Posts tagged blazer
Countdown to NYE: Part 1, Glittering Gold
Dec 27th
While it feels like everyone just put away Christmas leftovers, it’s already time to plan the perfect New Year’s Eve ensemble. Whether you’re ringing in 2013 with your girlfriends at the hottest party, or with your loved ones at home with a take-out container of Chinese food, we have your guide to start 2013 on your most stylish foot (or, rather, Louboutin clad heel). Here we dish out the details for the glitter girl who’s headed out on the town for the last night of the year.
It’s no secret that sequins are this fashioniSTA’s friend. A gold sequin minidress (like the one above by Haute Hippie) is the perfect look for any New Years Eve bash that’s sure to turn heads. Paired with opaque black Wolford tights and classic black Louboutin heels makes looking New Years Eve festive easier than popping a bottle of bubbly. If you’re nervous about shining too brightly, throw on a basic black blazer, just be sure to mix it up with texture - velvet, corduroy, etc. - rather than embellishments.
Unsure how to accessorize your New Years Eve look? Switch out your festive holiday manicure for a dash of gold (like Sephora’s “Come to Paparazzi” topcoat). Toss on a chunky cocktail ring, and a pair of neutral gemstone studs for the ideal amount of sparkle. Need a clutch to stash your ID, iPhone and lip gloss for the night? A sleek black envelope clutch never fails (especially when you’re already donning this much sparkle).
Need more New Years Eve tips? Check out our Countdown to NYE Pinterest board and our daily Twitter tips. And stay tuned for our next part, where we shift from girly glitz to menswear-inspired elements for the big night!
~Meredith, fashioniSTA
Layers: How to Keep Warm Through the Breezy Fall Season
Nov 13th
Even though the leaves are changing colors and the weather is getting brisk, there is no reason to put away your summer take tops and dresses. All you have to do is layer. Here are some of my favorite layering methods of the Fall season:
The blazer: A blazer does not only have to be worn in the office…it is the perfect mix between classy and dreamy. Wearing a blazer over any outfit is a foolproof plan. Blazers are ideal if it’s too warm for a jacket but too chilly to wear a dress by itself. You can stay simple with a solid color or you can get more risky with it and go with a metallic, gold sequin blazer (like Whitney Port’s look below, one similar can be found here).
Tights under shorts: what are you to do when you didn’t get to wear your favorite pair of cut off jeans shorts as much as you would have liked? You can put tights under them! It’s a brilliant idea that allows you to wear your favorite summer clothes past September and still stay warm! Don this look during the day with opaque, colored tights and tweed shorts, or try it out at night with denim cut-offs and black tights (like Alexa Chung’s look below).
Scarf it Up: Wearing a scarf on the chilliest of the fall days is a guaranteed way to stay warm. My personal favorite is the infinity scarf, a huge trend that makes throwing one on in the morning a no-brainer. Whether you rock an infinity or stick with the original, scarves are perfect for this type of weather because you can wear them in so many different ways! (Seriously, there’s a whole website devoted to them.) The scarf look is made even better when worn under a leather or jean jacket, creating the perfect fall ensemble.
~Jenna, fashioniSTA
How To: Halloween-ize your Work Attire
Oct 29th
In a professional environment such as work or school, you want to maintain a sophisticated look but you can’t let your Halloween spirit down! Here are the top ways to spruce up your outfit, get in the holiday groove, yet still look like you belong in an office environment.
Halloween Nail Art:
Changing your nail design is one of the best ways to show changes in season, mood, and even holidays. You can go big and paint on ghosts or pumpkins, or you can be subtler with black nail polish with orange glitter on top. For amazing DIY Halloween manicures, visit http://holymanicures.blogspot.com.
Headband:
A nice Halloween designed headband is a discreet way to pull off some Halloween spirit. It also guarantees you a professional/preppy look. One like this is simple, so easily prepared, and even able to be made in the luxury of your own home.
Halloween Tights:
This fall season patterned tights are more popular than ever. Just slip a pair of candy corn or ghost patterned tights under a simple dress and you’re guaranteed to look festive.
