Embroidered Denim

Over the weekend, Chris and I toured Paisley Park, the 65,000-square foot compound in the western Minneapolis suburbs Prince called home. It was pretty unreal to walk the same hallways the mysterious, mythical legend walked just a year ago. I never saw him in real life, and so wish I could've. Not many celebs stick around Minnesota and it's crazy to think about Prince chilling just a few miles down the road from my uptown apartment. 

The tour lasted about an hour. The baby blue Bentley, club, countless guitars, Grammys, studios and sound stage were cool—and you could even sample the pancakes Prince famously served at parties—but his costumes were my favorite part. Something about seeing the actual garments he wore was really magical, and about as close to the icon as I'll ever be. Custom fit for someone half my size (seriously—these clothes were TINY!), the intricately patterned, embroidered and bedazzled blouses, suits and heeled boots seemed to vibrate with talent, stories and secrets. 

Wandering through the wardrobe displays, I was reminded of this Vogue story on fall's embroidery trend and the growing desire for clothing with an artisanal, hand-made feel. "Most people don't regularly get to wear embroidered Valentino gowns or Gucci blazers, so a little embroidery on a pair of cutoffs or a t-shirt is a playful nod to couture," says Tessa Perlow. "It just makes a piece feel personal and extra-special." 

Prince's fashions might have been a little out there, but they were undeniably him. Undeniably special. Embroidered denim gives you a taste of that custom, one-of-a kind look—so much cooler than unadorned blue jeans pulled off the rack at any anonymous department store, and still so wearable. It's refreshing to look a little different than everyone else, isn't it?—something Prince probably would've appreciated. Style yours with a simple bodysuit and sleek mules to balance the look.

Topshop Embroidered Denim for $110:

one | two | three 

Beret Revival

My week in a word? Frazzled. Last weekend, I let homemade pizza and a Broad City marathon take precedence over my to-do list, which started Monday on a stressed, distracted note. All I could think about until five o'clock was getting to the grocery store and washing my whites. I slept later than intended on Tuesday and Wednesday, and the morning workouts missed left me feeling frumpy and vaguely irritable. Today, I have the fridge stocked, fresh sheets on the bed, a couple cardio sessions completed, and life generally back on track.

A little trick I learned along the way? The beret. The eternally chic and very en vogue accessory disguises a messy mane when you don't have time to fully style (or have more pressing matters to attend to), while managing to ooze effortless Parisian panache. It has all the comfort of a beanie in a more sophisticated package—and is popping up all over NYC. More for style than warmth (but still functional in brisk weather), the iconic French topper can be worn all year, dressed down for hasty commutes or up when you want the attention.

Satin Bomber

I've always wanted to experience the glamorous frenzy of New York Fashion Week. But the runways are rolled out and models made up for another season—and I'm sitting in Minnesota, just trying to sneak in a car wash before it snows again. For now, dressing as if I'm dashing from Erin Fetherston to Public School will do. Of the nine trends ELLE reports everyone actually in Manhattan will be wearing, the satin bomber is my first priority. Bombers have been "back" for a while, but a sateen finish gives the old-school style a new, luxe quality that would make Bill Cunningham double-back for some snaps. Substantial yet typically worn unzipped, it's the perfect bridge between down coat and crop top to kick off spring shopping. And while normally drawn to black or army green, something about this copper color feels fresher, more daring—more fashion-y. I'll wear it with a rusty brick-red nail lacquer for a tonal effect.

