Posts tagged shoes
Black Friday Countdown: 1 DAY!
Nov 28th
Well tomorrow is the big day! I’m happy to say my prep has gone amazingly well, but still smoothing out some of the details. I’ve been scoping out the stores and stalking (admittedly) the STA Facebook pages for all of the newly consigned pieces. I’ve got my heart set on some great items, and tomorrow’s my big chance!
We’ve got limited time.
The opportunity to get 50% off everything in the store only lasts from 7am to 10am!
So here’s the schedule for tomorrow:
6:00 am: Wake up
6:30 am: Grab the girls and head to Newbury St.
6:50 am: Outside STA 176 Newbury and eat a quick, energizing breakfast (yogurt?)
7:00 am: STA spree!
7:55 am: Walk to STA 219 Newbury St.
8:00 am: Shopping spree at STA 219 Newbury
8:45 am: Starbucks break (crossing fingers for no line)
9:00 am: Spree at STA 324 Newbury St.
10:00 am: Celebratory wrap-up brunch with the girls
I’ll definitely be heading back to STA on Saturday morning for free mimosas and 30%-50% off.
Black Friday’s like our birthdays, it’s a weekend-long event.
As expected, I’ve got my eye on my wish list items at each store. While they might have already sold, I have faith that they’ll come in again. Hey it’s the holiday season … wishes do come true.
176 Newbury: Burberry scarves spotted, Michael Kors essential wristlet, and helloooo Louis
219 Newbury: Stunning holiday dresses, calling dibs! Burberry scarf second spotting, Milly cross body, and statement necklaces galore.
324 Newbury: I see you, Tory Burch flats. Cocktail rings, check! And a gorgeous Jcrew flower necklace.
I may more excited on Black Friday Eve than Christmas Eve … STA knows my style better than Santa anyways.
Black Friday Countdown: 14 Days
Nov 15th
Around the middle of November, I have a little extra spring in my step. Right around the corner is the most wonderful day of the year: Black Friday. Since the bigger retailers now start their sales on Thanksgiving night, it gives me the perfect opportunity to get my general gifts out of the way and spend the rest of the day making the world (and my closet) a more stylish place. STA always runs a big sale for a couple hours in the morning, so I’m gearing up to shop the best for less for my closet and a select number of gifts for my most fashionable friends. For the next couple of weeks, you can get the inside look at our extensive planning process!
Countdown: 14 Days…let the planning begin!
Taking on a sale of this magnitude is impossible to do alone, so I’ve enlisted the help of my best shopping buddies.
Meet the Team
Anne
Strength: Quick and efficient shopper. Can sort through an entire store’s inventory in record time to capture the best, hidden pieces. She knows what she does and doesn’t like and won’t waste any time over something that isn’t absolutely perfect.
Style: Classic with a touch of chic
Go-to’s: Jackets and Jewelry
Jeanne and Catherine
Strength: Two shoppers in one. Jeanne and her sister are an inseparable pair, so we let them go do their sister takeover of STA. With twice the eyes, twice the hands, and twice the style expertise, they are unstoppable when it comes to Black Friday. Don’t try to battle them for a piece. They will win.
Style: Sophisticated and trendy
Go-to’s: Shoes and Handbags
Laura
Strength: Pro gift-giver. Laura has a knack for knowing exactly how to match personality to style, both for herself and her friends. When I’m ready to take a breather after snagging my own pieces, I’ll definitely be going to Laura for help with picking out gifts for the rest of the girls. (And my mom on speed dial of course.)
Style: Preppy and Feminine
Go-to’s: Dresses and Tops
We’ve got a great team assembled, but it’s still essential that my black Friday execution is flawless and foolproof. The girls agree that we’ll hit the three STA locations on Newbury street.
Route:
1) 176 Newbury St. Boston, MA
2) 219 Newbury St. Boston, MA
3) 324 Newbury St. Boston, MA
Can’t forget to factor in walking times! Calculated a 3-minute walk from STA (1) to STA (2). 6-minute walk from STA (2) to STA (3). And since I’m hoping Starbucks won’t be as crowded as usual, we’ve budgeted in a five minute coffee break in between stores two and three.
