Megan and I always have our ears open for new brands and when they have a San Francisco connection, we are even more compelled to check them out. A few weeks ago I blogged about Everlane's new storefront in the Mission. It was so fun sharing some of my favorite picks from their collection, that when I heard about Modern Citizen I dragged Megan along to shop the store for our clients and blog readers. Our take? This may be your new destination for basics.

San Francisco Modern Utility Paired with Feminine Minimalism

This brand has been thoughtfully curated for a San Franciscan wardrobe but applies to anyone looking to freshen up their basics routine or add a modern feminine piece to their closet. Perhaps we have been living in the Bay Area too long, but finding a good quality $30 tee shirt (see here and here) with a flattering cut was refreshing. For certain pieces, we were giddy with happy sticker shock. The price points are sharp and the cotton and rayon blends are soft. From what we found they are still fine tuning their sizing consistency in certain pieces (we are tough critics). In chatting with the co-founder who happened to be manning the racks when we were shopping, most of the products are produced in China and a small number in LA. We would love to see that number flipped in the future but it also enables the reasonable pricing.

Accessories To Invest In

In addition to focusing on the key clothing pieces everyone should have in their wardrobe, Modern Citizen sells and manufactures a limited number of staple jewelry pieces that are 14 karate gold or sterling silver. If you are a jewelry minimalist who wants to invest a little more but not to the extent of fine jewelry, this is a great option to explore. Earrings range from $32 to $198. This fall tortoiseshell is having a moment so consider these hoops for a fashion statement or keep this simple and invest in this classic metal drop earring.

Hello August, Layer Us Up

Last Fall I invested in the J.Crew Sweater Blazer (see the story here) and have been possibly "over-wearing" it this year as a light jacket. When I tried on Modern Citizen's long Sweater Coat cardigan in store I was smitten. Longer cardigans are back in vogue this fall and this $92 cardigan is a great steal staple. The longer knee length and charcoal grey color transitions well from weekend to a casual office day. We paired the cardigan with the Brooke High Waisted Ponte Pants and the Lindy V-Neck tee for a sporty chic look.

Similar to my camel blazer, this item is dry clean only but if you take good care of it, it shouldn't require much upkeep. It's an acrylic, polyamide, and elastane blend so if you run warm during the day it might not be the best match for you. Modern Citizen does offer a lighter structured cardigan that hits at mid-thigh that could be a good alternative.

If you are looking for that Friday to Sunday outfit--consider Modern Citizen's Side Zip Cashmere Sweatshirt. This piece is as stylish as it is comfy. The hint of cashmere blended into the fabric makes it oh so soft and we love the side zipper that can be styled slightly open for warmer days. Pair it with light jeans or a fitted skirt now and enjoy it with work trousers or coated denim come fall/winter.

Stay Stylish,

K&M