Archive for March, 2012
March Madness: The Final Round
Mar 30th
We’ve made it to the final round! These two trends have made it past 14 other competitors, knocking them all out with their sheer style strength, purchasing perseverance and widespread fashion fame. From the style bloggers who rock the trends on the streets to the magazines that feature these trends in their editorials, it was the fashionista in all of us that made these two trends the style stars that they are. While these two trends deserve a place of honor in the Spring 2012 Trend Hall of Fame, there can only be one winner.
Time to place your bets and make your picks, as we witness the final showdown to see which trend will reign as the ultimate spring trend for 2012. Let the games commence!
Neons vs. Mixing & Matching
To truly visualize this final match, we need to weigh all the pros and cons of each competitor. Both trends have hit the style market but haven’t been overplayed, and they are each a tell-tale sign of the style-savvy.
Neons
Pros: Multifaceted – can be worn in a formal setting or can be channeled into a sporty ensemble fit for the gym. Can also be done in smaller doses, such as accessories, or can be the dominating theme of an outfit. Plus nothing says warmer weather like bright colors, and this trend takes it to the extreme (in a good way).
Cons: Reminiscent of the ‘80s, which is usually thought of as more of a costume decade. New to the trend game.
Mixing & Matching
Pros: The possibilities are truly endless, from mixing jewelry for the fashion conscious to mixing prints for the fashion-daring. Widespread appeal thanks to celebrities mixing high and low-end labels and designs, which has evolved into mixing vintage with current pieces, as well as mixing different shapes, silhouettes, patterns and colors, with colorblocking being a key attribute to this trend.
Cons: When not done properly, it can look like you’re in kindergarten.
The Showdown
Both trends started out strong, taking out jewelry, accessory, color and celebrity trends. With the last round one of the most intense, both trends were feeling the heat going into the final battle. Jennifer Lawrence’s star power nearly ousted Mixing & Matching, and Neons almost fell to Peplum’s slimming silhouette.
Both Neons and Mixing & Matching were on the same level with celebrity endorsements and editorial coverage. Fashion bloggers uphold both trends as equally important, so it was time to turn to the intangible. Mixing & Matching evolved over time into a trend, whereas Neons popped up pretty quickly. While Neons are newer to the game this season than Mixing & Matching, they had a certain factor that could put them ahead. Both trends have the ability to make you look like a stylist, but it is exponentially easier to try the Neon trend and be successful. All it takes is a Neon belt and you’re in business, whereas it takes more forethought to get the right grasp on Mixing & Matching.
Mixing & Matching tried to show fashion-worshippers of all levels that they could do this trend right, but it just wasn’t enough to persuade the fashion conservative. For those who look to invest in timeless pieces, Mixing & Matching fell too far into the style liberal sector. Those interested in a classic style found that Neon could be subtly integrated into their spring wardrobes through accessories and more traditional silhouettes, like a shift dress. Neons’ appeal to both minimalist and bohemians alike was the final success that allowed this trend to take top spot, earning it its place as the Ultimate Spring 2012 Trend.
March Madness: Round 3
Mar 29th
We’re going strong into the second to last round of March Madness. The trends have been neck-in-neck, with them breaking out of their style niche shells to get a leg-up on the competition. Check out the winners who earned themselves a spot in the finals!
1. Peplum vs. Neons
This was a fight to the fashion death. The growing popularity of Neons versus the timeless yet trendy design of Peplum. Both started this competition with a strong celebrity backing, a following in the street style brigade, and a cult following in all major retailers. The high-fashion element paired with sell-ability ran through the veins of both of these trends, making them true competitors in the style world.
However, after a fierce battle, Neons emerged the victor. Blame the weather, blame the spring fever, blame the people who wished they had come of age in the ‘80s, but Neons have gained a blazing following that rivals The Hunger Games. Only it’s probably bigger, since people who wore the trend 25 years ago are probably just as excited as the younger fashion followers.