Do you have plans for Valentine's Day this weekend? If you're hitting the town, a hot-shot bomber will offer a trendy, casual twist to a slinky midi dress. I'm excited to check out a landmark Minneapolis piano bar/polka lounge tonight, indulge at one of my favorite Eat Street restaurants on Saturday, and make a cozy brunch while watching non-stop Netflix and hiding out from the snow on Sunday! Enjoy your weekend. xx

Bodysuits: Two Ways

Once reserved for ballerinas twirling across center stage and daring celebrities strutting down Rodeo, leotards and bodysuits are now fair game for casual fashionistas everywhere—helped in large part by Reformation's notorious 'Avalon' number. A second-skin fit makes them an effortless layer under overalls or tucked into hip-hugging jeans for day, and a modern alternative to traditional camis for night, gracefully balancing wide-leg crops. The clean silhouette appeals to my classic, jeans-and-tshirt aesthetic while offering a more stylish look than a basic sweater or blouse. I'm no Misty Copeland, but see the chic piece swiftly becoming my new uniform.

LOOK ONE / DAY | Long Sleeve Bodysuit | Overalls | Pointy Toe Flats

LOOK TWO / NIGHT | Velvet Plunge Bodysuit | Cropped Wide Leg Pants | Cage Pumps (50% off) 

SHOP MORE MUST-HAVE BODYSUITS

Best of: Quilted Coats

CALLING IT: quilted coats are the season's must-have outerwear style. Once found only at elite retailers like Barbour, most brands now carry a version—so, splurging or saving, you can snag the preppy, quintessentially fall look. Kind of makes you want to head for the stables and ride a stallion through the colorful countryside, right?! Just me?

TRADITIONAL | one | two | three

UPDATED | one | two | three

MORE QUILTED COATS FOR A COUNTRY RIDE (or stylish city livin'!)

Best of: Fur

Are you a fur girl? Most people have polarizing opinions on the controversial fashion. I can't say I have extensive experience with the luxe look, but while an undergrad, I bought a shaggy white faux fur vest from a local boutique that I loved. The thought of it now makes me LOL, but a sleeker and more modern brown or black fur is definitely a desirable and popular way to stay warm and stylish in winter.

I stopped into Anthropologie on my lunch break last week, and from stoles to sweaters, it seemed every table and rack boasted something fur-lined or trimmed. I've been seeing marten and mink in my dreams since, and thinking it's time to pick up a replacement for that white vest I outgrew. Creeping to the top of my list? This Pilcro Faux-Fur Denim Jacket—so wearable and the perfect mix of glam and girl next door. And thinking ahead a few months, this tank would be HOT for a holiday party or New Year's Eve, this vest is the epitome of aprés-ski chic for a mountain getaway, and this jacket is so fun and extravagant in a fabulous Carrie Bradshaw way for snowy forecasts.

How are you wearing fur this fall? 

men's fall essentials with lands' end's alex kirwan

Coming in hot on a Monday with my first casse-croute interview! After working in men's apparel for three years prior to my current job, I have a full-blown thing for guy style—browsing Askov Finlayson or just passing a masculine button-down/dark denim ensemble on the street makes me feel warm 'n fuzzy. While I'm no longer writing copy for Lighthouse Chinos or Squall Jackets, I maintain a healthy hobbyist interest in the field. And with October around the corner, it's time to start surveying your cold-weather wardrobe and filling in the gaps! Rather than curate my own list of fall essentials, I enlisted my former coworker, Alex, to share what's on his radar this season. As both a male and a menswear merchant, he offers a smart and stylish insider perspective that has me beat on both counts!

Get to know Alex then shop his must-haves for a handsome fall!

NAME: Alex Kirwan
TITLE: Associate Merchant, Men's Knits at Lands' End
HOMETOWN: Rochester, NY
LANDS' END IS RIGHT OUTSIDE MADISON, WI. FAVORITE MADISON RESTAURANT? Too many, but my top three are Forequarter, Grampa's Pizza and Natt Spil.

A TYPICAL DAY AT LANDS' END LOOKS LIKE: This is cliché, but almost every day is different. We're constantly collaborating with Design, Creative, Sourcing and Planning, so one day we might review key looks for the season, and the next, analyze financials.
WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT WORKING AS A MERCHANT? Someone might be surprised at the level to which we're involved in product development. When I tell people what I do, most say they thought merchants just bought fabric or placed factory orders.
WHY IS NOW AN EXCITING TIME TO WORK AT LANDS' END? Our new CEO has a lot of exciting ideas about evolving and growing the brand while staying true to our classic, nautical roots.

