Basics Shoes

Fab Sugar’s via How to Clean Your Summer Sandals 2012

How to Clean Your Summer Sandals 2012

  • Sole Salvation: Method Leather Love Wipes ($5)

How to Use: These leather-cleaning wipes are nontoxic, compostable, and gentle on both your leather and the environment around you. Just use these handy disposable towels to refresh your leather sandals (we’re loving these Zara Lined Wedges, $50) and leather handbag while you’re at it. Bonus? It leaves a light almond scent that we can’t resist.

 

How to Use: Chances are, you’ll be doing some outdoor running, picnicking, and more during the warm-weather season. To ensure your tennis shoes (read: Missoni for Chuck Taylor in Mint, $200) remain fresh and clean all Summer long, spray this miracle sports potion on your sneakers, on your yoga mat, in your gym bag, and even on yourself — it’ll remove bad odor and put to use its antibacterial properties, too. Not to mention, it’s nontoxic, biodegradable, and allergen free.

How to Use: Take your canvas slip-ons, wedges, or espadrilles (See by Chloé Ankle-Wrap Wedge Espadrilles, $250) and apply where needed. Then, brush clean with a hand towel, and . . . that’s it. It helps scrub away the dirt and keeps the fabric from cracking.

How to Use: Let’s be honest — there may be some boardwalk eating, baseball game dining scenarios in your Summer future. And spilling your food is just par for the course. To keep your suede sandals (like these sweet pink ones: J.Crew Lucca Suede Sandals, $198) free of unfortunate grease stains, use a citrus-based degreaser on the culprit and brush off with an old toothbrush.

How to Use: Make sure your Summer soles stay as crisp as the first day you got them. Translation: prep your leather shoes with waterproofing, in case of those unexpected Spring showers. For these Rachel Zoe Gladys Sandals ($235), a neutral-tinted cream should do the trick.

 

via How to Clean Your Summer Sandals 2012.

Fashion

Art Deco Trend For Spring 2012

Art Deco Trend For Spring 2012.

 

Art Deco Trend For Spring 2012

Here’s how to get the look:

  • Go for a drop-waist dress; it’s a slouchy silhouette that works for all body types and is especially good for girls who prefer to hide their midsection.
  • If you’d rather try the trend in smaller doses, consider pairing a sequined tank with wide-leg trousers, or tucking a silky button-down blouse into a pleated skirt.
  • As far as accessories go, opt for layers of long necklaces, cute cloche hats, and linear, square-cut clutches.

 

Fashion

Photo 1- Get Your Betty Draper On In Honor Of Sunday’s Mad Men Premiere!

Photo 1- Get Your Betty Draper On In Honor Of Sunday’s Mad Men Premiere!.

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Andara Triple Drop Earrings, $85, available at Max & ChloeMiu Miu Velvet Clutch, $635, available atMy TheresaPhase Eight Alexa Printed Skirt, $110, available at John LewisOasis Viscose Blouse, $60, available at OasisKate Spade Sid Evening Sandal, $325, available at Jildor.

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Mulberry Candy Pink Soft Spongy Zip Pouch, $230, available at MulberryManolo Blahnik Norvany Pump, $685, available at BarneysDear Creatures Garden Dress in Khaki, $124, available at Dear CreaturesPrada Crystal Earrings with Applied Patent Rose, $540, available at PradaNars Semi-Matte Lipstick in Schiap, $24, available at Barneys.

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Oscar de la Renta Embellished Cardigan, $1,623, available at Far FetchReiss Sonar Clutch, $170, available at ReissSelima Optique Jessica Cat Eye-Frame Acetate Optical Glasses, $360, available atNet-A-PorterKenzo Textured Pencil Skirt with Peplum, $400, available at BrownsBanana Republic Mad Men Collection Floral Brooch, $45, available at Banana RepublicGiuseppe Zanotti Patent Peep Toe Pump, $429, available at Far Fetch.

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Christian Louboutin Brooklin Chain-Strap Pleated Leather Clutch, $672.75, available at The Outnet;Carole Tanenbaum Vintage Collection 1960s Kenneth Jay Lane Earrings, $1,390, available at Paire;DVF Yvan Shell Flower Applique Top, $595, available at DVFSteven Alan Danny Pant, $248, available at Steven AlanMarais Open Wedge Shoe in Black, $130, available at Marais.