Bonus tip: We’ve already started our seasonal Black Friday work-out plan, walking two miles a day to build up our stamina for the real event.
Check back in with us next week as we tackle our closets and holiday gift lists to come up with the perfect Black Friday shopping list!
Hues of the Season: Fall 2013
Nov 13th
Fashionistas, we all know neutral doesn’t mean boring. This season especially, Pantone has introduced some enchanting new shades to change up your usual neutral looks.
Pantone’s new take on neutrals can turn your look from basic to fashion forward without being flashy. The calm lush shade of deep lichen is perfect for an earthy yet edgy feel. The smoky turbulence shade is cool yet sophisticated. And the ever smooth and sensational shade of brown is carafe, for a classic and upscale look.
We can’t get enough of these fresh non-traditional neutrals. Pantone also features subtle yet stunning jewel tones and vivid, upbeat brights in this season’s palate, which beautifully enhance the neutral hues.
The new neutral shades are a great way to change up your usual black, navy, brown, or khaki go-to’s. Mix and match them together or pair them with Pantone’s Fall 2013 jewel tones and brights. You can do just a splash of color or go all out, whatever your mood may inspire.
We love these fashionista’s color combos! The turbulence coat with an acai pant is perfect for a cool, urban look. Pairing carafe tights with a samba skirt perfectly embraces the warm, fall feel. Get the rustic, yet chic, style with a deep lichen skirt and a pop of color, like a samba cross-body bag. And finally, we are loving the layering of a lichen green jacket over a vibrant color like koi!
Get creative! These hues can mix and match to best embrace your unique and stunning style.
~Anne, fashioniSTA
Photo Credits: polyvore.com, pantone.com, pintrest.com
5 Summer Shoe Trends
Jun 5th
I’m a shoe-a-holic. There, I said it. I’m obsessed. I’m constantly on the lookout for a new pair—platforms, flats, stilettos, you name it. Why? Because no outfit is complete without the right pair of shoes. But as the seasons change, so must your shoes. While there are tons of different styles to try, I’ve selected my top five favorite new shoe trends for summer, so your outfit can sizzle all the way down to your toes.
1. Studs
Studs aren’t necessarily a new trend when it comes to clothing—grungy studded leather coats and pants have been in style for a few seasons now. However, take the trend to your feet with some fun studded flats this season. Try a pair of ballet flats with a studded toe or a pair of blinged-out loafers. You’ll be fashionable, fierce and comfortable.
2. Pointed Toe
The pointy toe is making a comeback! After years of round toed shoes, I’m ready for a change. This classic style is perfect for day and night. Try a simple black pointed stiletto to start; you can wear them to the office and out for drinks. Bonus: the pointed toe gives the illusion of longer legs—yes, please!
3. Transparence
Take a fashion risk with a trendy transparent element to your shoes. I’m obsessed with chunky open-toed platforms with a transparent heel.
4. Menswear Inspired
The menswear trend has always been pretty intimidating for me; I always have a little difficulty rocking an androgynous outfit. For those like me who think the trend is daunting, rocking a menswear inspired shoe is a great way to get the look without feeling too masculine. You can never go wrong in the summer with a pair of light brown brogues! I like to pair mine with a sundress or my high-waisted skinny jeans.
5. Spiky and Wild
Fashion is all about risks and standing out, and this summer that means rocking brightly patterned shoes. Think color blocking, cutouts, laces, and sky-high stilettos. Let these awesome shoes stand out on their own and pair them with a simple dress or crisp black skinnies.
~Alyssa, fashioniSTA
(Image credits: net-a-porter.com, instagram.com, cyndispivey.com, pinterest.com, obaz.com, jakandjill.com, nymag.com, fashionising.com, refinery29.com)
Why a Consign & Buy is STA’s Best Promotion
Mar 6th
We all love a good promotion (who doesn’t like getting an extra discount or added perk?), but there are certain ones that really break the mold. For us, it’s the Consign & Buy, easily our favorite STA initiative, and it’s not just because everyone gets a 50/50 split (10% more than usual). Whether you’re a shopper or consignor, this is the promotion that beats them all. Allow us to break it down for you…
1. It makes spring cleaning about 1000 times easier. Have you looked at your closet lately? Yeah, we know, it’s scary (don’t worry, we’re in the same boat). It can be daunting enough to rifle through your wardrobe, nevermind think ahead to making a consignment appointment. With this promotion, you don’t need an appointment! You can just put your items in a bag and drop them off at any STA store on your way to brunch or dinner. (Can you tell we like to eat?)
