Summer 2012

Labor Day Weekend: Bring on the White!

“No white before Memorial Day and no white after Labor Day”- a fashion rule we’ve all heard year after year. Well, it’s Labor Day weekend and although we don’t necessarily follow the rule, we are stocking up on our favorite white hot summer looks before we pile on layers of cashmeres, leathers and knits for fall. All season we’ve lived in our laid-back preppy white shorts, our casual, chic white skinny jeans, and our favorite little white lace dress- so break them out this weekend and get ready to wear them one last time before summer’s end. Here’s how we are styling summer’s best bright white pieces this Labor Day:

Saturday Night Out

This weekend, take your little white dress from day to night and from summer into fall. Add a few glam accessories and a blazer for a night out. We love a pair of strappy black heels and edgy extras to put a twist on the feminine lace. Take the look further into fall by layering up with a cashmere cardigan, a leather or fur vest, and adding black opaque tights and boots.

Sunday Funday

For a casual Sunday, whether you’re brunching with friends, spending the day with the family, or enjoying the afternoon around town, this is the perfect day to wear your white shorts one last time. Pair them with a chambray shirt and pretty gold accessories for an effortlessly stylish look.

Labor Day Monday

Celebrate Labor Day in style and rock your favorite white jeans that you’ve worn all summer. Wear them with a festive top in blue or red and accessorize with fall neutrals. Bring your white jeans into fall by pairing them with boots and a chunky knit sweater.

Style is all about taking risks. So wear your whites this Labor Day weekend, pile on the layers, and dare to wear your whites all season long. After all, what’s fashion without a little rule breaking anyways?

~Lisa, fashioniSTA

70% Off Sale Extended for Labor Day!

We’re celebrating Labor Day with a bang!
We’ve extended our 70% off sale on all summer merchandise, now through Monday, September 3rd.
Give summer a proper send-off, and while you’re there you can also save 20% off new arrivals!

ALL LOCATIONS*
www.secondtimearound.net

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Murray Hill, NYC location is excluded from this event.*

Getting an Inside Look at Project Runway with Eila Mell

Last time Eila Mell and I spoke was back in February, in the thick of New York Fashion Week. We were discussing her previous book – New York Fashion Week – and she alluded to a new project in the works focused on Project Runway. Well now it’s six months later, and Eila’s book - Project Runway: The Show That Changed Fashion - has hit shelves to the glee of both critics and Project Runway fans. Eila spoke with us about what it took to put this book together, and the style she encountered along the way.

STA: I’m so glad I’m getting to talk to you again, I’m so excited about your book!
Eila Mell: Thank you! It was so much fun doing it, but, you know, it’s nice when it’s done.

STA: What made you gravitate towards making PR the focus of your book?
EM: In my last book, I touched on PR.  For a show that not a lot of people had faith in at the very beginning to be approaching it’s 10th anniversary is an incredible milestone.  I felt that now was a perfect time to celebrate the show in a book.

STA: Who was your favorite contestant that you interviewed?
EM: I feel a little uncomfortable using the word favorite just because I don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings, but I have to say I have a very soft spot for a few of them. But my absolute best would have to be Emilio Sosa – he’s fantastic, so talented.

STA: Love him! He just debuted his own line at NYFW in February.
EM: It was a beautiful show, my favorite that I went to, and I can’t wait to see what he does in September. He was also nominated for a Tony Award designing the costumes for Porgy and Bess, so he’s had an amazing year. What people might not know is that he’s really funny, he has the best personality. I don’t know how much people got to see that on the show because in the show he was focused on the work.

STA: This year is Project Runway’s 10th season, what do you think has made this show sustainable for so long?
EM: Absolutely because of the show’s integrity.  It’s not manipulated, and what you’re seeing is creative people do what they do best. The cast is the best in the business, and that’s why people respect the show so much. You don’t just have whoever as judges, they have Michael Kors, they have Nina, it’s just an amazing show. There is no other place that showcases designers and gives them a voice other than PR.

STA: Any favorite Season 10 designers?
EM: I am loving Ven Budhu – his [candy design] was amazing (shown at right), you couldn’t even tell it was candy! Right now I’m rooting for him, he’s super talented.

STA: Any fun tidbits from working on the book?
EM: Here’s a funny thing, when I met Heidi for the first time, I actually ended up insulting her without meaning to. I was talking to her and said, “How does it feel to have the contestants think of you as the mean judge?” And she said, “I’m the mean judge?!” She didn’t know! She was very good-natured about it, and not insulted, but I was sitting there thinking, “Oh my gosh, what did I say?!” Because people talk about it on the show! She was laughing and didn’t care. But then I was so relieved, because this woman who worked with her Googled it and said, “No no Heidi, they do, they refer to you as ‘Klum of Doom’!”

