Posts tagged J. Crew
Inauguration 2013: Favorite Fashion Moments
Jan 22nd
As I tuned into the Inauguration festivities, I couldn’t help but intently focus on what the key players were wearing. From the FLOTUS outfit changes to Beyoncé’s tune-belting ensemble, this ceremony only proved that politics and fashion are no longer mutually exclusive. Here are our top five style moments from the ceremonies:
5. Michelle Obama at the Inaugural Reception in Michael Kors - A repeat outfit from 2009, this black sequin dress is further proof that the First Lady is a woman of the people. How many of us go to a little black sparkly dress for a black tie event and try to economize their closets?
4. Sasha and Malia Obama on Inauguration Day in J. Crew and Kate Spade - Wearing shades of purple, theFirst Kids (Disney throwback anyone?) proudly donned American designers and looked adorably chic. There’s nothing I love more than sisters who wear matching outfits or who have the foresight to alter a look just by changing buttons on a coat.
3. Michelle Obama at the Inaugural Ball in Jason Wu - Since Michelle really only had three color choices, I love that she went with a twisted halter neckline and a flowing shape. This really shows that women of all ages can wear bold colors without looking matronly. Plus is it just me or does this remind you of a modern take on Motown’s full-length, red sequin dresses?
2. Beyoncé and Jay-Z on Inauguration Day - Let’s be honest, we care about what Jay-Z wore to the point where he looked presentable next to the former Sasha Fierce. B’s intricate Pucci gown was understatedly ah-mazing, and I’m so glad that someone new has become the ambassador to emerald jewelry.
1. Michelle Obama on Inauguration Day in custom Thom Browne - This whole look just works. From the impeccable tailoring to the accented jewel belt to the gloves that matched her daughters’ outfits, Mrs. O did everything right with this. She directed enough attention to herself without taking over the event and she balanced the line between fashion-forward and conservative perfectly. And if I had the chance to go custom-made, I would jump at it.
Tell us what was your favorite look on our Facebook or reach out to us on Twitter!
~Ashley, FashioniSTA
Photo credits: Glamour.com, Philly.com, Bellastyles.com, Newswhip.com, HuffingtonPost.com
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
Let’s Go To the Beach, Let’s Get Away…
Jul 25th
When heading to the beach this summer, be sure to do it in style. Here are eight essentials for a fashioniSTA’s seaside getaway!
1. Fun, Flattering Swimwear
There are endless possibilities of swimwear styles each year. We recommend going for a classic, flattering suit with a bit of a twist- whether its a pop of color or fun print, like the ones above all from J.Crew.
2. Complimentary Cover-Up
Pair your swim suit with a pretty cover-up. We love this one from DVF. Not only is a Diane von Furstenberg print always in style, but this tunic can take you from the beach, to the beach bar or restaurant, to running errands around town- comfortable, effortless and chic.
3. Beach Flip-Flops
Havaianas are a summer must-have for fashioniSTAs- the most comfortable and practical rubber flip-flop. They come in a variety of colors and prints, and you can even design your own to perfectly show off your summer style and personality.
4. Tory Tote
It’s no secret that we love Tory Burch at STA, so when it’s time to tote all your summer goods to the beach, we favor a Tory Burch carry-all.
5. Sun Protection
Keep your skin moisturized and protected with a good SPF.
6. Beach Bedding
Nothing says summer like a colorful Missoni knit, so when you’re laying on the beach, sunning in the sand, sun in style with a Missoni print beach towel.
7. Quality Reading Material
Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, WWD, Glamour, Elle, etc…oh and Fifty Shades of Grey, obviously.
8. Summer Tunes
Currently on the fashioniSTA summer playlist:
Robyn “Hang With Me”
Ellie Goulding “Lights”
Josh Turner “All Over Me”
New Kids On The Block “Summertime”
Avicii “Silhouettes”
Vanessa Carlton “White Houses”
Zac Brown Band “Toes”
What’s your beach essential? Tell us on Facebook or Twitter!
~Lisa, fashioniSTA
Three Looks for a FashioniSTA Girls’ Night Out
Jul 20th
Every once in a while we all need that one night where we can dress up, have a few cocktails, gush about men, discuss the newest additions to our shoe collections, and dance the night away with the girls. This fashioniSTA is getting ready for an evening with the ladies and put together a few different looks for a night out on the town. We paired the high end with the budget-friendly, and mixed in a few treasures from STA, to give us looks that will have us looking chic for any girls’ night out.
