Little Tokens Of Love: Mother's Day Gifts for All Ages

Mother's Day seems to have snuck up on us this year! As Kimberly and I have shared in the past, we are close to our moms and always like to treat them on Mother's Day.

So, what do you get the woman who deserves it all? Finding the perfect gift for mom can sometimes be tricky. This year, we have put together our guide for gifting to moms of all ages and stages.

Stay Stylish,
Canvas Styling

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The New Mom

For the new mom, comfort and practicality are key...but it doesn't mean you have to skimp on style. A robe is a perfect gift especially when it's in an oh-so-soft machine washable fabric. Add a little femininity with lace details or keep things simple with a kimono cut, but make sure its a style she feels great in. If you want to splurge or save, the below styles are excellent options.

In Bloom by Jonquil $68

Organic-Cotton Batwing Kimono Robe $88

Hanro Melange Wrap Robe $214

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The Toddler Mom

Every woman needs a classic purse that's easy to wear and matches everything. It's time to ditch that diaper bag for something that can keep up with a little one on the go. We both own the Buxton tote, and it's a great all-purpose bag at an incredible price. Beyond the price, we love how easy it is to keep clean. Peanut butter hands--stand in fear! If you want to splurge, we have long been loyalists to Cuyana, who makes this crossbody that fits all her essentials and keeps her hands free.

Buxton Simplicity Shopper, $20

Cuyana Classic Shoulder Bag, $325

Everlane Market Tote, $165

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The Mom Of Teens

Jewelry is always a special gift to receive. It has sentiment, stands the test of time, and is something that she can wear everyday. Now that grabby little hands are no longer a concern, spoil her with a delicate monogram necklace. Each option is available in silver or gold to suit her style and can be worn layered with multiple necklaces for a look all her own. 

Anthropologie Monogram Necklace, $38

Kate Spade Initial Necklace, $58

LANA Initial Pendant with Diamond, $240

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The Grandmother

As cheesy as it may seem, a picture really is worth a million words. We love photo books and recommend Mosaic or Shutterfly for creating a custom album that is easy and a collectable. If that feels like a little too involved add a punch of personality and trend to her wardrobe with a scarf or wrap--bonus points if the grandkids help to wrap it or sign the card.

Wildflower Infinity Scarf $58

Clip Dot Scarf $138

New Flora Gucci Scarf $510

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Going Green: Organic Beauty Makeup Bag Must-Haves

Here at Canvas, we've spent a lot of time talking about organic beauty over the past few months. Collectively, Kimberly and I have probably tried out a dozen different products to see what's a fave and what's a flop. Today, we are sharing the best and brightest of the bunch. 

Stay Stylish,
M&K

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Megan: I have what was described to me as "thick, combination skin." Which basically means that after years of sun damage and using products that were harsh, my skin has developed a tough outer layer. Many exfoliations later, my skin is getting its glow back and these 3 products are helping to keep it that way.

1. Juice Beauty Stem Cellular 2-in-1 Cleanser- this cleaners is ideal for all skin types, especially those concerned with fine lines and wrinkles.
   Pros: It's a cleanser and toner in one, which takes a step out of my beauty regime.
   
   Cons: My skin does feel a bit tighter after washing with it, so I only use once a day and make sure to add extra moisturizer.
   
   The Verdict: I really like the brand, but find this cleanser plus toner to be too drying on my skin. Next time I will opt for just their cleanser.

1. RMS Beauty Lip2Cheek- a two-in-one lip and cheek stain, each shade is formulated with nourishing organic ingredients and raw mineral pigments.
   Pros: The colors are super-saturated (we tried Beloved) and it stays on the cheeks almost all day, requiring minimal touch-up.
   
   Cons: A little goes a long way, so it takes a little trial and error. If your skin is dry, you'll notice that it doesn't apply as evenly on your cheeks.
   
   The Verdict: Once you get the hang of how to apply, it is great! I think this little pot will last me a long time, but am excited to try out some of their other colors.
   

