Valentine's Day Prep: A Shopping Trip At The Ferry Building

Whether your sweetheart is a little one, your better half, your Galentines or yourself make sure you treat everyone right this year. Growing up Valentine's Day was a day to cherish and gift your loved ones with a surprise card, small token or sweet.  That's something I've continued into my adult life and frankly couldn't everyone benefit from a little more love and kindness these days??

Megan and I headed down to the SF Ferry Building to shop for some goodies that suit the personal style of all of our Valentines. We both love this San Francisco marketplace for it's fun mix of foodie delights and unique local gifts. Here is a list of some of our favorite shops in the Ferry Building --perfect for picking up a small a token of love.

Kimberly is wearing Ann Taylor Loft Shift Dress, French Sole Flats, Zara Cropped Jacket (old staple)

Meitte We love this storybook bakery that is every bit whimsical and it is sweet. In addition to baked goods, they import an amazing mix of specialty candies from across the globe. Not sure if sour puckers or raspberry drops are the best gift? Ask for a sample before you buy. Their chocolate sables (shortbread) are NOT to be missed!!

The Gardner Looking for the perfect note to say it all or a small trinket for a green thumb? We can't get enough of The Gardner's cheery selection of stylish small house wears and curated giftables.

Magnolia Bakery Love a good pastry, but can't handle the gluten? This is Megan's go to place to shop for something sweet and scrumptious.

Acme Bread If gluten isn't a concern and flavor is, you won't find a better place to buy a baguette or pan eppi to accompany a special meal. Make sure you swing by Cowgirl Creamery to finish off the spread with a locally made cheese like Red Hawk.

Stay Styish,

K&M

A Pop of Red: Valentine's Dressing With An Edge

What To Wear On Valentine's Day

With Valentine's Day a week away, it's time to start planning your outfit for the most romantic day of the year. While I prefer a low key evening at home, it's still fun to add a hint of sweetness to my otherwise edgy style to commemorate the day.

Outfit Details: The Kooples snake print pants (similar), Chris Benz cashmere sweater (similar), Enzo Anglioni stud flats (similar).

Add A Punch of Color

If you tend to wear a lot of black and white like I do, punch up your outfit with a pop of color. Add a bold lip, bright clutch or colorful top to sass up your outfit. And who says you have to wear red and pink? Rich maroons and deep purples are other great options.

Go For A Bold Print

Dare to branch out from a traditional dress this Valentine's Day and opt for a fun print pant instead. Patterned jeans are on trend  and will remain popular through spring. I paired mine with a solid cashmere sweater and studded flats to add texture to the outfit, without making it too busy.

Stay Stylish,
M&K

Weekend Line Up: Frank Stella at the De Young Museum

A few weeks ago, Megan and I took a rainy morning and headed to the Frank Stella exhibit at the De Young museum. It was the perfect pop of color to inspire us in the dead of winter. While we both gravitated to the brighter colors in his earlier works, his modern metal pieces caught our eyes as well (see below for all of our favs).

We try to visit the De Young a few times a year, but haven't been there since their iconic Oscar de la Renta exhibit last year. Up next... The Summer of Love Experience: Art, Fashion & Rock n Roll which starts in April. 

Curious to see the Frank Stella exhibit too? Act quickly, it wraps February 26th! And don't miss a trip to the observation deck (it's free and doesn't require a museum ticket) to take in the expansive views of the city. 

Stay Stylish,
K&M

Birthday Bliss: A Few Of My Favorite Things

The Age Of Aquarius

This past weekend was my birthday! While it wasn't a milestone year, I still made sure to indulge in a few of my favorite things: fashion, food and wine! The weekend started with brunch at Starbelly with Kimberly and fellow fashion lover Ryan, followed by a trip to Sui Generis men's consignment store (more on that later).

Did Someone Say Sample Sale?

Despite spending so much of my time shopping for others, I don't shop for myself as often as you would think. But every year I like to treat myself to one special piece that I normally wouldn't buy. This year I scooped up a pair of Freda Salvador Ink Embossed Croc High Heel D'Orsay from their online sample sale. Swoon... I am in love!

My Favorite Things To Give & Get

Looking for a special birthday (or any day) gift for someone special in your life? Here are a few of my favorite items to give and get:

• Decadent Soaps: Beekman 1802 Goat's Milk Soap is my favorite. Once you try this you'll never use anything else!
• Coffee Table Books: some of my favorites include Food, Fashion, Friends by Fleur Wood, Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty and Fallen Superheroes.
• Flowers: One of my favorite gifts ever was subscription to BloomsyBox from my dad. Every month a new box full of fresh flowers would arrive at my door.

Stay Stylish,
M&K

Spring Trends and DIY Vision Boards

Despite the cold temperatures, we already have spring on our mind at the Canvas office. To prep for the upcoming change in season, Spring trends, and a new year Kimberly and I took a rainy morning this week to get crafty.

What is a Vision Board? 

Similar to the Trend Boards Kimberly and I created in Fashion school--a vision board is a collection of images that are linked to a bigger concept. For this project we used one side of the board for business goals and exciting trends and the other side for images relating to personal goals in 2017. 

Why Vision Boarding Works

Not only are vision boards a creative way to spark inspiration, they're also a good way to visually organize your thoughts and reinforce your goals for a new season. 

How To Create Your Own Vision Board

1. Set aside at least an hour or two to work on your board in a creative environment. Whether its a solo project or gathering a group of friends for a party make it FUN!

