Summer Style: A Travel Capsule Wardrobe that is Bébé Friendly

This spring I took a bit of a hiatus from blogging—while I’ve missed our quarterly touch bases my time helping clients navigate post-pandemic wardrobes online and in person took priority.

This summer I thought it may be fun to revisit the blog in a fresh way and expand it beyond my voice. We all have such wonderful insights to share by way of our personal experiences!

I reached out to one of my clients, Tarah, who recently had a sweet transition and welcomed a little one during the pandemic (brave lady)! I was curious about how life was going and how she was navigating motherhood via her wardrobe. I work with a number of women who have gone through this transition and everyone shares a desire to have an easy wardrobe that still looks cute or fun. Finding that balance between self-expression and functionality takes time, but is worth the investment in yourself.

This transition is also not unique to new moms. One of the common asks among all of my client's coming out of the pandemic is “I want to be comfortable!” So, read on for a few great style tips from Tarah that may resonate with you too.

Stay Stylish,

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 Happy weekend all! And thanks, Kimberly, for the introduction and for offering me the space to share my perspective as a new mom trying to work out what clothes give me joy now.

Tarah and her darling little guy!

What Tarah is wearing: The top is a button style from Maje. The jeans are from L’Agence. The earrings are old and from Madewell.

Last weekend we took our first vacation with the baby, and it went great.

While I was getting ready for the trip, I had to stop and think about “what do I wear on vacation?” After two years of working from home – and then momming from home – in a uniform of yoga pants and cozy shirts, I honestly couldn’t answer immediately.

It felt like so much had changed since our last getaway. Prioritizing how I looked during Covid felt trivial, and in 2021 I was pregnant – so it had been two years since I reflected on what I enjoy wearing.

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Tarah’s Summer Travel Capsule

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On the trip, I gravitated toward packing things I already owned and had missed wearing.

●      Linen button-downs

I thanked my past self for following Kimberly’s advice of rotating and packing my clothes each season. When I opened my summer clothes, I found two of my favorite linen shirts from J.Crew. They are oversized and familiar and make me so happy. I loved these for vacation because they are lightweight and endlessly adaptable. They are always an easy layer piece over a swimsuit or under a light jacket. I wore my white linen button-down with denim jean shorts like these and a leather sandal. My second linen outfit featured my blue linen shirt, black linen shorts, and black sandals. I also just found these shorts for Moms to be, and they are so cute.

New mom bonus: I recently learned (linen button-downs) they are perfect for breastfeeding and more stylish than many other nursing tops out there. I also find that oversized linen tops are great for hiding stains (like baby spit up) and sweat.

●      Wrap dresses

I brought my favorite wrap dress from Modern Citizen on the trip. Wrap dresses are easy to pack, flattering and versatile. I appreciate this dress even more after pregnancy, and my body has changed – maybe yours has too during Covid– and a wrap dress gives me the flexibility I need to feel happy, confident, and a little more dressed up.

In addition to wearing my favorite wrap dress to dinner, I’ve also worn it as a swimsuit cover-up and feel extra chic walking around the pool.

In addition to wearing my favorite wrap dress to dinner, I’ve also worn it as a swimsuit cover-up and feel extra chic walking around the pool. I also highly recommend wrap dresses if you are a nursing mom and are out and about. I love that I can wear my wrap dress, a nursing tank or bra underneath, and cover myself with this wrap, all while feeling pulled together and doing the things I enjoy.

●      Pool things

This is where I bought a few things for the trip. I wanted a new pair of sunglasses that were festive and fun. I landed on these sunglasses with this hat. I love that the hat isn’t precious, protects me from the sun (up to UPF 50), and is practically uncrushable. I also bought this cover-up for its length and ease, but I considered a cover-up that cinched in at the waist and looked more elevated for when I wanted to go from the pool to the restaurant without having to return to the room and change. I like this one in black.

●      Some Learnings

I tried on a swimsuit before we left on our trip, but I didn’t realize until I was at the pool and swimming around that it was super uncomfortable. It was a good reminder that even though I had only worn it once before, it was time to upgrade to something I love and feel great in. I found there are lots of sales on swimwear right now.

I like this one piece and love Johanna Ortiz’s overall brand. I also love the wrap effect of this suit, and I love a red swimsuit. I also wore this swimsuit every day during my pregnancy. Swimming was my main form of exercise, and this suit offered support and coverage and grew with my belly. I was able to wear it until 39 weeks!

