April 11, 2016
by Julia DiNardo
It’s certainly odd to present a stereotype referring to a nation as having a singular style or look, but during my travels throughout Japan over the past few weeks, some all-encompassing trends were so evident that they were impossible to miss. Naturally, I had pre-conceived notions about what to expect when it came to fashion and beauty there, that for the most part, I reconsidered practically all of them throughout my trip.
I also never realized how “American” I dress, until this trip, and how I am distinctly categorized as such, despite feeling that I tend to not “follow the herd” when it comes to trends. The most dramatic of observances of my “American-ness” in dress was that my silhouette was completely off. Skinny jeans/pants have altogether disappeared for women there, although quite a bevy of American brands and products that harp back to nostalgia, are still relevant, seeing a reincarnation as an “it” brand or product, once again (more on that on the blog later this week).
Naturally, I did a bit of shopping for both fashion and beauty items, and enthusiastically folded these goods into my routine and aesthetic upon my return to the USA. A favorite discovery was certainly Sou Sou Kyoto, a brand that radiates a Marimekko-like vibe in its high quality and iconic prints, coupled with modern interpretations of traditional Japanese kimono, which unbeknownst prior to me, the word actually has many meanings, but more generically means “garment”.
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December 31, 2015
by Julia DiNardo
I go back to Pittsburgh, PA quite often, and after all of this time I still stress out a little over what to pack and what to leave behind. What goes into my handbag is actually the easiest part of it all, as those items tend to pretty much stay them same, with some seasonal updates and swaps. Pictured above are my most dire items, which can usually be found tucked (somewhat) neatly inside of my handbag du jour, with this one being the Rebekah bag in olive from Sole Society.
See below for an explanation of why each of these items are always considered a holiday travel essential to me:
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November 16, 2015
by Julia DiNardo
With the holiday season just around the corner, it’s time to turn up the shine quotient with pieces that behave in a useful, slightly casual yet sophisticated kind of way. I’ll be adding a little festive touch to my day-to-day aesthetic with some modern all-over metallic accessories that have moved away from a wash of miniature glitter bits and iridescence to larger confetti chunks and sequins. It will be hard to miss the opportunity to shine with beauty and accessories items alike; you’ll find the new version o the sparkly stuff in essie’s new fringe luxeeffects polishes, with a sequin clutch being the “it” bag to slide under your arm for the smattering of parties and holiday events that are sure to pop up in the coming weeks.
A few of my favorites are pictured above; I’ll be wearing these silver Sole Society sequin smoking slippers at every chance I can get, pairing with everything from a dress with black tights peeping out from underneath to jacquard trouser pants in a deep wine color. Draped around my neck or resting over my ears will be a set of the ever-stylish FRENDS headphones, making my rush hour commute to work actually enjoyable. I’ll get my face party-ready with these sequin-infused mark. brushes, that can securely be held inside their accompanying clutch, or can leave them on the dresser and take the darling little clutch out into the world with me.
Gleaming metal or all-over sequins are shining brighter than ever this winter; which look will you choose?
In This Look:
Sole Society Camilla Pointed Toe Smoking Slipper in Silver (c/o)
Mark. Clutch Situation 5-Piece Pro Brush Set (c/o)
FRENDS Taylor Headphones (c/o)
October 5, 2015
by Julia DiNardo
It’s crazy what a difference a year can make. At the very least, it can be a reminder to enjoy every moment and take nothing for granted. From a sartorial standpoint, I feel like I’m in a very place than I was a year ago, but then again, my wardrobe hasn’t really changed all that much. My needs may have though, and the concessions that I am willing to make to look and live stylishly certainly aren’t the same. I think as I grow older, an emphasis on stylish comfort resounds, and although I have my gussied up moments, I most importantly need clothes that will move me from my work day to the weekend, from my home to a travel destination, with nary a wrinkle or blister to boot.
Speaking of boots…there’s not much that sets the tone for fall more than a new pair of boots. Continue reading…
