wardrobeSTYLE

5 Things You Didn’t Know About J.Crew

by Casie Mace on May 16, 2012

We all love J.Crew. It’s the brand that has come to push the boundaries of acceptable work attire (neon + power suit? Yes please) and they’re the clothes we love hanging in for weekend brunches. It’s also the only catalog most of us still riffle through! Now that Jenna’s a common household name (well… to us), heres a few fun facts you probably didn’t know about the brand we love.

1. The brand we now know as J.Crew was incorporated in 1947 as Popular Merchandise, Inc by Mitchell Cinader and Saul Charles. Popular Merchandise, Inc offered a women’s clothing line called Popular Club Plan which was sold via at-home demonstrations.

2. With the catalog boom of the 80′s Popular Club Plan saw the opportunity to take their sales to the next level. They released their first catalog in 1983.

3. In 1989, Popular Merchandise, Inc. changed the company name to J.Crew and in 1998 they sold Popular Club Plan, their first membership-based catalog line, to Fingerhut Companies for for $42 million.

4. Feel like you can’t get enough J.Crew in your mailbox? It’s hard to believe that each year the company issues 24 editions of the J. Crew catalog, distributing more than 80 million copies!!! WOE!

5. J.Crew now operates more than 333 locations and its all thanks to a paper crisis! In 1994 there was an increase in postal rates + a sharp 40 percent increase in paper costs. J.Crew realized their catalog business was quite vulnerable and brought in a life line. They recruited David DeMattei from Banana Republic to help open a dozen new stores in one year. Voila!

I also appreciate their efforts towards social responsibility.

Today, J.Crew is store with store fronts that draw us in with magnetic force and keep up addicted with fresh fabrics, bright colors and bold prints. Not to mention, we ALL still love receiving their catalog, right!? It’s a happy night full of eye candy when my catalog arrives.

Here’s a few things from the J.Crew line over at Net-a-Porter that Im drooling over right now. And I love that these pieces can be mixed and matched! That jumpsuit is hands down my new obsession!! Must. Have.

1. Striped silk top

2. Strapless printed silk jumpsuit

3. Vintage cotton tank

4. Café polka-dot stretch-cotton Capri pants

5. Printed cotton-twill shorts (Also love these High-waisted printed shorts

6. Toothpick cropped mid-rise skinny jeans (Also in mint and with a side ankle zipper, what what!!! )

Posted in everydaySTYLE, wardrobeSTYLE | 3 comments

wardrobeSTYLE: Bustier Tops

by whippedSTYLE on May 15, 2012

After oogling at the Hi-Low Skirts this week – We became instantly addicted to the adorable bustier-style top! What a cute way to feel beachy and summery without seeming under dressed in your day to day. As always, we are interested in versatility and this is such a great piece can go from day to night or beach to city with ease! Not to mention, you can find them in a variety of lengths for more or less coverage, depending on your desired midriff exposure (if any). The trick to pulling off this trend is to play with high waisted bottoms (ESPECIALLY skirts–L O V E !) and layer as needed! Bustier even tops look adorable with chunky knit cardigans, leather jackets, denim jackets, vests or lacey cardis!!!

lisaplace.devote.se

Pinterest Mystery

laguna-c0ve.tumblr.com

fashionworship.com

boldbrightpastel.tumblr.com

Urban Outfitters Bustier Top (Click to Buy!)

DENIM ZIP BRALET (Click to buy!)

Polka Dot Bustier (click to buy!)

Fluro Floral Print Corset (click to buy!)

Helmut Lang Element Sheer Hem Shirt | Therapy Bandeau floral top (similar for more) (similar for less)| Studded Shorts, Vintage Distressed High Waisted Denim | Reiss Angelica Resin Detail Ring

Aztec Bustier | Famous Fortune Chiffon Skirt | Miu Miu Wedges | J.J. Winters Large Envelope Clutch in Yellow Boa | Juicy Couture Heirloom Garden Multi-Enamel Petal Multi-Chain Necklace

White Linen Pants | Colorful Bustier Top (similar ) | Diba Red Rose | CK Straw Shopper | Straw Hat

