Category Archives: guest posts

on the cheap: peplum potential

{Editor’s Note: I’m the first to admit, I’m a serious skeptic on this one. But Kristina’s making a pretty convincing argument for the peplum. Read what she has to say, and see if you aren’t at least a little bit tempted to try this trend by the time she’s done…especially since every one of her finds is under $75!}

Kristina ~ Before I even start (and before you start telling me that I’m crazy), please hear me out. It can be a wonderful thing to bring attention your hips. Yes it can! And the latest peplum trend does just that.

I’ll admit that peplums can be scary to attempt, especially with the array of options out there. Peplum skirts and dresses are everywhere, but I’ve found that a peplum top is the easiest and most flattering for a range of body types. Worn correctly, a peplum top will give you that coveted hourglass figure by adding volume to your hips and thus narrowing the waist in comparison. Relativity, ladies! For girls with boyish figures, a peplum top creates a fantastic illusion; and for curvy girls, a peplum can balance out your proportions and enhance the curves that are already there. A peplum is also a great way to conceal a bit of a tummy.

If you’re willing to give it a try, start with black. It’s always slimming, but paired with a pencil skirt, you’ll have a seriously sleek silhouette. If you want to toughen up the look, choose a skirt with a bit of leather detailing and some studded heels!

Rib Peplum Top, Topshop, $48 / Faux-Leather Pencil Skirt, Kohls, $35 / Black Studded Sandals, Sears, $25

To keep your look on the playful and girly side, pair your peplum with skinny jeans and a pair of fun polka dot flats. As for the skinnies, I have a secret: the Love Jeans from Victoria’s Secret are hands-down my favorite jeans! They come in multiple hem lengths, are true to size, and fit like a glove for a pear-shaped girl like me. (Word of warning: they’ll shrink almost two inches when you wash them, so definitely opt for a longer length!)

To style these, add a bold statement necklace, some simple gold bangles, and a bag in a perfect-for-fall color. Peplum perfection!

Sidewalk Skimmer, Madewell, $98 / VS Love Skinny Jean, Victoria’s Secret, $69 / Anna & Ava Neon Geo Frontal Necklace, Dillards, $35 / Gold Bangle Set, J. Crew, $29 / Liquorish Doctor Bag, ASOS, $61

What do you think? Will you be trying the peplum trend?

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all in the details: brahmin bryn clutch

{Editor’s Note: Sometimes Brahmin can be a little too much for me, but Kate’s found the exception to the rule. The clean lines and the fresh navy keep this from going too “mature”, as some of their styles do, and I love the size (and the crossbody/clutch versatility). Mostly though, I love the shirtdress she found (esp. the price!), and I’m pretty sure it’s headed for my closet. Enjoy!}

Kate ~ There are few things more versatile than a mid-sized handbag; however, there are often times few things more boring than a mid-sized handbag. This is why I’m always on the lookout for options to keep what I cart around in check but still maintain some visual interest. With a crocodile print and a navy blue colour, this bag from Brahmin is reminiscent of the shape of others that I swoon over (a little Celine or Hermes per chance?), and a great size for day, but is a much more reasonable purchase that builds on that “transition” mindset that we’re all still thinking of.

Bryn Clutch, Brahmin, $225

Shirtdresses always find their way into regular rotation come this time of year, and when presented in a pattern they can be an outfit all on their own. The navy tone of the bag inspired the base colour of the pattern, while light blue, yellow, and taupe keep the dress from appearing too heavy at this point in the year. Whether to make the dress work for work, or just to combat autumn’s cool evenings, I’ll always be a fan of a good navy blazer. Considering polka dots are all the rage, the lining of this one (…always thinking details!) makes it a great find.

Blouson Shirtdress, Vince Camuto, $128 / Lambswool Blazer, Brooks Brothers, $348

The advantage of a classic bag and printed dress is that you have an endless supply of options to bring the rest of the outfit together. Navy and taupe make a great early autumn combination, and benefit from mixed metal accents. Add gold bent feather hoops, a delicate necklace, and a stack of thin gold and silver rings. A cozy neutral scarf is also such a wardrobe staple that I nearly should have listed it with the foundations! But where this outfit also shines is the shoes. Nude embossed smoking slippers with a metal toe-cap are phenomenally on trend, helping to ground a fairly flirty dress and echoing the embossed leather of the bag. Or, if you’re already in the mood for boots, these tonal colour-blocked boots with zipper detailing from Cole Haan are positively stunning but not too heavy for the look – a small dash of edge for a feminine bag and dress.