2. Jennifer Lawrence vs. Mixing & Matching
The girl who probably knows how to now survive any post-apocalyptic scenario against a trend that can make you look like you got dressed in the dark. You’d think this would be an easy fight. However, the Mixing & Matching trend has extended beyond the people whose closets emulate Pippi Longstocking’s and has become a style phenomenon. It truly runs the gamut, from mixing brights to create colorblocking to mixing metals and stacking jewelry to mixing prints that actually look like they’re supposed to go together. When done properly, this trend has an element of fashion genius, which is how it inched above Jennifer Lawrence – who has put in a tremendous style effort during her Hunger Games press tour.
This girl brought out the big guns, sporting only the best from Prabal Gurung, Marchesa and, most recently, L’Wren Scott (her only misstep was a Calvin Klein choice for a NYC screening). She’s announcing herself in the best way possible, but the fact that she’s still in the starting out phase of her style identity gives Mixing & Matching an edge to dominate Spring 2012. Check back with us come summer, there may be a rematch in the works.
A Spring Sale Comes to STA!
Mar 28th
Stock up on your spring essentials and statement pieces for less!
Shop our Spring Sale Thursday, March 29th to Sunday, April 1st where everything is 30%-50% off.*
So take a break from your spring cleaning and get to spring shopping!
ALL LOCATIONS!
*Excludes New Arrivals
Second Time Around
www.secondtimearound.net
Providence Ladies: A Champagne Thursday For You!
Mar 26th
Kick off our Spring Sale with our Champagne Thursday Event!
Join us at our Thayer Street store on Thursday, March 29th from 6-9pm for champagne and our 30%-50% off sale.*
Break out the bubbly and break into Spring style!
*Excludes New Arrivals
Second Time Around Thayer Street
294 Thayer Street
Providence, RI 02906
(401) 455-2050
www.secondtimearound.net
March Madness: Round 2
Mar 26th
If you thought Round 1 was intense, the spring style trends are back for a fashion face-off that’s better than ever. Bringing their A-game, these trends went head-to-head once again,
1. Top Knots vs. Peplum
This would have been a pretty intense street style battle, but when people realized that top knots were a little too Pebbles Flinstone, they took a detour into fashion junkie nation. Peplum was able to go mainstream, infiltrating the fashion elite and mass consumers, making it the ultimate victor.
2. Neons vs. Day clutches
A fierce battle between two trends that could become staples. One has a day-to-night multi-talent, while the other has been a spring superpower, popping up everywhere. No seriously, everywhere, try to find an editorial spread that doesn’t include Neons…you won’t. The sheer presence of this trend makes it the dominating opponent, effectively bringing the clutches to their knees.
3. Jennifer Lawrence vs. Hi-low pleats
Hi-lo pleats have their moment, but they are slowly proving to be a fleeting fashion trend instead of a superpower. With their lack of flattering powers coupled with the fact that they still remind us of mullets, made it somewhat easy prey for the recently Prabal Gurung/Marchesa-clad Jennifer Lawrence. And the fact that J.L. had a blockbuster movie come out this week and her face has been everywhere might have had something to do with the pleats’ defeat.
4. Mixing & Matching vs. Fashion Star
The fact that Jessica Simpson has managed to stay pregnant for about a year has probably partially contributed to Fashion Star’s success. While the ratings continue to grow, the dominance of Mixing & Matching is unparalleled. Between its ability to go wild with contrasting prints on the street and the editorial love of mixing neons for colorblocking, it has proved itself to be worthy of the winners’ circle from start to finish.
Stay tuned for Round 3, we’re one step closer to crowning the ultimate Spring Trend of 2012!
March Madness: Round 1 Winners
Mar 21st
Round 1 was a tough first battle, with our Sweet Sixteen Trends competing against each other to be the top spring trend of 2012. From the celebrity endorsements to the accessibility to women everywhere, these trends broke out the big guns to make it out of the gate. Check out how each game turned out:
1. Top Knots vs. Crop Tops
The Knot trumps the Crop when women everywhere realize that only celebrities and people with personal trainers on speed dial can actually wear crop tops.
