Friday, May 30, 2014

Style Star: Courtney Wilkins

For round three of our style star series, we bring you seriously saavy sneakerhead Courtney Wilkins. Today, she gives us some educated knowledge about the sneaker game - what it is and where it's going. Check out her amazing and unique sporty style, along with some of her great tips for staying true to you. 


Courtney Wilkins



How would you describe your personal style? I would describe my style as street wear meets active wear meets crazy sneakers.  My sneakers are usually what I choose to wear first in the morning.  After I have decided what shoes, the clothes just have to follow. I wear anything from Jordan, to Adidas, to Converse. So long as my feet look good, I’m good.   

How has your personal style evolved throughout the years?  My style evolves every six months, and as I get older my colors have become more muted. I used to wear the brightest outfits and now I tend to only wear black. My shoes, however, are all colors. I don’t mind if they are bright and obnoxious!

Where do you like to shop and why?  I like to shop everywhere. There is not one store I shop at more than others. The store that I would say I get the best buys from would be Adidas. Adidas has so many great collaborations that I love - such as Stella McCartney’s active line. Jeremy Scott has the best collaboration with Adidas; I wish I were always wearing something from his line. Other than that, most of my clothes come from small street wear brands that are either just starting out or are only in New York.




Who/what inspires you? Oddly, I would say that athletes inspire me the most. The way they wear their clothes has always been a look I loved - from the shoes to athletic leggings to a baseball hat. I also love the way "cholas" carry themselves. It’s a strong women sort of vibe in men’s cloths, and still managing to look good.

With so much sneaker knowledge, what do you see next for the sneaker scene? What's the next shoe to have? The sneaker game has changed so much. It's very competitive now. I’m not as eager as I used to be for shoes. Hopefully, in the near future, the hype around sneakers will be gone. 

They’re not going to renew Jordan’s contract, which is needed. I think the time for Jordan’s has come and gone. I think Nike is doing well as far as technology for their shoes. Adidas continues to be the most innovative sneaker brand around. The shoes they put out constantly impress me.



Check out her amazing collection:



What are three tips you would give about establishing a personal style? The first thing would be to be original, because it’s way more interesting when you are not dressed like the person standing next to you. The second thing I would say is when you see styles you like - don’t copy it! Change it up and make it work for you. Lastly, understand what looks good on you, and be comfortable in it. You can always tell when people are not comfortable in something they are wearing. It tends to be the people who copied the style of another.



Keep up with the shoe game by following Courtney on Instagram. Follow what inspires her on her Tumblr page to stay up to date with her amazing style. 

Truly Yours,





P.S. "So long as my feet look good, I'm good." - Courtney Wilkins 

Thursday, May 29, 2014

How to: Summer Weddings

'Tis the season to be married! Once the beautiful weather rounds the corner, our fridge fills with invitations to celebrations of all shapes and sizes. When one is invited to so many ceremonies, it is so easy to be overwhelmed with not knowing what to wear. Follow these simple guidelines, and we promise you will be comfortable, appropriate, and ready to partayyyy!
Topshop Dress / Nordstrom Shoes / Aldo Bag

Outdoor weddings can be tricky because it is key to stay cool. Sticking with a short dress is always smart. Have a little fun with the pattern play and dress it up with a basic clutch. If there is one thing to remember, pick wedges over heels! You will be miserable tiptoeing your way around the grass trying to avoid heel sinkage. 


Destination weddings allow for a lot of play room in terms of dress. Bring out a fun tropical dress to match the atmosphere. As these ceremonies are often on the more laid back and casual side, opting for a pair of sandals is a great idea. You will be comfortable and looking so chic in a pair of metallic gladiators. The shine dresses up the look, and when paired with some great jewelry, you will be ready to dance the night away.

For traditional indoor gatherings, staying neutral and sophisticated will always be appropriate. This lace accented dress is demure and timeless - something you will absolutely be able to wear again. Pair this more simplistic look with a pair of great heels and a statement necklace to be totally wedding ready.


Truly Yours,





P.S. "A woman's dress should be like a barbed-wire fence; serving its purpose without obstructing the view." -Sophia Loren

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Hump Day: Just Beachy

Like we always say, there's nothing more inspiring than good old Mother Earth. Another au naturale theme appears throughout wardrobes and décor to inspire this Hump Day. From the shimmer of shells to the color of creatures, everything beachy is what we're all about! Sit back, relax (even sunbathe if you must), and enjoy the all-summer all-the-time attitude of today's inspiration board. 


Ahh, so calming, isn't it? Try playing with this trend in your wardrobe... it's sure to take the stress out of any day. And while all you beachaholics are soaking up the sun... stop by our Pinterest board for even more sand and sea.

Truly yours,





P.S. "The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul." - Wyland

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

DIY: Body Chains

With yesterday being the "unofficial start of summer" and all, we thought we'd whip out one of our very favorite summer fashion DIYS. Today we're showing you how to make a body chain... a red hot summer staple that can bring so much personalization to your beach wardrobe. With just a few tools and about ten minutes, you can make your own body chain. We're demonstrating the basics here, but we encourage you to use your creativity to take this DIY trend and make it truly you.