Posted in wardrobeSTYLE | 3 comments

Sexy Little Nightie Numbers

by Casie Mace on May 10, 2012

So I feel like I’ve really been neglecting my sleepwear. It’s just so easy to fall into the habit of wearing any ol’ thing to bed, isn’t it!? And while I try to avoid frumpy sweatpants and old Terp T-shirts–I do believe my hubs deserves a little more than cotton PJ shorts from target and a tank. So do I, for that matter! The floral romper below is my first pick, hands-down but I really want to get one more. What do you think? The red ruffle romper? The crop top two piece? (owww owwwww!) Plus I could totally wear some of these things in real life, just layered under other pieces!!! sshhhhhhhhhhh ;)

Zinke Summer Crush Crop Flutter set | La Fee Verte Silk Tribal Night set | Calvin Klein Underwear Calvin Klein Black Camisole

Bop Basics Pajama Top Chemise, white | Bop Basics Pajama Top Chemise | Only Hearts Night Shirt

Kiki De Montparnasse Wrap Teddy | La Fee Verte Silk Gypsy Rose Romper (Also in a two-piece) | La Fee Verte Ruffle Front Romper (Also in cream.. so cute!)

Posted in everydaySTYLE, wardrobeSTYLE | 2 comments

wardrobeSTYLE: The Hi Low Skirt

by Allie Mcwatters on May 9, 2012

The Hi Low skirt (or the “mullet skirt” as some like to call it) is the business in the front, party in the back, edgy alternative to the maxi skirt. It is a bold look to pursue; however, when styled correctly you will be turning heads everywhere you go. These uneven hemmed skirts look best worn with a heel, preferably a wedge or a platform sandal, and a fitted top, either cropped or tucked in. These images below give us quite a variety of looks to use as inspiration. I found this great polka dot Hi-Low skirt at Forever21 that I wore with a low back black tank top and black wedges! Have you bought into this trend yet?

Atlantic-Pacific.Blogspot.com

RunningOnHappiness.com

HapaTime.Blogspot.com

StyleCaster.com

TheFancy.com

LookBook.Nu

Ella Moss - Click to Buy!

Forever21 - Click to Buy!

TopShop Bralet | Ash Platforms | Delia’s Skirt | Tory Burch Clutch | Elyona Studs

Posted in wardrobeSTYLE | 1 Response

Obsessing Over THESE!!!! (And YOU Get 10% Off!)

by Casie Mace on May 8, 2012

**UPDATE**
Sorry, guys!!!!! I bought these, loved them, and posted about them rather quickly. And in that time, the price of the bracelets went up a little! What are the chances?! The price of the bracelets is $26, making them $23.40 with the code. Still a great deal!
**********

Remember last week when I posted a few random things I’d love to get my hands on?

Well, I got the bracelets and I’m loving them!!!

They’re from the Etsy shop, The Way We Are and right now, shop owner, Leah, is being kind enough to offer WS readers a little hook up!

You can get 10% off your order with code: READERS

(And they’re SOOOOO reasonably priced! Only $22! Which means just $20 for you!)

Shop: The Way We Are
10% off Code: READERS

Posted in everydaySTYLE, wardrobeSTYLE | Leave a comment

wardrobeSTYLE: Watercolor Prints for Your Closet

by Casie Mace on May 7, 2012

Can we all agree that the watercolor trend is officially a favorite!? I love that there are so many different ways to do it, too. Some pieces have splashed of splattered color, others have that tie-dye-influenced look of colors bleeding together and some are just splotches of color palettes in isolated areas of the piece. Either way, watercolor prints are such a fun way to add a little flair to any look. The number one, no-fail piece to add is definitely a white blazer but I could totally wear this with a denim jacket for a dressed down look, too–don’t you think? And the jeans? Don’t even get me started… we all now about my obsession with Olivia Palermo. The girl can just do no wrong!

Pinterest Mystery

stylescrapbook.com

outblush.com

factory-girls.com

Atlantic-Pacific.blogspot.com

imageupper.com

Watercolor Palette Skirt (only $35! click to buy!)

PAIGE VERDUGO ULTRA SKINNY JEAN (click to buy!)

Watercolor One-Shoulder Dress (only $60! click to buy!)

RIKA Multicolor Splash Print Skirt (click to buy!)

Cashmere Cardigan | Printed Kimono (similar and a more colorful version) | KSubi Denim shorts | Steve Madden Kamelia Round Toe Flats (similar for less: Hive & Honey Yvonna Round Toe Flats) | Fab. Clutch Ita Love Stud Black

Posted in wardrobeSTYLE | 3 comments

Wish List: Clutches That POP and Britches with PRINTS

by Casie Mace on May 2, 2012

A few accessories and touches that have been making me say, “omg I have to have that!!” Anything amazing on your wish list lately? Do tell!