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Changing Seasons: What to Pack Away for Fall

Megan and I often get the question from clients, “How do you dress in the Bay Area when there are no seasons?!” While it is true what we largely have two seasons in SF - Fog and No Fog - that doesn’t mean you couldn’t benefit from a shift with the season.

Unsure what to pack away or shift to the back of your closet? Read on for our list to help you shift to a new season with ease and pack away seasonal pieces with care.

Stay Stylish,

K&M

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Yes, Store Your Clothes For A Season

There are many professionals in our industry and organizational gurus who strictly direct to never packing away anything in your closet, but we support pausing pieces for a season or two (i.e. Fall/Winter). This cycling will increase the life of the garments by stretching their wear and help you to be more intentional when adding new pieces.

The Canvas Guide To Storing Your Summer Staples

Give It a Fresh Wash: Before packing anything away send it out to the dry cleaner or machine wash so that there are no stains. This also ensures that everything is fresh and ready for the following season when you take it out of storage.

Look At Fabrication: Anything that is light weight and cannot be layered under a sweater will likely not be your first pick in the morning, which is why we recommend packing away linen and light weight fabrics. By putting them away and out of sight, you can see your true choices in your closet and are less likely to always reach for the same thing.

Pro Tip: If you store your linen or summer sweaters in a box or plastic tote, slip in a paper wrapped bar of your favorite soap or sachet. Kimberly recommends picking up a set of Portuguese or Florentine soaps from World Market.

Color and Prints: It can feel tricky deciding which clothes to put away for Spring/Summer, when the weather is mostly the same all year round. We recommend packing your lighter colors and prints (pastels, bright florals, summer stripes), and leaving your jewel tones, deeper colors, and plaids for the cooler months.

Spring/Summer Accessories: Apply the pack-away strategy to your accessories. Straw sun hats, strapy sandals, and light weight scarves can be stored until your next vacation or season shift.

Pro Tip: Roll your scarves and store them in your hats. Not only will help your hats keep shapes, it will also help make the most of your storage space.

Storage Picks:

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Kimberly's Mod Work Dress

Sometimes there is nothing better than having a quick and easy dress in your wardrobe to pop on for those days you just need to get up and go.

Last year I purchased this dress from Ann Taylor Loft--I loved the Mod Design, heavy fabric, and geometric print. I knew I would get more use out of this dress during Fall/Winter, but it has remained untouched in my tiny closet. To brighten up the look for this season I paired it with a jacket I scored from our last clothing swap (thanks, Megan). It was just enough structure and color to compete with the printed dress and something I will be repeating.

Are you missing that go to dress in your wardrobe? The mod shift dress can be a great starter dress because of its forgiving and comfortable silhouette that works across different body types. 

Stay Stylish,

K&M

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What To Look For In A Great Work Dress

Choose A Fabric That Is Forgiving

The key to a great mod dress is structure. Thicker fabric will achieve this while helping to smooth out curves, resist wrinkles, and add warmth to a Winter/Spring work dress. Weight, retention (think bounce back), and fiber content all contribute to fabric quality. Look for a great Ponte (double knit), boiled wool, or thick cotton blend. 

A Versatile Print Or Color

If adding a print to your wardrobe is terrifying, start small. From an investment perspective, a geometric based design is one of the most trend-resistant patterns.

The more basic the print, the longer the life (i.e. stripes and polka dots). The navy, orange, and red shades in the print of my dress give flexibility to seasonality. Depending on the season you can pull out a different shade.

When you are considering a print or shade, stop and ask yourself "Can I make at least three different outfits with this piece?" For example, this dress can layer well with a white oxford, paired with a denim jacket or polished up with a black jacket like I did last Valentines Day.

A Simple Silhouette That Is Easy To Move In

Whether you are sitting in front of a panel of executives or three-year-olds, having a dress that is stylish and modest is golden. You never know what a day could throw at you and you don't want your ensemble to hold you back.

A shift dress, which is the style of my Mod dress, can luckily hold up to most of life's adventures. For taller gals, the length may be an issue since these dresses are designed to hit above the knee. If you are feeling self-conscious, try pairing a shift with tights and tall boots for a true mod expression á la Mary Quant.

If you are interested in learning more about Mod style and what made it so popular in the 1960's, see this blog from ModCloth for more information.

