Posts tagged winter

70% off? That’s Madness

70% off Clearance Items and 20% off new arrivals … you better get ready … It’s our Midnight Madness sale!

Starting February 5th and 6th, the madness begins!  Beautiful designers from Chanel, to Louis Vuitton, to Gucci are all either 20% off or 70% off!  Seriously, is it normal for these beautiful designers so discounted?  Well, no.  That’s why it’s madness.

So … while our store aren’t actually open until midnight, they are open later than usual.  But we promise the madness part is real.  Whether you’re looking for something new for spring or a winter classic to save for November, you’ll find an unbelievable deal.  And most of all, with 70% off, we’ll be bolting for those stunning investment pieces that are calling our names.  Hang on David Yurman, I’ll see you on February 5th and 6th.

With 70% off clearance items, we’re saying goodbye to winter and hello to spring! after all…

We’re now accepting Spring Consignment!

The Grammys: Get the Look

To pick a “best-dressed” from the Grammys has always seemed like an overly ambitious decision to make.  So many stars, so many designers, so many styles who could possibly pick one (or ten) favorites? But from all the looks, there was one that stood out to inspire a unique addition to our wardrobes.  The look we can’t wait to embrace was inspired by none other than the sensational Katy Perry.  Katy’s unique Valentino dress on the red carpet (the dress that opened Valentino’s spring 2014 show in Paris) and her stunning ice blue gown for the after party had one thing in common - tulle.

A tulle skirt is definitely the easiest way to incorporate this fairytale fabric.  While the texture itself is whimsical and bold, we like the look of pairing it with a toned down piece like denim or a sweater.  For a more versatile approach, a tulle top is great for layering!  Make it the top layer over a camisole, or the bottom layer under a sweater or jacket.  But wait, it gets better.  Tulle is a great option for this time of year, where it’s no longer the cozy holidays, but not yet springtime sunshine.  Tulle’s elegant flair hints at the remnants of winter, while its femininity calls for the beauty of springtime.

We can’t wait to try incorporate a touch of tulle to our looks!  Thanks Katy Perry for the inspiration, I hope we can rock it as well as you do!

Photos from pintrest.com and huffingtonpost.com

Did Someone Say 50% Off?

You heard right.  Right now at STA we’re hosting our winter clearance sale! As usual, we plan to take full advantage of this indecently awesome opportunity.  New arrivals, furs and jewelry are 20% off and EVERYTHING ELSE is 50% off?  Excuse me while I grab my purse and my shopping list.

For this sale in particular, I’ll be looking for winter to spring transition pieces.  And as always, investment pieces that I haven’t bitten the bullet for yet.

1. Rain Boots

Rain boots are a winter and spring essential.  They’re great for this time of year because you can continue to wear them as it snows in to March, and then there they are, ready to go for spring showers!  They especially irresistible when they’re Tory Burch.  Not only are these weather-proof, but they look so similar to riding boots that you can wear them with any daytime outfit.  Jeans, leggings, skirts you name it, these Torys are awesome in any season, any outfit and any weather.

2. Designer Tote

There comes a certain point where it’s about time we have a nice, big tote in a killer designer.  The problem is, the bigger the bag, the higher the price.  Well ladies, 50% off couldn’t have come at a better time.  Is there a Prada, Louis or Milly bag you’ve been stalking for weeks?  It’s 50 % off.  Especially in a neutral color, a big shoulder bag can fit any season.

3. Flats

We all know February, March and April can never make up their mind as to what season they really want to be in.  It’s obviously too cold for sandals, but on those sporadic warm days you want to give your boots a break.  What better time to be equipped with a classic pair of flats?  Not only are they the perfect transition shoe from winter to spring, but they are also ridiculously easy to match with all outfits.  Dress them up, dress them down, they go with anything and everything.  Wear them to work with your crisp trousers, on the weekends with jeans or at night with a dress.

4. Vest

Vests are statement piece that are perfect for transitioning between seasons.  Especially in a faux fur, they have a cozy winter feel, but are warm enough for those spring-like days when you’d rather leave your coat at home.  Not only are they seasonally versatile, but they make a simple long sleeved shirt look stunningly fashionable.

See you there!

The Golden Globes to Your Closet

Yes, we all saw the overwhelmingly unanimous decision that Lupita Nyong’o was the best dressed at the 2014 Golden Globes.  But dear fashion magazines, how is that supposed to help us?  I’m sorry but we are not about to try to pull off a fire engine red cape.  We’re looking to these celebrities not just to adore their glamorous wardrobes, but for style inspiration!  Luckily many other stars among the best dressed flaunted styles that we can’t wait to try.  Here are our favorite looks from the 2014 Golden Globes to inspire our every day style.