STA: Well she’s got that tough German accent and she tells it like it is!
EM: I think that’s what makes her so good, and I hope that people give her the credit she deserves. In comparison to some of the other hosts on reality TV, you can really see what a great job she is doing.

STA: And that seems to be one of the reasons the show does so well.
EM: You have Heidi coming at it as a model, she’s worn the clothes and knows designers. Then you have Michael Kors who is a designer, and he understands the creative process. And then Nina comes at it from an editorial point of view. That blend is really what makes the dynamic work because you’re getting three very valid points of view. Other shows just don’t have that.

STA: Do you have a favorite interviewee?
EM: Getting to interview Michael Kors was a career high for me. I was floating for days after. He’s someone who I think is so talented and brilliant business-wise. I love that he started from a modest background and built an empire. I think that’s fascinating.

STA: And Nina Garcia seems like an enigma to me, I wouldn’t know what to expect if I met her.
EM: She’s very cool and very together, just like she is on the show. She’s so chic, oh my gosh…her closet is the one I would want.

STA: Since NYFW is almost upon us, what are you looking forward to?
EM: Absolutely looking forward to what the PR designers are doing! Emilio [Sosa] is showing, Victor [Luna, from Season 9] is showing – I have a soft spot for those two, my buddies. And then Michael Kors always, he’s incredible. It’s fun to see what Marc Jacobs does, and [I love] Alexander Wang and Altuzarra. I cover the shows for FashionWatch.com, and I have a ball doing that. I also have my own blog called Not Without My Gucci [notwithoutmygucci.blogspot.com], I don’t know if people still get the Sally Field reference, but I still think it’s funny!

We’ll definitely have to keep on the lookout for your coverage while reading your new book!

~Ashley, FashioniSTA

Back to School and Campus Cool

Summer is nearing it’s end which means last minute vacation getaways, fall fashion, and the most dreaded back to school. Although going back to school isn’t very exciting for most of us, the shopping for back to school is. With so many new trends and with those trends circling their way around each year, we’ve come up with a few fashioniSTA back to school basics for your wardrobe. Not only are these pieces super versatile, but they will keep you looking stylish all year long.

The Jacket
Basic Black Blazer: First and foremost, if your closet does not already have one of these hanging in it, GET ONE.  A blazer is an absolute wardrobe essential. Wear it over your sun dresses or shorts for a great transitional summer to fall look, and pair it with jeans and ballet flats for an effortlessly chic look.
Biker Jacket: A motorcycle inspired topper is a favorite jacket for spring or fall. We love fun details like zippers, buckles, or studs, but if that’s not your style, opt for a simple jacket in white or brown. Again, these jackets look great over your summer dresses or a feminine blouse- the contrast is super stylish and edgy.
Faux Fur Vest: Bring on the layers this fall because we love love love a layered look with a fur vest! Girls, wear it over everything (even your biker jacket).

The Jeans
Boyfriend: These laid back and comfortable jeans are perfect for the campus or classroom. They have that “I-just-rolled-out-of-bed-and-still-look-amazing” effortless style to them. Pair them with a plain white tee and a fun pair of flats.
Legging: Oh-so-comfy and stylish. Can’t go wrong.
Colored: Last fall colored denim really made a name for itself, and this year the trend is still going strong. We love a pair of brightly colored jeans paired with a neutral chunky knit sweater and moto-boots.
Printed: If you want to make a statement in your classroom, rock a pair of printed jeans- just make sure to keep the rest of your look simple and neutral.

The Top
Chambray: This stylish lightweight shirt is the it shirt for back to school this year. Wear it with your dark skinny jeans, wedges, and top it with your fur vest. Such a great look.
Plaid:  A cool, casual shirt that can be dressed up with a pretty layered necklace and skinny jeans, or dressed down with leggings and sneakers.
Chunky Knits: This season stock up on cozy cable knits in neutrals of gray, cream, and tan. Wear them with your colored jeans or leggings and boots.
Neon: Color is huge trend this fall. Neon has thrived through spring and summer and now making it’s way into fall. Take your colorful clothes you wore all summer, and maybe some fresh new additions as well, and pair them with all your favorite fall pieces. Neon and fall neutrals are a killer color combo.

