Fall 2013
Black Friday: A Day to Remember
Dec 2nd
It was well worth it ladies. Black Friday was everything it promised to be, and more. 50% off everything? Are you serious? Needless to say we had some trouble controlling ourselves. But that’s what Black Friday is for.
Once the floodgates opened at 7am I went straight for the shoe department. I certainly scored there, Marc by Marc Jacobs heels, BCBG wedges, and Delman flats! (some shoes you just have to wear out of the store…) Both the Marc Jacobs and the Delmans were a steal for just $50 (85% off their original retail prices!), I could hear the choir singing with rejoice.
Despite all of our planning, nothing could truly prepare us for the big day. Now cradling my shoes, I got a bit frantic during the next phase of my attack, running from rack to rack of clothing trying to find my size. There was no time to waste, I had to fish through before someone else grabbed the Chanel dress of my dreams. And like taking candy from a baby, my dress went home with another girl. Hard to complain, I still left with two beautiful tops, an STA statement necklace and cocktail ring! All together it came to under $70. I’ll take it 
Unsurprisingly, the girls managed to clean up as well, with a beautiful Moncler coat for $150 and Charlotte Olympia flats for $75 (again, both were almost 90% off their retail price). It’s a Black Friday miracle.
While we definitely managed to rack up a grand total, it was more than worth it. It’s the one day of the year where you can go a little crazy. Besides, on Black Friday, what happens in STA stays in STA.
Black Friday Countdown: 1 DAY!
Nov 28th
Well tomorrow is the big day! I’m happy to say my prep has gone amazingly well, but still smoothing out some of the details. I’ve been scoping out the stores and stalking (admittedly) the STA Facebook pages for all of the newly consigned pieces. I’ve got my heart set on some great items, and tomorrow’s my big chance!
We’ve got limited time.
The opportunity to get 50% off everything in the store only lasts from 7am to 10am!
So here’s the schedule for tomorrow:
6:00 am: Wake up
6:30 am: Grab the girls and head to Newbury St.
6:50 am: Outside STA 176 Newbury and eat a quick, energizing breakfast (yogurt?)
7:00 am: STA spree!
7:55 am: Walk to STA 219 Newbury St.
8:00 am: Shopping spree at STA 219 Newbury
8:45 am: Starbucks break (crossing fingers for no line)
9:00 am: Spree at STA 324 Newbury St.
10:00 am: Celebratory wrap-up brunch with the girls
I’ll definitely be heading back to STA on Saturday morning for free mimosas and 30%-50% off.
Black Friday’s like our birthdays, it’s a weekend-long event.
As expected, I’ve got my eye on my wish list items at each store. While they might have already sold, I have faith that they’ll come in again. Hey it’s the holiday season … wishes do come true.
176 Newbury: Burberry scarves spotted, Michael Kors essential wristlet, and helloooo Louis
219 Newbury: Stunning holiday dresses, calling dibs! Burberry scarf second spotting, Milly cross body, and statement necklaces galore.
324 Newbury: I see you, Tory Burch flats. Cocktail rings, check! And a gorgeous Jcrew flower necklace.
I may more excited on Black Friday Eve than Christmas Eve … STA knows my style better than Santa anyways.
Three Styles, One Fashionable Thanksgiving
Nov 26th
Thanksgiving, the one holiday that is actually about food. If you’re anything like me, I don’t necessarily feel my most beautiful and put-together self when I’m stuffing my face for 24 hours. It’s hard to resist those comfy and stretchy yoga pants, but don’t give in! Here are three fabulous outfit inspirations to keep you looking fabulous (as usual) this Thanksgiving.
1. Cozy and Versatile
This outfit is great for all of the active ladies. Whether lounging with the family or running around with the kids, this outfit is comfortable but ready to go! Citizen jeans are the epitome of classic casual, and the Theory knit sweater is a subtle touch of cozy and confident. Tory Burch boots add a little glam, and the Burberry scarf ties the whole thing together for an unstoppable ensemble.
And wouldn’t you know, this Burberry quilted jacket from STA 324 Newbury St. goes perfectly when it’s time for the family football game.