What You'll Need:
A Pack of Chain (gold, silver, or any metal you choose)
Matching Jump Rings
Matching Closures
2 Pairs of Pliers (using 1 needle-nose and 1 bent works great)
Wire Cutters 
A Ruler


Step one: Cut the chain into two pieces 11.5" long, two pieces 17.5" long, and one piece 3" long.


Step two: Seperate the closure on a jump ring using your piers. Close the jump ring around the end of a piece of 11.5" chain.


Step three: Seperate another jump ring. Close the jump ring around the end of a piece of 11.5" chain AND a closure.



Step four: Seperate a third jump ring. Close it around the untouched sides of both 11.5" chains AND one side of the 3" chain. Your chains should be connected in a Y-shape and be able to link around your neck. 



Step five: Attach a jump ring to the untouched side of the 3" chain.


Step six: Add both 17.5" chains and close the jump ring.


Step seven: Finally, attach a jump ring and closure on opposing sides of the 17.5" chain. These chains should be able to link around your torso.



Et volià. There you have it, folks. You are ready to spice up your bikini or summer ensemble in no time! Enjoy :)



Truly Yours,





P.S. "Fashion is about dressing according to what's fashionable. Style is more about being yourself." - Oscar de la Renta

Monday, May 26, 2014

Street Style: Lincoln Park

For this round of our fabulous street style series we hit one of our favorite neighborhoods, Lincoln Park! This area is surprisingly up beat with great retail shops, boutiques, and restaurants. After our exploration, it is number one on our list for our next girl's brunch date. It was so fun to see such a variety styles out and about, and we also happened across some seriously awesome shoes...! Be sure to check them out and take a look at these pedestrians totally rocking their looks. 








Where will we hit next?? Keep following us for hints and maybe you will be out at our next street style spot!
Truly Yours,

P.S. "Good shoes take you good places." - Seo Min Hyun


Friday, May 23, 2014

How-to: Work It Out in Style

We know we are not the only ones on that summertime work out grind. Gotta get in shape for bikini days at the beach! We would just like you all to know that going to the gym doesn't mean you have to break out your oversized high school t-shirt. There is actually extremely stylish workout gear - all of which is engineered to enhance your performance and results! And no, you don't need to spend crazy bucks to get these amazing sweat-worthy pieces! With new athletic lines from stores like Urban Outfitters, you can find great pieces at any price. 

Free People, $60 / Net-a-Porter, $90 / Bloomingdales, $220 







Ditch those decade-old duds and treat your body and your work out routine to some fresh styles. You will not be sorry and will definitely get some stares in and out of the gym. ;) 


Truly Yours,





P.S. "I have always believed that fashion was not only to make women more beautiful, but also to reassure them, give them confidence." - Yves Saint Laurent

Thursday, May 22, 2014

1 Item 5 Ways: Crop Top

With summer finally rolling around the corner, we can all get ready to see and show a lot of skin. But, let's remember that sometimes a little can go a long way. Crop tops have become, quite possibly, the largest summer trend in years... and we are huge fans. This fab silhouette keeps you cool and can totally be flattering on all body types! How, you ask? The secret is to pair it with a high waisted bottom! Dress it up or dress it down - you will be rocking crop tops all season long while looking super cute and stylish.

With High Waisted Jeans
This look is perfect for a chilly day or a relaxing night with your girls. The high-waisted silhouette will accentuate that itty-bitty waist of yours and look totally flattering for a day of fun.

Get the Look:
Crop - Urban Outfitters
Jeans - American Apparel
Similar Shoes - Urban Outfitters


With Trousers
For a more casual summer work look, pair your basic crop with a pair of professional trousers. The trendy look will add some flare to your usual office outfit while still remaining sophisticated and totally happy-hour ready.

Get the Look:
Crop - Topshop 
Similar Blazer - Nordstrom
Similar Trousers - Forever 21
Similar Sandals - Akira


With Silk Shorts
Hitting the town tonight? Try a crop top with a nicer pair of shorts and you are ready to go! Again, remember a high-waisted bottom will eliminate the worry of a showing too much while looking effortlessly stylish for a great evening.

Get the Look:
Similar Jacket - Isabel Marant
Similar Shorts - Forever 21
Similar Shoes - Urban Outfitters


With Denim Cut-offs
Jean shorts and a crop top - the ultimate summer outfit. It is true, this look is perfect for a busy day running errands, attending a festival in the park, hitting the beach... the list can go on! Pair it with some comfy shoes and accessories that pop for a perfect summer style statement.

Get the Look:
Crop - Topshop 
Similar Shorts - Forever 21
Socks - Topshop
Shoes - Converse
Similar Bag - Nordstrom


With a High-Waisted Midi
Looking to rock this trend on date night? No problem! A high-waisted midi will make your favorite crop dinner ready in no time.

Get the Look:
Crop - Topshop 
Similar Kimono - H&M
Skirt - H&M
Similar Shoes - Nordstrom


Mix up and personalize these looks with your favorite summer accessories. From day to night, your crop top will be your best friend in the heat of the summer. Just remember, high-waisted everything! Showing just a little skin can be so sexy and so flattering. You get the stylishness of this popular trend while remaining sophisticated and everyday appropriate. Happy cropping! 

Truly Yours,
P.S. "Dress shabbily and they remember the dress; dress imbeccably and they remember the woman." - Coco Chanel





 

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