Posts tagged burberry

A Thing or Two on Transitioning into Spring

It’s that time of year again where one day it is 80 and the next is 50 (this week is a PRIME example of this). Most days, the morning commute leads to a warmer, afternoon lunch break. Throw in some (random) on and off rain showers and you have yourself the most unpredictable season… There you are, Spring! We could never forget about you. The transition into to spring is a tough one, but it is even harder on your wardrobe. Don’t let the this ever changing season intimidate you, but let it inspire you! We rounded up our go-tos for transitioning into Spring!

The Timeless Trench Coat

A true investment piece. Outwear has never looked so polished. This makes for the perfect outerwear piece for commuting. Heavy enough for the chill in the morning, but light enough to throw into your tote bag when the sun starts to heat things up. I love a beige trench coat, but the pastels I have been seeing are definitely getting my attention!

Slightly Sheer Tights

Spring is the season to take your tights game to the next level. With the days constantly changing, your tights can do the same from opaque to sheer to everything in between. I love designs on sheer tights, like small hearts or faux stockings. It adds that extra bit of warmth and oomph to any outfit.

The Chic Motorcycle Jacket

A no brainer. The perfect piece to wear from day-to-night with no hassle. Classic enough for work, but edgy enough for Happy Hour. Dress up and down too! Most definitely t-shirt approved. Who doesn’t like to feel a little badass every once in a while?

No Boyfriend Needed Jeans

Hands down, favorite fashion trend/staple EVER! So comfortable and easy. Probably the most versatile and laid back jean out there. Who’d have known that stealing your ex’s jeans would have paid off this well?

How do you tackle The Spring Transition? Sound off in the comments below!

~ Taylor, fashioniSTA

What’s Your Coat Personality?

I’m sure all fashionistas would agree, we hate having to cover up our outfit every time we go outside when it’s cold out. In the winter, your coat is the outfit the world sees, and at  STA we love sporting jackets that are as fashionable as we are. But with so many to choose from, how do you know which coat best suits you?! Like your outfit, have your winter coat reflect your personality! Here are a few celebrity style inspirations to help you pinpoint your coat personality:

Trench Coats and Wool Blends

Personality Traits: Elegant, classic, classy, pretty, composed, girl-next-door

Inspiration: Kate Middleton and Jennifer AnistonAt STA:

A wool peacoat or a classic trench are the perfect cover for a nice occasion, or when you feel like looking sleek and put together.  The simple addition to your outfit not only keeps you warm, but exudes your beautiful and confident personality.  It’s impossible to go wrong with this sophisticated outerwear.

At STA:

  • Susana Monaco mohair/wool - STA 219 Newbury St.
  • Alexander McQueen short peacoat wool/cashmere - STA Portsmouth
  • Burberry Olive Trench - STA Wellesley

Fur

Personality Traits: Bold, Fearless, Confident, Diva, Glam

Inspiration: Victoria Beckham and BeyonceAt STA:

The look speaks for itself.  Nothing says “I’m a star” like fur.

At STA:

  • Lapin cat vest - STA Gramercy Park
  • Mink - STA Gramercy Park
  • Ombre dyed fox fur - STA Brookline

The Puffer

Personality Traits: Easy-going, fun, casual, big personality, lovable

Inspiration: Reese Witherspoon and Sofia VergaraAt STA:

The puffer is the “ready for anything” coat.  Whether your running errands, off to work, or out for the night, the puffer can handle anything.  Its versatility and undeniable warmth gives that “girl next door” feel, who’s easy going and up for anything.  And who doesn’t love a little fur trim when trying to add a little bit of edge?

At STA:

  • Northface Puffer Jacket - STA Portsmouth
  • Moncler Puffer - STA Charles St.
  • Cole Haan quilted jacket - STA Portsmouth

Unconventional and Daring

Personality Traits: Bold, Daring, Confident, Striking, Show-stoppers, risk-taker, trend-setter

Inspiration: Jessica AlbaAt STA:

Vests, bright colors, and different textures are all ways to bring unique flair to your outerwear.  Who needs to follow trends when you can set your own?  Whatever your heart desires, there’s a coat out there to match.  And when you flaunt it on the streets, everyone can tell that’s a girl with a fun, unique, and glamorous style.

