Kimberly's Neutral Look: How to Wear Black Into Spring

The Cherry Blossoms are blooming in San Francisco signaling that spring is on its way. However, stores are not quite ready for the season and our chilly temps are keeping us layered up.

Megan and I both have been keeping our winter sweaters out, but wearing all black right now feels too somber. We currently have enough in the world that is heavy, and I don't feel like living into that with my wardrobe. How can you lighten your mood and look while still wearing black? Read on for our cure for early spring wardrobe blues.

Add Tension With Texture

Whether you are trying out true monochromatic dressing (wearing one single color) or playing with neutrals, it's important to keep your look interesting. As Megan wrote in her last blog, finding the same shade of any color can be challenging.

Even if you shop at the same store for every piece, the version of black or navy will read differently depending on dye lot and fabrication. Work this problem into a solution and make it look intentional with variations in texture. For example, in my look here I paired a flat black turtleneck with my black waxed jeans. It's a quick way to shrug off exact color matching and trick the eye to recognize different elements while keeping visual harmony.

PROTIP: Be intentional when layering on a monochromatic look and add contrasting textures. A chunky knit (waffle weave or cable) scarf is a quick and easy element to add interest.

Pack Some Punch With A Print

I feel like a blog quite a bit about print. For most clients, it's new and frightening territory because people often associate prints with bold large-scale graphics. You do need a little extra panache to pull off a print, but pay attention to color palettes. Neutrals can quickly turn down the volume of a print and keep it from overpowering a look. Because it's still technically winter, a softer color scheme is easier on the eye. However, come April this same look would work well with a bright and bold saturated print.

To soften my all black base, I layered a printed cardigan from Anthropologie I purchased a few years ago. This piece was actually on my chopping block to give away. I hadn't worn this piece in a while but I still liked the print and colors. I decided to keep it another year and wear it without its belt. I'm glad I did, it has been a staple with black or cream jeans this winter.

ProTip: When considering letting a once beloved piece go--think about why you haven't been wearing it. If its environmental or you haven't explored different ways to wear it try holding it for another full season.

Lighten Up Your Accessories For Spring

While my clothing choices are still wintery, my accessories can help point the way to a brighter season. Swapping out your black bag for a lighter version in grey or tan will immediately help perk up a look and keep it from becoming too heavy. I found this tote on clearance at Nordstrom Rack for a steal. Although the quality won't last many seasons the look and size are perfect for days on the go when you don't want to bring everything with you. Following the lighter shade of bag, I swapped out darker booties for my tan to help break up the black.

Now that both Megan and I have shopped our closets for fresh neutral looks, it's your turn. We have a feeling you have a great piece ready and waiting to be worn. If not, check out below for a few of our favorite neutral pieces on the market.

Stay Stylish,

K&M

Our Favorites:

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

This Valentine's Day or Gal-entines Day Wear A Sweater To Make You Swoon

Valentine's Day is almost here! I feel like either you love it, dread it, or don't even pay attention to it. Personally, I jump at any excuse to let the people in my life know how much I love them. So this day is just another excuse to spread some love... and pick out a cute outfit!

When Kimberly and I were planning our shoot for this blog, I wanted to wear something that evoked a bit of Valentine's Day, but also could be worn to Galentine's Day drinks with your besties. Here's what I'll be celebrating in and tips on how to find a look you love too.

However you spend Valentine's Day, we hope it's filled with lots of love, laughter and chocolate!

Stay Stylish (xo),
M&K

Cashmere is Always in Style

Let's talk about this sweater. Ooooh, how I LOVE this sweater! Not only is it the softest cashmere, this shade of pastel blue is one of my favorite colors.  It looks great on more pale skin tones and blondes. The crossed back detail reminds me of a ballerina and shows skin without making me feel self-conscious. This sweater is part of a special collaboration  Banana Republic is doing with Scottish mill Todd & Duncan. I was originally priced at $300, but then the next week I checked online and it was 40% off.

Pro tip: If you purchase a piece you absolutely love, but the price tag is steep, keep an eye out for it to go on sale. Most stores will price match and give you a refund if the sale starts within 10 days of your purchase.