2. Use magazines, cards, photos or anything to represent the experience, emotions or item you love (i.e. that great handbag you've been saving for). Include anything that inspires and motivates you to adopt something new this year.

3. Keep your final board posted somewhere in your home for a daily reminder of what you want and where you are going!

Stay Stylish,
M&K

Mascara: Our Favorite Magic Wands

I've been on a mission the past few months to find a new mascara. My usual go-to Sephora brand wasn't living up to its past glory and the constant make up under my eyes was making me look tired.  I asked Megan what her go-to brands were and decided to try out several to decide for myself.

Finding The Perfect Mascara

After trying out different brands (both prestige and over-the-counter), here are my final results:

BLINK:
LOVE-The natural look and that no make up remover is required--wash the tubes away with water.
NO LOVE- If you wear contacts, this may not be the best for you. Several times I got a flake in my eye during application or wear that wouldn't budge.

TARTE:
LOVE- Natural formula and thick lashes
NO LOVE- Quickly dries out and flakes after long wear

LANCOME HYPNOSE DRAMA:
LOVE- Natural look and no flaking
NO LOVE- Requires a good make up remover

Our Top Mascara Picks

Results, I'm sticking with the BLINK for travel and on the go and Lancome for every day. Everyone has unique lashes and what they desire from a good mascara. I personally like a more natural look. We recommend trying a few out to start and going from there. Sephora Favorites Lashstash to Go is perfect for this. It's a cost effective experiment too, in that you get a coupon to purchase your winning mascara in a full size later. 

Stay Stylish,
K

The Tale of Two Trenches: The Basic Black Coat

Outfit details: 7 For Mankind denim, Banana Republic cowl neck sweater (last year), Banana Republic black trench coat, Nina black lace shoes, L.L. Bean camo tote, hat from Bloomingdales.

Our attack on the rain continues as we explore two different styles of the trench coat- the color pop and the basic black. (If you missed it, check out Kimberly's post from earlier this week showing her favorite red trench.

A colorful trench is always fun, especially if you tend to wear a lot of neutrals or blacks. If your wardrobe has more colors and prints, then we recommend going for a classic black or beige trench. That way it won't compete with what you are wearing underneath.

Classic black also allows you to incorporate color through your accessories. Add a bright hat, print bag or let your favorite sweater peak out from underneath. For a more streamlined look, you can never go wrong with an all black ensemble (that may be the East Coast in me talking).

Pro tip: on days when you don't need to button your coat, tie the belt in a bow behind your back to give the coat a more fitted look.

Stay Styish,
M&K

A Tale of Two Trenches: The Color Pop Coat

If there is one PERFECT coat for San Francisco living Megan and I both agree it is the trench. While a down or leather jacket come in a close second, the versatility of the trench is perfect for our turn on a dime weather. 

Red Trench Coat: Michael Kors, Derek Lam Navy Grommet Crop Top, Zara Midi (From last year), French Sole Black Flats

More rain is in the forecast this week so we thought it was a natural topic to talk about. Guy's if you missed our post about all weather attire be sure to see below. 

Choosing the right starter trench is personal but look for a well made jacket that is lined, water repellant and a length that works for you (we prefer a knee length). While a classic color is a great investment (Megan will talk about that on Friday) I like the idea of having a pop of color to brighten up a gray day.  

Stay Stylish,

K&M

Style Meets Function: Rain Boots For Him & Her

These recent storms have had us finding new ways to brave the weather without sacrificing style. The key is having the right shoes to get you there.

Finding The Perfect Rain Boot

For both men and women, rain boots can often feel clunky and and heavy. If you have smaller ankles, look for a style that is tapered near the foot or opt for a short boot. For wider calves go for a pair with an adjustable strap at the top or a stretchy panel (this work for both men and women).

A Pair For Every Style and Weather

Regardless of your lifestyle and fashion sense--investing in at least one pair of waterproof shoes is a must for Northern California living. Where to start? We put together a Pinterest board of our favorite rain, snow and sleet shoes for MEN and WOMEN that perform depending on what you throw at them.

Stay Stylish (and dry),

M&K

Tackling Winter Sales: What To Invest In Now

The holidays have come and gone and 2017 is underway. As you've probably noticed, stores are having incredible sales to make way for new spring arrivals.

Navigating Winter Sales

We often get asked what is worth investing in now, versus waiting for the new season. Classic wardrobe staples are what you want to focus on right now. We are talking about the pieces that you can wear next winter regardless of the trend. 

What To Invest In Now

Here is our list of items that you definitely want to scoop up during the sales. 

1. Outerwear- winter jackets and coats are starting to be discounted. Our favorite picks: The Down Puffer, The Classic Wool Dress Coat, Leather Jackets. 
2. Boots- leather boots and booties are great to scoop up right now. Our Picks: Snow Boots, Tall Riding or OTK Boots.
3. Cashmere- cashmere sweaters, gloves and scarves are on sale. These aren't only great for you, but if you're a planner scoop some up as gifts for next year.
4. Leather Goods- also a great giftable, leather wallets are great to pick up this time of year.
5. Holiday/Formal Wear- have a black tie in your future? Now is the time to purchase gowns, as well as costume jewelry and party shoes.

Pro tip: A good rule of thumb is to NEVER to buy something on sale that you wouldn't pay full price for. Even if it's a good deal, if it doesn't fit right or you don't love it, just say no. 

A Few Of Our Favorite Sale Picks

Here are a few of our favorite sale items of the season, all at up to 60% off (WOW!). Click through the pic for more info and act fast because they are selling out quickly.

Stay stylish,
K&M