2. Peplum vs. Marni for H&M
The hottest silhouette goes up against a designer with a cult following now at lower prices (which is still all relative). It was a pretty dead-heat battle until Peplum whipped out its ability to flatter anyone’s midsection. Game over, Marni.
3. Neons vs. Art Deco jewelry
Right out of the gate the Neons powerhouse slams down Art Deco jewelry’s effort. Even with the backing of Rachel Zoe, since no one has the time to search for Art Deco jewelry – and it hasn’t made it to H&M just yet – it proves to be no match for the rising publicity and street cred that Neons has gained.
4. Day clutches vs. Shorts/Menswear
The nighttime-gone-day accessory (Day clutches) goes up against the daytime-gone-night trend (Shorts/Menswear). This is a decent competition, what with celebrity endorsements on both sides. Ultimately, Day Clutches squeak by as a winner as soon as we (as in all womenkind) realized that our legs weren’t quite shorts-ready just yet.
5. Celebrity nail polish lines vs. Jennifer Lawrence
Yes, Celebrity nail polish lines have the backing of The Hunger Games and Nicki Minaj, but adding the over-exposed Kardashians to the mix makes this trend just a little more annoying. And with Jennifer Lawrence’s runway choices for her red carpet premieres and her growing superstardom, the girl on fire reigns supreme.
6. Hi-low hemlines vs. Pleats
A great battle with a deadlock outcome. These truly brilliant competitors form an alliance to create a superpower spring trend – Pleated Hi-Low skirts and dresses. Now they’ve set their sights on knocking out Peplum to form an alliance with Neons.
7. Mint vs. Mixing & Matching
The starring pastel of the spring (Mint) against a trend that stylized breaking major fashion rules (Mixing & Matching) was a tough battle from the start. But the infiltration of downtown divas throughout the world has made Mixing & Matching a new style art, which left Mint in the dust.
8. Fashion Star vs. Graphic prints
Graphic prints hit the runway with legitimate backers, such as Milly and Erdem, and a solid cause to modernize the classic spring floral. However, the star power and accessibility of a television show proved too powerful by helping three retailers sell out (within hours) new items by no-name designers. That’s the definition of winning.
Stay tuned to see who wins the round 2 match-up!
We’re Celebrating 324 Newbury Street’s Birthday with a Party!
Mar 20th
Our 324 Newbury Street store is turning 2, and you’re invited to celebrate!
Join us on Thursday, March 22nd from 7pm – 9pm for cupcakes and 20% off your purchase in honor of this special birthday.
Come and celebrate in style!
Second Time Around
324 Newbury Street
Boston, MA 02115
617-236-2028
www.secondtimearound.net
Take on the Style of Dancing with the Stars
Mar 19th
Dancing with the Stars premieres tonight, so to get us in the style spirit, we’ve dug up some of our favorite outfits from seasons past. Whether it’s an elegant waltz or an energetic jitterbug – or just a look at the judge’s black-tie ensembles – the costume department knows how to bring it. The sequins, spandex and use of feathers make this show one of the most stylish programs to hit the air, check out the evidence below!
Of course we’re always looking for ways to put a little more DWTS into our days. To get the signature looks for your everyday life, we’ve come up with a few ingredients. Just add these to your daily outfits and you’ll be waltzing to work and foxtrotting into Fridays by no time:
Sparkle. This is the most important ingredient, and must be used generously. Or just sprinkle a little on your eyelids to brighten up your Mondays (which, coincidentally, is a DWTS night). Plus you’ll be ahead of the trend, gold lamé is really hitting up the runway for fall.
A sassy attitude. The dancers don’t get to the top without a will to win, and you won’t claim their coveted style without a little sass in your step.
Spray tan. Whether you’re looking to go full Cha-cha-cha or you just want a little extra Jive in your life, a sunny glow is a must-have.
Fancy up-do. You can’t expect to perform a 30-worthy dance with your hair falling in your face. Slick your hair into an Argentine Tango ponytail, tease it back into a Samba-swept mane, or pin it back into a Waltz-worthy chignon.
