Posts tagged Second Time Around

Nail Colors of the Moment for Any Ensemble

In my opinion, an outfit is never complete unless you have perfectly manicured nails. No matter how great and fashionable you may look, a chipped manicure will bring down your overall look. Luckily, it’s easy to polish your look by stopping by your favorite local nail salon, or if you’re in a pinch put on a few coats of polish yourself! Here are a few nail trends that will keep your nails looking fashion forward:

1. Pale nails.
Pale nails never go out of style. This is always my basic fallback option and better yet, you can get away with having a few chips without it being glaringly obvious! Essie’s Mademoiselle is the perfect pale pink that instantly makes you look more polished and put together. Essie describes this color as “the most classic, grown-up pink,” and we couldn’t agree more! We also love a classic nude nail, and Essie’s Topless and Barefoot is a lovely nude. This is a fresh option for black tie events instead of going with a bold color (like with the Elie Saab dress pictured below), and it’s perfect for outfits that are tricky to match to your nails (like the Theodora & Callum cover-up below).

2. Dark gray.
Although this may not seem like your typical nail polish color, this color surprisingly goes with everything. We love Essie’s Smokin’ Hot. It’s not too dark, but is dark enough to make a statement. We think that a dark gray color can be worn similarly to a dark purple. Think dark gray paired with your favorite slouchy sweater and boots (sweater pictured below is J. Crew, boots are by Ugg). We recommend a nice flat gray that doesn’t have sparkles in it for a clean look worthy of Pinterest.

3. Dark reds.
Dark red is currently having a moment of popularity. This is a classic color that is perfect for this time of year, and we’re fixed on Butter’s La Moss hue. We love a dark oxblood red and have found that it’s wonderfully versatile for our winter wardrobe. We think this color beautifully compliments a wide variety of colors, from winter white to dark colors. Since oxblood has been so huge this fall and winter, you can wear this to add a pint of punch to a neutral outfit (like the black and gold Marni dress pictured below), or use it to complement an already-colorful ensemble (like the Dolce & Gabbana dress below). For the truly oxblood-obsessed, match your nails to your lips for a look that is unbeatably currant (pun intended).

Enjoy your manicures everyone!

~Molly, fashioniSTA

Inauguration 2013: Favorite Fashion Moments

As I tuned into the Inauguration festivities, I couldn’t help but intently focus on what the key players were wearing. From the FLOTUS outfit changes to Beyoncé’s tune-belting ensemble, this ceremony only proved that politics and fashion are no longer mutually exclusive. Here are our top five style moments from the ceremonies:

5. Michelle Obama at the Inaugural Reception in Michael Kors - A repeat outfit from 2009, this black sequin dress is further proof that the First Lady is a woman of the people. How many of us go to a little black sparkly dress for a black tie event and try to economize their closets?

4. Sasha and Malia Obama on Inauguration Day in J. Crew and Kate Spade - Wearing shades of purple, theFirst Kids (Disney throwback anyone?) proudly donned American designers and looked adorably chic. There’s nothing I love more than sisters who wear matching outfits or who have the foresight to alter a look just by changing buttons on a coat.

3. Michelle Obama at the Inaugural Ball in Jason Wu - Since Michelle really only had three color choices, I love that she went with a twisted halter neckline and a flowing shape. This really shows that women of all ages can wear bold colors without looking matronly. Plus is it just me or does this remind you of a modern take on Motown’s full-length, red sequin dresses?

2. Beyoncé and Jay-Z on Inauguration Day - Let’s be honest, we care about what Jay-Z wore to the point where he looked presentable next to the former Sasha Fierce. B’s intricate Pucci gown was understatedly ah-mazing, and I’m so glad that someone new has become the ambassador to emerald jewelry.

1. Michelle Obama on Inauguration Day in custom Thom Browne - This whole look just works. From the impeccable tailoring to the accented jewel belt to the gloves that matched her daughters’ outfits, Mrs. O did everything right with this. She directed enough attention to herself without taking over the event and she balanced the line between fashion-forward and conservative perfectly. And if I had the chance to go custom-made, I would jump at it.