Our Favorite Mod Pieces

Fringe Tweed Dress $70 (sale)

Mod Pleated Skirt $128

Joan Ponte Dress $130

Darling Dress $298

Outfit Details: Tulle Gold Jacket, Ann Taylor Loft Dress, French Sole Black Flats, J.Crew Gold Tassel Earrings

Re-thinking Your Buying Behavior: The Canvas Approach

Over the years we have worked with hundred of clients, helping them simplify their closets and find meaning in their expression of style. One of the stand-out biggest takeaways clients have after an outfitting session is how much they can do with what they already own. Sometimes it just takes cleaning out the clutter and focusing on what works and why.

This NY Times article about buying less has been buzzing the last few weeks online and supports  what we believe in at Canvas--Invest in the best quality you can afford and only buy what you really need and love. The result? You'll spend less time on shopping and returns and have more time to devote to living life!

Honest Talk: How Do You Buy?

Clothing regardless of whether you are a gal or guy carries with it a mix of emotions and triggers. Sometimes it can feel like a treat at the end of a long day to indulge in new shoes or a chore to find a new bathing suit for vacation. Being mindful of your purchase style will help keep you accountable so you can enjoy a shopping trip. 

Stylist Confessions

As a stylist I know this, but as a consumer it's something I can still struggle with. I am an extremely frugal shopper to the point of self denial. When I invest in a big ticket item, I can take a long time (years) to research the perfect mix of quality, price, and fit. I have a few accountability partners (including Megan) to keep me honest, not overthink, and actual enjoy a hard earned handbag or jacket.   - Kimberly

Over the years, I've found that I don't get the same spark of joy buying something for myself that I do when I am working with a client. As a result, I am always looking for those special pieces that I can't live without. When I can't find anything, I end up buying lots of basics like black shirts or denim to hold me over. If I need a quick fix after a stressful day, you can always find me in Sephora.   - Megan

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Starving the "More is More" Mentality

Fashion is a landscape of abundance with new collections dropping four (or up to 12) times a year. Yet, many of us suffer from a scarcity perspective when shopping. We buy in bulk to save, live in fear that our favorite cut of denim will be discontinued, and stock up on basics "just in case."

At Canvas, we understand that it's easy to get seduced by stores and caught up in shopping. We believe that it is ok to treat yourself every now and then. However, our vision for clients is to have a curated wardrobe of items that are not only loved, but worn till they are threadbare. To help, we both have little check-ins that we like to ask clients in the dressing room: 

1. Do you want to wear this as soon as you get home? If not, you probably don't need it.

2. Is this better than anything similar that you already own? If not, let's wait for better.

3. Does this feel like an A+? If not, then let's find one that is.

ProTip: If you wouldn't buy it at regular price, don't buy it on sale. Everyone has their breaking point on value, but if you don't love something enough to justify its cost you MAY not value it enough

Be Realistic in Your Goal Setting

What works for one, does not work for all. While we love being streamlined and minimal, there are seasons in life. Not celebrating that or allowing yourself to make fashion mistakes (learnings) can create its own host of problems.

We recommend budgeting and setting healthy realistic goals. We encourage our clients to be proactive consumers which is why we take inventory, schedule seasonal shopping trips, and are intentional in our selections. By planning your purchases, you are set up for success and not as vulnerable to shiny marketing tactics.

By having less in your closet, you naturally are forced to be more resourceful with what you have. This is one lesson Megan and I learned while doing our July Capsule Challenge. We actually found it was more fun getting dressed when we had fewer options because it caused us to be more creative.

Do What's Right For You And Enjoy It!

At the end of the day, we want clothing and getting dressed to be something that is fun and inspiring for all of our clients, not stressful or frustrating. While you may not be ready to take the plunge and quit shopping for a year (neither are we), it is important to step back and look at what and how you are buying. Find small ways to make those purchases more meaningful and then watch how that starts to filter through to the rest of your life.

Stay Stylish,
K&M

Kimberly's Everyday Fall Fashion: The 5-second Outfit

I often ask clients when we first meet what their 5-second outfit is. This may seem like an odd question but at the heart of Canvas Styling, we are more realists than fashionistas. That sensational dinner party look may be necessary, but likely what you really need are effortless outfitting ideas for every day.

Outfitting On The Fly: Effortless Style

What do you put on when your morning seems to be working against you and you spill that cup of coffee down your blouse? Today I am asking that question and sharing my answer with you. My hope is you will find it helpful in coming up with your own looks that are equally resilient and chic.

Building Bullet Proof Looks

The secret weapon of a capsule wardrobe is universality. If you have to suddenly change your top, bottom, or shoes, having a well-planned capsule wardrobe makes that quick change easy. If you missed our capsule wardrobe series, check out this blog to learn more.