WHAT FALL TRENDS ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT? I'm just excited about layering in general. I love outerwear, too, so I'm ready to break out my coats and jackets.
WHAT MENSWEAR PIECE NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE? Jeans. Denim in general, actually.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO SHOP FOR? Shoes and outerwear.
LAST THING YOU BOUGHT FOR YOURSELF? A garment-dyed Gitman Vintage Oxford shirt from the Unionmade seasonal sale.
FAVORITE BRANDS? I can't afford them, but currently love Officine Générale and AMI.
STYLE ICON? Ariel and Shimon Ovadia, the twin brothers behind Ovadia & Sons.

Abraham Moon Wool Topcoat

This coat is made with a beautiful wool donegal from Abraham Moon, one of the most famous woolen mills in the UK. The little colored neps in the fabric give it great texture and dimension. 

Slim Fit Chambray Shirt

Chambray shirts are a staple in my closet. I wear the light-wash one with dark jeans and the darker with faded denim. 

Tipped Mesh Polo

The tipping detail on this polo reminds me of vintage Fred Perry polos, and gives it a bit of a mod feel. 

Serious Sweats Striped Crewneck Sweatshirt 

The Serious Sweats crew and full-zip are the most comfortable sweats I own—seriously. I like the nautical update the Breton stripe gives this one. 

Vans Premium Leather Sneakers

I love the look of indigo and navy with white leather sneakers. These are classic and a great solve if you like the look of Common Projects, but not the $400 price tag.

daytime sparkle

THIS WEEKEND. AHH. I'm officially obsessed with Minneapolis. Nothing major happened, but a combination of amazing weather that cast the city in the most gorgeous on-the-brink-of-fall glow and the exploration of hip neighborhoods and historic hot spots has me appreciating the 612 in a whole new way.

In the spirit of second looks, I'm embracing sequins via fall's mixing-night-and-day trend. Even at prom and New Year parties—occasions made for gaudy glamour—I've always said "no" to sequined gowns and their plea for attention. But now, thanks to Jenna Lyons and a tip from InStyle, the idea of introducing a sparkly nighttime shirt or shoe to the bright light of day is really appealing. I love the confident contrast of high-shine glitz against casual & conservative sweaters, denim and earthy fabrics. And judging by Tibi's spring '16 runway show, the look won't be a one-season wonder.

If you're too timid to let your glitter flag fly, a flashy sparkly manicure does the trick!

High Neck Bodysuit | Silver T-shirt | Cut-out Boots

Sunglasses | Pull-on Pants | Slingback Heels | Leggings

Shift Dress | Skirt | Rain Boots | Square Studs | Clutch

MORE WAYS TO GET YOUR DAYTIME DISCO BALL ON

found. james jeans satin combo blazer.

Let me preface this post by saying I originally created this series for aspirational, probably-out-of-my-price-range pieces that the fashion lover in me can't help but flirt with (so if you see $600 boots and wonder whether I know my audience, there's my answer). I will also feature lower-end items that really strike me, but FOUND is an end-of-the-week, we've-made-it-to-Friday, free reign safe space for me (and you) to go gaga over a really amazing boot, bracelet, beret—or in today's case, blazer.

So let's gaga.

Both menswear and velvet were identified as discrete trends for fall, meaning this James Jeans Satin Combo Blazer kills two sartorial birds with one stone. And the type A in me loves that efficiency. Satin lapels add a level of luxury to an already fit-for-a-queen velvet garment that will have the masses gathering at your knees and yearning for a feel. There's something about a tailored jacket that makes you feel like snapping some whips and capable of commanding a room, right? The business-minded silhouette mixed with festive, here-to-party fabric means this cold weather must-have will stun for work or play—versatility that I say justifies a little splurge.

