Posts tagged Prada
FashioniSTA File: Oscars 2013
Feb 25th
We’re handing out our own superlatives for this year’s Academy Awards to our best and worst looks of the night. From stand-out accessories to cutest baby bumps to red carpet disasters, we give out our own awards to those who deserve it most.
Best Accessories: Jennifer Lawrence in Dior Couture
While she didn’t trip on the endless diamond necklace she was sporting, this backwards necklace was my favorite accessories look of the night (followed closely by Sandra Bullock’s hair pin). With the up-do, the simple drop earrings and the light, ethereal makeup, the whole look was perfection.
Best Red Lip: Jessica Chastain in Armani Privé
Looking amazing in a custom-made gown, Jessica definitely made up for her ill-fitting SAG Awards dress. But the icing on this sequined cake was definitely her striking red lip, which took the ensemble from monochromatic to magnificent.
Best Couple: Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan
This almost went to George Clooney and Stacy Keibler, but Jenna’s pregnant with Magic Mike’s baby, so she wins. Wearing a black lace Rachel Roy dress, Jenna showed us how to go fitted in the right way when sporting a bump.
Best Embellishment: Kerry Washington in Miu Miu
Playing off the Fall 2012 embellishment trend, this red/coral dress was perfect on her petite frame. The tiny bow and embellishment gave this simple shape a youthful feel, and the slightly darker hued bag made for an air of interesting.
Best Spring 2013 Trends: Zoe Saldana in Alexis Mabille Couture
While this dress had a lot of detail going on, the fact that it was almost monochromatic helped the embellishments blend into the dress beautifully. With ruffles and black/white being hot trends for spring, Zoe’s fresh take on ombré is strikingly modern.
Most Offensive: Anne Hathaway in Prada
This is what happens when you change it up at the last minute. It was assumed – even by the designer – that she would be wearing Valentino, so it was a slap in the face when she showed up in what she did. Not only do we expect more from a nominee (even though the back almost saved the dress), but do we even have to mention the awkward darts? The fact that her nipples now have their own Twitter account sums up this look’s legacy.
~Ashley, FashioniSTA
Images by: Huffington Post/Getty, Allure.com, Eonline.com, UsMagazine.com, Popsugar.com
Met Gala Trends, Who Wore Them Best?
May 8th
The Met Gala is arguably the most high-fashion red carpet event of the year, where the style risks are lauded and the boring are never invited again (if only). This is a great night for the avant garde to sneak in with the red carpet glamour, giving us great pieces that are sure to inspire (or give us a sneak peek at) upcoming runway collections. Here are the top four trends of the night, and who wore them best!
1. Dripping in Metal
Gold has continued to earn its weight worth, at least in the style arena, and it was definitely a key power player last night. Between Anna Wintour’s gold detailed Prada, Karolina Kurkova in a full-on Arabian-inspired Rachel Zoe ensemble, and Jessica Pare’s square neckline/cap sleeve dark golden L’Wren Scott gown, there was enough sparkle to go around. Not only was all of this glitz great to watch on the red carpet, but it inspires the rest of us to break out the bold metallics when we have our less-formal (but still fabulous) events to attend.
Who wore it best? We’re torn between Lana del Rey’s flawless sweetheart Altuzarra and Camilla Belle’s plunging Ralph Lauren. Both style stars donned the dark gothic makeup to accentuate their dresses’ lighter metallic shades, but Camilla Belle’s flawless accents with her hair/makeup/earrings put her in the lead.
2. Embellished Mermaids
Instead of body-hugging silhouettes or outrageous ball gowns, the biggest shape contender last night was hands-down the mermaid silhouette. And since we’re pretty sure that these ladies weren’t trying to hide oversized calves, we can only speculate that the mermaid trend is stationed to take to new heights in the near future. From the tame - like Julianne Hough, to the outrageous - Beyonce in a lace and feather concoction - these ladies added appliques, feathers, tulle and pretty much every other material on the planet to create dramatic volume below the knees.
Who wore it best? While it seems a demure choice, Reneé Zellweger gave us all a shock when she decided against wearing her signature Carolina Herrera. However, dressed in Pucci (left), she rocked the long sleeves, sheer details, and an embellished mermaid train without looking like a trend wreck.
