Amsterdam: The Canvas Shopping Guide To The Best Boutiques

One of the things I was looking forward to most in traveling to Amsterdam was the chance to explore some of Holland's fantastic local brands and absorb the local style. The truth is I could have easily spent another two days wandering through the many shops in the famed de 9 Straatjes (9 streets) area. 

To help you navigate if you are tight on time here is a list of my favorite stops all within an easy stroll. One of the highlights was the shopping "experience" in Amsterdam. Many shops are fully equipped with espresso machines and chilled bottles of rosè ready to greeet you and keep your shopping game strong.

Enjoy and Stay Stylish, 

K&M

Denham: The Jeans Maker (Menswear location)

Prinsengracht 493 AMSTERDAM 

Amsterdam's go-to premium denim maker, founded in 2008. I first saw a pair on a local guy after noticing the iconic scissors back label. This denim comes from Italian mills and the beauty is in the details expressed over the course of the wear. Every pair is designed to quickly take on the person who wears it using state of the art fabric blends and technology.

Vanilia

Prinsengracht 419 1016 HM AMSTERDAM 

Clean, modern everyday wear that is perfect for building a capsule wardrobe. I loved this Dutch brand for its quality and reasonable pricing. The store is made up of several mini collections that effortlessly mix and match.

Cinq Amsterdam

Need a little bling in your life? Search no further than this shop on Ringstraat street. The costume jewelry is diverse ranging from chunky statement necklaces to delicate modern hoops. The store also carries accessories of every shape and color. 

Pluk: A Piece For Everyone

Reestrat 19 1016 DM AMSTERDAM

A stop off for any epicurean, this little shop boasts some of the latest international housewares. Don't miss their branded stationary that is every bit as sweet as their homemade jam. If you shop up an appetite it's a great stop off for a snack, juice or healthy breakfast.

Kookai 

Berenstraat 14 1016 GH AMSTERDAM  

If Audrey Hepburn went to Amsterdam she would likely shop here. Classics in bright colors and modern feminine details make Kookai a fun shop for nostalgics and trendsetters craving a little Parisian chic.

Reign Italia Store

Berenstraat 17 1016 GH AMSTERDAM 

If you are a guy or gal looking for fresh streetwear with an European edge this is your store.  I loved the mix of distressed bottoms, kicks and jackets.

Catwalk Junkie

Prinsengracht 419, 1016 HM AMSTERDAM  

If you are missing home or have a hankering for a SoCal fix, this shop feels straight off of Montana Avenue. Complete with beachy graphic tees and sundresses, the price points are higher than other local shops. We recommend picking out your favorite piece and saving for something with more local flavor.

 Ou  

Reestraat 16, 1016 AMSTERDAM  

Likely one of my favorite shops in Amsterdam, housing a mix of women's apparel, accessories and children's clothing. It captures the best of Dutch style and you'll need those Euros you saved at Catwalk. The prices are not for the budget minded but it you are willing to invest its a wonderful spot. 

For a peek inside...see the photos below:

We're Hiring: Looking for a Savvy Part-Time Social Media Coordinator

We are looking for a fun loving, organized, self starter to join our team and help us grow our social media. Do you have a natural eye for style, can stay ahead of the trends, plan and analyze data, but are equal parts creative social media maven? Tell us briefly why you would be the perfect fit at Canvas Styling.*

Qualifications:

• Must live in the San Francisco area and have access to a car or public transportation, laptop and cell phone.

• Need exceptional organizational skills and strong attention to detail.

• Confident in Major Social Media Platforms, Microsoft Office, and knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite or photography a plus.

• Able to commit to approximately 5-10 hours a week.

Please send applications to Hello@canvasstyling.com along with a copy of your resume and any social media (pinterest, instagram account, etc.) or portfolio/blog links.

*This is a paid position, that is also open to individuals looking for school credit through an internship.

Stay Stylish,
M&K

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

Trend Hack: Embellished Jeans

This Friday we are turning over the blog to Devon! She is sharing how she is taking on the beaded denim trend and making it her own. We love the look and are tempted to pass her a few of our faded blues for fall. Read on how you can too!