Hollis Boot, Cole Haan, $398 / London Two Charm Necklace, Gorjana, $97 / Stackable Band Rings, Stella & Dot, $39 / Aster Flats, Sam Edelman, $150 / Bent Feather Hoops, Erica Weiner, $50 / Monogram Plush Wrap, Banana Republic, $90

The mantra for this week: classic in shape but interesting in detail. As always, from the embossed bag to the polka dot lining of the blazer, it’s all in the details.

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trend to try: embellished sheer

{Editor’s Note: I’m so excited to introduce Erin, who’ll be sharing a few of her favorite fall runway trends with us. She’s much more adventurous than I am, so I’m hoping she’ll help us all step out of the box a bit this season. Can’t wait to see what she has in store!}

Suno, image via Style.com / Emilio Pucci, image via Style.com / Jill Stuart, image via Style.com

Erin ~ The sheer trend is still in full swing this fall, but now it’s it’s beaded, embroidered, and embellished. This style really shines when applied to elaborate evening gowns, but truly, how often does your average girl attend a black tie event? To translate this look for day, the solution is simple: layering. Take one embellished piece and layer, layer and layer some more. The point is to only give a glimpse of skin here and there, instead of laying it all bare to make this glitzy trend appropriate to wear for everyday.

Don’t be afraid to work against what you’d expect. Instead of holding it back for night, try an embellished dress for day. Add a flat ankle boot and a denim vest to keep the look from becoming too precious, keep jewelry to a minimum, and you’ll be amazed at how much sparkle you can get away with for daytime. This is an especially versatile outfit for gals on the go: drop the vest and it’s a perfect look for evening.

Sequins Dress, Mango, $120 / Montecristi ankle boot, Aldo, $100 /
Idiom Bangle , Kate Spade, $32 / Levi’s Denim Trucker Vest, Urban Outfitters, $68

For night, a sheer top, camisole and jeans is typical, so step outside the box and layer a sheer top over a body skimming tank dress in a similar color. The tank dress creates a smooth, flattering line and provides necessary coverage, while the top provides volume, adds dimension to the outfit and keeps you safe from those fears you might have about sporting a bodycon dress. The major appeal is that this look is technically very covered up, but the sheer fabric still allows skin to still peek through.

Sequin stripe tee, Express, $40 / Cotton jersey tank dress, American Apparel, $42 / Riley clutch, Melie Bianco, $48 /
Avia pump, Arturo Chiang, $79 / Bobbi Brown Rich Lipstick, $24

If you’re really in the mood to push the fashion envelope, try a high-waisted pencil skirt with a sheer blouse layered over a camisole. Want to go even further? A black bandeau works wonders with this look, especially with a jacket or vest layered over the top to provide a little more coverage.

Romeo & Juliet Sheer Top, Lord & Taylor, $68 / Beauty and the Bistro Skirt , Modcloth, $48 / Lounge Cami, Old Navy, $8 / Guess Rolene Pumps , Lord & Taylor, $99 / Chain Handle Bag, ASOS, $58

Most people instinctively think that the embellished sheer trend only works for night or for girls with a glamorous style. But with a few casual pieces and strategic layering, sequins can be brought out for day, work and play. So go ahead, find an excuse to add a little sparkle and glamour to your day!

What do you say? Will you be trying out embellished sheer this season?

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get gifting: a happy housewarming

{Editor’s Note: Happy Labor Day, friends! I hope you’re off doing something exciting, and not stuck at the office, pretending to work but actually just reading SMC to pass the time. I’m so happy to introduce you to our new columnist, Jennefer, who’s about to be your best friend when you’re on the hunt for a gift. Bookmark these…I guarantee they’re going to come in handy!}

Jennefer ~ Welcome to the land of the gift-obsessed! I’m a compulsive gift-shopper, and what was once an innocent hobby has now turned into a full-fledged addiction…complete with a room in my home dedicated to all my “you never know when someone will have something to celebrate” purchases. I can’t wait to share a few of my favorites with you!