3. Feather Intensity
A flock of feathers covered the red carpet last night. This trend popped up everywhere from Donna Karan’s clutch to Kate Bosworth’s backless full-on feather Prada dress. Amy Poehler looked shockingly chic in a Fontini black peplum gown with a mermaid train of black feathers, and Diane Kruger’s purple Prada gown swept the carpet with the trim and train drenched in feathers. The red carpet had it’s grand finale when Beyonce arrived in a jaw-dropping Givenchy Haute Couture embroidered gown with a purple ombré train of feathers, proving to us that she properly holds the title of World’s Most Beautiful Woman. I guess stylish birds of a feather really do flock together.
Who wore it best? We have to go with Cate Blanchett in Alexander McQueen. Don’t let the black dissuade you from far away, the actress brought the glamour by marrying intricate feather detailing from the bodice to the train with impeccable fit.
4. Sculpturesque
One of the biggest trends on the Fall 2012 runways was the architectural shapes and details, and it carried over onto the red carpet last night. While January Jones stepped out in a Versace hip-action number that we feel like we’ve seen her in a million times, stars like Elizabeth Banks (in a somewhat bizarre Mary Katrantzou dress) and Jessica Stam (in a pale blue, ornate Christian Dior Couture design) brought over-exaggerated sculpted details to the event.
Who wore it best? Ok, don’t judge us, but for some reason Thakoon-dressed Christina Ricci’s oversized bow and architectural neckline really spoke to us (right). Maybe it was the risk or maybe we’re having a Casper flashback. Don’t ask, we really can’t explain it.
Do you think someone else wore it better? Tell us in the comments, post on our Facebook wall or Tweet us!
~Ashley and Lisa, FashioniSTAs
FashioniSTA File: Golden Globes 2012
Jan 16th
This year’s Golden Globe Awards was all about bold statements and futuristic flair. From silver metallic moments - that we saw on Nicole Richie and Lea Michele - to art deco details - as seen on Selma Hayek and Claire Danes - statement accents were everywhere. Even those who donned nude gowns for the occasion ramped up the drama with oversized skirts (Charlize Theron and Piper Perabo) and large-scale jewelry (Heidi Klum). And of course fringe hit the red carpet yet again, this time taking on celebs such as Emma Stone and Busy Phillips.
Ashley’s Picks
Best Dressed: Freida Pinto in a teal, textured Prada. I’ll admit that I like when actresses go more timeless than trendy, and I think this gown had the best of both worlds. The classic shape was slightly modernized with the fuller silhouette at the bottom and the smaller accents, such as the belt and her stunning Chopard lattice choker. The texture was the perfect detail to make her stand out in the best way possible.
Worst Dressed: Lea Michele in a silver Marchesa concoction. Some people have been fawning over this risky move, and I’m hoping that those people get their eyes check out soon. Instead of a smart risk, this is too over-the-top, and Lea stirs up memories of Cher in Bob Mackie.
Rookie of the Night: Shailene Woodley’s Marchesa dress was an unbeatable mix of age-appropriateness and gorgeous detail. The structured bodice with the illusion neckline was a shining example of how to dress a young Hollywood actress.
Most Improved: Nicole Kidman in Versace redeemed herself a million times over from her missteps last awards season (remember the white Dior)? From the studs to the body-hugging silhouette, this dress proved why Versace is such a fashion powerhouse.
Kim’s Picks
Best Dressed: My absolute two favorites of the night were Salma Hayek in Gucci and Kate Winslet in Jenny Packham. Hayek may get panned for her risky art-deco choice, but I thought she pulled it off beautifully while Winslet proved that Old Hollywood is always in style… her touches of gold were flawless and her clutch was a perfect match.
Worst Dressed: Angelina Jolie in Atelier Versace — seriously, how dated! I am a firm believer that one can never be tooooo matchy-matchy, but Jolie’s hideous outfit tonight has shaken that belief to its core. The worst, however — hands-down — is Sarah Michelle Gellar in Monique Lhuillier. That print should never hit the red carpet, nor should it ever grace a dress so formal. You took a risk, Gellar, and it failed.