Get inspired with more ways to wear velvet this season from Vogue.

windowpane print

With the exception of a few super casual sundresses, I try to extend my wardrobe by buying clothes that work on and off the clock. Like Breton stripes, a windowpane print seamlessly bridges the gap between dressy and casual. It looks expensive, and the pattern adds interest without being busy, distracting or juvy. The trend has been going strong since 2013, but I didn't see anything I needed until this pretty silk cami appeared on PLIG. I'll wear it to the office with ankle pants (a solid color, contrasting pattern, or this floral would be really fun), on weekends with a distressed denim skirt, and into fall with a jean jacket or army anorak. Shop the trend below!

While I'm starting to think transitional when it comes to my closet, I'm keeping my meals seasonal! It's almost August and I haven't yet had the holiest of summer sandwiches: the BLT. My mom said she was going to make an open-faced style this week after picking up tomatoes at a farmer's stand, and I think I need to follow suit! Hope your week's going well!!

Poor Little It Girl | Song of Style | The College Prepster | Damsel in Dior

his style: short suit

Short suits are on my mind today! I was unsure how I felt about the stylish man's summer-occasion uniform when it started popping up at popular retailers last year, but you can now consider me a big fan. The combination of casual shorts and a crisp sport coat is seemingly such a paradox, but having the savvy and self-assuredness to wear something from the fashion frontlines is hugely appealing. This time of year, it's really only practical to cut the pants off a bit above the knee. And as street style star Nick Wooster proves, you don't have to be twenty-five to go short. If you have weddings ahead yet this summer, it's definitely worth picking up an "abbreviated" pantsuit at 30% off. Swirling a Scotch as the happy couple cuts the cake, you'll be cool and comfortable, and the ladies will be captivated. ;-)

images one | two | three | four

Ludlow Suit in Fine-Striped Cotton (Scarlet)

Ludlow Suit in Italian Cotton Piqué (French Navy)

30% OFF with code GOSHOPPING

—J.Crew Suit Shop—

coffin nails

via The Coveteur

SHOP THIS LOOK: Blazer | Tee | Thin Hinged Choker | Tube Choker
Long Chain Necklace | Feather Chain Necklace | Union Jack Black polish 

When I first saw these extra-long, extra-pointy Cruella de Vil nails on Khloe and Kylie on KUWTK reruns (pause for embarrassment), I thought they looked a little grotesque. High-maintenance for sure. How do you pull your platinum card out of a tightly packed wallet with those? And think of the dirt catching underneath...

But I've since spotted the daggers on the more down-to-earth California girl Lo Bosworth (and elsewhere around the internet), and can't help but lean team de Vil. Sculpted like works of art in chip-less glossy lacquer or a matte coating, these coffin, almond and stiletto nail shapes are impossibly glam—and pretty sexy. Once reserved for an elderly leisure class and women that just kind of make your nose scrunch up (I'm thinking Janice from "Friends"), the K-clan and other "it" girls are modernizing long nails that are more attainably enviable than aristocratic or trashy. Clipped is the '90s notion that short nails are "classier." And you really can't argue with the finger-elongating illusion.

If you're sipping what I'm pouring, learn how to get the look you like here. And because this post is turning into a mani-palooza, shop the polish shades best-suited to your star sign here (I'm lilac—and a sucker for such astrological mumbo jumbo). AND, below—'cause I love you so—the colors I'm swiping on this summer. xoxo.