First up: housewarming gifts. This time of year always seems to bring on a bevy of housewarming parties. Friends spent the summer relocating, and are finally ready to show off their new digs. Moving into a new home is a big deal, and it deserves to be celebrated! As the dedicated friend/sister/employee of a lucky new homeowner, it’s your job to pony up with not only something fun and creative but useful. Here are a few of my absolute favorite housewarming gifts to give and receive:

1. I consider wine to be the fifth, and sometimes only, food group. And there is nothing better than sitting on the porch sipping vino without the worry of breakage. Which is why I love GoVino. A set of 8, especially when paired with your favorite bottle of wine (mine is The Prisoner – I should own stock in that winery) makes a great, affordable gift…and will come in handy until your pal unpacks her crystal. {GoVino Wine Glasses, $28/8}

2. A sassy, vintage-style apron is a perfect gift for a girl that likes to putter around the kitchen. On first glance, an eye-roll may ensue, however once they give it a spin, there’s something about that girly, retro vibe that always makes it a favorite gift. {Jessie Steele apron, $30 / 3-D Toile Full Apron, Anthropologie, $32}

3. For friends enamored with the culinary arts, an old-school, hand-cranked pasta machine is another go-to. This is one of those gifts everyone wants to try, but no one wants to splurge on for themselves. Plus, even if your friend never uses it, they look great sitting on a kitchen counter (much like the Kitchen-Aid mixer I got for my wedding and never use). {Marcato Altas Pasta Machine, $100}

4. If you’re a traditionalist, a beautiful bouquet is always a winner. Nobody has more beautiful flowers than Calyx, and their orchid bouquets are just breathtaking. Send one of these and you are assured to be invited for dinner again and again, so the return on your investment makes these a surefire winner. {Captiva Orchids, Calyx Flowers, $60+}

5. Monogrammed and personalized gifts amp up the thoughtfulness factor, and prove you didn’t pop into Target last-minute on your way to the housewarming party. It is the advance planning that really makes these gifts special. Two of my favorites for a housewarming are a monogrammed welcome mat or a personalized throw pillow. They can be more of a splurge, but they’ll be used every day and make great conversation starters. {Monogrammed Door Mat, Pottery Barn, $59+ / Custom Pillow, Uptown Artworks, $149}

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beauty buzz: perfect summer-to-fall scents

{Editor’s Note: One of you dear readers asked me about my favorite summer-to-fall fragrances this month. And with the last day of summer looming (yes, Labor Day is my definition of the end of summer), it felt like the perfect time to lend advice on picking a scent to bridge the gap between lazy summer nights and crisp fall mornings. Sadly, all that fragrance-sniffing leads to migraines at my house, so I’ve enlisted a super-sophisticated surrogate to guide you through some of the best scents of the season. Jen, who lives in Manhattan and doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to beauty finds, has picked three favorites that she swears are perfect for this time of year, and is even taking you along on a dreamy end-of-summer holiday to try them out. Enjoy the ride!}

Jen V. ~ Jo Malone’s Wild Bluebell Cologne is a “light floral” according to Jo, and in fact, is as light as a sheer, white dress. The scent, while fresh, feminine, and lovely, is not entirely innocent. There is an edgier side to it that is not obvious upon first spray – think tea with the Duchess and her not-so-prim little sister. The base is white amber and musk, which supports the lighter floral notes, and a “spicy chord of cloves” adds a bit of naughtiness, and gives the scent that extra edge that allows it to transition you from your summer cottage in the Cotswolds to your London flat in autumn with perfect English aplomb. For greater longevity during the colder months, layer the scent over the matching shower gel and body cream, just as you would with cashmere – or better yet, a classic English tweed over silk.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s Aqua Universalis is equally at home with duality. Upon first spray, one is hit with a strong burst of citrus (lemon from Sicily) and bergamot. Then the white bouquet notes begin to unfold subtly, and a woodsy musk weaves its way through, transforming a light summer day into an Indian summer night with a hint of seasons to come. Imagine Tilda Swinton in I Am Love (see this film if only for the Jil Sander wardrobe), returning from a lover’s tryst in the Mediterranean to a formal, family lunch in Milan. With no time to shower and change scents, Aqua Universalis easily evolves to more serious pursuits.