The Shoes
Fun Flats: Patent, colored, printed. Our fashoiniSTA favorites are Tory Burch Revas. And leopard print.. of course.
Moto-Boots: These boots are fall must-haves. They go with everything and add a little edge to any outfit.
Wedges: Since the last thing you want to do is walk though school and around campus in heels, go for a great pair of neutral wedges (in a moderate height- comfort is key).
Sneakers: This fall a bright pair of sneakers are a back to school staple. Comfortable and cool. We love classic Chuck Taylors, but Keds and Nike are some other classics worth adding to your shoe collection. Wear them with your leggings, a sweater and biker jacket.
Rain Boots: For obvious reasons. Plus, they are super cute- go ahead, wear them with your colored jeans, shorts or even dresses. Thank you Kate Moss for making rain boots stylish.

For more inspiration, check out our back-to-school board on Pinterest! Happy shopping and happy back to school!

~Lisa, FashioniSTA

70% Off Midnight Madness Hits Stores!

The ultimate sale of the season is finally here!
Starting on Wednesday, August 22nd at select stores, all summer items will be 70% off through Monday, August 27th, with 20% off new arrivals for Fall.
And to give you ample shopping time, the stores will be staying open until midnight on the first day of the sale!
Check out the lists below to see when Midnight Madness will hit your favorite location!

Wednesday, August 22nd:
Brookline, MA
Harvard Square, MA
Needham*, MA
Newton Highlands*, MA
Newton Centre*, MA
Northampton*, MA
Wellesley*, MA
West Hartford, CT
Westport*, CT
Hoboken*, NJ
Englewood*, NJ
Westfield*, NJ
Forest Hills, Queens, NY*

Thursday, August 23rd:
176 Newbury Street, Boston, MA
219 Newbury Street, Boston, MA
324 Newbury Street, Boston, MA
Charles Street, Boston, MA
Thayer Street, Providence, RI
Portsmouth, NH
Portland*, ME
Burlington, VT
Greenwich, CT
Georgetown, DC
Mott Street, NYC
Lexington Avenue, NYC
Thompson St, NYC
Chelsea, NYC
Broadway**, Upper West Side, NYC
Armitage, Chicago, IL
Wicker Park*, Chicago, IL
Philadelphia*, PA

*Open until 10pm. Murray Hill, NYC location is excluded from this event.
**Open until 9pm.
For a complete list of addresses for locations visit: www.secondtimearound.net

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A Summertime Picnic with 50% Off All Summer Items!

The summer isn’t over yet, celebrate the sunshine at our 219 Newbury Street store!
We’re hosting a summertime picnic on Saturday, August 18th from 3pm - 8pm, with sparkling lemonade drinks, cupcakes and 50% off all summer items.
Don’t miss out on sweet summer deals, designers and treats!

Second Time Around
219 Newbury Street
Boston, MA 02116
617-266-1113
www.secondtimearound.net
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50% Off Summer Sale Hits Stores!

Our end-of-the-season blowout kicks off this week!
All summer items are 50% off starting Wednesday, August 15th at select locations, and then on Thursday, August 16th at all locations.
Get those coveted designer pieces at half off while they last! New arrivals for Fall are 10% off!
Starting on Wednesday, August 15th:

Brookline, MA
Harvard Square, MA
Needham, MA
Newton Highlands, MA
Newton Centre, MA
Northampton, MA
Wellesley, MA
West Hartford, CT
Westport, CT
Hoboken, NJ
Englewood, NJ
Westfield, NJ
Forest Hills, NY

Thursday, August 16th:

176 Newbury Street, Boston, MA
219 Newbury Street, Boston, MA
324 Newbury Street, Boston, MA
Charles Street, Boston, MA
Thayer Street, Providence, RI
Portsmouth, NH
Portland, ME
Burlington, VT
Greenwich, CT
Georgetown, DC
Mott Street, NYC
Lexington Avenue, NYC
Thompson St, NYC
Chelsea, NYC
Broadway, Upper West Side, NYC
Armitage, Chicago, IL
Wicker Park, Chicago, IL
Philad
elphia, PA

For a complete list of addresses for locations visit:
www.secondtimearound.net
Murray Hill, NYC location is excluded from this event.
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A Very FashioniSTA Birthday

Earlier this week, this fashioniSTA celebrated a very stylish birthday (not to mention a double birthday for my fashionable twin sister as well). Friends and family gathered on a waterfront restaurant roof deck overlooking Boston’s harbor where the sun was shining and the sangria was absolutely delicious. To dress for the occasion I wore a white form-fitting Nicole Miller number, while my sister opted for a flowy feminine look in soft pink silk chiffon. FashioniSTA friends arrived in sundresses and full skirts covered in florals, lace, and summer stripes.  It was quite the party.