At STA:

  • T by Alexander Wang jacket with leather sleeves - STA Nolita
  • Barbour vest - STA Charles St.
  • Bod n Christensen bomber jacket - STA Brookline
  • Barneys leather vest - STA Gramercy Park

Whatever your personality, flaunt it to the world through your winter coat!

Photos: pintrest.com

Black Friday Countdown: 1 DAY!

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

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

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

April Showers Bring Opportunities for Style

We all know that April showers bring the flowers, and the month at its end, let’s hope there aren’t too many showers in the forecast. But since there is bound to be some more rain before spring is over, we’ve got a couple tips to show you how to stay looking fabulous even when the weather isn’t.

The Basics: Everyone needs rain boots and an umbrella. Both can be used as fun ways to add some personality to your look on a dreary day. You can keep it classic with black or muted tones, or go for a pop of color or print to brighten it up. Hunter Wellies, made stylish by Kate Moss when she paired them with itty-bitty shorts at the Glastonbury Festival, are a great staple and personal favorite. And who wouldn’t love a great umbrella like this Kate Spade printed-protector hanging over their heads keeping them dry? Whether you buy this one or a similar style, if you have a few colorful options on hand, you’re sure to motivate yourself even on the dreariest days.

The Trench: There is nothing more stylish than a good trench coat, so leave behind your bulky ponchos. Going back to where it all started, Burberry created the first trench coat, and it is the most iconic and chic topper for a rainy day (plus all of their trenches are treated to be water-resistant!). Keep it cool and classy with this classic in khaki, or go bold in a bright color like this one from J.Crew. Going with a trench instead of a traditional rain jacket is a great way to flatter your shape, and since trenches look great even on sunny days, you’ll get the most for your money.

Rainy days are dull and dreary, so have fun with these wet weather accessories, and don’t let your outfit be!

~Lisa, social media fashioniSTA

The STA Last-Minute Holiday Gift Guide

Stumped as to how to be the best Santa this year? We’ve compiled a list of our stores’ best gifts, all sure to put you on the nice list for years to come. From small accessories to designer finds (new with tags, of course), all of these items have been fashioniSTA-approved and are available to purchase over the phone just in time to slip under the tree! Check out http://www.secondtimearound.net/locations.aspx for a list of all the stores and their phone numbers!

STA Stocking Stuffers
Stick any of these items into someone’s stocking and you’ll know the true meaning of holiday cheer.

New Marc Jacobs Mini Wallet $99 at Lexington Ave NYC store

Longchamp change purse $25, makeup case $29 at Atrium Mall store

Diane von Furstenberg headband $59, at Lexington Ave NYC store

Yellow ostrich-emossed wallet $19, at Brookline store

New Coach leather wristlet $39.20, at Hoboken store

New Coach leather wristlet $39.20, at Hoboken store

It Only Looks Like You Spent A Lot…
Want the glory but none of the expense? Here are some items that will gain you ooohhh’s and aaaahhhh’s without the hefty bill that’s usually attached!

Burberry scarf $99, at 219 Newbury Street Boston store

New Ugg shearling boots $49, at Hoboken store

Cejon rabbit fur scarf $59, at Brookline store

Miu Miu handbag $199, at Upper West Side NYC store

Tory Burch python Reva flats size 7 $149, at Englewood NJ store

TSE cashmere sweater with fur trim $183, at 324 Newbury St Boston store

Tom Ford sunglasses $129, at Philadelphia store

Swarovski cuff $128, at 176 Newbury Street Boston store

Givenchy bracelet $69, at Newton store

Big Spender Santa
You cannot get your mother a vacuum for Christmas and have her not take it the wrong way. Are you now without a gift to give her? Go the extra mile with these suggestions, just don’t tell her they were a third of their retail value!

Burberry down coat XS $329, at Charles Street Boston store

Hermes cuff $499, at Thompson Street NYC store

Bottega Veneta ostrich woven handbag $1479, at Englewood NJ store

David Yurman diamond bracelet $2500, at Chicago store

Hermes scarf $239, at Englewood NJ store

Louis Vuitton Papillon $399, at Englewood NJ store

To: Me, Love: Me
Whoever said it was wrong to shop for yourself during the holiday season clearly never saw these.

