Friday, November 30, 2012

Dare to Flare

While my recent closet cravings include ladylike blouses, plenty of ruffles along with pleated pieces and conversational prints, one Spring trend stands out amongst the rest: Peplums! If you are unfamiliar with this term, a peplum is a short, flared strip of fabric that is attached at the waist of a jacket, dress, blouse or skirt. Peplums: waist-whittling effect.

Peplums are anything but new, even though designers such as Celine, Giambattista Valli, Jason Wu and Christian Dior paraded them down their Spring 2012 runways. The cut was popularized in the 1800s and resurfaced in the 1940s as well as the ‘80s. That said, they are back and with a vegeance! On the S/S '12 runways it became the silhouette story of the season, and the trend is still going strong.

I personally love how the trend translates on tops. Dare to flare? It’s a fun and feminine twist on your standard blouse. There’s just something so chic about their architectural yet sleek shape. I think it’s so refreshing to finally see the return of the waist after so many seasons of loose-fitting, baggy silhouettes! Peplum tops nip the natural waist and are great for masking not-so-flat stomachs. Instant tummy tuck. Not only is it super flattering, it’s a versatile style that you can easily outfit from day to night.

For skirts and dresses, I actually prefer a smaller peplum. If you have naturally wide-set hips like me, sometimes the extra fabric can make you look broader than you actually are. However, if you have a boyish figure both top and bottom peplums will work for you since they instantly create an hourglass illusion. Nevertheless, regardless of your shape, I think this is a trend most women can pull of. Just be conscious of your shape and wear what works for you-you’re either a top or a bottom peplum girl. 

 

This added ruffle adds a perfect ladylike flair to your ensemble. Slimming your waistline and accentuating your beautiful, womanly curves at the same time—what’s not to love? When choosing your perfect peplum, keep in mind there are two versions: fitted and flared. If you want to show off an hourglass figure, choose a fitted peplum. Flared, will add curves to your hips and is the perfect choice for boy-shaped bodies. 

xoxo,
Kat

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Grand Prix: Equestrian-Inspired Fashion



Classic. Chic. Traditional: All words to describe equestrian style. Each Fall season we see the presence of equestrian style, especially in footwear. We expect equestrian designs from brands like Gucci and Ralph Lauren, but we are also seeing a trend from new designers becoming more inspired by the equestrian industry, riders, and most importantly the Horse. When it comes to decades of designing equestrian inspired fashions, including waist defining jackets with suede elbow patches and figure flattering pants with horsey hardware, Ralph Lauren has no equal. After seasons of chains, zippers and extraneous embellishments, handbags are having a minimalist moment. Look for refreshingly simple saddle bags that can hold all of your electronic devices that you carry from the office. History repeats, and the classic equestrian look is one that will never go out of style. 

Step lively. From tailored jackets to dressed-up jodhpurs, fall's equestrian-inspired looks will have you riding high. You don't have to own a horse or know how to ride one to get away with wearing equestrian inspired fashion. Everything from ruffled blouses, tailored coats, laced boots and riding hats are available to add a new dimension to your wardrobe. 

For my equestrian-inspired look, I'm wearing a Ralph Lauren ruffle button-up; studded, black pants from Madison Bleu; Enzo Angelini's brown suede boots and a green statement necklace for the some sparkle. 

Below are some examples of what to look for and where to find it; before you know it; you'll be trotting around town in a whole new outfit.
1. Draper Equestrian Hat at Modcloth
2. Hermes Silk Scarf
3. Quilted barn jacket at Harrods
4. Snaffle bit bracelet at Caracol Silver
5. Gold Stirrups Brooch at Harold Cox and Sons Jewellers
6. Bustle Riding Jacket at Saks Fifth Avenue
7. Roberto Cavalli Ruffle lapel blouse
8. Black Horse shoe buckle belt
9. Cole Haan saddle french purse
10. Equestrian continental wallet by Ralph Lauren
11. Brown suede stirrup belt
12. Stuart Weitzman freedom equestrian boot
13. Suede patch stretch jodhpur
14. Proenza Schouler tall riding boots

xoxo,
Kat

Being FAB

I love finding new sites that sell quirky, modern, and quality items. I've been an avid fab follower for these past few months! Fab, is an online site that is full of modern and quirky designs that has everything for everyone on your list. Looking for Christmas gifts-they have everything from cool jewelry, housewares, clothes, furniture, etc.

So be fab and check out there site! These are just some of the things that I am in love with on their site! Hurry before the sale is over!
Otto Designs understands that sometimes the demands of everyday life require you to rethink your furniture. The company specializes in ottomans, cubes, and beanbags that are cute, comfy, and totally resistant to the elements—providing a compact and colorful surface whenever (and wherever) you need it. 