The Perfect Pink Skirt

This Zara pleated skirt (similar) has been a wardrobe staple for several years and I always feel a bit ethereal when I put it on. The color is the faintest feminine blush and adds some sweetness to my wardrobe. It has a ton of volume, so all it really needs is a simple top or sweater to make it stand out. I paired it with bold maroon heels, which elevate the look for a night out, but during the day I wear it with metallic silver flats.

Transition to Date Night

The entire outfit is effortless and perfect for wearing to work on Valentine's Day without not being in full-out pink and red. If the back is feeling a little bare, try putting a structured blazer over it or wearing with a cami. If you don't have time to go home and change before your Valentine's or Galentine's Day plans, you can easily swap out the long skirt for a fitted pencil skirt (see in recommendations below), let your hair down and add a small clutch. The sweater will carry it's romantic vibe into your night and the statement necklace adds the perfect bit of shimmer, while still allowing you to keep your jewelry minimal.

Our Favorite Picks:

Outfit details: Zara skirt (similar), Todd & Duncan cashmere sweater (currently 40% off!), Juicy Couture necklace (similar), Rose Gold heels (similar)

Kimberly's Springtime Sporty Chic

Megan and I are big proponents of using every bit of your wardrobe. San Francisco loves to be casual (often much to my disappointment) and while dressing down works most days, sometimes it means missing out on wearing some of your favorite pieces. How do you blend with the casual culture while still expressing some of your own personality? Read on for a few tips on how to take your formal pieces to daytime casual.

Stay Stylish,

K&M

Find Your Statement Piece To Start

I found this floral jacket at Club Monaco last Spring and fell in love with it. When I went into the SF Club Monaco shop late this fall and found it on super clearance I texted Megan from the dressing room. It was meant to be, the last one left was in my size. The print reminds me of French wall paper and I've always wanted a winter white jacket that is easy to keep clean. The purple shade of the flowers works with my Autumn coloring and the silhouette is a modern take on a 1950's classic. The sum of the design makes the jacket a polished piece that can easily be dressed up or down.

Dressing Down Is An Equation

I'm a pretty analytical thinker and the way I style often reflects my time working in buying/merchandising. I like to tell clients I see their closets like assortment spreadsheets. The name of the game is how all the pieces work together. A simple rule of thumb when putting together a smart-casual ensemble is to have one key item that is more formal and pair it with softer casual pieces. In this case, I paired a formal jacket with a casual top, denim and smart shoes. To keep this look soft, spunky, and sporty I added a clean pair of off-white sneakers to balance the femininity of the jacket.

Pro-Tip:The mix and match capability of an item is often directly related to its sell-ability (and value). Look for pieces that are easy to "dress up" or "dress down" before investing.

Stripes Can Unify An Outfit

The floral print of my jacket adds a seasonal nod to impending spring, but it is bold and can quickly dominate a look. Pairing the print with neutrals looks great and elegant, but adds sophistication to an already formal jacket. To add contrast, Megan suggested trying my striped turtleneck. I bought this last year at the Gap and it has become a staple this winter because it is so easy to layer. I love the way it stands up to the print, but wanted a little more interest so added another staple layer. My camel j.crew sweater (this fall I blogged about this sweater blazer and it's finally back in stock) adds a collar to my jacket and another layer of warmth needed this time of year. 

Jewelry Can Re-emphasize A Look

I like to keep my jewelry choices pretty simple and because this jacket is loud enough already I opted to keep it cool with silver. To play off the navy and white stripe, a simple pair of pearls keeps the look clean while still feminine. I added my silver Skagen watch for an contemporary edge.

The next time to open your closet, take a look and pull out that piece that doesn't get enough wear. Chances are you can wear it more often that you think!

Outfit Details: Gap Striped Turtleneck (similar), J.Crew Camel Sweater Blazer, Club Monaco Jaelina Coat, AG Raw Hem Legging Jeans (similar), Cole Haan White Sneakers (similar)

Our Favorites

Floral & Houndstooth Jacket $119

Long Leaf Printed Coat $74.99

Grand Cross Court Sneaker $89.99

Print Mixing: A Day At The Legion Of Honor

As just about anyone close to me knows, I love love love a good kimono! My first one belonged to my Nana. She got it in Japan while my Papa was serving as a doctor in the war and it hung on their living room wall for probably 40 years. When I inherited it, I loved it too much to not wear as a piece of art. I actually wore it in my first official headshot as a personal stylist and over the years continue to wear it in different ways.