2. Vapour Illusionist Concealer- light reflecting minerals boost brightening while Frankincense, Tulsi and Lotus helps soothe, calm and protect the skin.
   Pros: It offers medium coverage that glides on and blends easily, covering any dark circles under my eyes.
   
   Cons: I notice that I need to reapply midway through the day. If you adda a pressed powder on top, it will last a bit longer.
   
   The Verdict: We aren't a match made in heaven. I will opt for another brand next time.

Stem Cellular 2:1 Cleanser, $32

RMS Lip2Cheek, $36

Illusionist Concealer, $25

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Kimberly: Most women have a few items that they couldn't live without in their beauty bag, for me its a great mascara, blush and soft foundation. I much prefer a natural look to makeup and less is certainly more--make up should enhance your beauty not cover it. I'm slowly trying to convert my makeup bag to natural products, below are the ones making the cut.

1. W3ll People Expressionist Mascara- I researched several natural mascaras before trying out this one. Not only is it highly recommended, it received beauty awards from Elle and Allure.

Pros: The applicator brush is a dream and I never struggle with blobs of messy product. The mascara is very buildable and leaves your lashes soft and flexible.

Cons: By the end of the day I am on raccoon watch, but a damp cloth quickly cleans up any residue. This product washes away with soap and water but it does take some scrubbing, I prefer to use a gel makeup remover to take it all away.

The Verdict: May repurchase, but curious to try the Lily Lolo Mascara next round. It was my second choice in researching and make smudge less at the end of the day.

2. Tarte Amazonian Clay 12 hr Blush- I first started using Tarte products when working at Sephora headquarters. Branded as "high-performance naturals" they offer a full spectrum of beauty products, but my favorite are their eyeshadows and blushes.

Pros: The color options are wonderful, very natural looking and easy to blend. There is a slight sparkle but the application is soft and easy to build on.

Cons: Although this is called a 12hr blush I think 6-8hrs is more accurate. I often apply more in the morning or retouch midday so it lasts all day long.

The Verdict: It's a keeper! I've used this blush in Blushing Bride for who years and love the natural rosy glow.

3. Mineral Fusion Pressed Powder Foundation- After switching to a new daily sunscreen I've noticed I need a little more foundation cover to avoid the over dewy look. Instead of going back to a translucent talc-based powder I decided to try this as a natural option.

Pros: Reduced shine while adding a soft finish that wears well throughout the day.

Cons: Easy to over apply and look ashy. Blending is key.

The Verdict: I'll be trying something new next time.

W3ll People Mascara $22

Mineral Fusion Pressed Powder $19.

Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush $29

A Love Letter From The Guys: The Boyfriend Shirt Revisited

A Love Letter. 

When I first saw this oxford I didn't realize what it spelled out. I simply liked the random letter placement and bold typeface. After getting it into a handful of clients closets, I decided I wanted it too. I rarely purchase items I've helped clients source, but I knew this top was selling out quickly and managed to pick it up on sale to lessen the sticker shock. It falls in line with my style resolution this year as a FUN piece and has added a little subtle whimsy to my wardrobe.

Effortless Chic Style

The boyfriend shirt is an effortlessly chic staple to have in your closet this season.  A classic oversized white oxford has been made popular by many a Hollywood glamour gal. We love the clean lines, structure, and volume that add a pinch of undone sexiness to a stolen menswear look. This Current/Elliot shirt is made of a thick cotton so it's a perfect weight for a crisp look that is comfortable during our San Francisco spring.

Styling For Success Means Balance

When wearing an oversized boyfriend fit I recommend adding a little tension to the look with skinny jeans. A slimmer silhouette on the bottom will keep the shirt from overpowering or shortening your frame. The stark black typeface really pops with black jeans. I wanted to add a little more edge in the look for daytime meetings, so I chose my waxed denim. Although the ensemble is powerful alone adding another print helps balance the graphic shirt. Since I'm on my feet most days, my leopard print flats keep the look crisp and playful.