2. You get extra STA credit that you can use on the items you want, and it’s easier than you think. Unless you go years without cleaning out your closet, you might think that you don’t have enough to maximize your extra STA credit. Most people don’t think to look at their accessories when cleaning out their closets, but bringing in jewelry, sunglasses and other small accessories is a great way to capitalize on the credit.
3. Tons of new product, enough said. A Consign & Buy makes it so easy to consign your items, the amount of new merchandise that goes on display is incredible. Plus if you’ve taken advantage of the consigning part of this promotion, you can shop these new goodies using your extra STA credit!
4. No wondering about your drop-off. With a Consign & Buy, a store associate will immediately evaluate your items, so you know right away what has been accepted and you can take any unaccepted items home with you. You get the best of both worlds with this promotion, you don’t have to make an appointment, but you get all of the benefits of one.
What are you waiting for?! Get yourself to any Second Time Around store from Thursday, March 7th - Sunday, March 10th to get in on the best promotion around!
How To: Wear Spikes and Studs
Dec 11th
Spikes and studs used to express somewhat of an emo look now they are the hottest design around! People are dying to wear spikes and studs on anything from head to toe ranging from earrings to headbands to jackets to bags. Basically, you can add studs to any item of your wardrobe and it will be deemed fashionable. Depending on how style daring you are there many different routes you can take to pull off the spikes or studs trend.
If you are that typical trend-setter…
You’re always wanting to be the first one to show off that new style now matter how crazy it may look. And with this trend, there are many different ways you assert your style status while showing off your love for spikes and studs.
Going with an all-over spiked shoe is a great statement piece, whether you go with traditional metallic spikes or a monochromatic look as seen in picture number one above (Christian Louboutin Pigalle Spikes Fluorescent Patent Red Sole Pump, $1,195). Should you want to take it one step further and you’re not afraid of a little height, try out Jeffrey Campbell’s Spiked Lita Boot ($195).
A blazer or jacket with arm/ shoulder studs could be paired beautifully with black skinny jeans, a white shirt/sweater for a stark style, or even a simple black dress and heels for evening attire.
If you are more of a budding trend-lover…
You’re someone who likes certain styles once they have caught on and become popular. You are more likely to carry a bag like number four above (Mango Spiked Bowling Bag, $110, Mango.com). A bag of this size and detail is multi-purposed - great for going out shopping or even a carry-on bag for traveling.
Other items that a budding trend-lover could be seen wearing are:
Studded or spiked wristlet and flats - The wristlet on the left could go with just about any outfit to add some emotion and eye-catching shine. The flats on the right would go great with black shorts or even a shirt and sweater. Add a pendant necklace and you’re sure to catch some attention with just those few details.
Spiked jewelry - If donning spikes on your bag or shoes is too much for you to handle but you still want to follow this obsession, the best thing to do is incorporate it into your jewelry. When wearing spiked bracelets the best thing to do is stack them as shown above to give an even fuller look. As shown in box number two in the graphic above, you can try spiked bangles (the ones above are ASOS spiked stretch bracelets $14, and the photo below is Stella & Dot’s Renegade bracelet $59), or your can ode the ’80s with earring like in box number three (these are Jenni Design Spiked Earrings $16).
Studded manicures - Giving your nails some stud love is also a more low-key way to try the trend (shown below), and we found one of the best studded manicure tutorials here on Lulu’s Blog. Its very eye catching but make sure not to puncture someone while giving a friendly handshake!
Electronic accessories - Phone cases are a great item to show off your love for spikes and studs it looks great but is something that is not constantly being shown off. People will notice it when you whip your phone out for a quick call or text message but then you can top it back into our purse once its seen.