The Kimono Jacket

The kimono jacket is great for Bay Area living, where you need to layer in lots of different weights to get through the day. This past fall I blogged about warmer version. I tend to be a basic dresser - in the sense that I like to wear mostly simples pieces like a black tee or white v-neck and then layer on a piece of interest to make the outfit pop. I had spotted this Endless Rose kimono while out shopping for a client and asked the store to put it on hold for me. 

Don't Over Think It

Part of my New Year's resolution is to actually give myself permission to buy more. Kimberly and I spend so much time around clothing and find so much joy in shopping for a clients that sometimes it falls a little flat when we go to shop for ourselves. It's just not as fun! I had actually forgotten the store was holding this coat for me, so when they brought it out AND it was almost 50% off, I didn't even give it a second thought. 

We can all tend to be over analytical in certain areas of our lives, so sometimes it is nice to just shut the brain off, listen to our heart and go for it. That's how I felt with this kimono and I promise you I smile every time I wear it, which has been a lot!

How To Style Your Kimono Jacket

As I mentioned, I like to keep the majority of my outfit simple and then add in one POP! item. On this day, Kimberly and I were visiting an exhibit at the Legion of Honor, so I felt like expressing myself a little more and amping up my outfit. I am a bit rock n roll at heart, and this Bleached Goods tee with an image of fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld is one of my favorites. It's actually a men's shirt, so I decided size up and embrace it being oversized.

Pro Tip: For a more sleek look, try it with a pair of black ankle pants, a v-neck cream blouse and heels. Or wear it over your favorite LBD for a night out.

The floral print on the kimono played nicely against the edge of the t-shirt. Not done yet, I popped on my velvet slides with pearl detailing for a little extra texture and print mixing. Now, I completely understand this is not for everyone. That's the joy of a kimono, you can do as much or as little with it as you want!

Stay Stylish,
M&K

Our Picks:

Love, Fire Placed Floral Kimono

Yoki Slide

Max Studio Black Kimono

Bleached Good Chanel Tee

Outfit details: Rag n Bone denim (similar), Bleached Goods Karl tee (seldom seen also stocks them), Endless Rose faux fur trim kimono (on sale!), Furla bag (similar), Yoki velvet slide

Our Tips For Cleaning Out Your Closet Stress-Free

We have been particularly motivated lately to organize and clean up both our work and living spaces. Kimberly has undertaken the task of not only organizing her large walk-in pantry, but also editing down her wardrobe with only pieces she wears. I've been doing small home improvement projects, and am finally making an effort to transfer all of my shoes to plastic shoes bins to keep them dust-free and organized.

Use January to Reset and Clean Out Your Closet

The new year is alway a good opportunity to go through your entire closet and see what's working, what you aren't wearing anymore, and what can be put away until spring.

Not only does the cold, rainy weather give you the perfect excuse to stay inside all day, but you will feel much lighter having organized your belongings.

Think about your space as a "work space". Organize things by use and simplified natural flow. At the end of the day do you take off your jewelry before going to sleep? We recommend this to keep jewelry cleaner longer. Why not add a dish to your night stand for a stylish catchall.

Pro tip: Many stores will be having sales on organizing items in January, so take advantage of them!...do a quick web search to see stores near you with promos like Target, The Container Store, and Bed Bath and Beyond.

Stress-Free Steps for Cleaning Out Your Closet

So, in the spirit of out with the old and in with the new, here are our 5 stress-free steps for cleaning out your closet.

1.     Assess Your Current Style and How it Translates Through the Clothes in Your Closet. If you've become less edgy and more classic, it may be time to replace distressed jeans for tailored black pants.

2.     If You Haven’t Worn it in at Least Two Years, Then it is Time to Let it Go. We always tell ourselves we may need it one day, for that one event, but chances are it will just end up sitting in your closet for another 2 years. Exercise tough love, and let go of anything that hasn't made its way out of the closet in the past 2 years. Someone else can likely use it!

3.     Hold on to Heirloom Pieces. We all have those special pieces that we don't wear, but that have sentimental value (the dress you wore on your honeymoon or the vintage blouse that belonged to your mom). Take any heirloom pieces from your closet and store them in an airtight bin. This will help preserve them and free up room in your closet. 