Dinner Party
Unless you plan on attending a black tie dinner party, chances are the attire for girls night will be much more casual. Skinny jeans, pumps, and a sassy top is the perfect outfit to take you from day to night- just add a cardigan at the office and you’re good to go!
J.Brand Jeans, Walter Baker top, Chanel pumps, leather turn-lock clutch.
Fun and Flirty
We’ve all seen every episode of Sex and the City, (maybe more than once or twice), and for a night out at the bar or lounge, think “Carrie Bradshaw” and go for that feminine, flirty frock. Keep the look grounded with a pair of edgy heels and a oversized clutch.
Dress by Scout, BCBG MaxAzria “Haze” heels, CC Skye chain fringe clutch.
Just Dance
A night out dancing is the best time to show off your favorite stand out pieces. Try an LBD with on-trend details, like mesh cut-outs, peplum, or a sexy body-con silhouette. Throw on a statement heel and sharp blazer to top off your look.
H&M cut out detailed dress and colorblock blazer, J.Crew necklace, Loeffler Randall “Keira” platform sandals.
~Lisa, fashioniSTA
April Showers Bring Opportunities for Style
Apr 30th
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
Runway Rookies Take on NYFW
Sep 15th
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What do Rachel Zoe, Tory Burch and J Crew have in common? Well, aside from all being huge powerhouse brands in their own right, they’ve never had a runway show during NYFW - until this year that is. This week all three fashion houses hit the runway for the first time, and after viewing each spring 2012 collection - if I may quote Rachel Zoe - “I die.”
Tory Burch
From polka dots, to stripes, to little ribbons adorning the models shoes, it’s evident Tory Burch’s spring 2012 line is intended to be playful and, better yet, more than wearable. Tory Burch was able to fuse 1920’s retro-glam femininity with masculine touches, in the best way possible. She not only got away with, but excelled at pairing usually boring grandpa cardigans with brightly printed ankle-cut trousers, double pocketed jackets with pleated skirts and button downs, and making pastel and nautical color schemes look anything but boring or played out.
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Rachel Zoe
If you’ve been keeping up with Rachel Zoe’s show on Bravo, you know she’s been stressing - as only Rachel Zoe can - over her fashion line debut. Sure she is the number one stylist in the country but could she pull her weight when it came to designing her own line? After perusing the looks that went down the runway, the only logical answer is yes, yes and more yes! Rachel has definitely stayed true to her boho-chic style with draped and gauzy maxi dresses, but her line showcases some immaculately tailored pantsuits in bold colors that could complement any style maven’s wardrobe. One of the great things about her collection is her interest in separates that can be worn together for a work-appropriate look, or individually to create a more toned-down ensemble. And of course she’s now got me wanting to invest in a printed jumpsuit…
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J. Crew
A company known for making t-shirts fashionable walking the runway at NYFW? Yup! This year J. Crew head honcho Jenna Lyons has made some big waves in the fashion world, and if you ask me, this can only be a good thing. Although, I may be biased because once you prove comfortable also means chic and sophisticated, you can do no wrong in our eyes. Also, have you seen their male models? Swoon. But, I digress. Back to the fashion - unlike the pastel trend that seems to be rocking the runway (and the shelves at J. Crew), for their spring 2012 line, J. Crew veered toward color blocking some bold and bright combinations including teal & yellow, pink & orange and white & yellow. And while you may be thinking “that’s so this summer 2011…” - well, you’d be right but we’re excited it’s sticking around! Plus, its integration with bold, floral prints make this collection an interesting take on a trend that we love.
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~Kristen, FashioniSTA
MODERNIZING VINTAGE: Select Your Style!
Nov 16th
If you follow fashion trends, you may have already figured out that one secret to staying current is simply identifying styles from the past and wearing them in new ways.
Retro is the new modern, and there’s no better way to dress vintage than by wearing the real thing. “Vintage” is usually defined by the era of 1940 to 1980 — earlier than 1940 would be considered “antique” clothing. While today’s designers often reproduce looks from the past with a few modern twists, there’s a certain satisfaction in wearing an authentic vintage dress, skirt or sweater. It gives you a fashionable flair and is always a conversation-starter.
But pulling it off isn’t always the easiest. However, if you follow a few key guidelines, it can become as effortless as throwing on your old pair of jeans.