Anything Orange:
A professional looking orange blazer or a pair of light orange denim jeans could easily do the trick and make you look extra spirited in a somewhat professional manner. An orange cashmere scarf or orange shoe apparel is a more subtle way to look the part.
~Jenna, fashioniSTA
Weekending Tips: Get Style with Your Comfort
Sep 28th
FashioniSTA fact. I love the weekends and everything they mean - sleeping in, brunching, and loungewear. With this, brings such a FashioniSTA challenge. How can I dress my best, even if it’s just to the farmers market or out to coffee? Fear not, these off-hours pointers have me (and you) covered head-to-toe.
Saturday and Sunday comfort is key. I adore these fitted thermal tops by Splendid (shown below, and I even snagged a few on a recent STA jaunt down Newbury Street). Its sleeves stay in place - even when pushed up on a warm fall day. Always make sure to accessorize with personal style-defining wrist wear (for me, this chunky chain bracelet) to really give a unique look to a basic closet staple.
Weekends normally include a brunch with my besties. For this, I suggest a blazer (they’re not meant for just work!). Any FashioniSTA can toss on one with a structured shoulder, or a bit of dazzle that doesn’t necessarily scream 9-to-5 (like this one pictured below from METROPARK). The best part about a blazer is you can throw it on with just your favorite pair of jeans and a black tank and instantly look put-together.
Admittedly, I am an advocate of a pair of thick black leggings as appropriate weekend-wear pants. For those who steer clear of the legging-as-pants trend, JCrew offers the single comfiest pant option with their Saturday Pant (pictured below left). Paired with a classic pair of Tory Burch flats (pictured below right) or your favorite printed pair, this casual ensemble looks undeniably smart. You’ll never looked like you just rolled out of bed again.
Other weekend can’t-go-wrong staples? Supersoft cashmere pullovers. Stretchy black jeggings. A broken-in pair of Minnetonka moccasins. Happy weekending!
~Meredith, FashioniSTA
Back to School and Campus Cool
Aug 24th
Summer is nearing it’s end which means last minute vacation getaways, fall fashion, and the most dreaded back to school. Although going back to school isn’t very exciting for most of us, the shopping for back to school is. With so many new trends and with those trends circling their way around each year, we’ve come up with a few fashioniSTA back to school basics for your wardrobe. Not only are these pieces super versatile, but they will keep you looking stylish all year long.
The Jacket
Basic Black Blazer: First and foremost, if your closet does not already have one of these hanging in it, GET ONE. A blazer is an absolute wardrobe essential. Wear it over your sun dresses or shorts for a great transitional summer to fall look, and pair it with jeans and ballet flats for an effortlessly chic look.
Biker Jacket: A motorcycle inspired topper is a favorite jacket for spring or fall. We love fun details like zippers, buckles, or studs, but if that’s not your style, opt for a simple jacket in white or brown. Again, these jackets look great over your summer dresses or a feminine blouse- the contrast is super stylish and edgy.
Faux Fur Vest: Bring on the layers this fall because we love love love a layered look with a fur vest! Girls, wear it over everything (even your biker jacket).
The Jeans
Boyfriend: These laid back and comfortable jeans are perfect for the campus or classroom. They have that “I-just-rolled-out-of-bed-and-still-look-amazing” effortless style to them. Pair them with a plain white tee and a fun pair of flats.
Legging: Oh-so-comfy and stylish. Can’t go wrong.
Colored: Last fall colored denim really made a name for itself, and this year the trend is still going strong. We love a pair of brightly colored jeans paired with a neutral chunky knit sweater and moto-boots.
Printed: If you want to make a statement in your classroom, rock a pair of printed jeans- just make sure to keep the rest of your look simple and neutral.
The Top
Chambray: This stylish lightweight shirt is the it shirt for back to school this year. Wear it with your dark skinny jeans, wedges, and top it with your fur vest. Such a great look.
Plaid: A cool, casual shirt that can be dressed up with a pretty layered necklace and skinny jeans, or dressed down with leggings and sneakers.