4.    Ditch Wire Hangers. Wire hangers are tough on your clothes and can stretch them out. Opt for felt or wooden hangers instead to preserve their shape for longer. Plus, while you're busy swapping hangers you will get a good look at what's hiding in your closet. Need a few tips on how to hang? See our sweater blog here.

5.     Organize by Category. Organize your closet so that all of your pants, shirts, skirts, etc. are arranged together. Then take it one step farther and organize each category by color. It may be time consuming at first, but it save time later when you aren’t digging around for your favorite top.

Stay Stylish,
K&M

Shop Our Favorite Organizing Items:

Sterelite Shoe Bins

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up

Universal Boot Shapers

Velvet Hangers

Lavender Sachets

Bamboo Clothing Organizer Bags

Buon Natale! Holiday Casual Chic Dressing

Every family has their own Holiday traditions and in my family that usually means a large gathering around a meal to play games and exchange a secret Santa gift. The dress code is very casual but also a little bit festive. So, what do you wear that is an upgrade from that Ugly Christmas sweater? 

Add a Pop Of Color to Your Holiday Wardrobe

Christmas red has been lacking in my wardrobe for several years now and I've been looking to brighten up my seasonal capsule wardrobe. This year there are plenty of bright red options available in stores. I stumbled upon this Sea Blue off the shoulder cashmere sweater during Thanksgiving weekend and snatched it up at a steal. I like that this sweater can be worn through February and brought out in SF during our foggy July (of course). 

Protip: Instead of wearing your off the shoulder sweater as designed, add a twist. Wearing your sweater off one shoulder will add dimension and keep it from looking too broad or flat across the shoulders.

Pick a Printed Shoe or Accessory with Personality

To balance out wearing solids (Red sweater + Blue jeans) I like introducing a print to keep the look interesting. Tartan is a classic choice for the holidays and a print that always cycles through traditional stores (J.Crew, Brooks Brothers, Talbots). I spotted these flats while skimming Black Friday sales and was instantly smitten. You heard it here first, Talbots is having a fashion moment. The black puff and tartan remind me of British toy soldiers and add some playful cheer to the look. Need a plaid flat of your own? We have a few additional recommendations at the end of the blog.

ProTip: When breaking in new flats, take them to a cobbler to add partial soles or scuff them up with heavy duty sandpaper. Talbots flats are VERY VERY slick out of the box and you'll need to add traction. (I did a nice baseball slide the first time I wore mine--lesson learned)

Top of Your Holiday Look with a Little Sparkle

Last year Megan and I were ALL ABOUT the sparkle for holiday. This year we are all about a pop of red and statement earrings. If you want to purchase a reasonably priced pair, BaubleBar, J.Crew and Banana Republic have wonderful options.

I LOVE these tassel earrings from J.Crew because they are lightweight and the length works with my face shape. I tried a similar pair from BaubleBar but they were too heavy and no one likes to having to remove their earrings mid-evening because they are weighing you down. We have a few additional recommendations at the end of the blog.

Stay Stylish,

K&M

P.S.--If the man at Isaia says you can ride the vespa then CIAO! you ride the vespa to your next holiday party.

Outfit Details: Sea Blue Red Sweater $149, Madewell High Waist Jeans $128, Talbots Edison Tartan Flats $129, J.Crew Tassel Earrings $24.50 (Silver)

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Our Favorite Picks!

Tartan Flats

J.Crew Plaid d'Orsay Flats $148

Brooks Brothers Tartan Flats $148

Edison Tartan Bow Flats $109

Edison Pom Pom Flats $119 (sale)

Statement Earrings

Jcrew Beaded Tassel Earrings $65

Eve Hoop Earrings $36

Blush Pearl Earrings $48

J.Crew Tassel Ball Earrings $24.50

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Beret Weather: How To Wear This Winter's Top Accessory

Megan and I have devoted a number of blogs this season to the latest fashion trends. While it is important to acknowledge that some trends do not fall into everyone's style playbook, keeping up on what is happening will ensure that your style stays relevant. What's that, you don't have time to read up, watch runway shows, and navigate endless stores? That is why we are here and blogging for you!

Every once and a while a trend will cycle through that you hope lasts forever.  I'll admit it, I am a longtime beret lover.  I love their simplicity, power, and functionality.  I have been waiting for YEARS for this accessory to come back into vogue. Thanks to a former presidential intern, the beret has had some lonely seasons. So, how do you wear a beret in 2017 and not look like a wayward Halloween costume or American girl doll? Read on to find out.