2. Elegant and Feminine
Sometimes we celebrate Thanksgiving with a loved-one’s family instead of our own. But don’t let that frighten your holiday fashion sense! A feminine, chic outfit is appropriate for any Thanksgiving atmosphere. We love this blouse from Ralph Lauren, which you can dress down with Calvin Klein black skinny jeans. Then add your personality in the accessories! We added some sparkle with Rebecca Minkoff loafers and a Marc Jacobs bracelet.
These Prada silver jeweled flats from STA Armitage are a fabulous way to add some glam to your sophisticated ensembles. And If you’re a guest, the Chanel cross body from STA Haddonfield can carry all of your little necessities while you’re out!
3. Stylish, Yet Forgiving
Maybe you’re like me and love to spend Thanksgiving with a glass of wine in the kitchen with the women of the family. All I know is I don’t want to wear anything too restricting, especially as I’m nibbling all day! A dress is a great way to stay comfortable and fashionable. This Marc by Marc Jacobs short dress allows you to move freely around the house. Paired with black tights and Chanel boots, it screams bold and down to business. And we can never resist a good accessory, like this Michael Kors collar necklace.
And don’t forget a Michael Kors boyfriend watch from STA 176 Newbury St. is a mandatory accessory on Thanksgiving to keep track of all the madness!
Happy Thanksgiving fashioniSTAs!
Black Friday Countdown: 7 Days
Nov 22nd
We’re almost there fashionistas! Just a few more days until Black Friday, only the best day of the year for us shopaholics. I have to admit, I’m getting more and more excited by the minute, but I’m also getting nervous! There’ll be so much to shop for, and so little time! I can’t go in without a plan. It’s time to assess my closet and figure out exactly what I need to track down on the big day.
There are 10 items I definitely can’t go home without on Black Friday.
The List:
1. Statement necklaces
2. Plaid (Burberry) scarf
3. Timeless loafers
4. Holiday Party Dress
5. Cross body bag (appropriate for day and night!)
6. Costume rings
7. Anything Louis Vuitton8. Black Jeans
9. Classic Blazer
10. Killer (but comfy) Flats
… and 11. Anything with tags is a perfect gifts for friends
Make your lists ladies, time is running out!
Photo Credits: pintrest.com
Black Friday Countdown: 14 Days
Nov 15th
Around the middle of November, I have a little extra spring in my step. Right around the corner is the most wonderful day of the year: Black Friday. Since the bigger retailers now start their sales on Thanksgiving night, it gives me the perfect opportunity to get my general gifts out of the way and spend the rest of the day making the world (and my closet) a more stylish place. STA always runs a big sale for a couple hours in the morning, so I’m gearing up to shop the best for less for my closet and a select number of gifts for my most fashionable friends. For the next couple of weeks, you can get the inside look at our extensive planning process!
Countdown: 14 Days…let the planning begin!
Taking on a sale of this magnitude is impossible to do alone, so I’ve enlisted the help of my best shopping buddies.
Meet the Team
Anne
Strength: Quick and efficient shopper. Can sort through an entire store’s inventory in record time to capture the best, hidden pieces. She knows what she does and doesn’t like and won’t waste any time over something that isn’t absolutely perfect.
Style: Classic with a touch of chic
Go-to’s: Jackets and Jewelry
Jeanne and Catherine
Strength: Two shoppers in one. Jeanne and her sister are an inseparable pair, so we let them go do their sister takeover of STA. With twice the eyes, twice the hands, and twice the style expertise, they are unstoppable when it comes to Black Friday. Don’t try to battle them for a piece. They will win.
Style: Sophisticated and trendy
Go-to’s: Shoes and Handbags
Laura
Strength: Pro gift-giver. Laura has a knack for knowing exactly how to match personality to style, both for herself and her friends. When I’m ready to take a breather after snagging my own pieces, I’ll definitely be going to Laura for help with picking out gifts for the rest of the girls. (And my mom on speed dial of course.)
Style: Preppy and Feminine
Go-to’s: Dresses and Tops
We’ve got a great team assembled, but it’s still essential that my black Friday execution is flawless and foolproof. The girls agree that we’ll hit the three STA locations on Newbury street.
Route:
1) 176 Newbury St. Boston, MA
2) 219 Newbury St. Boston, MA
3) 324 Newbury St. Boston, MA
Can’t forget to factor in walking times! Calculated a 3-minute walk from STA (1) to STA (2). 6-minute walk from STA (2) to STA (3). And since I’m hoping Starbucks won’t be as crowded as usual, we’ve budgeted in a five minute coffee break in between stores two and three.