New Christian Louboutin shoes sizes 36-41, at Thompson Street NYC store

Shopping My Way Through Boston, STA-Style

Confession. My name is Meredith. And I’m a shopaholic. An STA-aholic, to be exact. While I tell people I live in Boston to be closer to work and the Red Sox, the real reason why I live in Boston is to be close to some of STA’s best and beloved locations. Truth. Each location is like a different treasure chest. A fabulous fashion-filled treasure chest. Who needs pirate’s booty and gold coins when you have some of the amazing designer items I’ve snatched up.

Where: STA Charles Street
On a particularly gloomy day (rainy, gray skies, and my pad thai from an unnamed restaurant was dry and inedible), a ray of light shot down via STA. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw the beloved brown leather case. Black logo. Center silver snap-button. My eyes darted over and there I found them. Classic black Ray Ban Wayfarers with a gradient lens. A staple for Audrey Hepburn, Tom Cruise, Mary-Kate Olsen – and me. A steal for only $59! My only wish? That there were more pairs – I would have bought them all!

Where: STA Burlington
My roots lay on the North Shore of Massachusetts, so it’s natural that I venture to STA Burlington from time to time.

Wedged between stores filled with the same trends, the same shoes and the same tired accessories, STA Burlington is a shining star in the middle of a suburban mall.By far the best part of STA Burlington? The oh-so Jackie O cream Chanel flats (right) with contrasting black cap toe that I found for under $100. These shoes top the must-have-gotta-have list for every sophisticate. Paired with a pair of skinny black pants, a black and white sailor striped top, and a baguette – any fashioniSTA can be perfectly prim and proper.

Where: STA Charles Street

My old copy of the original Preppy Handbook lists Burberry as one of the must-have, never fail brands for true preps. My mom (a self-proclaimed prep herself) taught me the same. “Burberry plaid was in style 20 years ago, and it will still be in style 20 years from now.” Her words rang in my ears as I spotted a pink Burberry plaid scarf (shown at right with blue companion scarf found later) at STA Beacon Hill for $79. The classic plaid print in 100% cashmere – and long enough to wrap twice around my neck! While I distain the imminent frigid New England winter, at least I know I can keep warm in style.

Where: STA 219 Newbury
Every fashioniSTA knows that shoe selection is no joke. Choos, Blahnik, YSL – so many choices, and only two feet! While I adore the Jimmy Choo’s edgy style, the timeless quality of Manolo Blahnik’s and the to-die-for platform pump in a pair of YSL Tributes, my heart bleeds red for Christian Louboutin.
Lucky for me (and my feet), with a tip from my best friend (fashioniSTA’s own Ashley), I found the most perfect pair of black suede Christian Louboutin platform pumps at STA. My ever-small foot (no joke, I’m a size 5.5) cozied up to the leather lining perfectly. Bells rang. Birds chirped. Forget Prince Charming, I found true love in my new shoes.
My love for my STA-found Louboutins grows everyday. A true fashioniSTA knows that there’s no wrong time for a killer pair of heels. I strut in them. I do laundry in them. I watch Gossip Girl in them (I swear I saw the same pair on Serena van der Woodsen!). And it all feels a little sweeter knowing that I found them at such an unbelievable price (under $250!) at such a fabulous store.


~Meredith, fashioniSTA/Super Shopper, Second Time Around

How to Dress Your Baby FashioniSTA

Front Row at NY Fashion Week

I don’t know if you’ve heard, but the playground is apparently the latest style scene. All of the up-and-coming stylistas make it their mission to look like lean, mean fashion machines once they hit the monkey bars. If you are sending your child out – or allowing anyone you know to do so – without making sure they are runway-ready from head to toe, you are doing them a serious disservice, or at least that’s what it seems when you get a look at any celebrity child. My only complaint when I was little was that my clothes weren’t sparkly enough, not that my Burberry prints clashed with each other. Ready to give your kid celebrity status?