Stay Stylish,

K+M+D

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Pick a Color That Matches Your Personality

• Black: You're a classic--part romantic, part mysterious bohemian
• Ivory: Soft and romantic, you prefer a feminine touch to your style
• Red: Bold, lively and powerful you are not afraid to take a fashion risk
• Green: Perhaps you love nature, but you could have political leanings
• Blue: Calm, cool, and wise, you are steady in your fashion sense

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How To Wear Your Beret

At Canvas we prefer sporting our berets slouched to the back with the brim at our brow. To avoid looking like a pop-over, keep your hat weighted and sitting to the side at an angle. While everyone is entitled to their own take, we find this combination classic, chic, and flattering on most face shapes. If you have sharper features, soften the angle and opt for a lighter color or printed beret.

Keep It An Accessory And Not A Focal Point

While some accessories can make an outfit we recommend keeping your beret a quieter statement. Channel your inner French gal and own it! I love pairing a beret with a statement jacket like my look here or an oversized sweater and coated denim to add a textured edge. If you want to add a little more softness, wear your beret with a flowy dress.

Outfit Details: ba&sh Clock Coat $695, Joe's Coated Black Denim $79.97 (sale) , Gap Green Turtleneck (similar), Dolce Vita Hilary Booties (similar), Beret Uniqlo $29 (SOLD OUT) (Similar or alt. here)

Canvas 2017 Holiday Gift Guide: Something For Everyone on Your List

Here at the Canvas office, we get pretty excited about giving gifts to our loved ones. And since we spend so much time in stores, we usually have our holiday gifts picked out months in advance.

Our 2017 Gift Guide for Everyone in Your Family

Realizing that not everyone shops quite as often as we do, we have gone ahead and put together our top gifts for parents, siblings, babies. In a range of prices and styles, these are all gifts that we've either already purchased for a loved one, hope to receive under the tree or just really think are awesome. Enjoy!

What to Give Mom & Dad

Regardless of their taste, Mom and Dad can always feel hard to buy for. Over the years, I've started doing joint gifts, so that it's something they can use together. Here are my 4 favorite holiday gifts for Mom & Dad. ~Meg

UGG Slippers, $99

Nescafe Dolce Gusto, $135

Awkward Moment Cards, $19

Soothe Gift Card, $119+

1. Nescafe Dolce Gusto: This little machine makes some pretty incredible coffee, including espressos, macchiatos, lattes, iced drinks and more! The best part is that you can control the strength of each brew so that it's exactly how you want it.

2. Soothe In-Home Massage: After the last dish is done and the wrapping paper is cleaned up, have Soothe come to your parents home for a little pampering. They offer a variety of massages starting at $119 an hour, and best part is that the tip is included in the price.

3. UGG Slippers: Perfect for curling up in front of the fire with a good book or glass of wine, mom and dad will love the ultimate in cozy slippers... especially if they live in a colder climate!

4. Awkward Moment Card Game: Perfect for family gatherings, this is the card game for people who don't like card games - it's that fun! A few inside family jokes are guaranteed to come out as well.

What to Give Your Sibling

Every year, I try to get my brothers something that’s unique and thoughtful. They both have different hobbies and styles so this always comes as a challenge. Thankfully, Amazon is the perfect one stop shop for all things gifting. ~Devon

Happy Socks, $45

Brooklyn Brew Shop Kit, $39

Marcato Atlas Pasta Machine, $80

WEKAPO Inflatable Sofa, $33

1.  Brooklyn Brew Shop, Beer Making Kit: I love a gift that can last throughout the year. A beer making kit is great if you know a guy (or girl!) who likes to get theirs hands a little dirty while learning something new. This kit comes with all the supplies and ingredients you need to make your own tasty concoction. The Chocolate Maple Porter is the perfect flavor for the winter season.

2. WEKAPO Inflatable Air Sofa: The first time I saw one of these, I was at a park in Europe and they were everywhere! Flash forward a year, and you can’t step a foot into Delores or Fort Mason Park without running these things. Perfect for hanging with friends, camping and just about anywhere you can think of, it packs small and only requires fresh air and a little muscle to blow up.