Tell us what was your favorite look on our Facebook or reach out to us on Twitter!

~Ashley, FashioniSTA

Photo credits: Glamour.com, Philly.com, Bellastyles.com, Newswhip.com, HuffingtonPost.com

FashioniSTA File: Golden Globes 2013

With another award season officially kicking off last night, we are here to weigh in on the best and worst dressed starlets hitting the red carpet. First up: The Golden Globes! From the sparkly style stars to the oh-no-it-hurts flops, Kristen, Ashley and Meghan tell us their picks of the night. Stay tuned for our takes on each awards show this season, and tell us your highs and lows on Facebook and Twitter!

The Best of the Best

Kristen’s Pick: Miranda Kerr in Zuhair Murad
I think Miranda was the epitome of old school Hollywood siren (even if she isn’t an actress…) in this is burgundy Zuhair Murad gown. If anyone could pull off a high slit and plunging neckline without making it look like they’re trying too hard, it’s her.

Honorable Mention: Kate Hudson knocked it out of the park in this McQueen number.

Ashley’s Pick: Kate Hudson in Alexander McQueen
This entire look is completely flawless. From the intricate embellishment to the effortless blowout, Kate’s team was able to make her 100% relevant in this look. She was able to look completely put-together and fashion-forward without looking fussy or bizarre. I can’t even put into words how much I love this whole ensemble, it’s utterly breathless.
Honorable Mention: Kerry Washington rocked the sheer, nude and embellished trends all in one perfect Miu Miu package.

Meghan’s Pick: Jessica Alba in Oscar de la Renta
The always beautiful Jessica Alba looked maj in this Oscar de la Renta gown. The peachy color looks great on her olive skin and the breathtaking necklace breaks up the matching lipstick. Her soft curls pull the whole look together! She could have left the fluffy bag at home but I won’t hold it against this best dress nominee.
Honorable Mention: Nicole Richie’s blue patterned Naeem Khan dress looked stunning with the matching eye shadow.

Wayward Worst

Kristen’s Pick: I’m sorry but someone has to call the fashion police on Giuliana Rancic. I am usually all for classic, Downton Abby style dresses but Giulianna looks like she’s channeling Helena Bonham Carter in this goth-gone-wrong Celia Kritharioti dress. I can’t imagine G got Joan’s approval on this one.
Honorable Mention: Halle Berry is a babe, but this Versace dress was a fail.

Ashley’s Pick: It physically hurts to put Jessica Chastain in this category. I would like to officially go on record and say that I am obsessed with everything about her, all except this Calvin Klein dress. She’s a gorgeous canvas, but the fit and the hair choice served her a serious injustice.
Honorable Mention: Sienna Miller’s ode to wallpaper Erdem skirt and top.

Meghan’s Pick: Lucy Liu can pretty much pull anything off. This dress, not so much. While the silhouette isn’t horrible, the floral pattern and colors are. I do like the fullness of the dress and the fact that it has pockets (I always love leaving my bag at home).
Honorable Mention: Julianne Hough’s horrific Monique Lhuillier dress and poor makeup ensemble.

We’ll see you all in a couple weeks for our SAG Awards picks!

Go and Put Your Name on It (Or At Least Your Initials)

I’m a firm believer that you can never have too many monograms. If I have the option to monogram something, I will absolutely take advantage of this. From pillows to necklaces to duffles, there’s no limit to what you can mark with your initials!

For traveling, I love this Large Sailcloth Duffel by J.McLaughlin. This bag is so classic, and the monogram is the perfect compliment. I love the navy, leather, and sailcloth combination. Plus there’s nothing better than incorporating nautical touches into your year-round essentials.