To start off, you need to think practical. With the cold months ahead, your child will obviously need mini Ugg boots. Spring for the Pink Baily Button boots in a dark raspberry color so that she really stands out at recess – and really, almost $150 on tiny footwear is very reasonable. To ensure that she will also be comfortable inside her second-grade classroom, I suggest the Marc Jacobs Rainbow Mouse Ballet Pumps (right). [On a side note, I actually think these are the most adorable shoes, and if they weren’t over $250 and were going to be put on a small child’s foot and most likely stomped in the dirt until the rhinestones fell off, I would probably seriously advocate these.] And while you wouldn’t want this poor fashionista to freeze, I definitely recommend the Burberry Nova Check Poncho, because if you weren’t already sold, the hood would definitely push you right over the edge.

Chloe for Kids Only

Why dress your baby in normal, frumpy clothes? Instead, dress her statement pieces with intricate details. Try a D&G Junior Denim Bow Dress for $415, this dress’s large appliqué bows will give your 8-year-old just enough Lady Gaga for her second grade class, of course without going overboard. For a more flashy entrance, try Roberto Cavalli’s leopard-printed jeans, bringing the flair of Jersey Shore to an elementary school near you. Too extreme? Scale it back a bit with a pale yellow linen Ralph Lauren dress, perfect for all of the summer weddings that your social butterfly young daughter is sure to attend. And this dress is actually washable – at 30 degrees – a big selling point amidst the other dry clean only selections. For a fall perfect look, your child’s wardrobe should really consist of a balanced mix of signature statement pieces and easy basics. And by easy basics, I obviously mean Junior Gaultier faux leather skinny trousers and Monnalisa navy leggings with pearl details. Apparently basic black leggings haven’t trickled down into the youth sector, these children are just too fashionable to be seen in anything so pedestrian. And of course the finishing touch to any mini-fashionista’s look would be a pair of rounded, blush-colored Chloé sunglasses.

If your child is looking to attend a nightlife social event (and really, when is your child not looking to do this?), try a Sonia Rykiel full-sequin skirt with attached suspenders. Of course, they are referred to as “braces,” because apparently nothing in kid fashion is described normally, that would be too kid-friendly. Or go with a Junior Gaultier sequin three tiered dress in black, perfect for the third-grade class New Years’ bash at Tenjune. And word on the street is, you can also use this dress as part of a witch Halloween costume.

A Sonia Rykiel soiree outfit

And for the budding elementary school fashionista, sending her to school with a brown paper bag lunch would just be plain mean. Especially when Juicy Couture has their own pink and academic-themed lunchbox, which contains what they refer to as a “flask.” Exactly what comes to your mind when you hear that? Yeah, my thoughts too. When I was attending a school that provided recess, we called them “Thermoses,” but I guess when you’re a style star on the rise, even your lunchbox gets an inappropriate adult name.

And for those mothers out there who have little princes at home, treat him right and dress him to kill. The ladies out there will not be impressed with his graphic tees and ripped jeans, so go for Paul Smith’s black suit with lilac pinstripes. It’s just enough pizzazz for a future fashionisto, or if your child happens to be a mini Chuck Bass. For a more casual look, try Paul Smith’s mini leather bomber jacket paired with child Ray-Ban Wayfarers. I’m sure the children will get the Top Gun motif that you’re going for.

With all of these tips at your command, there is no excuse why your child should look like a normal kid. Of course, she won’t be able to actually play or interact with other children, but that’s a small price to pay. Why make your kid comfortable when they can wear premium denim and suck on a D&G pacifier?

~Ashley, fashioniSTA, Second Time Around

Everyday Halloween Costumes

 

Coming up with a Halloween costume is a great way to experiment with your sense of style in the most extreme way. No one dresses up like a fairy and rolls around in glitter if she doesn’t like to wear sparkles on a semi-regular basis. And while this night can help you channel your fashion creativity, why limit it to just one night? Extend the life of your Halloween fashion sense by (semi-subtly) incorporating it into your everyday wardrobe. While I’m not suggesting that every one of your workday ensembles should have a theme, pumping up the creativity once in a while is sure to make getting dressed in the morning a fun experience. Here are a few themes that you can work into your wardrobe to create your own everyday Halloween costumes.