1. Rhinestone necklace, neon multicolor

2. Suede Leather Key Chain-Teal

3. Alexandra by DVF

4. Women’s Printed Tie-Belt Shorts

5. Deep Rose Red Fold Over Clutch w/ Purple Zipper

6. The Way We Are Metal Chain Bracelets

Posted in everydaySTYLE, wardrobeSTYLE | 2 comments

Color Obsession: Peach

by Casie Mace on May 1, 2012

It’s no secret that I’m loving pastels this spring. And one of my favorite pastel hues is peach! It seems to capture the epitome of dainty, don’t you think?! It can so easily be an accent color or the foundation for an entire ensemble. Here’s a few of my favorite looks that use a little peach-keen flair.

weheartit.com

tumblr.com

thenativefox.blogspot.ca

Mulberry Tea Shorts (click to buy!)

A.P.C. Short Sleeve Dress (click to buy!)

AG Neon Stevie Ankle

MAX AZRIA Woven halterneck maxi dress (click to buy!)

Alexander Mcqueen Peach Silk Skull Scarf (click to buy!)

Pastel in Comparison Top | CHLOÉ Macramé-strap leather ballet flats | 3.1 PHILLIP LIM Pashli texured-leather tote | CHAN LUU White Mix Wrap Bracelet (similar)

Posted in wardrobeSTYLE | Leave a comment

Music Monday: Robyn, Call Your Girlfriend

by Casie Mace on April 30, 2012

Hope everyone had a FABULOUS weekend!!! I had one of those weekends that was somehow busy, relaxing and productive, all at the same time–don’t you love those!? And can we all agree that Sunday night T.V. is officially awesome?? I’m a little torn on the show Girls– On one hand, I love the honesty and quick-witted humor of the show. On the other, I think it loses some of those ‘honesty points’ when it crosses the “clumsy mouth” line–I just don’t believe anyone in real life is that dumb and irreverent– so the jury’s still out.

HOWEVER, as I tweeted last night, the person responsible for their episode’s soundtracks needs to be my new best friend. The music of the show is INCREDIBLE! At the end of last night’s episode they played this favorite by Robyn and it’s a must listen to!!! Such a fun, upbeat song. Plus, you can’t beat the fact that Robyn busts out a full-on electric slide box mid-video. Her ensemble in the video seems to fit the mood of the song (floral bottoms? Love) but I love putting a more chic spin on it. Happy Monday!

To learn more about Robyn, visit her wiki!

GRAUMANN Claudia silk blouse white (similar) | Citizens Of Humanity Floral Thompson | CASADEI D’Orsay Leather Pump (similar for less) | Alexander McQueen Studded Black Leather Clutch (mother effing DREAM cross body, right?) | A Thing for Bling Necklace | Essie Sure Shot Resort Collection

Posted in Music Monday, wardrobeSTYLE | 3 comments

wardrobeSTYLE: Boho-chic

by Samantha Bradley on April 27, 2012

Boho-chic draws its style from various bohemian and hippie influences. It’s the epitome of effortless girly style with soft flowy pieces, lace details, floral headbands and gorgeous arm parties. Boho-chic is by far my favorite style ever!!! Especially in the spring and summer when effortless, perfected messiness is encouraged. A fun Maxi skirt, sheer tank, big floppy hat and friendship bracelets is my go-to outfit. However, I’ve decided to change it up a little and wear leather shorts with a loose tank, floral kimono, messy side braid and tons of jewelry. Do you think you’ll incorporate some some boho inspirations into your wardrobe??

acrazyblonde.tumblr.com

lateafternoon.com

LookBook.nu

aliceiswonderful.tumblr.com

acrazyblonde.tumblr.com

bjonesstyle.com

fashiongonerogue.com

lateafternoon.com

Scalloped Lace Tank (click to buy)

Vintage Lace Maxi Dress

Lovebirds Kimono (click to buy)

Posted in wardrobeSTYLE | Leave a comment

wardrobeSTYLE: White Lace Shorts

by Allie Mcwatters on April 25, 2012

I bought a black pair of lace shorts at Zara back in December that I wore the heck out of with tights and boots, but now since the weather is warming up I am definitely in the market for a white pair. They are girly, fresh, fun, and allow for so many different styling options. I am thinking a denim button up and some camel wedges for a casual afternoon? Or perhaps chiffon coral top and some dainty flats for brunch with friends. How will you be wearing your lace shorts this season?