1. Olivia Wilde
Designer: Gucci Premiere
Inspiration: Emerald Green

With a color like this, we just can’t take our eyes off her.  So why not try to incorporate such an eye-catching color into your wardrobe?  We love the idea of adding a pop of emerald green to your go-to looks. To add a little zest to your casual every day wear, how about shimmering emerald heels?  Or glittering emerald nails anyone?

2. Kate Beckinsale
Designer: Zuhair Murad
Inspiration: Beaded Texture

There is just something so glamorous about beaded texturing.   Kate’s beaded gunmetal gown turned a simple metallic dress into a spectacular work of art.  We love this look so much that we are determined to add more beaded accents to our wardrobe.  Whether it be a touch of beads in a headband or a beaded skirt, the texture give the piece a one-of-a-kind, hand made feeling.

3. Naomi Watts
Designer: Tom Ford
Inspiration: White Gold

While many fear light hues will wash them out, Naomi shone brilliantly in her embroidered, white gold gown.  We can’t get enough of this color for its ability to add some shine to winter outfits without going all out holiday sparkle.  The elegance of white gold is perfect for a blouse, for a sophisticated look without being stuffy.  On a more casual note, we love this white gold shimmer skirt with a laid back T-shirt.  It’s just enough to sparkle without wearing sequins.  White gold’s versatility makes it a great piece to wear when dressing up or down.

4. Amy Adams
Designer: Valentino Couture
Inspiration: Minimalism

Talk about a statement!  We are drooling over Amy’s plunging neckline and the ruby red color.  In fact, the outfit is so stunning that she felt no need to over accessorize.  We’ll take a page from Amy’s book and say, let your outfit do the talking!  While it’s fun to dress up a simple outfit with bold accessories, the opposite can be just as appealing.  When it comes to a bold style, own it!  Don’t let accessories distract from your sleek outfit.  Like Amy, rather than sport bold jewelry, rock a bold color (and we love the idea of red and maroon)!  We love this eye opening idea.  Sometimes less is more.

Photo Credits: Pintrest.com, Vogue.com, eonline.com, Huffingtonpost.com

A Vision in Winter White

Whoever said you can’t wear white after Labor Day must be pretty embarrassed.  Winter white has plowed its way back into style with a vengeance.  Thank goodness.. anyone else get a little teary-eyed putting away your white jeans?  We are loving this trend, because the color itself IS the trend.  Forget pieces, cuts, or looks that are trendy, but don’t flatter your look.  You can still wear all your favorite looks, just try it in white!  Poof!  You’re wearing the latest trend.  Now while white is known for symbolizing innocence and purity, it doesn’t have to be worn that way.  There are endless ways to wear white to fit your style personality.  Here are a few of our favorites!

Okay, so maybe sometimes white has a dreamlike fairytale feel.  And if your style reflects the princess in you, winter white is your prince charming.  The color is clean, crisp, and exudes a feel of class and grace.  We especially love pairing white with other neutrals like cream or nude to emphasize this innocent style.  Looking for a great versatile piece?  A white peacoat is a great go-to to make any outfit sweet and refined.  We also love the timeless simplicity of white lace for its undeniable femininity, or a white sweater for a polished, sophisticated style.

Sometimes you just can’t resist building a snowman, catching snowflakes on your tongue or taking a walk in the falling snow.  But to have all the fun in the cold, bundling doesn’t always leave us feeling feminine.  To feel cute in the winter wonderland, white pieces are a great option.  A white down coat with a fur-trimmed hood a perfect way to get that cozy style.  Disclaimer: we are not suggesting you should dress like a bunny.  However, a great way to get the girl-next-door snow bunny look is to add a little fur. Even adding a fur scarf or fur-lined gloves with your white puffer coat adds a cozy lovable quality to your outerwear.  And don’t forget your fuzzy white earmuffs!

Don’t worry.  Elegant princess and cute snow bunny aren’t the only options white has to offer.  If you prefer an edgier look, white certainly challenges the status quo.  White leather is crisp and sharp, and we love the contrast it gives to classic winter pieces.  Paring an edgy white leather jacket with a soft sweater is the epitome of opposites attract.  Or even pair your favorite white sweaters with black leather pants for a unique stylish twist on this cozy winter top.  Even easier?  Pair your craziest shoes with your everyday skinnies and a simple white top, and you’ve got a great winter white outfit to suit distinctly you.