Prep Schooler

Gossip Girl's Blair Waldorf

Channel your inner Gossip Girl and pump up the preppy. While this style is all over the place thanks to The CW, you can take it a step further than just wearing an argyle sweater or a big headband. For a traditional look, go with a plaid kilt (pleating optional), like one from Burberry in either traditional Nova print or their latest army green color. Pair it with dark tights and a white cable knit sweater or cardigan. Finish off the look with loafers from Tod’s or Mary Janes with white ankle socks, and a thin headband. For a more Blair Waldorf look, go with a large pleated skirt in a solid color, paired with argyle tights and a Peter Pan blouse paired with a v-neck cardigan. Check out Land’s End for the traditional basics - such as the blouse and a khaki skirt - and then go all out with a Jennifer Oulette headband. Trade in the sweater for a Juicy Couture blazer and try Commes de Garcons’ latest lace-up loafers or Joie’s Louis Louis. If this still isn’t enough, layer on strands of pearls and carry a structured handbag, like Tory Burch’s flat Dayton leather clutch. 

 

Egyptian/Spartan

This is a great theme to try out at a nighttime event. This theme is all about draping and gold accents, so to go the Cleopatra route, try Temperley London’s appropriately-named Queen of the Nile dress, and accent the look with two identical cuffs on each wrist. Top off the outfit with bold, geometric earrings, like ones from Gerard Yosca. Or try Rachel Roy’s gold sequin dress or Yigal Azrouel’s gold lamé dress, both excellent mini dress options. Finish it off with Low Luv x Erin Wasson’s welded cuff or an upper arm bracelet, extra points if you can find one in the shape of a snake. If you’re feeling full-length inspired, you can go with Yigal Azrouel’s white open-back gown, just pair it with a large, gold bib necklace and gold cuffs or multiple gold bangles. 

Nothing gets more cheers than a modern Spartan look

To channel a Spartan queen, go with Alice + Olivia’s Goddess dress and drape a couple of delicate gold necklaces. You can also try this look with brown leather accessories, such as a headband and thick, brown leather cuffs, for a truly Spartan warrior-ready ensemble. With any of these looks, you can wear gold sandals, either gladiator style or strappy - like Jimmy Choo’s Lance Mirrored Sandals. For a more daytime-appropriate look, go with Tory Burch’s Aziza blouse with white pants and gold sandals or bejeweled flats. Try an updo with a couple thin, gold headbands for a truly Spartan-inspired look, and of course top it off with large golden cuffs. 

 

Viking  

Should you be one of those people who hop on the fur bandwagon every year when it starts getting cold out, then this theme is right up your alley. Start with a fur vest, either in brown or white from Juicy Couture or Rachel Zoe’s QVC line, and layer it over LaRok LUXE’s Weekend Warrior tank. Pair these with leather or liquid leggings and add fur boots - like from Tory Burch or Dolce Vita - for an authentic look. Top it off with a brown leather headband. To go all out with this theme, you can go with a fur skirt from GAR-DE and pair it with booties and a banded top. You’ll be itching for a horned headpiece in no time.   

 

Flapper

To try something from the past other than another 1950’s ensemble, try something from the roaring ’20s. Antik Batik’s Laria mini dress (right) is perfect for a night out, and you can pair this dress with seamed fishnet tights from Club Monaco and a rhinestone headband from Juicy Couture. Or go with a simple mini dress and accessorize it with Haute Hippie’s Faille Jacket and peep-toe stilettos. To go slightly more modern, pair Temperley London’s Giovanna tunic with a pair of leggings and vintage-inspired crystal earrings from Kenneth Jay Lane or a banded, chain headband worn across the forehead. For especially chilly nights, go with a faux fur jacket from Juicy Couture. 

For those of you who just want to infuse the spirit of Halloween into your wardrobe, try a couple of key pieces to create haute Halloween spirit in your ensemble. Go with DSQUARED2’s Chain Skeleton Gilet as an option for a truly daring nighttime look. Or try one of the many black lace tops offered by designers such as Alexander Wang and Nanette Lepore and pair with a black leather skirt and black tights (fishnets optional). The combination of different black textures mixed with a touch of sparkle will create a truly bewitching look. 

Happy Halloween! 

~Ashley, fashioniSTA, Second Time Around