1 | Clam Bake 2 | To Dye For 3 | Chillato 4 | AmazON AmazOFF

5 | Yummy Mummy 6 | Alpine Snow 7 | Delphine 8 | Kip

9 | Huile Abricot Daily Nutritive Serum
nourishes cuticles while smoothing and strengthening nails 

10 | Rich Girl SPF 25 Hand Cream
brightens and evens skin tone while protecting from UV damage

11 | Matte Finish topcoat 12 | High Shine topcoat

the skort

Ahhhhh. I woke up with some kind of cold Monday morning (maybe I jumped the gun on sleeping with my windows open?!), and getting through the week has been ROUGH. It's taking extra effort to keep my eyes open at work, so finding the energy to write a smart blog post once I get home is kind of out of the question. But I'm nonetheless excited about skorts and wanted to sound the alarm. I remember having a decent selection of these growing up, but the ones popping up at Tibi, Topshop—even J.Crew—aren't for the kiddos. Crossover details and asymmetrical or flared hemlines offer femininity and sophistication without abandoning all sportiness. I don't wear shorts often, but the tailored look of a skort makes showing some leg much more appealing—and is a necessary alternative to jeans on a hot and humid night. Just pass the Jergens..

image via

show some shoulder

Back in 2009, I interned at a book publicity company in NYC. Living in the greatest city on earth was as much the experience as the internship, and I had three great roommates to see and do it all with. Some of the best times, though, were at the intersection of 23rd and 3rd, just sitting around the kitchen table (we jokingly/affectionately called it "table time"), drinking red wine from solo cups, listening to Kings of Leon and Santigold, and deciding what to do that night. One of my roommates was from Texas. She had long, stick-straight blond hair and the coolest, funniest personality. She was interning at some atelier—I can't remember which now—she knew all the best sample sales to hit, and I was a little intimidated by her fashion prowess. A loose, off-the-shoulder blouse was one of her signature looks. At the time, I didn't feel like I could pull it off, but the trend gained a lot of traction in 2014, proving showing off your shoulders this spring is definitely not just for fashion-savvy girls who say "y'all." The look is really flattering on everyone—I don't know many people whose "problem area" is their decolletage/neckline—and gives off a really carefree, quietly sexy vibe. I linked to a ton of pretty options below, all under $200! The blue and white embroidered and red floral are my favorites, perfect for sipping a cocktail on a sun-drenched patio. (P.S. Sorry for the ridiculous lyrics I pasted onto this photo, but does anyone NOT think of this song when you're talking shoulders?! It'll be playing in my head whenever I pull out this look.)

 

image via WhoWhatWear

runway review

J.Crew presented its fall line yesterday at New York Fashion Week, and while I thought I wasn't as infatuated with the brand as I once was, the downright delicious pieces reminded me that my lukewarm attitude is just a byproduct of not being able to afford everything (because I want everything) in the collection. I love the easy ankle pants, fresh color combinations and—of course—oversize scarves. It's all infused with a 1970s spirit that feels characteristically stylish, effortless and right on. I can't wait to drape myself in all the cable knit, fringed and sequined glory—especially these six looks, which I can see most seamlessly fitting into my current wardrobe (wink). The casually tucked lemon turtleneck and belted blush skirt with pop-y floral pumps is refined perfection, I'm pleasantly surprised by the pairing of a longer, looser purple blazer with green patchwork pants, and I'd happily wear neon peach heels, jeans and a furry hooded jacket every.single.day. See everything up close and personal right here.

photos via Racked.com

stellasport

While most people have MORE motivation for the gym in January, the first month of the year was decidedly underachieving for my fitness. I blame the flu and an inability to break my holiday sleeping-in streak. I'm slowly ramping back up to my regular schedule, and StellaSport is just the help I need to get over the hump. Targeting a younger shopper than Adidas by Stella McCartney, the athleisure line by Sir Paul's designer daughter blends performance tech (need) with fashion appeal (want) in a high-energy but very wearable way. The line's leggings are my favorites; I wear running tights regardless of workout and don't have NEARLY enough. And after spotting several girls in flashy neon and tie-dye at the ski hill last weekend, can't stop thinking about adding some spice to my basic black separates. Of course, the best thing about StellaSport is you can (and should) wear it even when plowing through pancakes and avocado toast at your weekly brunch spot is the only cardio you're considering. Click through the entire lookbook here!