Shoes That Go The Distance

As stylists, we are constantly on our feet running around stores, crawling under racks and up SF hills to find that perfect client piece (never trust a stylist in heels).

Having a good pair of shoes to support you along the way is essential. Having a good pair of shoes that are stylish can be problematic. Which is why we are all capitalizing on the mule and loafer trend this season because they walk this line oh so well.

The pair pictured are from Banana Republic from a few years ago. They go with just about everything, but they have stretched over time. Here are a few a great alternative options (steal and investment).

The Jacket Sweater Hybrid

Move over grandpa and boyfriends, a new sweater cardigan is in town and we are smitten! I picked up this J.Crew Sweater Blazer a few weeks ago after much deliberation (the sizing is generous--but go by what shoulder and sleeve length work best. I am wearing a small). Camel has been a popular jacket essential for the past few years, but many of the coats are better suited for colder climates than SF. I love that this sweater jacket is Merino wool, so it keeps me toasty without the weight or size of a fully lined jacket. I can easily stow it away in a bag for the midday fall sunshine and pull it out when the fog returns.

Outfit Details: J.Crew Sweater Blazer $138, AG Farah High-rise Jeans $178, Black and White Linen Tee (Similar Caslon $25), Older BR Wine Flats (Similar above), Earrings Jessica Thompson Designs Triangle Pear $38

Travel Style Take 2: What to Pack for a 10 day Trip

How Do You Travel With Less AND With Style

I've helped many clients over the years pack the perfect travel wardrobe. It's part science and part art. Many people err on the side of fear and plan for too many unknowns or add a few extra things at the last minute (does that sound familiar?). I have developed the opposite problem--perhaps being too minimal in my travel wardrobe.

Make Your Own Rules

I believe less is more and when you have an action packed schedule, clutter only holds you back. Last summer I blogged about what I discovered traveling with less. While I loved the ease of packing up an going, there were a few times when my uniform felt, well boring. This year I pulled Megan in to help me pack and counter balance my urge to purge. Even as I write this, I already cut three items in the photo above to lighten my load (no workout gear and no floral dress). However, on this trip I will only be gone for 10 days (not 15 like before) covering two countries. I have the space to keep a few extra options.

Skip The Bulky Clothing

The one draw back for me was including a few bulky pieces to pack. The one shoulder crew shirt packs a punch but doesn't save space. To offset this I nixed the floral dress (not versatile enough and too bulky with lining) and made sure the other tops I chose were very compact and light weight. 

Pack Evening Wear

Last year I learned that in warmer climates, a change of clothes in the evening is a lifesaver to keep fresh (I blogged about it here). This trip I packed a few evening pieces--most were worn --but running back to the airbnb nightly rarely happened (there was too much to see). What I loved was wearing my jumpsuit or a dress for the day and packing my espadrilles in a bag to dress up my look at night. 

Pro Tip: When packing and you're tight on space roll your clothing and utilize packing cubes. They'll keep you organized on the go and save space and time by eliminating the daily repack.

The Packing List--My Equation

Shoes (3)

• Lace Up Espadrilles (Great for dress up not for mileage, lesson learned)

• Ked Sneakers (amazing power horse)

• Castel Minorca Sandals (travel day lifesavers)

Dresses (2)

• Sunhee Moon Linen Day Dress

• Uniqlo Striped Day Dress

Jumpsuit (1) 

• Uniqlo Day/Evening (warning do not fly or wine taste in--excellent for all other travel)

Bottoms (4)

• Denim Fray AG Legging Jeans

• Cream AG Stilt Jeans

• BR Navy Shorts (work horse)

• Club Monaco Black Silk Joggers

Layers (5)

• Jigsaw London cream Tie Cardigan 

• Ralph Lauren Polo Pullover Navy Sweater 

• Grey Cashmere Cardigan 

• BR Denim Chambray Shirt

• Zara Red Windbreaker

Tops (5)

• Ann Taylor Loft Blue Stripe Tank (workhorse)

• BCBG Black Silk Cami with Lace

• J.Crew Yellow Striped Off the Shoulder Top

• J.Crew Red Ruffle One Shoulder Top (workhorse)

Accessories (5)

• Blue Cap from Nordstrom Rack
• Mexican Tie Belt (vintage)
• Kate Spade Cross Body (workhorse)
• leSport Sack Day Bag

Other

• Ann Taylor Loft Low Profile Socks

Stay Stylish, 
K&M

Summer Swim Series: Lakeside Glam

We are celebrating July with a special "Summer Swim Series" where each week we will share our fave swim style picks for women of all shapes. So get ready... whether your laying by the pool or heading to the beach, we've got you covered!