3. Marcato Atlas Pasta Machine: Who doesn’t love fresh pasta? All you need is an egg, some flour and a little elbow grease to make delicious, restaurant-quality pasta dishes at home! If you have any foodies in your life, this will be a hit come Christmas morning.

4. Happy Socks Gift Box: As silly as it may seem; socks make the perfect holiday gift! When you’re unsure of what to get, a few pairs of fun dress socks are always a crowd pleaser. Happy Socks makes all kinds of fun prints, and their gift boxes make for easy wrapping.

What to Give Your Niece or Nephew

The holidays really are so much more fun with children around. If you don't have a special child in your life, but would like to make a difference, I am a BIG fan of the Enchantment program with the SF Ballet. If you are interested in sending a child to the ballet, read on. To treat the littles in your life or the young at heart see below for my favorite gifts. ~Kimberly

Pout Pout Fish, $3.74

Atla of Adventures, $27

Ballerina Mouse, $20

Big Brother Mouse, $20

Matching Puzzle Game, $12.97

Daisy Cookware Set, $36

1. A Great Book: I like gifting books to kids that can be read together or inspire imagination and curiosity. Here are my top picks for the young and junior readers...

 The Pout Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen : This colorful book is one of my niece's favorites about a little grumpy fish who learned that a frown is an upside down smile. Sometime's we all need that reminder to change our perspective.

 Atlas Of Adventures by Rachel Williams: This book is great for older kids (and kids at heart) with a taste for adventure. Each section highlights a notable place in the world, what you'll see there, along with plenty of activities and challenges.

2. Ballerina and Brother Mouse: I love this line of simple and soft toys. The Nutcracker is a family holiday tradition, so the mice can tie in in a small way. You can pick up some of these cuties at the aptly named SF toy store, Tantrum.

3. The Things I Know Matching Game: When I give gifts to kids I like them to serve a larger purpose or be educational (yes I am THAT Aunt). This colorful game is perfect for young elementary school kids.

4. Daisy Cookware Set: Sometimes you gift things you want yourself. This happy little set comes in a reusable box that has a pretend double burner designed to inspire hours of play (i.e. keeping busy hands occupied) whipping up culinary delights. 

Stay Stylish,
M, K, & D

How to Travel in Style - While Staying Comfy

If you've been following along on our Instagram Stories, you know that I spent this past week in NYC. Some people think I am crazy, but if I am flying anywhere that takes more than 4 hours to get to, I always book a red eye. My rationale is that I'd rather spend the time on the plane sleeping and have a full day when I land. But regardless of how long the flight it, I have one firm rule when it comes to travel - always dress comfy. 

My Go-To Red Eye Look

I find figuring out what to wear on a plane to sometimes be trickier than planning what to pack. I'll be honest, I want to look nice when I land and also feel presentable at the airport. That said, there have been a few overnight flights where I have defaulted to leggings and a hoodie. But over the past few years, I've managed to come up with a formula for staying comfortable without sacrificing style while traveling.

How to Create a Comfy Travel Outfit

1. Invest in a good, soft pant - Whether it's a black ponte pant or elevated joggers (these Alexander Wang satin joggers have been my go-to for years), find a pant that is comfortable. I prefer an elastic weight for longer flights.

2. Wear layers - Plans are notoriously chilly (or freezing!). I like to head to the airport in a coat, long sleeved cotton shirt and a sweater. That way I can peel off layers once I am inside the terminal and wrap up again after take-off.

3. Bring an oversized scarf - This is the key to any travel look. First, an oversized scarf looks fabulous wrapped around any outfit. Second, it can double as a blanket if you are taking a red eye.

4. Skip the heels for statement flats - a white sneaker, studded flat or printed slip-on is the way to go when it comes to what to wear to travel. They are easy to take on an off and can elevate a basic outfit with some interest.  

5. Don't forget socks - if you are someone that just feels better in a stacked boot or heel, than go for it! Just remember to pack a cozy pair of socks in your purse to put on once you are situated in your seat. Otherwise, by hour #2 your feet are not going to be happy in your shoe!

This is the exact outfit that I wore on the plane to NYC - and once again the outfit was perfect. So go ahead, and create the version that reflects your style. And most of all, have fun!

Stay Stylish,

M&K

Outfit details: Chloe cashmere sweater (similar), Alexander Wang satin joggers (similar), Sam Edelman satin slip-on sneakers