Tag Archives: tory burch

all in the details: tory burch tribal scarf

{Editor’s Note: Welcome back, Kate! Today, it’s all about scarves…which, I swear, totally work for summer! Trust her.}

Lightly woven scarves are my summer transition piece and perpetual security blanket. As a cool evening breeze blows in, or for the odd overcast day, the last thing I want to be doing is sacrificing the bright bold hues of summer just on account of the weather! While light and bold options are a dime a dozen this year, one of my favourite finds is without a doubt this particular option from Tory Burch.

Combination Print Scarf, Tory Burch, $109

100% perfect-for-summer linen, an oblong rectangular shape, and a most interesting combination of lime-toned yellow-green, saturated orange, and a panel of magenta and bright pink…sign me up! When I first came across this scarf I was actually looking at another option, and this was just off to the side in the same display tray. The intriguing colours (and that on-trend chartreuse) were what clearly first caught my eye. This perfectly treads the line between bright and muted – the hues are summery, and yet I already know they’ll be equally at home in the fall with a leather jacket and boots.

When I first saw this scarf I thought “gauzy bright tank, black skirt, denim jacket”. But once I started sorting through my wardrobe, a totally different outfit spoke to me. For the foundations, I’d go the way of a black t-shirt, bright blazer (I’d go for green, but a bright pink would also work well), and your favourite skinny jeans. The best way to handle this scarf is to pull colours that are either in or reminiscent of those found in the scarf, then anchor it with dark staple pieces.

Favorite Scoop-Neck Tee, Eddie Bauer, $15 / Dark Rinse Always Skinny Jeans, Gap, $25 / Festival Blazer, J.Crew, $175

As an aside, if you’re looking to use the scarf to combat corporate air conditioning, just swap the jeans for black cigarette pants and you’re set.

Keeping in mind that the scarf may or may not be something that you wear consistently throughout the day, the additional details for for this outfit need to be able to hold their own. I love a long necklace and chunky stud earrings with a scarf, no matter the occasion. That being said, mid-length earrings and a stack of hammered bangles could also do the trick. Coordinating brightly coloured ballet flats are a must in my books (orange being my tone of choice), alongside a classic cognac bucket bag.

Crystal Necklace, Club Monaco, $70 / Crown Wax Seal Earrings, Pyrrha, $226 / Volcano Tumbled Leather Reva, Tory Burch, $195 / Classic Leather Duffle, Coach, $398

As bright and bold as this scarf is, it can really play the part of inspiring neutral in a summer wardrobe. Use it to guide the colour choices in your outfit, or just throw it on as you’re walking out the door so that you know you’ve hit the right accessories balance in your outfit. It’s all in the details! ~Kate

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summer sales make me feel fine

Everyone talks about Memorial Day sales, but not me…I wait until the day after, when the fun really starts. Today: Net-a-Porter and Shopbop. Tomorrow: Barney’s. Let the games begin!

A few ideas to get you started at Net-a-Porter…remember, they only hold sales twice a year, so this is an event! Anything that doesn’t sell now will head over to The Outnet, but the best pieces are definitely snagged this week.

Rag & Bone blazer, $225 / Day Birger et Mikkelsen linen dress, $100 / Etoilé Isabel Marant jacket, $247 / Alice by Temperley dress, $182

MiH Marrakesh shorts, $56 / Tory Burch Camelia espadrilles, $129 / 10 Crosby Derek Lam printed pants, $167 / Equipment silk blouse, $145

On the other hand, can we all collectively agree that no one will ever buy these frightening pants? Terrifying, even on a model!

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trend to try: printed pants

{Editor’s Note: Our intrepid Trends expert, Ms. Kim Brandt is back to talk about a trend I’m seriously feeling this season: the printed pant. Having just nabbed this pair (from Talbots, of all places), I can hardly wait to see her suggestions for successfully pulling off the look. Sadly, Kim is going to be taking a little hiatus from her post here while she settles in at a fabulous new job, but I’m crossing my fingers she’ll be back soon!}

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We’re getting to the point where y’all are getting to know me a bit. So, I’m sure this post comes as a shock (not)…we’re talking all about prints today.  I am a big fan of the patterned pants trend happening right now. It takes a bit of confidence to pull off, but styled right, it can really work for you. I’m definitely (ahem) bottom heavy, so because of my body type I need to be really careful how I wear this one.