Chunky Knits: This season stock up on cozy cable knits in neutrals of gray, cream, and tan. Wear them with your colored jeans or leggings and boots.
Neon: Color is huge trend this fall. Neon has thrived through spring and summer and now making it’s way into fall. Take your colorful clothes you wore all summer, and maybe some fresh new additions as well, and pair them with all your favorite fall pieces. Neon and fall neutrals are a killer color combo.
The Shoes
Fun Flats: Patent, colored, printed. Our fashoiniSTA favorites are Tory Burch Revas. And leopard print.. of course.
Moto-Boots: These boots are fall must-haves. They go with everything and add a little edge to any outfit.
Wedges: Since the last thing you want to do is walk though school and around campus in heels, go for a great pair of neutral wedges (in a moderate height- comfort is key).
Sneakers: This fall a bright pair of sneakers are a back to school staple. Comfortable and cool. We love classic Chuck Taylors, but Keds and Nike are some other classics worth adding to your shoe collection. Wear them with your leggings, a sweater and biker jacket.
Rain Boots: For obvious reasons. Plus, they are super cute- go ahead, wear them with your colored jeans, shorts or even dresses. Thank you Kate Moss for making rain boots stylish.
For more inspiration, check out our back-to-school board on Pinterest! Happy shopping and happy back to school!
~Lisa, FashioniSTA
Be a Fashionista Birthday Girl!
Mar 24th
In honor of our very own FashioniSTA’s birthday (Marisa) and that of our FashioniSTA boss (Jeanne), we want to make sure that everyone on their birthday looks fierce! This is the one day of the year that you can wear whatever you want without worrying about being too over-the-top or too much of the center of attention. In other words: Bring It! It’s easy to wear something that is just “nice,” but on your birthday, don’t pass up the opportunity to shine, however you choose to celebrate! Even if you just see your birthday as making it another year, if you put the emphasis on yourself and wear something that you’re excited about, I guarantee it will make your day feel truly special. There’s also no rule against planning your birthday celebration around your outfit…
Dinner Out 
There’s nothing like a low-key (or elaborate) dinner with family and/or friends to make you feel loved on your bday. If you’re planning on going somewhere on the fancier side, don’t be afraid to really dress up. I’m not saying to walk into the restaurant in a ball gown, but I’m just saying that no one will ever fault you for wearing sparkles or a tiered dress on your big day. A great way to tone down a sequin/metallic minidress for dinner out? Pair it with a black cashmere cardigan or a structured blazer. Or take this look inside-out and go with a sequin blazer and a black dress. To tone it down further, go with a great pair of flats in an interesting material, such as patent leather or velvet. You’ll still shine, but you won’t feel as self-conscious if you’re not used to wearing head-to-toe sparkles everyday. You can also go with a simple dress and add sparkly shoes for an even more subdued look.
If you aren’t a sparkle person, go with a sleek silhouette, whether it’s a minidress or liquid leggings, accented with a statement piece. This is the time to try out that bauble necklace or studded leather jacket, Anything that is risky or you might be self-conscious to wear in the everyday is perfect. This is your special moment, you can get away with anything!
Super Sweet Party
This type of celebration takes the center-of-attention concept to another level. If you’ll be dancing the night away, obviously comfortable shoes are in order, but you should also go for a non-fussy outfit to make way for your fabulous dance moves. Try a sleek bandage dress or one with cut-out or sheer detail and go dramatic with the accessories. For dancing the night away, an embellished cuff is your best option because it’ll stay in place, unlike loose jewelry. With a sleek dress, outrageous shoes are always an option. They don’t have to match perfectly, this is your time to wear those vibrant, metallic platforms that have been sitting in the box. Word to the wise: if you’re planning on serving alcohol, leave the suede in your closet. Feel free to also use your hair as the ultimate party accessory, no one is going to tell you that glitter highlights (thank you, Beyonce) or sparkle hairspray is too much. Nothing also says you’re the birthday girl like vibrant eye shadow or glitter eyeliner, just don’t overdo either one, you’re not a fairy and this isn’t Halloween.