Now, grab your sunnies and get ready to soak up the sun! 

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Kimberly's Lake Essentials:

I love the water, but my fair skin requires a little extra preparation to make sure that the day is enjoyable from start to finish. After a good application of sunscreen (I love Neutrogena Dry Touch Sunblock in 55) I always pack a button down shirt as an easy and breathable cover up. I like the flexibility to pop the collar for extra sun coverage or add it to a separate afterward.

Lake Como Summer Style by canvas-styling featuring high waisted bikini swimwear

Upgrade Your Accessories

Instead of the standard beach tote go for a leather mini backpack to carry all your necessities without weighing you down. Though it's not waterproof, it's easy to wipe clean and keeps its shape. Similarly, in lieu of a sun hat opt for a fedora or silk scarf. Both will protect your hair and scalp from sun and wind if you decide to boat to a lakeside beach.

ProTip: If you want to wear it as a headband, we like a turban twist. 1.) Place the scarf under nape of your neck with the two ends of the scarf pointing up. 2.) Twist the ends together until the are tight on the crown of your head. 3.) Pull the ends down (opposite from the start) and tie in a knot under the nape of your neck.

Don't Be Afraid to Play With Print

I wear so many solids during the week that I like to throw in more prints on vacation. I love this high waisted swimsuit by Adriana Degreas. The print is slenderizing with the side chevrons and vertical on the top. The silhouette is perfect for if you have curves, are long waisted or have no defined waistline. I like that the handkerchief top works well as a crop top with high-waisted shorts or a skirt.

ProTip: While I love this suit, I am also a realist and would rather splurge on an accessory I could use everyday. Until it goes on sale, here are a few great printed high waisted alternatives at a lower price from ModCloth and Anthropologie.

Stay Fresh With Your Signature Scent

I am a bit of a scent junkie (I change by the season) and summer is not exception. After a long day at the lake I like to keep a small perfume rollerball or sample size in my bag to freshen up. Bobbi Brown's "Beach" remains one of my favorite light and airy summertime scents...stay tuned for a later post with some of our current favorites!

Stay Stylish,

K&M

Summer Swim Series: Beach Ready With 7 Items

We are celebrating July with a special "Summer Swim Series" where each week we will share our fave swim style picks for women of all shapes. So get ready... whether your laying by the pool or heading to the beach, we've got you covered!

Now, grab your towel and let's hit the beach! 

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Megan's Beach Essentials:

I love a day in the sun, but I always like to be prepared. Below are my seven must-haves for an easy day at the beach.

Beach Ready With Canvas Styling by megan-zatko featuring 7 beach must-haves

Swim in Style

I gravitate toward colorful swim suits that give me a little extra coverage. One pieces are great because after the beach you can throw on a pair of shorts or shirt and head out to a casual lunch.

Pro Tip: Pair your swimsuit with shorts or flowy pants and wear it like a body suit! It's a very on trend look right now and cuts down on packing.

Essential Accessories

My beach bag always contains the same 4 items: 1. An oversized towel - I also like to pack a smaller second towel for wiping sand off my feet). 2. Sunglasses that have UV protection (did you know your eyes can get sunburns?!) 3. Sandals to protect my feet from the hot sand. 4. An easy cover-up for when it's time to get out of the sun.

Clever Carryalls

Pack up your beach gear in an oversized bag, like the straw and pom pom beach tote above. Don't forget a small waterproof bag to put your wet swimsuit in at the end of the day - it will save your other items from getting damp. 

Stay Stylish,
M&K

Summer Swim Series: Poolside Style

We are celebrating July with a special "Summer Swim Series" where each week we will share our fave swim style picks for women of all shapes. So get ready... whether your laying by the pool or heading to the beach, we've got you covered!

To kick things off, Devon is showing her top picks for staying cool poolside

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Devon's Poolside Style:

When I want to unwind in the sun, Palm Springs is on the top of my list. A day full of poolside relaxation calls for an easy and comfortable outfit.

Poolside Style by devon-bert featuring chic swimsuits

Swimwear That Stays

For extra coverage and security, I am a big fan of a high waisted bottom and secure top. This combo ensures maximum staying power when you’re jumping into the pool. I love a fun print, but having a basic black version on hand is never a bad idea for mixing it up.