Rookie of the Night: Kelly Osbourne in Zac Posen — I may not particularly like her dress, but I’ll certainly remember it. Bold lines make for a bold choice, and I’m not sure if she pulled it off or not. But it certainly caught my eye! I’d also like to nod my hat to Rooney Mara in Nina Ricci… very fitting for her character, and very well put together.
Most Improved: Tilda Swinton in Haider Ackermann… Swinton arrived last year in a questionable Jil Sander get-up that was part dress / part boardroom, but this year she made some major strides. She clearly enjoys going for a slightly androgynous look and this year is no exception. However, she softens the blow with a fabulously wild hairdo and beautiful jewelry by Fred Leighton. Baby steps, Swinton, but you’re getting there.
Kristen’s Picks
Best Dressed: Claire Danes – I have a love hate relationship with Claire Danes. Yesterday it was love. Her J. Mendel dress, coupled with simple jewelry, was nothing short of perfection, and the cut out back? Swoon.
Worst Dressed: Zooey Deschanel in Prada is my pick for worst dressed, not because of the dress necessarily, but the hair. Usually I’m all for glam throwback looks especially when it comes to hairstyles, but this custom-made bold dress deserves a simple updo.
Rookie of the Night: While I think she always looks great at award shows, my rookie of the Golden globes Goes to Sarah Hyland of Modern Family in Dolce & Gabbana. I’m all about the lace! Sarah was able to pull off an elegant strapless dress while maintain her youthful charm.
Most Improved: Laura Dern – Known for her effortlessly hippy-ish style, she kicked it up a notch this year! Her emerald sparkle Andrew Gn dress was just the right amount of classy and sexy, she looked radiant when accepting her award.
Stay tuned as we cover all of the other award shows this season!
Sneak Peek #1 of Our BFW Show!
Sep 27th
The countdown to our Boston Fashion Week show on Friday has started! We’ll be bringing you sneak peeks of our runway looks all week, so scope out things early, they’ll all be for sale on Friday at our 176 Newbury Street location at our shopping after-party, sponsored by 90+ Cellars!
Our runway pick for you today is this pair of gorgeous black, satin Prada slingbacks (below). The outfit that these shoes are part of is equally fantastic, so be sure to check out our show or the after-party on Friday!
Treasure Hunting in the Portsmouth Store!
Jun 22nd
Looking for a fashion experience where you can score everything from couture to casual? Then you shoulddefinitely look to take advantage of the Portsmouth sale! Over the past few months, this location has become a magnet for high-end items. They just had four Oscar de la Renta gowns (an example is featured on the right), some even donned by celebrities while strutting down the red carpet! Of course they all sold immediately, but the treasures don’t stop there. They also have had tons of high-end shoes: Prada, Gucci, Lanvin, Louboutin. You name it they have it! (And good news for you size 11 girls, there are shoes in that size too!)
For you contemporary gals, Diane von Furstenberg, Milly, Miu Miu, Lilly Pulitzer, Tory Burch and Anna Sui also live at this Second Time Around. Whether you’re looking for a work-appropriate Right now you can find a great pair of Miu Miu shoes, the perfect DVF printed wrap dress (left), and an Anna Sui dress that is sure to add the right element of unique to your wardrobe. Want even more one-of-a-kind pieces that you can’t get anywhere else? This location is one that houses Dharma Imports direct from the designer, a line that features gorgeous textiles from India and Thailand. From strapless sundresses to printed knit shirts, this line is the perfect way to add color and exotic texture to your closet.
One of the great things about this store is that it helps you piece together the perfect ensemble. They’ve got you covered, whether you’re looking to update your wardrobe with a key summertime piece, or you need an outfit for an upcoming family event, or you simply have nothing to wear for the warmer weather. In addition to designer-themed racks, this STA has set up stylized racks like “Flirty Florals,” “The Perfect Print” and “Ruched and Ruffled.” This helps anyone navigate the new store with ease, letting people shop their favorite trends quickly & easily!