The Boyfriend Shirt: Three Ways To Style It

What's old is new again in the world of fashion. With higher pant rises we have been seeing more reasons to tuck in your shirt again and regain your natural waist (guys this goes for you too). To further balance the volume of a boyfriend shirt, we recommend popping the collar to add vertical distance, half tucking the front with the back tails out, or tying it in the front. 

Try it for yourself, you might just find your love match in one of the comfy styles below.

Stay Stylish,

K&M

The Look Details: Current/Elliot Derby Love Letter Shirt $198, Coated Joe's Icon Black Skinny Jeans $89.99, French Sole NY Animal Print Flats $190

Our Favorites

Courier button-back shirt $56.50

Fatigue oversized boy shirt $89.50

Current/Elliot Love Letter Oxford $

Shirt Alert: How We Are Styling Our Oversized Blouses for Spring

A menswear-inspired blouse is a spring wardrobe essential. The styling options are endless and from prints to solids, there is something out there for everyone. This week, Kimberly and I are taking on the trend and sharing how we have made it our own. First up, Megan shows her go-to pinstripe option, and stay tuned to learn how Kimberly styles her favorite oversized button down on Friday's blog. 

Stay Stylish,
M&K

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The Pajama Blouse

The loungewear trend has recreated itself this spring in the form of unstructured, slightly oversized blouses for women. Just one of the styles in this category is the pajama-like silk top. I love being able to wear something comfortable, while still looking stylish, so I was excited to try this look out. I've always been a fan of balancing masculine pieces with feminine style, and this pinstripe blouse from Banana Republic (similar) seemed like the perfect balance.

Look for the Details

Sometimes it is the details that can really make a piece interesting. What I loved about this masculine striped shirt was the pearl buttons down the front, which add a touch of femininity, and the open french cuffs. Both helped to transform what could look like a pajama shirt into a stylish everyday blouse. I like to refer to little details like these as "built in accessories." They add interest without you having to layer too many 'extras' to your outfit.

Pro tip: If you don't like to wear a lot of jewelry, look for pieces that already have "built in accessories" like unique buttons, a print under the collar, or even some embroidery.

Add Balance

When thinking about how to wear a pajama-inspired blouse, you want to mix and match contrasting pieces. It's all about remembering you proportions - if it is loose on top, you want to go more fitted on the bottom. For example, pair an unstructured blouse with a tailored pant or tuck it into a pair of cuffed denim. To dress the look up, add a pair of strappy heels, a chunky necklace or play around with a bold eyes and lip.

Pro tip: If you are wearing the blouse untucked, try throwing a cropped leather or suede jacket over your shoulders for that extra hint of easy style. It will also help add shape and keep the blouse from overwhelming your frame.

Celebrate Earth Day With Our Favorite Eco-Friendly Brands

Earth Day is this Sunday, April 22nd. While we will be celebrating by giving back to Mother Nature in different ways, one of our favorite ways is shopping sustainable clothing brands.

Kimberly and I have been blogging this year about natural beauty products that are better for the environment and free from harmful chemicals. Today, we are sharing our favorite eco-friendly clothing labels that prove sustainable shopping can be stylish. Be prepared to find your new favorite brands!

Stay Stylish,
M&K

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Kimberly:

It's our responsibility as consumers to step back and think about what we need and purchase mindfully. I'm encouraged that so many smaller brands are popping up and putting more pressure on big box shops to change the way they do business from production forward. Organic and sustainable no longer means "one style" or is associated with granola brands.

1. Amour Vert - This SF local is still relatively "new" on the fashion scene and is picking up steam. We love their commitment to environmentally friendly production and socially responsible products. The style is fresh and over the last two years has come into its own. Some of their knits quality are still being fine-tuned in my opinion, but keep them on your radar.

2. Eileen Fisher- For over 30 years this brand has been living up to its values to "to support the environment, human rights and initiatives for women and girls" Organic, sustainable fibers and fair trade business is the backbone of the brand. Beyond their timeless style and clean lines its hard not to love this label. Keep your eyes on these styles this year--this is no longer a 50+ brand.