Cover Up Two Ways

When covering up; an oversized chambray shirt and baseball cap are my go-to pieces. Throw on a pair of printed shorts, and you’re ready to head into town for lunch.

Slide Into Summer

This summer, basic slides are the it-sandal. Find your favorite pair and wear them from pool to party and everywhere in between.

Stay Stylish,
M&K&D

Mothers Of Influence: San Franciscian Style Makers

At Canvas we love helping other's tell their style story. For our first "Canvas" Mother's Day, we shared with you stories about the women who most significantly influenced our sense of style from an early age.

This year we wanted to take that idea and ask this same question to a few local San Franciscan bloggers with impeccable taste who inspire us daily. A big THANKS to all who shared and we hope you enjoy their stories as much as we do!  

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Photo Courtesy of sf.stockholm: Aferdita on her wedding day with her elegant mother

Aferdita Södervall
sf.stockholm

Afredita is the lovely face of Instagram's sf.stockholm. A new mom and newer transplant to the Bay Area, she has plenty of style to share. We love following her fresh take on outfitting with a little one and are inspired by her daily snaps around the city.

We were touched by Afredita's candid sharing of living so far from her own mom as she discovers motherhood in San Francisco. 

"My mother has always been very certain of her style and that has given me confidence to trust my own sense of style. She also taught me that one should not try to be someone else when dressing, but rather emphasize their true personality through her clothes. "

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Photo Courtesy of Allergic To Vanilla: Carlina rocking our favorite feminine cool look.

Carlina Harris
Allergic to Vanilla

There are trends and there are trend setters. Carlina Harris certainly falls into the latter bunch.

We love the sophistication and ease of her style that always has a dash of the unexpected. Perhaps it's her genuinely grounded personality that makes everything work. How does she walk the line so well, maybe it's genetic? 

"My mom has always inspired me from how she used to dress when I was a little girl, to when she'd dress my sister and I in the same getups she would sew herself. Fashion was always something I looked up to with her. I loved her boho glam style in the 70's."

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Devon with her fun loving mama traveling

Devon Bert is our new Junior Stylist. Don't let her sweet smile fool you, she is one fierce stylist and bargain shopper! We love Devon's fresh take on local fashion as she settles into west coast living.

Where did she hone her style skills? Her mom has been a great style influencer. Devon balances her creativity with practicality.

"Growing up shopping with my mom, she taught me the importance of classic silhouettes. The staple pieces in my wardrobe that I mix with my funkier vintage items are definitely inspired by her advice. "

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Photo Courtesy of Chasing Kendal: Kendall in one of her casual-cool outfits.

Kendall Chase
Chasing Kendall

One of the things that we love about Kendall is that when it comes to fashion and life, she is having FUN! Whether she's showing off her fearless fashion or where to get a great cocktail, Kendall's blog is full of infectious energy. Plus, she is as nice as she is stylish!

When we saw her Insta stories last weekend about her early Mother's Day trip to Napa, we knew these two had a serious bond and couldn't wait to hear more!

"My mom influenced my style because she was always very receptive to anything I felt like putting on. She embraced my individuality, and didn't stifle it. Constantly encouraging me to “express my individuality” (even if that meant wearing gross baggy sweats to high school or a full leopard bodysuit to elementary school for a whole month straight - no lie!) allowed me to be different and cultivate my unique style… not to mention her closet full of sartorial treasures. Anything she didn’t want anymore or outgrew I snagged! Some of these pieces are staples in my wardrobe today, which I then mix with my own new flavor."

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Photo Courtesy of The Tropicanyon: Ryan and His Gorgeous Mama

Ryan Castañeda
The Tropicanyon

Ryan is our daily dose of inspiration walking through Union Square. You likely have seen his genius creations gracing the windows of Saks Fifth Avenue.

Ryan shares a special bond with his mama that we heard about as soon as we met. His eye for color and vintage mixing is on point. Check out his Tumblr feed here to see more. How does Ryan's mom influence his sense of style?

"Her free spirited personality and love of combining decades past with the present heavily inspired my style, it's very much alive within me when I style each and every morning. She's also always worn her beautiful blonde hair long and ever flowing which very much inspired why I wear mine long as well. As a child I always wanted to have the cascading effect she achieved so effortlessly and glow brighter than anyone in a room. I'd say that's how she's influenced my style and why she continues to be a light in my life."

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Stay Stylish,
K&M