On the flip side is Bond No. 9, the perfume house famed for scents named after the neighborhoods and iconic landmarks of New York. I was hoping to fall for their latest, Sag Harbor, but instead, it’s the Hamptons that remains my summer love. It’s easy to imagine lying on the beach, with the first, crisp citrus notes of the scent enveloping me in a spray of sea, slightly salty. Throughout the day, the sun warms the scent to a magnolia and light jasmine, but not in an overly feminine way. Later in the evening, warm amber and sandalwood leave you in a languid post-beach haze that helps this scent seamlessly transition to fall.

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all in the details: shimmering sailor knot necklace

Kate ~ Transition, transition, transition. Every blog, every magazine, everyone discussing fashion for this upcoming season is mentioning transition pieces (…myself included). While the natural thought pattern for transitional accessories normally just turns to the addition of hats and scarves, or swapping neon for deep jewel tones, there’s always the option of allowing the dazzle and sparkle to play double duty as well.

Case in point? This necklace from Ranna Gill pays homage to to the nautical knots trends of spring and summer, while also feeling readily at home with deep golds and subtle colour for fall (cobalt, maroon and pale pink). It’s substantial enough to pair with a cardigan or sweater, but also not too overwhelming for a t-shirt and jeans.

Shimmering Sailor Knot Necklace, Anthropologie, $118

A necklace like this presents a unique opportunity to pair casual with dressy. A simple navy sweater that borders on loungewear adds ease to a multi-toned patterned pencil skirt with metallic thread. Because the necklace and skirt have similar colour palettes they complement as opposed to compete with one another. The sweater keeps things from being overly fancy and lends a daytime essence to the outfit.

Studio Sweater, Gap, $40 / Floral Brocade Pencil Skirt, J.Crew, $168

Since there’s a lot going on balancing the necklace and the skirt, your details need to be crisp and unfussy to tone down the overall look. Tiny hammered studs are the only other jewelry I’d suggest, aside from an understated brown leather band watch and perhaps some dainty gold rings. Instead of extra jewels, have fun with a warm medium burgundy nail polish – metallic or creme, you choose! A structured ladylike handbag maintains the feminine tone alongside simple brown ballet loafers. Furthermore all of these pieces will move seamlessly between the seasons as hardwearing staples.

Wallace Watch, Fossil, $85 / Tramp Stamp or Shag, butter London, $14 / Stackable Band Rings, Stella & Dot, $39 / Willis Bag in British Tan, Coach, $298 / Carmel Tiny Hammered Studs, Gorjana, $22 / Calfskin Ballet Loafers, Brooks Brothers, $118

Picking pieces that transition from late summer to fall is crucial at this point in the year.. Mixing transition with bold balance (metallic thread pencil skirts and sparkling necklaces) is a fun way to bring the light of summer into a refined fall. Statement and staples, it’s all in the details.

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all in the details: threadbare bracelet

Kate ~ Occasionally I come across a detail that strikes me as the kind of piece that would work no matter your style. The Threadbare bracelet from RockLove is an example of that, from preppy (nautical knots and primary colours) to the indie chic rockers (refined leather and hardware), and with all the colours available, odds are there’s a version for you.

Comprised of an intricate leather knot, gold chain, and an anchor-and-eye clasp, this bracelet is chunky enough to be a statement on its own, yet refined enough that it could withstand a little extra arm candy. I’ve opted for the Oxblood Red, as it’s the kind of colour that could really be rocked year round.

Oxblood Threadbare Bracelet, RockLove, $115

When I first came across this, I was sitting in black cigarette pants, a khaki blazer, and that Tory Burch Scarf from a few weeks ago…quietly thinking that the Oxblood would both pick up the colours of the scarf and balance out an oversized gold watch on the opposing wrist. Nonetheless, while I have nothing against outfit repeats, this column is about being inspired by details and creative.

For the foundations, I’m reaching for end of summer staples: a cotton oxford button down (crisp and polished in shape, but soft in material), and dark denim shorts or jeans (either classic indigo or black will do). I’ve opted for neutral basics so that you’re welcome to weave in your own aesthetic in the rest of the details, whether it be rocker chic or downtown prep.