For everyday, you can’t go wrong sporting your initials on your jewelry. This necklace combines two of my favorite things: tortoise shell and monograms. I love tortoise shell because it’s so versatile and you can wear it with anything, and it definitely jazzes up any outfit. If tortoise shell isn’t your style of choice, going with a clean silver or gold never fails, or you could mix it up and go with a colored plastic material (our friends at Chic Streets carry tons of colors, just check out their Facebook to inquire about ordering). Since the shape is such a classic, you can definitely take risks with your color choice!

Scarves are the perfect compliment to any outfit, and adding a monogram is the perfect way to take your outfit to the next level. I love how this scarf from Marley Lilly comes in so many different colors and styles of monograms. Perfect for coordinating with a basic tee and jeans, or throwing over a strapless dress at a summertime wedding. My personal favorite is the circle block monogram for a classy and clean look.

~Molly, fashioniSTA

Happy Birthday, Kate Middleton!

Whether she’s donning a wedding dress or remixing one of her previously worn outfits, we can’t get enough of Kate Middleton. Over the past year, we’ve seen her go from casual (in the South Pacific), to glam (in a custom-redesigned Matthew Williamson), to modern (hello, bangs!). We personally can’t wait to see how this soon-to-be mom ups the ante of maternity wear, but until that happens we’ll be celebrating her birthday in style (with our own fascinators, of course). Happy royal birthday!

~Ashley, FashioniSTA

(images via Grazia, thebump.com, International Business Times, and trendmix.com)

Countdown to NYE: Part 3, Lounging Up

While we love a great glittery New Years Eve party on the town, we know that staying in for NYE is so underrated. Have plans with a cushy couch, faux fur throw, and take-out this upcoming Monday night? Not to worry, you can still look (comfortably) fabulous as you usher in 2013 with Carson Daly on NBC.

Even when staying in, festive sequins are a doable feat. Try a sequined sweatshirt (like this one by Three Dots). Pair it with a comfy pair of leggings or cashmere lounge pants, and you’re ready to chicly welcome the New Year. If you want to keep sequins out of your at-home wardrobe, try a luxe cashmere tunic in a festive color with your skinnies and Minnetonka moccasins for an equally perfect look.

Whatever your look for an at-home New Years Eve, don’t forget to accessorize with your favorite bubbly (or mocktail!). And check out our New Years Eve tips as we countdown to the start of 2013 on our Pinterest board and daily Twitter inspiration!

~Meredith, fashioniSTA

Countdown to NYE: Part 2, Menswear at its Best

Yesterday, we dished some tips for the glitter girl heading out on the town to usher in 2013. What if sequins aren’t your thing? We have a few ways to incorporate menswear-inspired pieces (one of our favorite trends!) to your knockout New Years Eve ensemble.

A crisp tuxedo jacket serves as the perfect foundation for a New Years Eve look. For just a spritz of glamour, this Rag & Bone style features a gold collar. We love it paired with a skinny black pant or tonal sequin short, and patent black heels. Think you can’t handle shorts for a semi-formal occasion? Trust us, slip a pair on with black (or colored, for the bold) tights and just go with it. Whatever uneasiness you may have will quickly disappear when you start fielding compliments and officially assert yourself as a style star. Top it off with gold earrings, a bold clutch, and a vivid manicure, and you’ll be ringing in 2013 in the most fabulous way.

Stay tuned as we bring you NYE-worthy loungewear choices this weekend! And as always, you can find more New Year’s Eve inspiration on our countdown Pinterest board, as well as with our daily NYE tips on Twitter!

~Meredith, fashioniSTA

Countdown to the New Year Sale Hits STA!

The countdown to the new year continues at all STA stores!
Shop now through December 31st and save 30% - 50% on everything.
With style like this, the new year never looked so promising!

Holiday Hours
Monday, December 31st (New Year’s Eve), 10am - 6pm
Tuesday, January 1st (New Year’s Day), 10am - 6pm

ALL LOCATIONS*

*Sale excludes furs. New store in Summit, NJ is excluded from this offer but is offering 30% off all merchandise.