The most important thing to keep in mind is this: modernize it, don’t relive it. Head-to-toe vintage can look too much like a costume, so blending yesteryear with today is key. Use a sweater or skirt with items you already have. Mix and match new with old to create a style all your own! You want to look reminiscent of days gone by, not like you’re on your way to a theme party. Which leads us to our first tip…
TIP #1 – Keep it Simple
Do not try to put together a whole vintage outfit, top-to-bottom. If the vintage piece you’re incorporating is loud or flashy, make it your accent piece and make sure the rest of your ensemble is understated. If your main garment is vintage, be sure accentuate the ensemble with more modern pieces. Pair a vintage neck-tie blouse with skinny jeans and flats. Wear a 50’s shirt dress with new patent leather pumps. The opposite works just as well; feel free to use a touch of vintage (scarves, jewelry, a fun jacket) to gussy up an otherwise regular outfit.
Below look: Shirt: 70s Vintage — $19 / Tank: Eileen Fisher — $25 / Denim: Seven for All Mankind — $59 / Shoes: Arturo Chiang — $29 / Bag: Longchamp — $79
TIP #2 – Mix Period Styles Together
Think about the style you are trying to achieve. Do you like the sleek sophistication of the 1920s-30s or “New Look” clothing from the ’40s and ’50s? Does your taste run toward mod 60s miniskirts or flowing hippie 70s styles? Or is it more 1980s, with big shoulder pads and high-waisted pants? Whatever your preferred style, you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to blend the fashion timelines together. Styles have overlapped through the eras much like they do today, and combining elements from the decades will help to achieve a look that is all your own.
Below look: Cardigan: J. Crew — $29 / Tee: Three Dot — $25 / Skirt: 60s Vintage — $19 / Shoe: Stephane Verdino — $79 / Bag: 80s Vintage Anne Klein for Calderon clutch — $19
TIP #3 — Become a DIY Designer
As the decades changed, so did our culture’s eye for acceptable hemlines, necklines, and forms. The result? Many great vintage finds are passed over on the rack, deemed to “matronly” or too “boxy”. What to do? Alter it. Tailor that “piece with potential” to give it a contemporary fit. A long dress that looks dowdy at mid-calf length can be easily hemmed into a mini dress. Remove outdated shoulder pads and replace tacky buttons with new ones for an instant makeover. Add a few darts to give that sheath a new shape, and take the scissors to those bell sleeves to create a shorter cap.
Some vintage purists hate alterations, arguing that any modification to these relics results in them being rendered worthless — it would be like painting over a Picasso. This is a valid debate, and it’s worth pointing out that any items of high original retail or cultural value are best left in their original state. However, there are many vintage items on the market that were mass produced at very low cost in their heyday and are worth nothing more to history other than a sense of nostalgia — like that H&M sweater you might find at the back of your closet in twenty years. So do a little research into your pieces before putting your sewing skills to work. Then it’s time to get creative!
Below look: Jacket: Arden B. leather — $49 / Dress: 70s vintage — $25 / Shoes: Stephane Verdino — $79
TIP #4 – Fun First! Fashion follows.
This tip especially applies to your vintage choices. We here at Second Time Around truly believe that if you feel good, it shows. Confidence is the key in pulling off any style, so be sure to find the right look for your comfort zone. Whether your final ensemble is understated or bold, you will be well on your way to staying ahead of the curve… by following trends of the past!
Below look: Cardigan: 80s Vintage Adrienne Vittadini from Bergdorf Goodman — $39 / Denim: Marc Jacobs — $69 / Shoes: DKNY — $69 / Bag: Gucci — $109
~Kim, Store Manager, Second Time Around Harvard Square
First Job Fashion Survival Kit: Your Work Wardrobe Lifesavers
Jun 1st
Springtime brings college graduations and often the beginning of summer internships. Stepping out into the real, working world can be scary, especially if the only work-appropriate attire that you own is an interview suit. There are a few life-saving pieces that many people overlook, but are definitely worth making part of your style survival lineup:
Flats
In your first working experience, you will probably have a job where you will need to bring upper or mid-level management their coffee. And you will need to do it quickly, usually by running. Give yourself a break and wear flats – at least for the first few weeks – so you don’t have to worry about maintaining your balance in heels. Cole Haan flats are like an extra lifeline with their Nike Air technology, but any pair of soft, leather flats work great. Either invest in a neutral color – such as Chanel black or nude leather – or use your flats to liven up your office outfit by adding subtle embellishments as seen with Vera Wang Lavender Label or Delman. Also, flat boots are completely acceptable as well, and you can usually commute in them.