Nail art is no fad. It’s a trend that’s gaining traction, and if Julep’s got anything to do with it, this medium will take over the world. See, Julep believes that nail color is where beauty and fashion bisect. These polish sets (with extras) feature vivid colors that encourage you to primp, play, and express yourself.




Impact: Chic, Every-Season Circle Scarves
Fun. Useful. Chic. These are the design philosophies behind Kansas City-based, craft-crazed company Impact. Its handmade, ideal-for-all-seasons circle scarvesmake a huge impact on your holiday gift list, while the company’s donations to charity make your purchases purposeful. Practically perfect, if you ask me!




Yedi Houseware puts a fresh and fanciful spin on timeless items—like a teacup that serves your chamomile in the shape of a heart. Just in time for cocoa season, these mugs, saucers, and more boast classic charm and modern convenience, allowing you to serve, sip, and savor the moments that really matter.

Pan Am’s collection of totes, passport covers, and carry-ons are the chic offspring of a successful airline that peaked at the start of mass air travel. Given to only first class passengers, Pan Am bags became a status symbol carried by the rich, elite, and (often) famous. Here, the company shows off its favorites.


Canning-jar-as-mug fanatics Joshua Resnikoff and Aaron Panone created Cuppow to make it easy to transform glass containers into awesome to-go cups. Their clever lid comes in several versions: the newest model fits standard jars and includes a straw hole, so it’s an innovative alternative to over-designed travel mugs.



Illustrator and lover of literature Evan Robertson is a modern-day Renaissance man. Each of the giclée prints that make up Obvious State, combines a favorite quote and one of Robertson’s stunning original illustrations. These poignant prints would make great gifts for tortured artists, English majors, and bookworms.

Tiffany Burnette, the designer behind Brooklyn-based Designhype, created a collection of sleek and modern NYC subway cuffs as an attractive accessory that helps you find your way. The line became so popular that it’s expanded to include other cities. You’re welcome, Parisians, Londoners, Milanese, and Chicagoans.







Desk accessories crafted in handsome natural hides? Check. Portraits of charming pugs? Check. Modern, linear sofas covered in velvet? Check. Side tables, chairs, and stools? Check, check, and check. This selection of wood, leather, and metal furniture—and plush throw pillows, too—makes redecorating a real delight.

Chalkboard China’s sophisticated, slate-finished tableware is an outspoken answer to the fine china usually gracing the holiday spread. Win over your hostess at the next soirée with one of these vases, glasses, or candles—each one ready to be adorned with clever tidings. Chalk it up to good conversation.

Kangol has had a long and distinguished run in the accessory business. But this hasn’t stopped the English-born-and-bred company from turning out modern and forward-thinking designs each season. Its signature caps and Parisian-inspired berets keep fashion folk young, old, and ageless clamoring for its timeless styles.

You may be surprised that cheeky Liquid Courage consists of a husband and wife, but its first designs were inspired by nuptials. Two years later (and right on time for holiday gifting), the company’s vinyl-clad flasks feature diverse and distinctive designs—all encouraging that certain someone to sip with a smile.




Gela Global believes that the kitchen is a hub of creativity. The company specializes in cutlery and cooking accessories of the highest quality, in bright colors and bold shapes designed to help you think outside the (bread) box. Each of these knife setsis a toolkit of culinary confidence for the holidays ahead.


xoxo,
Kat

Gift Guide


With Christmas around the corner, it's time to get those gifts under the tree. I love to find presents for my family and friends that are unique and reflect their personality. Today's gift guide is from fab, an online site that is full of modern, and quirky designs that make the perfect gift. It's a one stop shop for everyone on your list! Happy Thursday!

xoxo,
Kat

Holy Collaboration

In Love with Altuzarra's cocktail set!!!

 


I'm so excited about the epic Target & Neiman Marcus Holiday partnership! This is happening on December 1st! More than 50 gorgeous gifts! From a luxe tray and cocktail set by Altuzarra to one dance-the-night-away chic Robert Rodriguez dress and everything in between, there's definitely going to be something you're lusting for.

This legendary partnership coincides with the 50th anniversary of the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America). The CFDA's impact not only spans decades, but the work of some of today's top designers, including those contributing to this collaboration.

The line will be sold in both Target and Neiman Marcus stores, as well as online, so not everything will sell out. No need to wait in line for the items on your wish-list. Some stuff will definitely sell out. So set your alarm for midnight and hit "add to cart" or you will miss out. Happy Shopping!