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Taking a risk on a Trend

I often have this internal struggle between loving a new trend, and not wanting to invest in it. Certain styles come and go, but I still find myself wanting to incorporate them into my wardrobe. This season, in particular, we’ve seen a lot of over-the-top, glitzy add ons. I love a subtle touch of glam, and the embellished denim trend is just right.

 Investing Wisely By DIY

Luckily for me, this trend is the perfect opportunity to stretch those DIY muscles! Why spend almost $200 on something that will probably collect dust after a season or two? Below is my DIY trend hack that’s simpler than you may think!

 The Supply List:

• Old jeans (or hit the thrift store for a cheap pair)
• Pearls, beads, whatever you want!
• Needle
• Thread (white is best)
• Scissors

Plan your pattern:

There are many designs out there, but I liked the idea of a simple ombre pattern. Since I love to wing-it, this technique also allows me to mess up a little. For this effect, I started with more beading along the pocket and used fewer as I went down the leg. If you’re a planner, use chalk beforehand to lay out where your beads and pearls will go.

Tips and Tricks:

• Make sure your thread is long enough to secure Pearls when hand knotting. 
• String glass beads together in a bunch before securing to save time.
• Learn from my mistakes; make sure you move the pocket lining AWAY so you don’t sew it closed!
• Wash with care! The jeans are now a high-risk item in the laundry; spot clean as needed. If you must wash them, turn them inside out and air dry.

 The Final Product:

Honestly, this took way longer than I thought, but with a glass of wine in the evening, it was a nice way to unwind. Regardless, I feel like I have this little fashion secret. I can’t wait for the faces when I say I made them myself! Considering all the coin I saved, I will definitely be doing more DIY projects in the future.

Stay Stylish,
D+M+K

Easy Work Dressing: Megan's Day Time Glitz

When I get ready for work in the morning I like it to be quick and easy. I also employ this mentality when I am styling my clients. I want them know that they can easily match whatever bottom with any top they choose and that it will look great and, most importantly, be comfortable.

Start With A Statement Piece

As fall begins to creep in, you are going to start to see a lot more metallics. I've always been a sucker for anything with a hint of a 70's vibe (a la Studio 54 glam), and this gold and silver skirt does that just. It reminds me of Halston, but I actually found it at the Anthropologie in Stanford on sale (stay tuned as Kimberly share more on that amazing revamped location later).

Layer On Basics

Since the skirt makes such a (fabulous) statement on its own, I wanted to play down the rest of my outfit to make it appropriate for a weekday work outfit. I love high-low dressing, and this is the perfect example of how easy it can be. I paired a fun white blouse on top and my go-to white sneakers on the bottom. Since it's always a little chilly in San Francisco, I added my denim jacket as the finishing touch.

Pro tip: For an added element of style, try wearing your jacket over your shoulders. This also shows more of your top underneath.

Dress It Up For Night

To quickly transition this outfit from work to evening, I brought a pair of patent leather black pumps in my bag to put on. I'd also swap out my small stud earrings for gold dangles and be ready to go!

Stay Stylish,
M&K

Outfit details: Gap denim jacket, J.Crew ruffle shirt (similar), Anthropologie pleated metallic skirt (similar), Buxton tote. 

Kimberly's Off The Shoulder Summer Stripes

 

Easy breezy summer dressing in San Francisco can be an exercise in layers, but sometimes packing everything into a cross-body bag is not ideal. So, when I found this striped shirt at J.Crew I knew I had met my SF summer soul mate.

Choose Functional Fabrics That Match The Climate

There is nothing like shopping in San Francisco during the summer to bring on that summertime sadness. Flowy dresses, gauzy blouses and cute shorts line shop windows reminding us that summer is a season happening in cities across the country and outside our zip codes. How do you shop successfully? Start with the fabric weight! Look for items in heavier weights, blended with synthetics or merino wool to keep you comfortable.  This top from J.Crew is a thicker weight cotton (think sweatshirt w/o the softness) that can stand up to wind and fog. 