Bonus tip: We’ve already started our seasonal Black Friday work-out plan, walking two miles a day to build up our stamina for the real event.
Check back in with us next week as we tackle our closets and holiday gift lists to come up with the perfect Black Friday shopping list!
Hues of the Season: Fall 2013
Nov 13th
Fashionistas, we all know neutral doesn’t mean boring. This season especially, Pantone has introduced some enchanting new shades to change up your usual neutral looks.
Pantone’s new take on neutrals can turn your look from basic to fashion forward without being flashy. The calm lush shade of deep lichen is perfect for an earthy yet edgy feel. The smoky turbulence shade is cool yet sophisticated. And the ever smooth and sensational shade of brown is carafe, for a classic and upscale look.
We can’t get enough of these fresh non-traditional neutrals. Pantone also features subtle yet stunning jewel tones and vivid, upbeat brights in this season’s palate, which beautifully enhance the neutral hues.
The new neutral shades are a great way to change up your usual black, navy, brown, or khaki go-to’s. Mix and match them together or pair them with Pantone’s Fall 2013 jewel tones and brights. You can do just a splash of color or go all out, whatever your mood may inspire.
We love these fashionista’s color combos! The turbulence coat with an acai pant is perfect for a cool, urban look. Pairing carafe tights with a samba skirt perfectly embraces the warm, fall feel. Get the rustic, yet chic, style with a deep lichen skirt and a pop of color, like a samba cross-body bag. And finally, we are loving the layering of a lichen green jacket over a vibrant color like koi!
Get creative! These hues can mix and match to best embrace your unique and stunning style.
~Anne, fashioniSTA
Photo Credits: polyvore.com, pantone.com, pintrest.com
Costume Tricks and Treats: From Work to Wicked
Oct 29th
Halloween. The one day of the year where you get to be someone other than your fantastic self. We know how tricky it can be to think of a killer costume that people will remember for the next twelve months … in a good way. And with Halloween being on a Thursday this year, it can be difficult to change from your darling work attire to your costume without being TOO fashionably late for the festivities.
Here are some tricks and treats for how to transform your work clothes to an awesome costume quickly, easily, and fashionably.
Jackie O
Fashion Traits: Feminine, sophisticated, preppy, chic, classy
For Work: Pencil skirt, sheath dress, skirt suit, khakis
Transformation:
- Pearl necklace and earrings
- Loafers or flats
- Trench coat
- Sweater tied around the shoulders
- Big sunglasses
Jess from New Girl
Fashion Traits: Feminine, quirky, off-beat, colorful
For Work: Bold A-line dress, either solid or patterned
Transformation:
- Colorful flats
- Colored cardigan
- Colorful belt
- Tights (black)
- Big tortoise glasses frames
- Clip-in bangs (should your hair be fringe-free at the moment)
(All items should be bold colors and clash)
Orbit Girl
Style Traits: Clean and Crisp
For Work: Bright blue, green or winter white dress, and a fabulous blowout
Transformation:
- White coat or blazer (print out and attach little Orbit “O”)
- Aqua or light blue scarf
- Pack of Orbit gum
Audrey Hepburn
Style Traits: Elegant, classic, feminine
For Work: Black Dress and a bun (we recommend the sock bun)
Transformation:
- Black Gloves
- Big Pearl or Silver Necklace
- Rhinestone hair jewel
- Glitter and bold makeup
- Pink Lipstick
Flo from Progressive
Style Trends: …white (and perky)
For Work: White t-shirt or collared shirt under an autumn-perfect sweater, paired with white jeans (embrace the style dare!)
Transformation:
- White apron with “Progressive” logo
- “I heart Insurance” Pin
- Flo nametag
- Blue headband (We recommend teasing your hair to get her bump!)
- Red lipstick
Wednesday Addams
Style Traits: Dark, Black, Dull, Unimpressed
For Work: Black Dress and tights (optional white blouse under the dress)
Transformation:
- White blouse (either under or over the dress)
- Big grey sweater (over blouse)
- Nude lips
- 2 braids
Trick or Treat FashioniSTAs!
