily declining for years (tear), but some stores are adapting to the internet by offering an easy way to shop their stores online.  Stores like Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Ave are practically just other online retailers with great selections of trendy and classic clothing.  They too have great promotions and offer ways to save money online rather than going to the actual stores.  Both Nordstrom and Saks often offer quick free shipping and have super easy free return policies.  It’s practically like you’re trying on their clothes instore in the comfort of your own home!
  5. If you are a student, always try to see if there is a student discount
    • Some stores have great instore student discounts which serve as an incentive to travel to the closest mall, but recently companies are starting to allow student discounts online, too.  Both Topshop and Asos use an online British platform that you sign up for once and are automatically eligible for a discount.  This is perfect for us Americans who don’t have much access to these stores.  As online shopping becomes even more widespread, I imagine that more companies will start offering discounts.
  6. Sign up for Honey (literally the best thing ever)
    • Honey is a program that notifies you of any promo codes while you check out of a store.  It’s super easy and does it all for you.  What is even more amazing is that Honey will also practically pay you to shop online.  You can get 1-10% or 1-5% back on purchases with sites that Honey is connected to and then redeem that cash for various online gift cards.
    • Click here to join: joinhoney.com/ref/adofmeScreen Shot 2018-02-12 at 7.47.46 PM
  7. Become loyalty members at your favorite online stores
    • First of all, signing up to be on the email lists of stores is super helpful because you can get special deals and such, but some stores offer loyalty memberships that will offer you even more.  Sephora, for example, gives you points, free samples for every online purchase, and special free gift promotions for their members.  It’s perfect for any college student who cannot just get themselves to the nearest beauty supplier to restock on makeup, lotion, products, etc.
  8. Sign up for Shop It To Me (An AMAZING email service)
    • Shop It To Me is an email service that sends you daily emails of any items from your favorite brands that are on sale anywhere on the internet.  What is even better is that everything they show you on sale is guaranteed to be in your size since you give them all of your sizes when you sign up.  It makes bargain shopping extremely easy and accessible.  Screen Shot 2018-02-12 at 9.10.01 PM
  9. Download the app Keep
    • Keep is another great program that takes trending items from all over the internet and shows them to you in a feed.  You can then like or buy those items at the best price around.  If you like an item, Keep emails you whenever that item has gone on sale somewhere.  The app is essentially a social media platform for shopping and is literally addicting.  Screen Shot 2018-02-12 at 9.27.29 PM.png
  10. Subscribe to Cools (email publication)
    • Cools is another great fashion based email subscription that notifies you of big sales happening online, in addition to them constantly updating you on note-worthy trends.  They release emails every week or so, keeping you in the loop of everything fashion related going on online.
  11. Use Polyvore
    • Yet another great resource that can save you a lot of money online; Polyvore is a site that drawls in clothing vendors from all over the internet to show clothes categorized by the trend.  You can like a trend, and then get notified when items under that trend go on sale.  The site has a ton of other services that are amazing and very useful for online shopping, in addition to an email service that also showcases current trends from the internet every week.  Screen Shot 2018-02-12 at 7.50.12 PM
  12. “Like” items that you would buy at a lower price
    • Finally, a small but helpful trick to finding clothes at the lowest price is to simply “like” or “add to wishlist” an item that you would potentially buy if the price were to drop.  By doing this, many stores will then email you when that item is added to sale or its price is lowered.  They also notify you when that item is low in stock or when your size that they might have been out of comes back into stock.  Easy, but extremely useful!

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