If you’re super tall and lean (read: model), you really don’t need my advice; you can wear anything. But if you’re anything else, this look is all about balance. Particularly if the pant is a skinny style, this look is best worn with a long, loose top, statement jewelry, and heels, though a funky loafer may work if you’re blessed with extra-long gams.

{Images c/o Anthropologie / Madewell / Whitney Eve / Natalia Vodianova, via Style.com}

If you’re especially lower-half-conscious, pair the printed pant with a sleek, loose fitting top, a long jacket, a heavy piece of metallic jewelry (think chunky watch or vintage chain necklace), and heeled booties or gladiator sandals.

{Images c/o Tory Burch, via Style.com / Vanessa Hudgens (we think), via Style / Olivia Palermo, via Mr.Newton}

For those that are blessed up top, pair the print with a shirt that has a bit of defined shape.  A tailored blazer or belted blouse is a great solution. Depending on the cut of the blazer, pair with some great drop earrings and then, as always, heels on the bottom. Be careful not to pick too narrow a heel; it’s all about balancing the shape from head to toe!

{Images c/o Dries Van Noten, via Style.com / Beyoncé, via People / Chanel, via Style.com}

So, tell us: Are you going to be rocking the patterned pant this Spring? ~Kim B.

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off the rack: tory burch penny loafer

{Editor’s Note: I’ve been thinking about it, and I spend all this time showing you my virtual shopping, but not a lot of time showing you what actually ends up in my closet. To clear things up, I’ve decided to start a little series called Off The Rack, where I’ll periodically show off a new goodie that’s made it, well, off the rack and into my closet. I’d love for this to become a group effort, so please – tell me all about your latest buys in the comments!}

If you follow me on Twitter or Pinterest (ahem!), you may have noticed that my itch for a great pair of penny loafers has gotten serious. I bought those Tods loafers I showed you a while back, but really…suede driving mocs in Portland are a bad choice. Back they went.

As soon as I laid eyes on these pretty pennies from Tory Burch, though, I knew I’d met my match (the extra 25% off sale didn’t hurt). I was convinced black was the way to go – classic, and all that. Thank goodness a dear friend assured me I really wanted the red. I awaited this package so very anxiously, I knew she’d made the right call. And in fact, they’ve scarcely been back in the box since they arrived. They’re the perfect shade of lipstick red, with details like that lovely pinked tongue and the gold logo on the vamp to make them look ultra luxe. I’m wearing them with everything – jeans, wintery wool skirts, and my favorite skinny trousers – and I can’t wait to pair them with shorts, come spring.


What’s new in your closet this week?

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resolved: branching out

So, we’ve talked about beauty resolutions and splurge-y resolutions. But what about a resolution that (at least on its face) won’t cost you a cent? I’m talking about a fashion resolution…one that’s built to help you look your best in 2012 with only a minimum of effort.

Every year, I make a fashion resolution for myself. Just a little something to help me step out of the same old sartorial box, so to speak. My first fashion resolution was to wear more scarves. They’d always felt daunting to me – like I didn’t have that effortless something that consummate scarf-wearers you see out in the world (mostly in Paris) seem to have. But they bring so much color and style to a look, plus they’re just gorgeous to look at. So, I committed to spending a year getting to know scarves. And by the end of that year, I had a healthy new scarf collection (and a mild obsession with Epice). But I also had something less tangible: no more scarf-related anxiety. And that, it turns out, is exactly what that “effortless something” was. Scarf-wearing people just do it. Throw them on without a care, without worrying too much about matching or tying or perfecting, et voila.