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Countdown to NYE: Part 1, Glittering Gold

While it feels like everyone just put away Christmas leftovers, it’s already time to plan the perfect New Year’s Eve ensemble. Whether you’re ringing in 2013 with your girlfriends at the hottest party, or with your loved ones at home with a take-out container of Chinese food, we have your guide to start 2013 on your most stylish foot (or, rather, Louboutin clad heel). Here we dish out the details for the glitter girl who’s headed out on the town for the last night of the year.

It’s no secret that sequins are this fashioniSTA’s friend. A gold sequin minidress (like the one above by Haute Hippie) is the perfect look for any New Years Eve bash that’s sure to turn heads. Paired with opaque black Wolford tights and classic black Louboutin heels makes looking New Years Eve festive easier than popping a bottle of bubbly. If you’re nervous about shining too brightly, throw on a basic black blazer, just be sure to mix it up with texture - velvet, corduroy, etc. - rather than embellishments.

Unsure how to accessorize your New Years Eve look? Switch out your festive holiday manicure for a dash of gold (like Sephora’s “Come to Paparazzi” topcoat). Toss on a chunky cocktail ring, and a pair of neutral gemstone studs for the ideal amount of sparkle. Need a clutch to stash your ID, iPhone and lip gloss for the night? A sleek black envelope clutch never fails (especially when you’re already donning this much sparkle).

Need more New Years Eve tips? Check out our " onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outbound/article/pinterest.com');">Countdown to NYE Pinterest board and our daily Twitter tips. And stay tuned for our next part, where we shift from girly glitz to menswear-inspired elements for the big night!

~Meredith, fashioniSTA

Festive Dressing – A Holiday Dilemma

Whether you’re a college student home for the holidays, a young professional going to Christmas dinner at your significant other’s home for the first time, or a hostess expecting all of your extended family in your home, dressing festive (appropriately!) is never an easy task.

Lucky for you, festive is my specialty. Put down the ubiquitous Santa hat and choose one (or two, or all three) of these ways to bring some holiday cheer into your wardrobe for the next four days.

Baroque Details

Bring one of our favorite fall 2012 trends into your holiday arsenal. A little gilded Baroque-inspired detail (like the above gold jacket by ASOS) goes a long way during the holiday season. Best when paired with simple black pants and knee-high boots, this brings a bit of festive shimmer to your gift-giving look. You can take this look a little further with a gold-gilded skirt or dress in a Baroque print, or a two-toned lace dress - one color for the lace overlay and another color underneath - will give you the same effect. Want just a dash of this? Try a set of antiqued-gold bangles like these Amrita Singhs, or an embellished clutch to top off your outfit.

The Perfect Manicure

Blame our Pinterest obsession for this no-fail way to bring a subtle holiday hint to an outfit. The best part about this is you can keep it super simple if you’re short on time. Cranberry red, pine green, a gold glitter accent? There’s no better hand to have when reaching under the tree. If you’re looking for something a little more advanced, break out the toothpicks and tiny brushes to paint on stripes, snowflakes, or bows. We’ve found great tutorials for keeping your manis festive at Goose’s Glitter blog, Do Not Refreeze blog, Nails Helensvale, and Chickettes (for those of you who love nail decals). And don’t forget! Make sure to check out our Get Your Holiday Spirit Pinterest board for lots of holiday beauty inspiration.

The Never Fail Stand-By

‘Tis the season for red and green. We can assure you, this look is possible without looking like an extra from Elf. Start with a festive red or green cashmere pullover sweater, like the Michael Kors featherweight style above. Pair with crisp white pants, or a neutral black skirt for a timeless look that’d make even Kate Middleton’s holiday looks jealous. Prefer a dabble of festive color? Try a tartan headband or dark red and green gemstone jewelry for a modern take on traditional holiday spirit.

Happy Holidays (and make sure to check out our Holiday Tips of the Day on Twitter at @STAConsignment)!

-Meredith, FashioniSTA