Great designers to consider: Chanel, Tod’s, Cole Haan, Pour La Victoire, Delman, Lavender Label Vera Wang, Joie
Raincoat
It never occurred to me when I got my first job that I would need to commute there as well. What also never occurred to me was that it might rain. One of the best decisions you can make is investing in a rain jacket with a hood. Go for the double-team on this one and find a jacket that you can also wear when the weather is nicer, whether it’s a classic Burberry trench or a toggle front option from Jane Post.
Great designers to consider: Burberry, Theory, Jane Post, Preta LoBue
Basic Tanks and Blouses
One of the great life lessons I received when I started working was that you can never have enough basic tanks. Stockpile them in a variety of colors that you can use to layer, and never underestimate how many you will go through in the course of a week. In addition to these essentials, I also learned that investing in colorful and patterned blouses is key. While basic tanks work great under cardigans, structured blouses create instant professionalism when standing alone. Go for traditional neutrals to establish the basics, but also try bold colors and subtle embellishments – these become the new neutrals. These details on top will transform your skirts and pants from separates into a cohesive ensemble. While fitted blouses work with any look, you can pair looser tops with skinny jeans or tuck them into your pencil skirts for a professional, yet chic outfit. Even if you don’t work in a creative field, you can still wear an embellished or colorful tank – mastered by Tory Burch – under a blazer and with a conservative skirt or pants.
Great designers to consider: Basic Tanks-James Perse, Vince, Theory; Blouses- J.Crew, Tory Burch, Nanette Lepore, Diane von Furstenberg
Cardigans
Office weather can be unpredictable at best. Instead of wrapping yourself in a blanket when it gets too cold or wearing your coat indoors, make a cardigan a critical staple of your style survival kit. One sage piece of advice I learned: a black cardigan is like a best friend, it will help you out in any fashion situation. Make sure that you have at least one that’s fitted as well as a longer, looser cardigan and you’ll have any outfit covered. Feeling bolder? Experiment with different sleeve lengths, materials, colors and buttons to spice up your wardrobe.
Great designers to consider: J.Crew, Tory Burch, Juicy Couture
Commuting Tote
While you won’t need to show up at the office with a full set of luggage, you will need at least one tote bag, usually in addition to your purse. This bag will help you cart around extra work materials in addition to your lunch or cardigans, so make sure it has sturdy handles and a roomy interior, but opt for one that is still slim enough to fit in your desk drawer. From clear and plastic to slim and leather, this bag will become an indispensable part of your working routine.
Inside your tote should also be a golden nugget of fashion wealth: a shoe bag. Since commuting in your nice shoes is generally impossible, carrying a small cloth bag for your commuting footwear will give you the peace of mind that you aren’t bringing the street grime into your tote.
Great designers to consider: Louis Vuitton, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Tory Burch, Lulu Guinness, Carlos Falchi, Bottega Venetta
Ok recent grads, good luck with your jobs! We know you will be (and look!) great.
~Ashley, FashioniSTA, Second Time Around
Get great looks for less at STA Mott St.
Mar 10th
Wow! Between the end of fashion week and the premiere of Housewives, time’s been a-flying!
Simon and I attended 18 shows and presentations this fashion week – it was a wild week with all sorts of new ideas for fall. This season I either wore a dress from the designer’s show we were seeing, or I wore something off-the-rack from the Mott Street STA, and found myself wondering as I often do – how do you execute these runway looks in real life? Aha…I feel a project coming on!!
Don’t have a Neiman Marcus budget of $3,000? At Mott Street we found a collection of separates – an Armani jacket, Ann Taylor turtle neck, Laundry tuxedo pants, a black fedora and (of course) some Michael Kors shoes. Total STA look = $400.
Next – this Academy of Art University look is cute, young and sexy in a wholesome way. Linlee and I found pieces from Theory and J. Crew paired with stiletto thigh high boots. Again, we trimmed that runway budget down to $200.
Finally, I love this full, swingy skirt from Pamella Roland though it’ll set you back a few thousand. Linlee, Sophie and I found this great mauve silk tie neck dress and paired it with peach Manolos…always a girl’s best friend. Grand total $350. Go fashioniSTA!! ~Alex
Meet Alex this Thursday, March 11, at our Mott Street location in SoHo between 2-5pm. She will be doing consignment so come on by! 262 Mott St., New York, NY, 10012 (212) 965-8415.