Should you be up for a day of shopping and lunching (think Real Housewives meets Portsmouth, without the obnoxious drama), this STA location is right in the middle of everything you’d want. You can work up quite an appetite scoping out the latest and greatest fashion finds, and you can swing by The Works Bakery Café for an understated yet deserved lunch, Radici for Italian dining, or Sake Japanese Restaurant for your sushi fix. Or for the pizza lover, you can swing by Flatbread, which serves up slices fit for anyone, whether you’re organic, gluten-free, vegan or the original pizza aficionado.
Meet the Manager – Molly Shea 
Molly is a 25-year-old stylista who moved to Portsmouth NH right after graduating college with a fine arts degree. She started working at STA about 3 years ago, and before she knew it, she had moved up to store manager. The stylist in her means the mannequins are always dressed to impress, and the consignor in her means she cleans out her closet on a regular basis (to of course make room for all the STA deals she brings home!).
Fave designer: Marc Jacobs, of course. I also love All Saints and Elizabeth & James
Personal style: Generally in head to toe black. I occasionally add a pop of grey, or chartreuse if I am really feeling racy! I am attracted to anything flowy, asymmetrical, oversized, and always, always in multiple layers!
After-work/weekend hotspot: Brazo!! A fabulous Latin restaurant in town, that makes the best watermelon martinis around, and a few of people who work there are regular shoppers and consignors with us as well!
Latest fashion splurge: I have my eye on a pain of 4-inch Lanvin copper cutout sandals right now! I will be over 6 feet in them, but just to own them would be well worth the splurge!
Best STA deal ever: My Marc Jacobs classic quilted Stam purse for $99! Or my reversible Escada floral cardigan that was only $30! I will never ever get rid of that one!
Dress the Part: Family Gathering
Jun 16th
No matter how large your family gatherings may be, there’s always at least one person present that you need to “dress your best” for. Picky grandparents, that cousin with whom you’re always competing, mother-in-law… time with the extended family should never be taken for granted, but who wants the added stress of dressing for the occasion? No one, so here’s how you can make it a breeze! Learn how to incorporate your taste into outfits that are coordinated and pulled together. Keep your outfit consistent in textures and patterns so as not to clash; it helps you come across as pulled together, not to mention make you appear as if you made an effort to dress well. Some simple fashion rules to keep in mind…
- Dress comfortably, both physically and emotionally. Don’t take a risk with a color / print / style if you don’t feel 100% confident in it; if you feel self-conscious all day about your choice, you won’t be able to relax, and people pick up on that. The same goes for wearing something too structured; if you’re physically uncomfortable in something after only an hour of wearing it, you won’t be able to stop thinking about your discomfort all day. And who wants that?
- Dress your size. Don’t squeeze into something because you reeeeeeally wanted to wear it, and don’t wear anything too oversized (unless it’s intentionally sized that way) — you’ll come across as if you’re hiding (or hiding a baby bump).
- When in doubt, dress up instead of down. Many fashion icons have stated that it’s better to be overdressed for an occasion than under. You can be noticed for looking too fabulous or for looking too boring. You choose.
- Never sacrifice your own personal style for the sake of someone’s expectations. Just temporarily tailor it to put your best face forward for the situation!
Check out some outfit choices from our Harvard Square location:
Tank: Dharma Imports (size S) $28 — NWT! / Jersey Knit Scarf: American Apparel $9 / Skirt: Chip & Pepper (size 6) $35 / Bag: Dooney & Bourke $49 / Flats: Enzo Angiolini (size 8.5) $29
Dress: Dharma Imports (size M) $34 — NWT! / Wooden Bead & Rope Necklace: $8 / Bag: Isabella Fiore $59 / Sandals: Prada (size 8.5) $119
Dress: Theory (size S) $59 / Wood & Leather Necklace: $16 / Bag: Donna Dixon: $19 / Sandals: Miz Mooz (size 7.5) $25
Top: Dharma Imports (size S) $24 — NWT! / Jean Skirt: Theory (size 
$35 / Suede Belt: $15 / Wooden Bead Necklace: $14 / Bag: The Limited $25 / Sandals: Frye (size 10) $59
~Kim, Store Manager-Harvard Square/FashioniSTA
FashioniSTA File: SAG Awards 2011
Feb 3rd
Awards season continues! We’re taking a quick break from shopping our hearts out at the big STA sale to bring you the dish on the SAG Awards red carpet. Here we break down the top trends of the night, from the grand slams to the strikeouts (can you tell we just bought baseball tickets?). This awards show had a surprising number of impeccably dressed celebs (even Helena Bonham Carter didn’t look terrible), but since this is one of the more liberal events, there are always the few who take it to the extreme. Check out who made the cut and whose dress needs to be cut, straight from The FashioniSTAs.
