September 12, 2016
by Julia DiNardo

Right now, we are in a transitional state. The seasons are not only on the cusp of shifting, but so is the mentality regarding fashion week. Designers seem divided in their stance; some, like Rebecca Minkoff, and now, Banana Republic, bucked the traditional fashion week showing of the following season (i.e. spring/summer 2017 shown in September of 2016, fall/winter 2017 shown in February, 2017), for a “see now, buy now” approach, with items immediately available for purchase, and relevant to the time of year in which they are sold. This definitely is a great idea and caters to the consumer; I think its long term success will be based in the widespread adoption of this concept, as it can otherwise cause confusion as to what is available for sale now, or for six months from now.


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September 11, 2016
by Rachael Comeau
Just as fall is about to begin, New York Fashion Week is taking us past the colder seasons and right into Spring/Summer 2017. There are still plenty of shows to come, but key trends for the next summer season are already making themselves known. Long, effortless silhouettes, eccentric prints, and monochromatic looks all make the list, but many designers are choosing to showcase one of the most classic, and uber-girly trends of them all: ruffles. Jill Stuart took a well-fitting, subtle and modern approach in her most recent collection, showing her signature black and white looks with complementing ruffle detailing. Contrasting that was found in Brock Collection, whose use of bold ruffle detailing on the slits of midi skirts made a huge statement on the runway.
Creatures of Comfort and Marissa Webb went with perhaps the most attractive route to this trend seen thus far, and chose to incorporate smaller ruffles into blouses and breezy sundresses. Ruffles played a key role in Webb’s collection, who reiterated before her show that she aims to dress the New York, modern, feminine woman. Click through the slideshow above to see more of how this season’s designers incorporated the ruffle trend into their collections, a look that will surely make its way into your summer wardrobe, if it isn’t there already.
September 9, 2016
by Julia DiNardo

[Wishing my new job was as official greeter at the entrance to The Island House, Nassau]
You know that feeling of coming back from vacation, and needing another vacation? This was the first time in years that I’ve returned from a trip and not felt that urge at all, which means that The Island House is doing everything right! It took my fifth trip to Nassau with my best friend to finally find true paradise: deep relaxation, easy entertainment, state-of-the-art amenities, incredibly delicious food, and the BEST coffee ( a must!).

[A spectacular view at the heart of The Island House, from the porch at the restaurant, Shima]
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September 7, 2016
by Julia DiNardo

It’s that time of year again…which can bring both groans and excitement to any household experiencing school back in session. To help ease into a stylish start of the season, we’ve teamed up with Dove to offer this Back-To-School Essentials Giveaway, a $100 value! It includes two Dove Advanced Care Antiperspirants in the newest fragrances of Soothing Chamomile and Restore (retail value of $4.99 each), as well as a four items from ban.do! You’ll get the Ban.do Backpack, ($65), Ban.do Planner ($20), and Ban.do Notebook set ($14), which are so cool, I am almost convinced to take a couple of classes in order to put them to good use. Almost.
See the rules of entry below, and good luck!
RULES OF ENTRY:
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