A Winning Look Transitions

Aside from the fabrication and happy yellow stripes, the silhouette of this shirt makes it easy for summer. The bow cuffs can be pushed up and the off the shoulder neckline can be worn above the shoulders if temperatures dip. I chose to pair the top with a high waisted denim from Madewell that would keep me covered regardless of how I wore the top. Add a pair of espadrilles and you are comfortable for whatever summer weather SF throws your way.

ProTip: Recycle your used jeans at Madewell and receive $20 off a new pair.

Stay Stylish,

K&M

Outfit Details: J.Crew Striped long-sleeve off-the-shoulder top On sale $39.99 (reg.$78), Madewell Denim $129, Lace Up Espadrilles (similar bargain, similar investment), Skagen Watch, Marc by Marc Jacobs Sunglasses (similar)

Style Secrets: The Best Low Cut Sock For Your Sneakers

The Perfect Mate To Your Summer Sneaker

Earlier this year we shared our favorite white sneakers and we (and hopefully you too) have been living in them ever since. They are the perfect shoe for sporty looks or a soft summer dress. However, finding the right low profile socks to wear with them isn't as easy.

Where Cute Meets Comfy

If you are on the hunt for socks to wear with your sneakers, search no further! Ann Taylor Loft makesI the perfect pair in adorable patterns. I brought these socks with me to Amsterdam to test them out with my new Keds. The result? True LOVE! Not only did they cushion my feet for miles walking on cobblestones, they also stayed in place (no slipping thanks to a handy rubber gripper at the heel).

I loved them so much that I picked up a few more and a pair for Megan when I returned. She texted me the next day with the same resounding "YES!"

If you are interested in trying them out they are currently 50% off at Ann Taylor Loft now. They are a onesize fits all, so if you wear a 10-12 they may not be the best match for you.

ProTip: Because these have a rubber heel grip, wash them in cold water and keep them out of the dryer.

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

Easy-Peasy Party Planning With Paperless Post

Later this summer we are planning a special event with some of our favorite local fashion lovers (details to come!). It's no secret that we love styling a pretty gathering! But beyond the fun of organizing a beautiful event, we love supporting our talented friends and connecting amazing people.

A Great Event Starts With A Great Invitation

So how do you host a great event? It's all about planning! Megan and I sat down at our local coffee shop to map it out, brainstorm and find an invite that evokes the right feel of the party theme. We've partnered with Paperless Post, who we've been using for years to send stunning invites and track guest lists, to create the perfect invitation. 

The invitation sets the mood and let's your guests know what to expect from your event. We always like to add color to ours to invoke energy and excitement! From there, it's time to start organizing the event.

Three Tips for Planning a Successful Soiree

1.) Choose a Theme

Having a theme makes an invite clear and enticing. Plus, it starts to get people excited for your event. Is it an elegant affair, a casual gathering or a special celebration? Guests appreciate knowing what to expect (and of course what to wear). If it's a sit down dinner, let them know to arrive promptly. Or for a larger event, make it a potluck and have everyone bring a dish.

ProTip: If the party is for someone special, add a Google doc link to your Paperless Post invite so guests or the co-host(s) can easily track who is bringing what (say no to 20 pasta salads!).

2.) Who Are You Hosting

Take time to think of who you will include on your guest list and if there are any special needs. The right mix of people and personalities is always key. Is someone expecting, are children coming, are there any dietary restrictions?  Structure your menu and set-up from there. For example, add non-alcoholic beverages to the menu, vegetarian food and possibly an activity planned to keep little ones or newcomers engaged.

3.) Pick a Winning Location

It's no secret that the location sets the mood. Consider a spot that has great ambiance, is easy to get to and doesn't require a lot of set-up on your part. Time is a limited resource and in our busy city this often means people have competing priorities (aka several events in one night). Finding a central location makes it easier for your busy guests to get to you on time.

We can't wait to share more as we continue to plan our summer party. In the meantime, share your event planning tips with us!

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