White Hot
No one loves wearing summer-appropriate clothing during the winter months quite like the citizens of Los Angeles. It’s almost as if they’re rubbing it in our faces that we’re cold and they’re not. That aside, some of these white gowns didn’t quite make the cut. Eva Longoria (far left) showed up in a Georges Hobeika dress with a draped, plunging neckline that almost looked like she was the victim of a Halloween TP-ing incident. Amy Adams (center right) also donned this summer shade, going with a Herve L. Leroux gown that would have been gorgeous if it had properly fit her. The worst of the bunch? Winona Ryder (center left) in an actual wedding gown by Alberta Ferretti. Self-explanatory.
However, the shining (white) light of this trend was Natalie Portman (far right) in a gorgeous crystal-trimmed, strapless Azzaro gown. Our only complaint is that the fit across her baby bump was for someone not pregnant.
Orange You Glad
I feel like everywhere I turned someone was showing up in a nude-colored dress, from basically the entire female ensemble of Glee to Kate Mara to Hilary Swank. This seemed to be the season of nude shades, but at this awards show, a few were bold enough to take it a step further and go orange. Sarah Hyland (below, left)– one of our favorite new fashionistas – looked sleek, if not a little too old, in her Max Mara knotted-waist dress. One thing that maybe didn’t work with this ensemble? The oddly mismatched arm jewelry, which kept her looking a little less put together than she did at the Golden Globes. Jayma Mays (below, right) also went with this hue, looking dewy and fresh in a Jenny Packham number. She made it look effortlessly perfect with just the right amount of metallic embellishment, and her hair color only made the outfit better.
Not-So-Basic Black
In order to wear black on the red carpet and not get completely ignored, your dress has to have an additional wow-factor. Judging from the Malandrino plunging neckline pantsuit, Julie Bowen (far left)decided to go in a different direction with black and lose the dress part altogether. I’m not sure if she was channeling J.Lo, but she hit the red carpet in style, going sleek and modern with the most perfect makeup. Amber Riley (far right) in Anne Barge also rocked the awards show with her full-on diva look. If this is any indication of her star power, hold on to your seat. She’d give anyone a run for their money in this number – which was originally a wedding dress, although it’s so awards-show-fabulous, you’d never be able to tell. Christina Hendricks (center) also went with black in a long-sleeved, sparkly L’Wren Scott number, which at first glance looks as if it had the potential to be a great departure from the black norm. But taking a closer look, the color is too severe on her pale skin, and the shoes definitely didn’t help.
Print Crazy
If you want to go experimental at any of the awards shows, the SAG Awards is definitely the way to go. The girls who took the print plunge definitely deserve to be in an elite fashion category, from Mila Kunis (below, left) in a perfectly-styled Alexander McQueen that solidified her as this season’s top fashionista, to Hailee Steinfeld worthy of a place in the young Hollywood hall of fame in a striped Prada. The list goes on with January Jones in an antique gold, lace-print Carolina Herrera, Julia Stiles (below, right) in a crisp, ombré Monique Lhuillier, and Claire Danes (below, center) in a belted, floral Louis Vuitton.
The FashioniSTA Verdict
Marisa
Best Dressed: January Jones
Best Dressed: January Jones in Carolina Herrera (right). She was the complete package and had some serious “wow” factor. I loved the intricate gold pattern on black background and the fit – slightly loose, conservative t-shirt shape on top, fitted through the hips and thighs and then ending in a mermaid flare – was dramatic. She accented the outfit with gold Roger Vivier pumps, simple black stud earrings and an old-Hollywood style side-swept up-do. Perfection!
Worst Dressed: Christina Hendricks in L’Wren Scott. This dress had some potential. However, there were just too many execution issues and unfortunately the look fell short. I don’t think that the fit was great and – as a result – her curves made her look heavy instead of voluptuous. Also, the combination of the full-length sleeves, the heavy-handed eyeliner and the fact that the dress was black was way too much for her fair skin. She looked almost gothic and, to be honest, a bit scary.