Should your party be more of an intimate soiree, a la Blair Waldorf’s sweet seventeen, go with some drama. Try an over-the-top feminine Betsey Johnson dress, or anything with a dramatic A-line skirt (go for it in black for a less extreme look). You’ll exude femininity and style, making you a true birthday fashionista.
Shopping Party
Go for the gold with a party like this, since this type of soiree is strictly FFO (For Fashionistas Only). This event is almost like a private spa party, which is becoming increasingly popular, only instead of racking up facials, you hit the sale racks. While it’s definitely a good idea to keep your outfit simple for something like this – no one wants to peel off 17 layers to try on a tank top – showing up in head-to-toe black spandex should really only be reserved for Black Friday. Go with flats to make trying on shoes a cinch, and combine those with a bold sundress (weather-permitting of course) or Just keep your garments loose, you can always go with a belted tunic and then lose the belt while you’re shopping.
You may be wondering what kinds of places offer these fabulous shopping extravaganzas. A lot of smaller boutiques are always willing to work with their loyal customers to set up private shopping experiences, I know that at Second Time Around, we definitely love it when customers request this.
Night In
Whether you’re celebrating with a spa night with your girlfriends, or a home-cooked dinner and a movie with your significant other, you can still radiate with that birthday sparkle. Since you’ll be in the comfort of your own home, Nothing says “Birthday Queen” quite like a tiara paired with yoga pants, or you can sofa-glam up your outfit with a pair of leggings and an elaborate tunic in a bright color or with festive embellishments. Should you want to be the belle of your own private ball, feel free to go all out with that fabulous dress you’ve been dying to wear. Anything goes when you create the party rules!
Remember, anything is possible on your birthday, especially style-wise. On this day, you get a magical power to create your own dress code, so choose something that you’ll love wearing and will make you feel like a true birthday girl!
~Ashley, FashioniSTA
Revenge of the Nerds
May 3rd
This season it’s chic to look like a geek. Those clothes that got you shoved into lockers and earned you wedgies when you were in high school, will now earn you fashion accolades. Want to let that inner nerd shine now that it is socially acceptable? Here are some tips for creating the look:
Tops:
-Classic golf shirts and oxford-cloth button-ups are a no-brainer. Also consider tees with subtle – or not so subtle – messages about your geek-like interests and persona.
-Throw a slouchy cardigan on to stay warm.
-Top off your look with a preppy blazer. Up the fashion ante in a navy one with gold buttons or an official-looking crest.
-Vests are a fabulous way to add a layer to your look as the weather gets warmer. But, keep it traditional here and steer clear of the cropped and girly versions of a few years ago. Masculine, full-length vests are best.
Dresses:
-Plaid and floral jumpers and rompers are sure to make a splash this summer.
Bottoms:
-Select jeans or khakis in skinny, slouchy-skinny and boyfriend cuts. Cuff them at the ankle or mid-shin in a messy roll.
-High-waist trouser or paper-bag waist pants also work well.
-For a more layered look, try shorts with trouser cuffs. Put a pair of tights on underneath to ward off the spring chill.
-Wear a skirt which is knee-length or shorter. Kilts, pleated versions, pencil skirts and anything with ruffles, floral prints or other girly elements are ideal.
Footwear:
-Lace up a pair of canvas sneakers like classic Keds or Converse All-Stars.
-Slip on a boat shoe. Sperry Top-Sider has released a collection of metallic versions of their iconic footwear just in the nick of time.
-Oxfords are the perfect choice. Keep them flat for day and heeled for night.
Accessories:
-Try out a pair of thick-rimmed glasses – whether or not you wear a prescription.
-Add socks to your outfit. Knee-high argyle or ankle socks with lace trim are best.
-Wrap a scarf around your neck. Bonus points for Collegiate colors, stripes or plaids.
-Hold up your pants (or shorts, or jeans, or skirt) with suspenders.
-Carry your stuff in a cross-body bag or slouchy satchel. Earn extra points for those hard-to-find chestnut and navy-colored leathers!
Happy Shopping!
~Marisa, Director of Styling, Second Time Around