The next year it was ankle boots. I hadn’t owned a single pair, but I was intent. And now? Total short boot aficionado – it’s an illness, really. And then, last year was jewelry. Sure enough, by the end of 2011, not only had my jewelry box expanded considerably, but I actually taught myself (well, with the help of certain talented friends) to make a few pieces on my own, which has proven to be immensely satisfying, in that “Told you I could do it” sort of way.

The key is to keep it small, and specific. Pick one particular thing you’d like to do better in your sartorial life, and decide to make it happen. Are you envious of a friend who always has the most stunningly creative up-dos in her hair (Kim Brandt, our style-savvy new columnist is one such person for me)? Commit to wearing your hair up more in 2012. Are scarves still scary for you? Trust me – they’re not. Resolve to give it a try.

As for me, my BFF has mentioned on more than one occasion that I might be a little too reliant on denim in my wardrobe (I believe her exact words were something like “I can’t remember the last time I saw you wear something other than jeans.”). My initial reaction was that she should be glad I wear anything other than a ratty tee and yoga pants, given the fact that I work from home 90% of the time. Plus, the chasm between denim and work-ready trousers is deep, and mighty hard to traverse (khakis? cropped skinnies?). But after the initial defensiveness wore off, I gave it some more thought. Why not branch out a bit? Sure, denim is wonderful, and I have no intention of banning it from my closet. But maybe I could try a few alternatives, and see what happens. It’s worth a shot, surely.

All this to say that 2012 may well be the year of the pant. A few ideas that are already brewing in my head:

{Options from: Zara / Sonia Rykiel / Zara again / Tory Burch / More Tory Burch}

(Do you like how I used the fancy graphic to turn this into an “Official Resolution”? Mind games – I tell you, they work.)

I’ll keep you posted on this little experiment, naturally. But in the meantime, are there any fashion resolutions you’re thinking of undertaking? The “Year of the Tiara” perhaps?

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entertaining in style

Today’s guest is Connie, the wonder woman behind The Daily Obsession. TDO is one of the first blogs I ever read religiously – I loved it so much, I was an editor there for years. Connie is always impeccably dressed, knows the perfect gift for any occasion, and can instantly make anyone feel at ease. It’s no wonder she’s our expert on how to entertain with style.

Thanks for being patient, friends…I’ll be back Monday morning, with bells on!

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With the upcoming holidays, many of us will be turning into hostesses and entertaining up a storm! To save myself a lot of last-minute stress, I have a checklist of items to track down now, so I’m fully prepared when the festivities begin.

Let’s start with fashion! Dressing when you’re a hostess can be a bit of a challenge. Between moving through the kitchen and re-filling everyone’s wine glasses – not to mention probably not having enough time to get truly decked out before guests arrive – the key is to keep it basic, easy and flattering.

Made of soft, comfortable jersey, this Diane von Furstenberg dress fits the bill. It’s got a sexy scoop in the back, and ruching around the waist – perfect if you accidentally overindulge. Most importantly, it’s going to be easy to thrown on last minute and make you feel great all night. Simply throw on some fun accessories – like a statement necklace from Elva Fields and a pair of festive heels (love this glittery version from Zara!).  Plus, you can easily wear this dress beyond the holiday season, and who doesn’t love that?

For the home, it’s nice to pick some special items to make entertaining a bit more fun and again, easier! Start with a classic serving tray. Whether it’s sleek or rustic, it will make your life a lot easier when you need to cart dishes – from appetitizers to the post-dinner clean up.

If you’re planning on having a cocktail/drink station where guests can refill drinks at their leisure, make sure to set out an ice bucket and a cocktail shaker, along with simple glasses. Plus, your guests won’t be able to resist shaking up their favorite cocktail in these gorgeous shiny Nick Munro designs.

Along with dessert, coffee or tea service is a must for any party, so pick out beautiful new versions to ensure every guest will be impressed. Our favorites? This festive red Stelton Coffee Press is just the thing for the holiday season. For tea lovers, it doesn’t get prettier than the New Norm Kettle Teapot, and its clever built-in tea egg ensures your tea will never over-steep.