Waterproof mascara. No episode ever made it through without a few tears. While you’re at it, add a few faux lashes to your look for a truly authentic homage.
Now that you’ve got the tools, you’re all set to celebrate the premiere in style!
~Ashley, FashioniSTA
St. Patrick’s Day How-To: A Dose of Green Done Right
Mar 16th
Green is in the air this weekend, and it’s only natural to want to get in on the festivities. Resist the urge to wear an oversized green bow-tie and a t-shirt that says “Kiss Me, I’m Irish.” Instead, try a few fashionable approaches to the holiday to ensure that you don’t wake up with a bad style hangover.
Minty Fresh
With Spring just around the color, saturated pastels are popping up everywhere. One of the biggest colors this spring is mint (not to be confused with Thin Mints), which also happens to be a killer choice to celebrate in this weekend. Instead of going with traditional kelly green, try a fresh spin with mint, either in a pair of colored denim (like from Current/Elliott), a sleeveless top (like this one from Rag & Bone), or a full mint dress (like from Diane von Furstenberg). Touches of mint were all over the Spring 2012 runway, from Carolina Herrera to DVF, and have been making they’re way into all aspects of street style. If you’re not comfortable trying it out in an ensemble, go with a mint manicure, pair of flats, scarf, sunglasses, or a bunch of stackable prasiolite or peridot-accented bangles or rings. Or you could even find items of clothing that have small mint touches, like this colorblock dress by Tibi (two trends, one stone!).
It’s All in the Details
Unless you moonlight as a leprechaun, head-to-toe green might be a no-go. However, using a few individual touches of green can help you have a put-together – but still festive – look. Now is the perfect time to break out that bright green handbag or pair of flats that you haven’t been wearing. Green is a tough color to go to, but luckily this spring is all about brights, and this is the perfect opportunity to break out of your muted shell! Red jeans have been lighting up the streets, but to get ahead of the trend a bit, go for a pair of green denim. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day and beyond!
If pants aren’t your thing, you can start by working green in with jewelry and accessories, and then when you’re feeling brave, you can move to bigger parts of your ensemble. Snap up a green dress, tank or skirt, and keep the rest of the outfit neutral for a classic look or go for colorblocking to bring on the bold. If you feel more comfortable with neutrals (black, white, camel, navy), you can work with different textures to achieve different looks. Go with simple knits for a minimalist vibe, or channel your inner urbanite with touches of leather – a huge trend for both spring and fall 2012. If you choose the colorblocking route, green goes great with all shades of blue – try a bright cobalt with a dark green for a great springtime look – as well as certain shades of yellow. Since neons are coming out in full-force, pairing a kelly green with a bright yellow is a surefire hit. But remember, for this holiday, pairing two shades of green together could come across as overkill.
Prints Charming
This is also a great time to work in some of the green-printed pieces you have sitting in your wardrobe. Whether it’s a green and white-printed wrap dress or a green polka-dotted blouse (like this Kate Spade option), St. Patrick’s Day is a safe occasion to try out a piece for the first time. Once you wear it out, you may be more comfortable working it into your current wardrobe rotation. (This holiday is also a great excuse to get another wear out of a piece.) Another great thing about wearing green prints is that it doesn’t look like you overdosed on the St. Patrick’s Day Kool-Aid. You’ll look classic and put-together, with just the right amount of holiday spirit.
Of course if you’re one of those girls who goes big or goes home, I won’t judge you for wearing a full sequined, green dress, as long as you channel Alice + Olivia’s Fall 2012 line rather than Poison Ivy from Batman.
~Ashley, FashioniSTA
More Style for Less Green this St. Patrick’s Day at STA!
Mar 15th
We want to help you save your green this weekend with our first Spring Sale of the season!
Who needs a pot of gold when you’ve got 20% – 50% off the entire store from Friday, March 16th through Sunday, March 18th!
Shop our St. Patrick’s Day-themed racks or search out your style lucky charm this weekend!
ALL LOCATIONS!
Second Time Around
www.secondtimearound.net