All pictures from pinterest.com

Dear Santa…

I’m sure you’ve been anticipating a rather extensive list, as usual.  But as a fashioniSTA, what else do you expect?  For your convenience I’ve narrowed it down to my top ten items.  You can find every item on my list at STA.  And while you’re there, maybe you’ll even get some more ideas!  So here it is.

A Fashionista’s Christmas List:

  1. Chanel Earrings  (STA 324 Newbury St.)
  2. Fur Vest
  3. Tory Burch Boots (STA Philadelphia)
  4. David Yurman Crossover Ring
  5. Juicy Couture Watch (STA Haddonfield)
  6. Louboutin Pumps
  7. Alice and Olivia Sequin Dress (STA Englewood)
  8. Hermes Cuff
  9. Valentino Kaleido Gem Tote (STA South Miami)
  10. Louis Vuitton Scarf

Now I know fashion isn’t really your forte, so I understand if this list is a little intimidating to tackle.  So if you can’t get them, it’s okay.  I can always go to the…

SALE at STA the day after Christmas!  From 9am-12pm everything at STA is 50% off!
Then after 12pm, there’s 20-30% off the entire store!

As a present for myself, I’ll be hitting the after Christmas sale at STA.  I promise I’ve been good all year.  Merry Christmas Santa.

Sincerely,
A FashioniSTA

Photos from STA Facebook pages and pintrest.com

‘Tis the Season to Sparkle

It’s officially the season of shopping, and we couldn’t be more excited.  Okay, so maybe it’s about shopping for gifts, but we all still deserve to spoil ourselves now and then.  After all, what better way to get in the Christmas spirit than with a festive wardrobe?  Whether you’re attending or hosting a party this season, it’s time to start planning that perfect party outfit.  And if you’re not quite sure how to give your look that holiday feel, add some sparkle and experiment with sequins!

Whether you go all out, or try just a touch, sequins are guaranteed to spread holiday cheer.  It’s hard to go wrong with a sequin dress, which can work for both formal events or your casual soiree.  Try all-over sparkle or a dress with sequin details!  This statement dress makes it easy to pair with all of your go-to basic accessories. To mute the sequined number, pair it with rich textiles, like leather or velvet. It will tone down the sequins while still giving you that holiday formality.

If that seems like too much too soon, take a shot at sequin separates.  A top, skirt, blazer, or even pants are all amazing holiday pieces.  The possibilities are endless, but be careful not to out gleam the Christmas tree.  Pair these dazzling separates with basic pieces.  A sequin skirt is just right with a black sweater.  Or throw on a sequin blazer over a t-shirt and jeans for an instant party outfit! For an even muted take on this look, pair it with traditional holiday pieces, such as a tartan skirt.

If you already have your favorite LBD set aside for the festivities, introduce sequin accessories as something special for the holidays.  Heels or a clutch are a great way to add a little glimmer to your timeless looks. While sequin-covered attire might seem like a bold purchase, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.  After all, you can bring them out again for New Year’s!  And even though trends change over the years, the holidays will always be a season to sparkle.

All photos from pintrest.com

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: A Day to Remember

It was well worth it ladies. Black Friday was everything it promised to be, and more.  50% off everything? Are you serious?  Needless to say we had some trouble controlling ourselves. But that’s what Black Friday is for.

Once the floodgates opened at 7am I went straight for the shoe department. I certainly scored there, Marc by Marc Jacobs heels, BCBG wedges, and Delman flats! (some shoes you just have to wear out of the store…)  Both the Marc Jacobs and the Delmans were a steal for just $50 (85% off their original retail prices!), I could hear the choir singing with rejoice.

Despite all of our planning, nothing could truly prepare us for the big day.  Now cradling my shoes, I got a bit frantic during the next phase of my attack, running from rack to rack of clothing trying to find my size.  There was no time to waste, I had to fish through before someone else grabbed the Chanel dress of my dreams.  And like taking candy from a baby, my dress went home with another girl.  Hard to complain, I still left with two beautiful tops, an STA statement necklace and cocktail ring!  All together it came to under $70.  I’ll take it :)

Unsurprisingly, the girls managed to clean up as well, with a beautiful Moncler coat for $150 and Charlotte Olympia flats for $75 (again, both were almost 90% off their retail price). It’s a Black Friday miracle.

While we definitely managed to rack up a grand total, it was more than worth it.  It’s the one day of the year where you can go a little crazy.  Besides, on Black Friday, what happens in STA stays in STA.

Countdown to NYE: Part 1, Glittering Gold

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