Basics

How to Shop Vintage – Vintage Shopping in Miami

How to Shop Vintage – Vintage Shopping in Miami.

posh vintage - post15 years ago, Patti Stoecker, owner of Posh Vintage, started tie-dyeing ’40s slips in her kitchen. Since then, her collection has grown quite a bit and her showroom (inside her Miami Beach home) houses ‘50s Pucci tees, ’60s Courrèges coats, ’70s Jean Muir jersey dresses, ‘80s Givenchy silk gowns, and of course some Dior, Versace, and Ossie Clark. If you want it, it’s more than likely that Stoecker has it. With celeb clients ranging from Nicole Richie to Mia Sara, her showroom clearly runs the gamut in styles. Feeling inspired by a recent visit, we asked her to share a few tips about the business that’s so close to her heart. Here’s what you need to know before your next vintage-finding expedition.

What are your favorite vintage shopping spots?
“I like to go to estate sales, and some of my best shopping moments have happened when I’ve discovered vintage treasure troves in someone’s closet. My partner, Bryn, is a thrift shopper extraordinaire.”

How do you know if a piece is a good investment?
“Knowing what to buy is really a matter of experience and being educated about labels and eras. There are some pieces that – if well cared-for – hold their value indefinitely. We’ve sold several dresses to museums over the years.”

What are five things to consider when buying or hunting for vintage?
“Fabric, quality of construction, condition, and wearability. And most importantly, ask yourself if the piece speaks to you. If you love something, buy it!”

Fashion

Spring 2012 Trends – What To Buy For Spring 2012

Spring 2012 Trends – What To Buy For Spring 2012.

 spring 2012 trends
Colorblock Pants
“If fall runways are any indicator, the much-beloved colorblock trend isn’t going anywhere. Find yourself ahead of the curve by flaunting a pair of colorblock jeans, the next step in the statement bottoms trend we saw everywhere in 2011.”

Color Block Pants, $112, available atPixie Market.

 spring 2012 trends

The Little White Dress
“Having an easy, breezy, little white frock for spring is a must. And with so many great options to choose from, expect to see these consistently dotting Dolores Park come summer. Toughen this trend up with black tights and a leather jacket and you’ll be S.F.-weather ready in no time.”

To Be Adored White Ella Dress, $220, available at Bona Drag.
 spring 2012 trends
Fringe
“While some might think the fringe trend is better left to the runway, adding a subtle pop here and there can pack a big punch. I’m loving this example by Parisian label Gat Rimon, which scores extra points by including ombre, another Mira Mira obsession. Plus, it looks like fringe is here to stay through fall ’12!”

Gat Rimon Fringed Dress, $207, available at Mira Mira soon!
 spring 2012 trends

Pastels With Pop
“It’s no secret that pastels are huge for spring, but wearing this trend from head to toe is probably a bit much. Instead, try pale pastels paired with a bright or neon in the same color group. Need quick inspiration? Check out J.Crew’s spring collection.”

Photo: Via J.Crew
 spring 2012 trends
Sporty Spice
“Casual chic is something that S.F. women already do well. And sporty mesh accents were something we saw in so many collections this spring. This trend is great because it can be dressed up or down for an unfussy weekend look.”

ASOS Mesh Insert Parka, $134.29, available at ASOS.
White Jeans-$99-Madewell

White Jeans
“While white jeans aren’t especially new, they are extra hot right now, showing up on all the lovelies at this past Fashion Week. If the idea of ivory denim makes you cringe, try them in pale pink, yellow, or mint green.”

Madewell Rail-Straight Jeans in White Wash, $98.50, available at Madewell.
 spring 2012 trends

Tangerine Dream
“Orange is huge for spring and will continue into fall. Luckily, it complements most skin tones. With this trend, I say, just go for it. Wear it in separates or all over.”

Laugh Cry Repeat Debby Dress, $205, available at Mira Mira.
 spring 2012 trends

Petite Fleurs
“No need to wait for April showers; the uber-feminine floral trend is easy to wear right now. Head-to-toe floral was all the rage on the runway for spring, but I’d limit yourself to a single accent piece in the real world.”

Paige Denim Floral Ankle Peg Skinny Jeans, $186, available at Shopbop.

Basics

Brightest Young Things – Emily Wall – Edit Your Closet

byt-1slide

More likely than not, you’re emotionally attached to your wardrobe — you chose every piece carefully, put thought into the purchase, and hoped it would pay off with a lifetime (or at least a year or two) of wear. Now, what if you got the wild idea to edit all those tops and bottoms down to only what would fit on a single clothing rack — with room to spare?

via Brightest Young Things – Emily Wall – Edit Your Closet.