Some of the items I'm in love with are:
Lela Rose's Top (paired with jeans for a night out in town)
Tracy Reese's sequin top (perfect with jeans)
Tory Burch lunchbox (every fashionista needs one)
Marc Jacobs' metallic clutch
Robert Rodriguez Dress (made of chic Chantilly lace, this party-goer also has built in support)
Carolina Herrera's stationery set
Altuzarra's cocktail set (dress up your bar with this set)

xoxo,
Kat

Thankful


Sooo, did anyone score any amazing Black Friday purchases! Every year my sisters and I go Black Friday shopping. It has become a ritual. It sucks waking up early, waiting in lines (yuck), to be in chaos, but you get amazing deals! This is the only reason why I wake up so early for Black Friday!

Here are some stuff we scored on black friday:
$15 Blazers from H&M! No these aren't all for me. They are for my sisters and I. These blazers are very structure and such a good deal! A pop of color to brighten your Fall/Winter days.
I am in love with my Teal Miss Sixty coat! I've been looking for a teal coat for a while now! I bought the coat online, thinking it was ugly, but when I received it, I was shocked. It is gorgeous and is very feminine. I bought a pink/black colorblock purse from Henri Bendel! It is not pictured since it is wrapped up. The Maroon blazer is from H&M. I am using it as my new neutral. Who says deep red can't be a neutral?
My sister spoiled herself with a Michael Kors crossbody and wallet!

I’m thankful for health, family, friends, and all the little things that I tend to take for granted at times.

What are you thankful for?

xoxo,
Kat

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Get Ahead Start On Cyber Monday

I love a good sale! Who doesn't love a good sale? WHY wait for cyber monday?  The deals are happening now! Some stores are having cyber monday a day early.  Listed below are some of the deals I came across. Enjoy shopping!

Macy's Cyber Monday starts today and ends tomorrow night! Get a head start. Get 15% off and free shipping when you spend $75 with the code CYBER
If you are an avid Macy's shopper, don't use the CYBER code instead you get 20% off when you use your Macy's star rewards pass at checkout. Macys

Get an extra 25% off your J Crew order with the code: COLOR25

Madewell can do no wrong. Their holiday sale is no exception. Everything on the site is 25% off with the code TREAT at checkout until Monday at 11:59pm EST.

Cyber Monday starts now at Gap, Banana Republic, and Old Navy. Get 30% off your purchase and 20% off at Piperlime and Althea with the code CYBER at checkout. Merchandise purchased online only till 11/26/12 at 11:59pm EST.

Net-A-Porter surprise 50% off designer sale has got to be the best. Net-A-Porter took their bestsellers and put them on sale. Net-A-Porter

Nordstrom's holiday sale has clothing and accessories from your favorite designers up to 50% off. Get there before all the good stuff is gone. Nordstrom

Rebecca Minkoff's Black Friday Sale ends on Monday night! It is up to 50% off the merchandise. All sales are final. Rebecca Minkoff

xoxo,
Kat

Tory Burch

Now is the time to get whatever you are currently coveting from Tory Burch! From now until Monday at 11:59pm PST, there are 3 ways to save at Tory Burch holiday sale. Spend $300 get 20% off, spend $500 get 25% off, and spend $750 get 30% off. Just use the code GIFTFORYOU at checkout to receive your discount. All orders over $150 receive a limited-edition Tory Burch notecard set.

xoxo,
Kat

Kate Spade Surprise Cyber Sale

I've been stalking Kate Spade all weekend. Everyone advertise their Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals before Thanksgiving, Kate Spade kept mum. Until now, that is.

They literally just opened their online-exclusive surprise cyber sale! Good things come to those who wait. You will find tons of the most popular styles up to 75% off at Kate Spade's Cyber Monday sale, but free domestic ground shipping is included with any order over $200. All sales are final! 

The sale begins today and ends at 11:59pm PST on 11/26/12, so get ahead start.

xoxo,
Kat


Saturday, November 24, 2012

Super Saturday Sales

If you couldn't find any good deals yesterday, or just couldn't stomach Black Friday shopping, here are some amazing Super Saturday SALES to shop now! Super Saturday 2012 is full of markdowns on things you want and need. There are deals on cold weather accessories to presents for everyone on list. Happy Shopping!

xoxo,
Kat

This list is from she finds :