Black Leggings | Blue Leggings | Colorblock Leggings 

More from StellaSport

background image via

anthropologie pants

I can't stop thinking about the jumpsuits Cara Delevingne and Jourdan Dunn sported at a celebration of Stella McCartney's Resort 2015 collection. McCartney is quoted on style.com discussing the designs, "Isn't it nice to get some color back into your life, and print, just to feel alive?" In the middle of dreary February, the answer, Ms. McCartney, is YES. This snap from the bubbles and balloons-filled fete inspired me to snuff out similarly lighthearted patterns and billowy silhouettes at more pedestrian price points. Not surprisingly, Anthropologie has a rich assortment of colorful trousers, culottes and crops that convey that same garden party personality. Normally religious about skinny jeans, the effortlessness of drapey wide-leg styles really makes me re-think my spring pants strategy. Shake off winter's chains and shop my picks for a fun, free new season below!

image via

hot now 4

Calvin Klein is synonymous with underwear. In the 1980s, the designer introduced a wildly successful line of men's boxer shorts, and in the '90s, larger-than-life billboards of Marky Mark (recently recreated by Nick Jonas..!) helped his underwear become known as simply Calvins. I've always considered the brand more of a guy's game, but recent photos of it models Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner in the new Modern Cotton line are slapping that idea straight down. The collection features updated cotton and prominent logo bands. I'm obsessed with the nineties-nostalgic, tomboy look of the racerback bras and shorts—perfect for lounging and lazy weekends at home! I don't know about you, but I'm snagging (at least) one of every color.

SHOP THE BOARD

Modern Cotton Bralette
also available here

Modern Cotton Shorts
also available here

Complete Modern Cotton collection
More Calvin Klein underwear 

top images via

look of the week 10

Just like when she picked up her own milk and eggs at the supermarket, the media's going crazy over the D of C's recent decision to wear—gasp—a hoodie. While it is a striking contrast to chiffon gowns and fascinators, it's refreshing to see a royal in such bourgeois garb. And—cue the Kate Middleton effect—no matter what she wears, we're all going to drop everything and scramble to follow suit. So dig an old sweatshirt out from your closet (yay for my overflowing collection finally coming in handy) or use this as an excuse to get a new one. Wear it with skinny jeans and sleek riding boots so you're not too sloppy and—poof—new weekend wardrobe. It's never been so easy to copy Kate.

SHOP THE BOARD

1 | Nike Hoodie 2 | Burberry Sunglasses

3 | Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment in Rosé 4 | J Brand Skinny Jeans

5 | Seychelles Riding Boots 6 | Longchamp Tote

7 | Sapphire Ring 8 | Stud Earrings

inspiration images via: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

More ways to get the look: 

his style 6

I got majorly sucked into a Vanderpump Rules marathon this weekend, and oh-em-gee that show is pure gold (in a ridiculous reality-show way). It's hard not to laugh at Stassi's insane insults and even harder to turn away from the lying, cheating, general debauchery and rampant life-destroying that is every storyline. In one episode, the boys get their eyebrows threaded—which is a little too femme for me—but indicative of a larger trend: habits and products once reserved for women are now very much coed. Bracelets are right there with moisturizer, slim-fit jeans and Sumowax. I'm not interested in seeing dainty Tiffany chains draped around a guy's wrist, but a few leather wraps or colorful cords are handsome details—and well-established accessories in the world of men's style. Many have a nautical feel, giving your look a carefree, just-docked-the-boat spirit whether worn with a sweatshirt or a suit. Shop my top picks below—great last-minute gifts—then enjoy these gems from SUR's very own Regina George.

SHOP THE BOARD

1 | 2 | 3

4 | 5 | 6

7 | 8 | 9

*HURRY! 5 and 9 are almost sold out!