On your birthday it’s your time to shine, and at your party you are already the center of attention so make sure you dress the part.  Don’t be afraid to wear a bold color or to steal the show in sequins. Play up your personality and show off your own unique personal style.  Here are some fabulous looks for a fashioniSTA birthday party:

LWD: The little white dress is easily summer’s version of the LBD.  It’s classic, elegant, and chic, and is the perfect dress for any special occasion- especially on your special day. The little white dress allows you to accessorize in a way that really shows off your personality, like adding some personalized Alex and Ani bangles or a statement necklace. There are many options of silhouettes, fabrics and details, so chose something that flatters your figure and that you feel comfortable in.
FashioniSTA picks: Susana Monaco, Alice + Olivia, Nicholas.

Be Bold: Another option is to wear a bright color which really puts you as the center of attention on your birthday. Neon has been a huge trend this spring and summer, so if you’re feeling daring, don a dress if the super bright shades. If trends aren’t your thing, try a dress in a summery shade of coral or yellow. Wearing a bold color exudes confidence and shows a fun, playful personality.
FashioniSTA picks: BCBGMAXAZRIA, Herve Leger.

Sparkle and Shine: At STA we love anything that sparkles. If you really want to shine on your birthday, wear sequins. A little sparkle will never go out of style.
FashioniSTA picks: Parker, MICHAEL Michael Kors.

~Lisa, fashioniSTA

Shoe Lust, Shoe Must: Loeffler Randall

At STA Tuesdays are all about the shoe. This Tuesday our obsession for Loeffler Randall’s gorgeous designs grows even more. Not only are their shoes oh-so-amazing and fashion forward, but they have even recently turned their sophisticated downtown chic style into a new line of handbags, which are definitely crush-worthy as well. After celebrating a fashioniSTA birthday this past weekend, I am deciding I may give myself a little gift. Over the last few years I have acquired quite a collection of Loeffler Randall shoes, and my current shoe lust are the Edith platform pump in this summery, exotic snake print.  Not only will these shoes look great with absolutely everything, but they are season-less and perfect for transitioning into fall! (They are also on sale- win!) So let’s turn this shoe lust into a shoe must!

~Lisa, fashioniSTA

The FashioniSTA’s Summer Wedding Essentials

While summer weddings are guaranteed fun times of dancing, drinking, and plenty of ooh-ing and aah-ing at the lovely couple, it also raises the question of what to wear? With so many different types of ceremonies and parties, there are endless opportunities for style. We’ve chosen a few different looks and fashioniSTA essentials for any kind of wedding you may attend this summer!

Whether you’re celebrating in Nantucket, Cape Cod, The Hamptons, or Kennebunkport, anywhere along the shore is a perfect opportunity to play up that preppy beach chic look. Go ahead and wear a fun, festive seasonal color- it is summer after all. Accessorize with simple, classic accessories, and don’t forget to wear flat sandals, you don’t want to be wearing heels on the beach!
Above: Dress, J.Crew. Jewelry, Kate Spade. Sandals, Mystique.

For a traditional wedding, you can never go wrong with an LBD. Since this summer has graced us with the trend of the peplum, try a dress which has that feminine detail and shows off your shape. If the ceremony is held in a church, it’s a good idea to bring a light sweater or cardigan to cover up your shoulders. Add simple bangles and earrings, and choose a great pair of heels which you are able to dance in.
Above: Dress, Alice + Olivia. Clutch, similar one here by Lauren Merkin. Shoes, Christian Louboutin.

Backyard weddings, barn weddings, and garden parties are some of the most fun, casual, and laid back celebrations. Wear a light-weight, breathable dress- barns and backyards can become very stuffy and hot during a party. Accessorize with rustic, effortless jewelry and a neutral clutch. For outdoor weddings, wedges are a must! The last thing a fashioniSTA needs are the heels to her Louboutins sinking into the dirt!
Above: Dress, Diane von Furstenberg. Earrings, ASOS. Bangles, Alex and Ani. Clutch, Tory Burch, Shoes, Steve Madden.

Black tie weddings may be the most difficult to shop for, but if you think of it as playing dress-up, it can also be the most fun! Look for a classic gown that will last forever. Choose black or a classic color that will never go out of style, and steer away from trends! Go for a simple gown, with a simple silhouette and simple details- classic and chic. Antique jewelry is a great way to accessorize for a black tie event, it’s unique and always glamourous. Carry a small structured clutch, and add sparkly sandals to brighten your step.
Above: Dress, Rebecca Taylor. Shoes, Manolo Blahnik.

~Lisa, fashioniSTA