Rookie of the Year: Julie Bowen in Catherine Malandrino. I was very impressed with the Modern Family actor’s sleek, modern look. She sported a well-tailored, black jumper with a plunging halter neckline. Her accessories included a simple clutch and Neil Lane diamonds and her hair was worn down - sleek and straight – to complement her attire. This was a great choice for the SAG Awards which is traditionally a more casual event and it gave her a chance to showcase her beauty and style – a distinct departure from the role of suburban mom that she plays on her award-winning show.
Ashley
Rookie of the Year: Ariel Winter
Best Dressed: Lea Michele in Oscar de la Renta. I LOVE this whole throwback to the ‘70s, and this sleek silhouette is so much more flattering than the 800 fussy ruffles she wore to the Golden Globes. The whole look was effortlessly gorgeous with just the right amount of sparkle for a cast nominee.
Worst Dressed: Lauren Vélez from Dexter. She’s not one of the most photographed actresses, and this time that was probably a blessing for her. Not only do I not understand this whole bedazzled flower halter top (and I always understand bedazzling), but I think I had the same skirt in the 7th grade from the Gap.
On-the-Fence: Julie Bowen in Malandrino. The pantsuit was definitely a fashion risk, whether it paid off depends on if you saw it on television or in print. But what I do know is that her sleek hair and minimalist jewelry/makeup definitely pushes her more on the fashion “do” side of things.
Rookie of the Year: Ariel Winter (right) in Luisa Beccaria. This white, tea-length dress was perfect on her, the whole dress just worked between the texture, the slight ruffle at the collar and the black belt. She looked age-appropriate and fashion-forward, the great makings of a future fashionista.
Biggest Comeback: Tina Fey in Oscar de la Renta. FINALLY, she looked great! We knew she had fashion potential, and now we can actually see it. The color, the texture, the hair, jewelry, makeup…it all works! *Standing ovation*
Leslie
Worst Dressed: Jennifer Lawrence
Best Dressed: Mila Kunis in Alexander McQueen Resort Collection. She looked absolutely radiant in a strapless cut. The bare shoulder flattered her wavy hair, and the splashes of red and train dazzled the already red carpet. I loved her smoky eyes, it definitely was an “all eyes on her” moment. The small thin belt accentuated her already small waist. She was a show stopper in my eyes; and I’m all about that. Kudos Kunis, kudos.
Worst Dressed: Jennifer Lawrence (right) in Oscar de la Renta. Can someone please explain to me what color pink this is? If it was a nail polish it would be named NIPP (NEVER IN PUBLIC PINK). Besides the fact that I’m not a fan of neon colors especially pink, yikes, there’s too much going on. The straps look like a bad mummy wrap. I think it’s hypocritical to have a slit all the way up your thigh then pair it up with a dainty little girl bow belt.
On-The-Fence: Nicole Kidman in Nina Ricci. A lot of people like the black lace Nina Ricci gown but I’m not sure about it. Black wasn’t a trend from what I saw nor do I think I’ve seen Nicole Kidman in a lot of black, and I see why. The black lace gown with jeweled incrusted neckline had a gothic appeal and I found it ugly, plain and simple.
Kim
Best Dressed: Mila Kunis in Alexander McQueen. Easy, breezy, and beautiful.
On-the-Fence: Hailee Steinfeld
Worst Dressed: Oh, where do I begin?? Let’s start with Angie Harmon in Monique Lhuillier — I have yet to see a feathered dress that doesn’t look like it belongs on the JC Penney’s 1998 Prom Rack. The two ladies who most drastically caught my eye, however, were Nicole Kidman in Nina Ricci and Kate Mara in Hervé Leger by Max Azria. Whaaaaaat was going on there? Kidman’s ensemble choice was just confusing (and where on earth did that necklace come from? What about that dress said “this neckline really needs some floral stuff”?) and Mara looked downright uncomfortable. Was that dress too small? Or did you just realize too late that you look terrible?