Photo Credits:
amazon.com, costumzee.com, pintrest.com, polyvore.com, notdaydreams.blogspot.com, blog.couponsherpa.com, beautylish.com
Get a Feel for Fall Dresses
Oct 24th
Let’s admit it, we all love a good dress. An understatement I know, but who can resist their cute and flirty feel while also being the most comfortable option out there? We mostly think of dresses as a summer essential. But just because it’s getting colder doesn’t mean you have to hide those legs just yet. To get that perfect fall feel, bring on the textures!
That’s right, this season leather is making a comeback once again, and we couldn’t be more excited. Whether it’s a jacket, boots, or bag, what better way to add both edge and sophistication? Just take your summer dress and throw on your favorite leather pieces. The simple accents can turn any dress into a fearless fall ensemble. We love complementing the flirty feel of a dress with the cool confidence of a leather jacket. Add a leather bag for a timeless sophisticated touch. And don’t forget your leather boots to enhance that autumn feel. Goodbye sandals, these boots were made for walking.
Quilted pieces are a must-have this fall. Channel your inner diva and rock your dress with a quilted bag, or strut your stuff in quilted shoes. Even try a dress that’s partially quilted (but careful not to overdo it!). We love playing up the little black dress with a pop of color from a quilted cross-body bag. Even pair your go-to floral dress with a quilted jacket or purse! The soft pillow-y texture can perfectly transform any dress to a killer outfit for the colder season.
Stay warm and cozy with a classic fall look, wool and knit. Add a knit scarf or sweater to bundle up for the brisk days, or add a touch of bohemian with wool tights. We love extending the life of our summer florals or stripes by pairing them with an over-sized cardigan. And we can’t resist the good old-fashioned sweater dress for an instant autumn style. This texture is a timeless fall fashion that’s fantastic for embracing the season.
So search your closet to its deepest corners, hit the racks at your favorite store, and flaunt your fall dress with confidence!
Photo Credits: pintrest.com, tumblr.com, lilypulitzer.com; Cupcakes and Cashmere
A Stylish Transition
Oct 7th
Before the leaves even hit the ground, we’re ready to break out our boots and suede handbags. Summer’s graceful transition into fall can only be matched with equally elegant style, from luxurious leather dresses to beanies that have suddenly gone high style.
The Labor Day no white apparel rule has fallen by the wayside the past few years, but embracing the color has taken an additional step forward. Winter white started popping up heavily at the beginning of 2013, and we’re rejoicing that it’s popping up as a trend for fall as well. Heavier fabrics - like wool and cashmere - are the perfect compliments to this lighter hue. Play it safe with just one piece, or go bolder with an entire white ensemble, accented with the season’s signature red lip, of course.
If warmer staples are your M.O., then you’ve probably got the market cornered on houndstooth and autumn plaid. Play it up with leather details or pairing your preppy tweed blazer with a leather dress. Should you be more into the bohemian persuasion of fashion, give your summer maxi dresses a little extra time to shine by pairing them with a leather jacket or vest to carry them over into fall. And to channel your inner ’90s punk, choose a beanie in a bright color and pair it with your leather fall staples.
Photos by Song of Style, Fashion Steele, Sab Fashion Lab
Happy 40th Birthday, STA!
Sep 26th
Last night, we were thrilled to celebrate the company’s 40th anniversary with an event on Newbury Street in Boston. It was with great pride that we were able to celebrate with some of our favorite people - including STA CEO Bill Soncini, our founder Dottie Casler, and her son (and our former CEO) Jeff Casler. We were also lucky enough to have four of Boston’s style influencers use pieces from the store to create amazing looks for our models. Coup Boston Editor-in-Chief Alex Hall, Fashion Designer Tonya Mezrich, Stylist Christina Pierce, and social media guru Sean William Donovan each curated fantastic outfits using both high and low-end pieces, highlighting the best of STA!
Over the past 40 years, our company has grown from one store in Newton Highlands, to 45 stores in 12 states. It’s been a fun ride so far, and we can’t wait to celebrate the next 40 with all of you. It is our customers and consignors who make it possible for us to continue to grow and offer the best in upscale resale. We want to thank each and every one of you, whether you’ve been a life-long consignor or you stopped in once to grab up your latest designer deal.
Check out our photos from last night’s event, and make sure to stay tuned, we have more events coming up in several cities!