Fashion Shoes

Best Spring Shoes 2012

Best Spring Shoes 2012.

 

Best Spring Shoes 2012

Why we love them: We love that designers took one of our favorite clothing trends to our footwear, too. Colorblocked heels feel fresh and so perfectly suited for the Spring — plus they’re a super simple way to lend a little outfit interest to even your most basic jeans and tees.

How to wear them: Don’t overthink it — footwear like this does the work for you. Add colorblocked heels to boyfriend denim (with a rolled cuff to show them off) and finish with an easy white button-down for an everyday style. For dressier occasions, style up a pair with your LWD.

Why we love them: We love the textural intrigue of a woven sandal. They have that cool, tribal-inspired quality that looks especially perfect for the warmer months ahead.

How to wear them: These sandals wear especially well with bold, ethnic-inspired prints to further the tribal flair. Of course, don’t underestimate how they can also transform simple white denim.

 

Why we love them: Metallic heels feel entirely new and fresh for the season. They’ve got a slight futuristic quality that’s sleeker and cleaner than sequined shine — and they work for night and day.

How to wear them: Don’t be intimidated by the shine — most pairs are subtle enough to pull off for day, especially in flat versions. Counter the slick finish with print play, like a great floral-print jean or botanical pencil skirt. Keep your proportions easy with a slouchy sweater or looser t-shirt on top for a more casual vibe.

 

Why we love them: Ankle straps lend uncanny sex appeal. They’re sultry without trying too hard, and they feel utterly womanly and ladylike all at once.

How to wear them:Stiletto versions pair easily with your pretty little dresses, while thicker heels are just the right finishing touch for your office ensemble. Looking for something more casual? Try the silhouette on a wood-heeled style.

Why we love them: Every Spring and Summer we look forward to the espadrille iterations. They’re a perennial classic, and this season, there’s a pair for every girl’s style.

How to wear them: Wear these with practically anything (just avoid the wet weather or you’ll ruin your soles). Flat versions feel especially pretty in lacy or printed fabrics, while a classic ankle-wrap style is just the thing to wear with your sundress.

Why we love them: We are, ahem, pumped that the pointed toe has made a comeback. They’re a classic silhouette that’s getting a cool-girl makeover this season in metallics and bright colors.

How to wear them:Play to the ladylike vibe with pencil skirts or dresses cinched at the waists, but to give them a more modern spin, finish off printed pants with a pair in a bold hue or a silver sheen.

Why we love them: What’s not to love? They’re easy on our feet, and in shimmer, embellished, or pretty-hued versions they certainly don’t skimp on style.

How to wear them:Outfit these pairs with maxi skirts or dresses for easy warm-weather dressing. As for right now, add them to ankle-cropped denim and a blazer for an effortless transitional look.

Why we love them: We love that the ankle boot has found its way into our warmer-weather looks. The effect is a total cool-girl statement that makes us think of Rachel Bilson or Kate Bosworth‘s ‘laxed cool.

How to wear them: Make these styles work for Spring and Summer with printed minidresses and skirts to balance the edge. Keep it casual and avoid baggier pants or workwear that’ll confuse the cooler effect you’re going for.

Why we love them: These are a Spring staple. Wedges are leg-lengthening and easy to walk in, and you can count on fresh styles every season.

How to wear them:Show off your stems in a miniskirt or dress, add them to ankle-crop pants, or wear them with flowy maxi silhouettes for that quintessential Spring vibe.

Why we love them: The cool iterations of the loafer have solidified it as a new favorite in our closets. Since Fall, the silhouette’s had a resurgence as a sometimes edgier, sometimes preppier alternative to the ballet flat.

How to wear them: Loafers are both easy to take to work and slip on off-duty. Add them to printed trousers and a blazer for your nine-to-five, then finish your jeans and t-shirt combos with a cool version on your days off. We especially love how they look with preppy-sweet pieces like a pleated miniskirt and a slouchy knit top.

Why we love them: Gladiators have surfaced in all kinds of fresh styles for the upcoming season. Some are more dramatic, others offer sleeker takes on the trend. What we love is the subtle statement quality that pairs well with almost anything in our closets.

How to wear them: Flat versions add interest to Spring dresses and skirts, while heeled versions work just as well with cuffed boyfriend jeans. Either way, they’re a standout style that boasts major versatility.