On-the-Fence: Hailee Steinfeld (right) in Prada — the fit was great and the colors were bold, but I’m not sure if I should congratulate you on being eye-catching or warn you against that kind of future statement. Plus, Julie Bowen in Maladrino — gutsy move on the pantsuit. It looked a little too casual for my taste, but I appreciate the confidence.
Rookie of the Year: Jayma Mays in Jenny Packham. Great cut and the shoes are fab, but it’s a rookie mistake to wear such a washout shade. I’ve got my eye on you, Mays. Also, Mindy Kaling in Tadashi Shoji looked great – hey, Kim Kardashian, THIS is how you rock a Roman look!
Biggest Comeback: Tina Fey in Oscar de la Renta. I haven’t seen her look this radiant since her sexy January 2009 Vanity Fair cover.
Check back as we sound off on the Grammys in a couple weeks!
Closet Couture Scrapbook
Oct 4th
Our Boston Fashion Week “Closet Couture” show was a hit last Monday! With our guest list overflowing, we managed to fit almost all of our fashionista followers into our space at the W Hotel in downtown Boston. Styled by The Stylist Closet’s Terri Mahn and Second Time Around’s Director of Styling, Marisa Meloski, the show featured 48 looks mixing high-end designer wear with lower-end pieces, ranging from party dresses to fall jackets to bohemian denim. Missed the event? Don’t worry, we’ve got all of your backstage peeks and showtime scoop, along with the top trends of the evening.
Before the show, a team of make-up artists and hair stylists from Salon Acote (on Newbury Street) were on hand to prep the models backstage.
Make-up artist from Salon Acote works on a model
Two hairstylists from Salon Acote try two different looks
Between stylings, the models bonded backstage. Photographers were on-hand to capture each behind-the-scenes element of the show.
Before the show began, Terri gave the girls a pep talk backstage as she and Marisa dressed the models in a variety of bohemian layers, structured jackets and dresses, bold jewelry, and perfect-for-fall boots. Check out these photos from right before the show, the girls were eager to show off their perfectly styled ensembles and a variety of hairstyles, from loose curls to romantic up-dos to full volume!
Layered looks left to right: Downtown Prints, Preppy, Silky Chic, Fall Tweed
Rich textures and metallic fabrics were a key theme of the night
The show itself was a huge hit, with looks ranging from structured to layered bohemian. Here are some of my favorite looks from the show, including a group shot of the models during the finale. Which look is your favorite?
A preppy styled look with a classic black pea coat, fitted black pants, and simple gold jewelry to accent the bright, silk top
A great example of fall colors, pairing hunter green with a brown tweed jacket, with all of the textured materials, the accessories had to stay simple
A classic, chic option using black and white
Pairing a loose, bohemian-printed top with a knit vest is a great way to add structure
Here’s a similar look, but instead they substituted the vest for an open cardigan and pairing the look with very fitted pants and ankle booties. Don’t be afraid to wear a top with longer sleeves than your cardigan, it’ll give your outfit another element if your sleeves peek out from your monochromatic sweater.
After each model posed in 3-4 different outfits, it was hard to capture them all by the end! But watching them all during the finale gave us a great look at how all of the outfits could easily fit into anyone’s wardrobe, despite them all having completely different styling techniques.
After the show, we opened our pop-up store, take a look at some of the items that were available to our shoppers, courtesy of our 176 Newbury Street store!
On our shoe table, we had displays including YSL, Prada and Bottega Veneta
Just a glimpse of the racks backstage that were moved into our pop-up store after the show!
The STA employees also had a great time after the show, check out the final candids below!
Thank you to everyone who was able to make it to the show! Keep checking back to find out more information for another one of our big events, coming in early November!
~Ashley, fashioniSTA, Second Time Around
Rank Your Travel Style on the Sunglasses Spectrum
Sep 14th
While we all use our cars to take us from point A to point B, if you’re anything like me, your car has become almost like a second closet/bathroom sink. I think we all forget that when we step into our cars, people outside of our vehicle can actually still see us. I know that I always thought I was invisible when I turned on the ignition, until I started getting weird looks when I applied eyeliner at red lights. It’s about time that we started using the highway as a runway, and the best way is to learn to accessorize what people see the most when we’re on the road: our faces. But instead of just slapping on any kind of sunglasses, let your vehicle be your guide.