Broome Street Jeans, Kate Spade, $198 / Shrunken Oxford, Madewell, $60 / Boyfriend Shorts, Paige, $139

Playing up the arm candy of the Threadbare bracelet, I’d add a thin silk and chain wrap bracelet and bold gold studs to start out the details. Adding a patterned scarf with a touch of red ensures that the outfit doesn’t stray into monotone (eg. all bold solid colours/accents), and softens the look when just hanging casually around your neck. The bag, shoes, and belt should all pick up on either the red/gold of the bracelet, or the other tones of the scarf. Red ballet flats add a touch of fun, a thin yellow belt ties in the scarf, and a semi-structured tan bag keeps things in the light, late summer category. Now just add your favourite shades and keep your makeup fresh and minimal with extra flirty lashes.

Fish Print Scarf, J.Crew, $48 / Gold Chloe Studs, Gorjana, $40 / Silk & Chain Wrap Bracelet, Chan Luu, $98 / Yellow Belt, Gap, $30 / Regina Ballet, Frye, $128 / Biennial Satchel, J.Crew, $348

A bracelet like this allows your look to multitask, whether your style is classic or contemporary on any given morning. In addition, neutral statement pieces allow you to draw on inspiration from other accessories as well. A dash of coordination and a pinch of edge means keeps everything interesting, all in the details.

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sale spy: scoring big in the summer sales

{Editor’s Note: I’m so happy to introduce you to Roxanna, our new Sale Spy! She’s a second-generation veteran of retail sales, so she knows everything there is to know about scoring serious sale bargains. She’ll be sharing a few of her best insider tips and tricks for maxing out those clearance racks!}

Roxanna K.K. ~ Hello there, lovely readers! As a longtime follower of SMC and a committed sale hound, I am excited to share my sale tips and tricks with you in my new sale series. Having a mom that worked in the retail industry meant that I was exposed to sample sales early, and really, I could never stomach full price after that! But my mantra is always quality, cut and fit first. What’s the use of a bargain if it doesn’t make you look and feel fabulous?

The hardest time of year for a sale lover like me is late summer. Luxurious fall looks are starting to show up all around me – but all at full price! What’s a bargain hunter to do? Luckily, this time of year is perfect for transitional shopping – you can pick up sale items from spring and summer and work them seamlessly into your fall wardrobe. However, transitional sale shopping does require a strategy: you want to pick up quality pieces that are either basics or trends that will last into the fall season.

Abigail trench, Soïa & Kyo, $132 (50% 0ff) / Navy Piped Blazer, Line, $239 (40% off) /
Long Back Sweater, 10 Crosby Derek Lam, $66 (76% off!)

Here are some key pieces to watch for in late summer sale season:

Trench coats and leather jackets. These items debuted in spring, which means that they are usually heavily reduced or on the clearance rack by late summer. They are the perfect bargains to snap up because most people ignore them (who wants to try on a trench coat in sweltering heat?), but a few weeks later, they will be identical to the newest fall merchandise. (One store associate told me last week that the trench I was buying at 50% off was more stylish and better quality than the ones they had just received for fall!) It always pays to invest in outerwear, so now’s the time to buy high quality items that you couldn’t afford at regular price.

Open weave sweaters, lightweight blazers and chinos. These are great pieces for cool summer nights or chilly fall days. Open weave sweaters in particular were a huge trend for summer and can be seen on sale racks everywhere. Getting a neutral is a good idea so that it can be worn with a pop of colour for summer or with more subdued tones when September rolls around.

The perfect swimsuit for your late winter getaway. Swimwear and cover ups are priced to sell right now, so you can afford to splurge on a piece that makes you look amazing. Also, you’ll see a much wider variety of styles in summer than you will during the January getaway season. And just think, you’ll save yourself the horror of squeezing into spandex during the post-holiday sales!

Tees, lightweight sweaters and other layering pieces. Many retailers will now have their basics on sale in summer colours. Dressy tees, light knitwear and silk shells are great buys as you can layer them under a blazer or cardigan for fall.

Accessories are also often on sale in summer colours, particularly scarves and handbags. The key is to go for structured totes, satchels and shoulder bags – they’re always winners for fall. Steer clear of those candy-coloured mini-bags and oversized hobos, which will seem out of place when the weather gets crisper. Look for more saturated shades of orange, fuchsia, mustard or teal – and nudes work any time of year.

Now that you have your strategy, go forth and shop, my friends! And be sure to report your best sale finds in the comments!

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