LaurenConrad.com

Blog.BaubleBar.com

CouldIHaveThat.blogspot.com

ThisIsNotNew.com

SaboSkirt.com

TopShop Bralet | Madewell Sandals | Free People Shorts | J Crew Candy Stripe Clutch | Illesteva Sunnies

Miss Selfridge Top | DVF Wedges | TopShop Shorts | Tory Burch Envelope Clutch | Vintage Earrings

Posted in everydaySTYLE, wardrobeSTYLE | 3 comments

Stealing Street Style: The Perfect Red Dress

by Casie Mace on April 24, 2012

Something about this image just struck me as so beautiful! I think it’s the simplicity of her look. The dress is such a STUNNING red hue and the gold shoes are the perfect, subtle pop of glam. Don’t you love finding those outfits that make you want to PLAN a night out, just so you can wear it!? *sigh* L O V E.

Pinterest Mystery (if you know, please email me)

VALENTINO balloon sleeve shift dress (similar for MUCH less) | Bebe Shoes Cleo (These keep selling out and coming back! So check here and here too) (similar) | Romeo Quilted Chain Shoulder Bag (also mildly obsessed with this little splurge)

Posted in everydaySTYLE, wardrobeSTYLE | 2 comments

wardrobeSTYLE: Colored Denim Shorts

by Samantha Bradley on April 20, 2012

If you’ve been following us recently, it’s no surprise that we love tons of color and denim for spring. So, it’s only fitting that we’d be drooling over the last trend-in-the-wings: colored denim shorts!!! Colored denim is such a fun twist on a classic piece. Hot pink denim shorts are my absolute favorite right now–I can’t wait to break them out and wear them with a flowy white blouse, gold sandals and a ton of friendship and gold bracelets (Hello, colored denim shorts + Bfrend is a match made in heaven, right?! Mon- expect an order!). If you love colored denim shorts as much as we do, then you better grab a pair (in every color) before they’re gone!

sincerelyjules.com

bagsbonanza.tumblr.com

fashionchalet.net

theblondesalad.com

thechrisellefactor.com

brooklynblonde.com

Keira Cutoff Shorts (click to buy)

Slouchy Boyfriend Shorts (click to buy)

Five Pocket Hipster Shorts (click to buy)

Hampton Cuffed Short Shorts (click to buy)

Posted in everydaySTYLE, wardrobeSTYLE | 1 Response

wardrobeSTYLE: Denim Vests

by Casie Mace on April 19, 2012

As I said just the other day, I’m LOVING denim vests lately!!! I have to say that a year ago I’m not sure I would have had such enthusiasm for this trend but I love how it adds some layering fun to spring and summer looks. It’s the perfect trend to play with for both preppy and edgy looks and it can be paired with shorts, maxi skirts, maxi dresses, little black dresses (so easy and fun) and adorable crop bright pants! Here’s a few of my favorite inspirations + looks.

hellyeeahbreezy.tumblr.com

leblogdemok.blogspot.com

ariberri.tumblr.com

fadedheritage.tumblr.com

lookbook.nu/northern

mystylepill.com

flauntthelove.blogspot.com

missmarushka.blogspot.com

inthecitywithcrystalin.tumblr.com

Free People Denim Vest--Comes in light or dark wash! (Click to buy!)

Madewell Longhorn Denim Vest (Click to buy!)

denim vest Scotch and Soda DISTRESSED DENIM VEST

Scotch and Soda Distressed Denim Vest (Click to buy!)

H & M Denim Shell

Raquel Allegra Asymmetric cotton-blend jersey T-shirt | Madewell Longroad Denim Vest | Elizabeth and James Floral Ozzy Shorts (Similar for less) | Bronx Sandals brown (Similar)

Posted in wardrobeSTYLE | 2 comments

wardrobeSTYLE: Maxi Dresses

by Casie Mace on April 17, 2012

Maxi dresses can really challenge your style creativity because, technically, most of the outfit is already created for you!! So, whether the maxi dress is a solid color or a pretty print, you’re left to add your own flair which can be so much fun!! Try adding a light-weight scarf, denim or leather jacket and, of course, some bright chunky accessories! Two of my fave spring 2012 trends just happen to perfectly compliment the maxi dress: denim vets and neon bags! What’s your favorite way to wear maxi dresses?