However you entertain this season, be sure you keep it casual and cozy – if you’re relaxed and stylish, your guests will be as well. Happy holidays! — Connie

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falling for…loafers

Today’s guest post comes from a favorite blogger of mine, Kate of Anonymous Chic. She’s a first-class writer with serious style, and she’s not afraid to speak her mind. Oh, and she’s Canadian to boot (which means, among other things, that she gets to spell “colour” with a “U” – jealous!). With all that going for her, I knew she’d fit right in. So, I was thrilled she agreed to school us on a topic near and dear to my heart this time of year: fall footwear.

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Fall and winter are a time for indulgence in fabulous boots, but I refuse to lock myself into one footwear genre for two entire seasons…and I’m sure I’m not alone in that opinion. My go-to solution once the colder months roll around is a great pair of loafers. They are absolutely appropriate either barefoot or paired with socks (my inner preppy craves subtly coloured argyle or bold stripes). The great thing about loafers is the degree of creativity that they allow. No matter your taste, there’s a pair for everyone.

A key when considering them for colder months is their level of “weather appropriateness”. I live in that snowy place north of the 49th parallel (…that’s Canada, for those of you who are geographically challenged), so I’ll always opt for something with a good structured sole and patent leather. The only time I break that rule is when I’m looking for a good excuse to change out of horridly practical winter boots, but into something that still accommodates comfort and warmth. Considering there’s a serious collegiate kick in a lot of Fall/Winter styles this year, loafers are the kind of nostalgic nod that could be a practical and fashionable addition to your footwear wardrobe.

At one end of the spectrum lies your “fits like a glove” driving loafers. These are the pairs I’d recommend if you’re looking for something stylish for a commute that isn’t slippery, or as something comfy to change into at the office. The defining pair from this category is clearly Tod’s, definitely an investment piece in any wardrobe, but I will testify, they are well worth saving up finding your favourite.

Tod’s Heaven Laccetto Driving Moc, $445

Tory Burch has recently done a couple of great metallic versions that definitely add a little subtle sparkle to the mix if you’re look for a petite bit of pizzazz for these bleak months.

Tory Burch Kendrick driver, $275

If you’re in the mood for something more weather-friendly or structured, head to the classic penny loafer. Bass or Sebago are classic preppy staples (the addition of a shiny new penny is absolutely optional). I’m thinking that this version in navy might be the next addition to my collection.

Bass Vanessa loafer in navy, $149

Another great option comes courtesy of Cole Haan. Great colours and contrast stitching, coupled with patent leather, equates to positively weather-friendly options. Two-tone options are also available if you’re up for being a touch more daring.

Cole Haan Air Sloane moc, $168

Need an in-between option? This patent leather version from Jeffrey Campbell will work for wet weather, and the driving loafer style means that you’ll feel as though you’re taking your daily stroll in custom-fit slippers all day.

Jeffrey Campbell Mocky Penny driving loafer, $83

Whatever you choose, here’s hoping that a great pair of loafers can be added to your fall and winter footwear fashions.

I’d also like to take an opportunity to thank Becki for two things: first for having an excellent blog, and second for having me on here. It’s always a treat to not only be reading one of your favourite blogs, but also to be contributing to its greatness makes it extra-special. Anonymous Chic

**The love is mutual, Miss Kate! xox, Becki**

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this just in: nordstrom anniversary sale preview!

Well, this is exciting. I got a hot tip over the weekend that the first preview catalog for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale had gone out to the VVIP customers, and I nabbed a sneak peek!

First, a little down-and-dirty on what’s happening with the sale this year. The official start date is July 15, but pre-sale shopping begins July 5. The pre-sale shopping option that’s typically been open to Nordstrom cardholders and other VIP customers is now only open to cardholders, allegedly. This means that no matter how much your salesperson loves you, they can’t let you pre-shop without a Nordstrom card. But, the upside, according to my sources, is that you get to take your goods home with you the day you shop, instead of having to head back to the store on opening day to pick up your pre-sale goods.

So, with that done, how about a little peek at my picks from the sale?

