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

Rock Your Girls Night Out

Grab your girls and hit the town this Valentine’s Day! Forget romance, it’s time to celebrate the people you love most: your friends of course! Follow these tips and your squad is sure to be the coolest around. You may have to break a few hearts, but you’re single and not ready to mingle.

Bold Makeup:

Try trendy glitter and dramatic eyeliner for a look that is fun to create an even more fun to wear.

Coordinate Outfits:

Lets face it. We’ve all wanted to be in a girl band. Give it a try, with coordinated outfits that scream, “Girl power!”

Take Fashion Risks:

Tonight’s the night to break out that statement piece you’ve been dying to wear. The bolder, the better.

Keep it Comfortable

Who knows what you and your girls will be up to! Go for an outfit that is ready for anything.

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

$390.00 Eugenia Kim at Neiman Marcus

$159.00 James Perse

$240.00 ASOS

5 Tips to Dress like a French Girl

1. Develop the "less is more" motto. One of the most beautiful things about Parisian women is the way they look effortlessly chic.  The focus has always been less on the outfits, and more on the way the girl is wearing them. 

2. Romanticize your wardrobe. Paris is indeed the city of love, and nearly every woman in the city dresses to reflect this theme. Keep in mind: a romantic outfit doesn't necessarily mean girly! 

3. Take serious inspiration from couture. (This includes menswear as well!) With couture week just passing, this should be easier than usual! Notice themes in the top designers and make them fit your personality! Remember inspiration is not replica. 

4. Have your signature piece. Whether it's your shoes, sunglasses, trench coat, or scarf, every woman needs a signature item! This is something that is specifically unique to the French culture; it brings a sense of classiness every outfit you pair your piece with! 

5. Neutrals are your new BFF. Neutrals are (thankfully) becoming more and more popular in the states, but the theme originated from that European "simplistically glamorous" style. Don't be afraid of a pop of color, but you truly can not go wrong with a neutral palette.  

Text: AVERY BANTON

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.

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.

CLICK TO SHOP

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

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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

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

Black on Black- Always in Style

We all have those days where we stare into our closets and think, “I have absolutely nothing to wear.” When we get ourselves into a style rut, there’s one easy way to revive ourselves and look chic: black on black on black. Black will always make us look sleek and put together. To keep things from looking gothic, go for feminine details or silver/ gold detailing. Try these all black looks:

Text: BROOKE COSTELLO

#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

The bandana scarf: Your new favorite accessory!

This winter we are seeing the bandana scarf everywhere, and for good reason! It is
easily paired with a denim button down, leather jacket, knitted sweater, and more- giving
your outfit a touch of color and flare. Here’s a few ways to style it:

Text: BROOKE COSTELLO

Trends We’re Still Loving

Make it your NEW YEAR RESOLUTION! Incorporate last year's popular trendsinto your wardrobe with the addition of a few fresh touches.

Denim: Denim was all the rage last year. Try looking for lightweight versions tomake this textile feel a little more spring.

70s Chic: 2015 was the year of 70s redox and this trend is gaining popularity. Look for pieces with fringe or suede to keep these styles of the moment.

Casual Sneakers: We are so happy this effortless and comfy trend is here to stay! Pair your sneakers with stream lined skirts or slacks for an updated look.

Text: TORI CHRISTINE

Turtleneck: Your Most Effortlessly Chic Piece

This season we are loving turtlenecks! Aside from providing warmth and comfort, they give off an effortlessly chic vibe, whether you dress them up or down. We especially love them paired with sneakers, a leather jacket, or over the knee boots. Below are a few looks to try.

Text: BROOKE COSTELLO

3 Go-To Hairstyles for Real Curly Hair

Woah! It’s 7:45 am and your class starts at exactly 8 am. Thankfully your dorm is only a 5
minute walk from campus, and you can get dressed and ready in an instant. But then you
remember, you have curly hair. And not just any curly hair, but thick, puffy, curly hair. You
freak out when looking at your hair in the mirror (so big!), but then you remember, you’ve got 3 go-to hairstyles for curly hair that will work any day:

(My Personal Favorite) The Some-Up, Some-Down:
This hairstyle is for you ladies who still want to add some sass to your hair-do since your
hair won’t appear as completely pulled back. Simply grab the top half of your hair and tie
it into a ponytail (or a bun!) and leave the bottom half loose. If you want, you can apply
mousse to the bottom half of your hair to give it a wet, finished look. Adding a ribbon or
flower to your ponytail or bun will give it a cute look as well.

The Messy Bun:
This is a very fun and simple hairstyle that seems to work for any occasion! (Okay, well
probably not elegant ones.) The good thing is it works on curly hair too! Now, if you
have short curly hair like me, it may not turn out the perfect size but it’s still worth a try.
The first step is to pull your hair together and hold it straight up. Then twist your hair
down to a few inches above the crown. Wrap your hair around itself until it forms a loose
bun, right on top of your head. Pin the bun in place with bobby pins. Anywhere from four
to eight, depending on how thick your hair is. (I have thick hair, so don’t feel bad if you
have to do eight too.) The ultimate goal is to have it loose but secure. Finally, pull loose
strands of hair from the nape of your neck and around your face. And there you go, it’s
done!

Double-Sided French Braid:
Oh c’mon! These are so still in style! Why do one braid and leave it dangling in the back
when you can have two and decide to leave both dangling in the front and vice versa?
Now first, the basics. Divide the hair down the center of the head. Secure one half of the
hair using either a clip or a hair tie. Separate the section you left unbound into three
sections close to the top. Hold the sections so you have one on the left, one in the middle
and one on the right. Weave the right section across the middle section, and adjust the
middle section so it is over to the side. Cross the left section over the middle section and
again adjust the middle section. Add more hair to the section on the right before you
cross it over the middle section. This is the braiding process and repeat it until you’ve
added the remaining hair into the braid. Use an elastic band or some other type of hair
accessory to secure the braid. Follow the same process on the other side of the head to
create another French braid. When you’re finished, you should see that you have two

French braids!
An alternate option: pigtails. It’s basically the same idea except you’ll have two
ponytails.

  Text: Sarah Ndjongo

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 GIVENCHY LAMBSKIN LEATHER BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP MIU MIU ANKLE BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP GUCCI LILIAN BIT BOOT

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP CHLOE LACE UP BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP SAINT LAURENT GORED LEATHER BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP BURBERRY LONDON BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP BALENCIALA SMOOTH LEATHER BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP GUCCI HORSEBIT-DETAILED BOOTS

CLICK IMAGE TO SHOP DIOR PATENT 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