Editors’ Picks:
30% off at DVF with code SHEFINDSDVF
60% off the entire store + tees for only $10 at Gap with code GAPGIFT
25% off at J. Crew with code COLOR25
25% off sitewide at Madewell with code TREAT
Up to 50% off at Net-A-Porter
50% off designer goods + free shipping at Nordstrom
20% off sitewide at Piperlime
20% off orders of $250; 25% off $500; 30% off $1,000 at Shopbop with code BIGEVENT12
Spend $300+ get 20% off, Spend $500+ get 25% off, Spend $750+ get 30% off at Tory Burch with code  GIFTFORYOU (and receive gift with purchase notecards!)
Up to 70% off at Zappos‘ Clearance Sale
More Sale Madness:
20% off everything (including sale items) at Alice + Olivia
20% off at All Saints with code THANKS
30% off sitewide at Anne Klein
25% off sale items at Anthropologie
20% off everything + free shipping at ASOS
Free shipping + free returns at Athleta
25% off at Banana Republic with code BRSHOP25
Up to 40% off at Bare Necessities
Up to 40% off select items at Barneys New York plus complimentary shipping
20% off sitewide at Beauty Sage with code THANKS
15% off regular priced items at Bedhead with code SHEFINDS15
40% off select items at Bergdorf Goodman
Door busters at Best Buy
Free Shipping on orders over $100 from Betsey Johnson with code LOVEBETSEY (or 15% off orders $100 or more with code BETSEY15)
Get a $10 credit at Beyond the Rack with code SHEFINDS
50% off all BCBGeneration dresses, tops, bottoms, & more
20% off at BlingGuard with code SHEBlings
Up to 50% off at Bloomingdale’s
Get a trio of free samples with any purchase at Bobbi Brown with code BBFRIDAY1 or BBFRIDAY2 
Up to 40% off private sales at Boticca
15% off sitewide at Brooks Brothers
40% off select items at Calvin Klein
20% off all purchases at Capwell + Co with code SF12
Free shipping at Chan Luu
20-50% off sitewide at Charlotte Russe
30% off sale items at Club Monaco
Free shipping on orders of $150 or more at Coach 
30% off $100 or more plus free shipping at C. Wonder
Sitewide sale at Delia*s
Save up to 50%, plus free shipping at Donald J. Pliner
30% off at Ella Moss with code THANKFUL30
20% off everything and free shipping at etnies with code CYBERWEEKEND
Free global shipping and up to 50% off at Farfetch
An extra 50% off sale items at Forever 21 with code EXTRA50
$20 off all orders of $195 or more at Forzieri with code SHEFINDS
15% off the holiday gift guide at Gemvara
30-50% off sitewide at GUESS
20% off sitewide at House of Harlow with code CYBER20
Up to 70% off sale items at Intermix
40% off at the James Perse private sale
Up to $135 worth of savings + free shipping at J Brand
20-30% off at Joie
Up to 50% off at Kate Spade
Receive a $15 instant gift card + 3 free samples at Kiehl’s
50-60% off at Kohls + an extra 20% off with code CYBER20
20% off sitewide at Lacoste
30% off sitewide + free shipping at Levi’s with code HOLIDAY
Fall sale up to 30% off at Loeffler Randall
50% off select items at Lord & Taylor
Save up to 50% off at Macy’s with code TURKEY
20% off at Mark.
20% off sitewide at Milly with code HOLIDAY2012
50% off at Modcloth
$25 off any $100 purchase at Murad
Free shipping at NARS
25% off all shoes at Nasty Gal 
40-65% off at Neiman Marcus
Up to 70% off at Nicole Miller
30% off + free shipping at Nina Shoes
20% off at Nine West
Graphics tees are just $5 at Old Navy
40% off private sale at Oscar de la Renta with code HOLIDAY40, receive a deluxe gift with any fragrance purchase with code ODLRGIFT
Up to 40% off select items + free shipping on orders of $199 or more Rachel Roy
25% off sale items + free shipping at Ralph Lauren
Free shipping + returns at Rebecca Minkoff
20% off + free shipping Reiss
Up to 50% off select styles at Saks Fifth Avenue
30% off at Soludos
25% off at Sorel
30% off site wide at Splendid with code THANKS30
Extra 25% off sale items at Stella & Dot
25% off + free shipping at Steve Madden with code GIVE25
Gift with purchase at Stila
20% off sitewide at SwimSpot with code SHEFINDS
Up to 50% off at Target
30% off sitewide at Theory with code THANKS2012
Up to 70% off at The Outnet
30% off select goods, plus spend $30 to get $10 off; $50 for $20 off; and $100 for $50 off at Topshop
20-50% off at Trina Turk
20-30% off at True Religion
25% off sitewide at Unique Vintage
40% off select items + free shipping at Urban Outfitters
Save an extra 30% off sale items at Vince Camuto with code HOLIDAY
Up to 40% off fall winter collection at YOOX + additional 15% off with code YOOXTHANKS
30 percent off sitewide at Yummie Tummie
Up to 80% off at 6pm
30% all purchases + free shipping at 7 for All Mankind with code BLKFRI3012

Friday, November 23, 2012

Oh Henri!


Henri Bendel is having a sale! Here are the deets!
ENJOY $25 OFF EVERY $100 YOU SPEND+
FREE SHIPPING FOR EVERY PURCHASE
USE CODE BFWSPENDSOME AT CHECKOUT until Sunday November 25th.
Plus receive a $25 splurge card on any purchase!
If you are shopping in store today, they will give you an additional missy bendel piggy bank with a $150 purchase! Happy Shopping!


xoxo,
Kat