First up, shoes – since I know you’re all shoe nuts like me. Not much in the way of heels and flats, but there are some good boots to choose from.

Far right: Frye “Melissa” button-back boot, $219

Far right: Via Spiga “Kacey” riding boot, $259

Tory Burch riding boot, $299

The coats are really lacking this season…Nordstrom seems to have abandoned coats for capes, which is unfortunate, as they’re hard to wear – both literally and figuratively. But, if you must cape, there is one style I actually love – it has enough tailoring to keep the look clean and easily wearable:

Right: Helene Berman wool cape, $165

This Mackage coat is the other winner from the catalog. It’s still not something I’d love enough to nab, but the clean tailoring is nice, as is the leather detail at the sleeves. I do have a feeling this one’s going to be popular…so you’ll be seeing it out and about.

Mackage “Tessa” wool-blend coat with knit & leather trim, $389

As for the rest of the apparel, there are the usual suspects: a few highly-identifiable, under-$100 picks that everyone will be snatching up…and then a few special pieces that are worth a second look.

That Halogen pencil skirt on the first three models comes in 6 colors and is $45, so expect to see it on everyone in your office come August. The little cuffed ankle pant on the far right is by Amber Sun, and is also $45. I’m cautiously optimistic about the pants – they’re cute on the model, but atrocious in another image I saw, so it could definitely go either way.

Left 3: Halogen seamed pencil skirt, $45; Right: Amber Sun “Aubrey” pant, $45.

And, a few standout pieces that are perfect for giving your fall closet a little kick-start:

McGinn “Elizabeth” tweed jacket, $229

This silk blouse by Joie is one of maybe three pieces I’ll actually be nabbing from the sale. I love the bright teal, and it’s a perfect tunic shape, so you can easily dress it up or down. It’s hard to imagine beneath that fugly chunky knit vest, I realize…but try.

Joie “Marlo” blouse, in peacock, beige or grey, $145

If you’re not quite over the faux-fur trend, this Trina Turk cardigan is a great way to give it a try. While the photo doesn’t really provide much help, it’s a long, wrap-style cardigan, and the fur collar is removable. So, when you’re ready to retire the trend, you still have a classic camel cashmere cardigan in your closet.

Trina Turk “Deville” cardigan, $198

There’s always one killer splurge in the sale. Last year, it was a classic Burberry trench. This year, it’s this black faux-wrap dress by St. John. It’s a classic long-sleeved wrap cut (without the wardrobe malfunction potential), and it will be in your closet forever, making it a bargain by any standard.

St. John faux-wrap dress, $399

(Love those shoes she’s wearing too, by the way…Michael by Michael Kors, $99, but they have a 5-inch heel.)

Last but certainly not least, a few accessories to tie all this fun together. There are two big “splurge” bags this year – one by Chloe, which I thought was boring, and this one by Marc Jacobs. It’s hard not to love that pink, which is actually a bit more mauve in other photos.

Marc Jacobs “Karlie” shoulder bag, $866

And on the more reasonable end of the spectrum, I found myself quite liking the bag on the top left, below. The brand is “Roccatella,” which meant nothing to me until I saw it was a new diffusion line from Be&D, which makes amazing bags.  I also love the Rebecca Minkoff bag in the bottom right image, though I’ve found the quality on RM bags a bit spotty lately. Love the ostrich-embossed leather, though, and it comes in 3 colors.

Top left: Roccatella by Be&D “Jane” belted leather satchel, $264; Bottom right: Rebecca Minkoff “Covet” flap bag, $282.

And my bracelet obsession continues with these options from Ippolita and Lagos. The Ippolita styles are the bangles in the center with the solid-set semi-precious stones, and the Lagos is that rope-style silver bracelet with the diamond X in the center.

Center: Ippolita bangles, set of 3, $394; Bottom, far right: Lagos Caviar X Diamond bracelet, $299.

That’s it, friends! Of course, if you see something else in these images that you’re dying for details on, just leave a comment, and I’ll give you all the info I can. In the meantime, give your favorite salesperson a call, and get a pre-shop date scheduled!

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