~Jenna, fashioniSTA
High-End Pieces That Will Change Your Wardrobe at 219 Newbury St
Oct 23rd
We’ve transformed our store at 219 Newbury Street into a mecca for high style!
Whether you’re looking to revamp your wardrobe or add some designer pieces into the mix, this is the perfect chance to release your inner style fiend.
Come get a peek of these amazing pieces, from shoes to skirts to jackets and more!
Balenciaga, Carven, Ann Demeulmeester, Rick Owens, Celine, Dries van Noten
Left Photo: Balenciaga skirt, $619 (retails for $1,550); Marc Jacobs handbag, $499 (retails for $1,095)
Middle Photo: Adam Lippes jacket, $119; Elizabeth and James skirt, $79; Ann Demeulemeester boots, $599 (retails for $1,495)
Right Photo: Max Mara jumpsuit, $199
Second Time Around
219 Newbury Street
Boston, MA 02116
617-266-1113
Shoe Lust, Shoe Must: Loeffler Randall
Aug 7th
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
20% Off Accessories Sale Hits STA Stores!
Jun 14th
The finishing touches to every outfit are on sale for one weekend only!
All handbags, jewelry, scarves and shoes are an additional 20% off from Friday, June 15th - Sunday, June 17th.
Grab that investment handbag or statement necklace to complete your envy-worthy wardrobe!
Style Resolutions for the New Year
Jan 5th
Take control of the new year by taking control of your style. Start off your new year with your own style resolution, and prepare to make this year the beginning of making you even more fabulous than ever. We’ve got plans for four style resolutions to help you along the way, and we’ll be bringing you one each day in the easiest way possible. And besides, if 2012 is the last year, why not go out incredibly stylish?
Organize and Stylize Your Closet 
Take on the new year with a new closet. You don’t need a new wardrobe to have this, all you need are a few supplies and upgrades to your current closet. If you’re ready for a closet clean-out, click here to get inspiration and tips! If you’re not ready for an overhaul just yet, a few tweaks can really open up your closet and make your mornings about a million times easier.
First of all, make sure you own enough hangers, and use ones that won’t break. When you switch from plastic, brittle hangers to either wooden or velvet, your whole closet will just feel better. This is a great little detail that will keep your clothes in better condition (hello, no hanger snags in the fabric) and will motivate you towards your dream closet. After picking up the piles of clothing off your closet floor, put them in order on the racks by organizing them by category. Keeping all of your blouses together, dresses together, skirts/pants together (etc.) will ensure that you won’t find a rogue Nanette Lepore halter hidden behind your winter coat once summer’s over. If it’s helpful for you to organize your clothing by color, go for it, but if you think that you’ll glaze over a section of black tops assuming they’re all the same, mixing it up might be better for you.
Don’t skimp on organizing your shoes and accessories either. Got scarves sitting in an overflowing basket? Are your belts looped around a hanger and falling off? Are your shoes mismatched and living on your floor? Grab some stackable boxes, a sharpie and some blank labels and get to organizing. Throw your scarves in one box, your belts in another, even your costume jewelry in another. Label the sides so you don’t go fishing through them in a morning rage, and you’re on your way to closet perfection! (How easy is that?) Take those shoes decorating your floor and line them up on a shelf. You’ll have all of your shoe options in front of you, giving you the best chance to create an outfit people will be talking about for weeks. If you’re short on space, picking up a one-tier shelf that goes on the floor will at least maximize the space you do have. Organize by color, occasion or heel height, whatever will help your style process the most. Grab your boots that are slouched over and put a rolled magazine in each boot to keep it standing tall.
The final details will add icing on top of your style cake, giving your closet the TLC that it needs. Line your shelves with scented shelf paper, or add sachets to your drawers and shelves to give your closet an oasis vibe (anything to make getting dressed less stressful). You can also throw some cedar chips into your closet, they’re inexpensive and they’ll keep your clothes away from pesky moths. Go the extra style step and hang an inspiration board on your closet door or wall (find out how to make one here) for an instant style pick-me-up.
Have a closet organizing tip that you’d like to share? Tweet us (@STAconsignment) or post on our Facebook page (facebook.com/staconsignment) and let us know!
~Ashley, FashioniSTA