Convertible
Flashy car, flashy accessories; it’s an unwritten rule. Diane von Furstenberg has pushed the UV boundaries this year with cool shades in even cooler colors and patterns. Try an all-white ensemble with a pair of her purple glasses, or go in the other direction with a sleek, all-black look completing the outfit with a pair of DVF’s leopard-print shades.
SUV
Whether you fit into the “Rugged SUV” category or the “Trendy SUV” category, there’s one eyewear that will fulfill all of your needs: Aviators. This versatile accessory can easily be paired with khaki (or army green) and black for an “I can jump out of a helicopter and change a tire while still looking good”-look, or these sunglasses can go with a preppy ensemble, complete with argyle and Jack Rogers. Think of them as your key to any fashion world, all you have to do is put them on.
Sedan
Your best option: Ray-Bans in a bright color to stand out. There are so many of these cars on the road and you’re low to the ground, it’s strategy, people. This twist on a classic will put you ahead of the game, giving off a low-maintenance sedan vibe while revving up the cool factor. Consider yourself an undercover superstar about to be discovered.
Train
Channel a Serena van der Woodsen boho vibe with large, square-shaped sunglasses in an earthy brown or olive color. Complement this eyewear with a long, drapey open cardigan – sans buttons, of course – in an olive green or deep, earthy neutral, and straight-leg jeans. Top off the look with leather riding boots.
Or go with a pair of gold-rimmed aviators to give off the whole Top Gun, frequent flier style, it’ll make you look like you routinely fly your own plane and you’re taking the train for some classified, badass reason. (And if you happen to also own an SUV, these will perform double-duty.) Pair with a fitted, brown leather jacket or a simple jeans and a tank look. Extra points if you manage to work in an Army duffle bag.
Cab 
Go for the glam when taking it cab, it makes the experience more chauffeured-living rather than schlepping in public transportation. Try big, round sunglasses in black, like from David Yurman (right) or Prada with subtle embellishments and studded detail on the arms for extra glamour. Pair them with a shift dress or cigarette-style pants – either jeans or black riding pants for a complete uptown look. Hermès Birkin bag optional.
Whatever your mode of transportation may be, travel in style, fashioniSTAs!
~Ashley, fashioniSTA, Second Time Around
The Most Stylish Bag is a Reusable One
Jul 21st
Anya Hindmarch's Reusable Tote
Re-usable bags are everywhere – as they should be! In fact, their use has become so prevalent that even high-end designers are creating them.
The first high-end reusable bag came from London-based designer Anya Hindmarch. The canvas totes that she created, emblazoned with the words “I’m not a plastic bag” in 3-D appliqué script, sold out at participating grocery stores in mere seconds and re-sold on Ebay for upwards of $200 in some cases. The buzz created by these bags most certainly helped to start the re-usable bag trend.
Marc Jacobs sells numerous reusable bag options ranging from nylon to canvas in a variety of price points. All are colorful and useful and even showcase some of the famous tongue-in-cheek Marc Jacobs humor. A few read “Jacobs by Marc Jacobs for Marc by Marc Jacobs in collaboration with Marc Jacobs for Marc by Marc Jacobs,” poking fun at their designer status and others showcase Marc’s loveable cartoon mascot “Miss Marc.”
Prada recently came out with their take on a reusable tote. The bags are simple, useful and come in their trademark, easy-to-wash, lightweight, foldable nylon. And the prints are to-die-for. My favorites are the sunshine yellow bag with cartoon boat and the kaleidoscope orange floral on purple background. Gorg!
Shop in style with Hermes
Finally, no conversation about high-end merchandise would be complete without talking about Hermes. Eternally stylish and well…expensive, Hermes does not disappoint even when reusable bags are concerned. Their “Silky Pop” bags are made of a silk-like fabric, resemble the fashion house’s famous scarves and fold down into their own pebbled leather case. Truly fab, but I doubt you won’t see too many at the grocery store since they go for roughly a $1000 a pop. Yikes!
Stay tuned for STA’s own reusable bag! We hope to debut them shortly along with some great bag-related discount and bonuses… 
See you soon!
~Marisa, Director of Styling, Second Time Around