3. Cuyana - It's no secret that we love this brand! The crisp clean lines and less is more philosophy overlaps with our own Canvas values and esthetic. We wanted to include this brand in our earth day post due to their "Lean Closet" program and supporting reducing the waste in the fashion industry.

Megan:

We've seen so many conscious brands emerge in recent years that 'conscious consumption' is now easily available to everyone. Having an eco-friendly attitude towards fashion is about embracing a “less is more” mindset and investing in items that are high-quality and timeless, rather than ultra-trendy and disposable. 

1. Everlane: Born in San Francisco, this is one of our go-to brands for versatile essentials. The socially responsible company believes in "radical transparency" letting customers know where their clothing is manufactured and exactly how much it costs to make.
   

2. Mara Hoffman: Mara didn't start off an an eco-conscious brand, but after learning how unsustainable her practices were, she decided to make a change. Today, the brand uses responsibly sourced organic, recycled and regenerated materials whenever possible and works to minimize the negative impacts associated with manufacturing.
   

3. Reformation: A cult favorite among style bloggers, Reformation’s mission is to lead and inspire a sustainable way to be fashionable. They source sustainable fabrics and vintage garments, while incorporating better practices throughout their supply chain to make clothing with minimal environmental impact.

Megan's eco-conscious style picks:

Mara Hoffman Temple Jacket, $575

Everlane cashmere v-neck sweater, $100

Reformation Francis dress, $218

Eye Do: Saying Yes to Natural Eye Creams

While age is just a number, now that both Megan and I have celebrated our birthdays for the year it's also time to face the facts--our skin needs a little more TLC than it used to. Your eyes don't lie. Suddenly we find ourselves waking up with puffy eyes after a cocktail the prior evening or sporting dark circles when staying up too late blogging (like tonight).

This year Megan and I are trying to transition our beauty bags to more natural/organic products, so finding an "healthier" eye cream became our mission this spring.  We purposely tried to sample products at a mix of prices, but ultimately focused on more entry price points. See below for our top eye cream picks... you may find one you love too.

Stay Stylish,

K&M

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Kimberly's Picks

Dark Circles Eye Cream:

 Goldfaden MD Bright Eyes - Dark Circle Radiance Complex $55

I never really thought this was a "thing" but over the last two years (gasp!) I've woken up to the walking dead in the mirror.

I purchased this Radiance Complex from Credo Beauty on Fillmore street and love how light and fresh it feels. I apply it in the morning with my daily moisturizer and have noticed it keeps my skin hydrated and more resilient throughout the day. While I haven't noticed a stark difference in dark circles, they have lessened.

Pro-Tip: As you age your skin thins and your blood tends to pool in your eye cavity during sleep. To lessen the appearance of dark circles, sleep with your head elevated to work gravity in your favor. I suffer from allergies, so certain seasons puffy eyes and dark circles are inevitable. I've found sleeping on two pillows helps keep me bright eyed in the morning and less congested.

Moisturizing Eye Cream:

One Love Organics Vitamin E Eye Balm $49

I first tried this product as a sample at Credo and would highly recommend trying it before purchasing. This product is not for everyone with its slightly herbal scent and thick texture (think crystalized honey). However, I love it! It goes on like a paste and softens with the heat of your skin. Given the nature of the consistency, I use it at bedtime to "lock in the moisture." The following morning I still have traces of it left under my eyes. In using this product I've noticed more elasticity in my delicate under eye and now smile with fewer crows feet (but I really don't mind happiness wrinkles). 

ProTip: While at the Tata Harper event at Credo, one of their VPs shared a skincare tip that Megan and I have been practicing. When applying your eye cream at night, wipe any excess around your lips to minimize pucker lines....if you saw this woman's skin you would be a believer too. Since these indregitents are all natural we are not concerned about ingesting anything in our sleep.

Megan's Picks

Youth Stimulating Eye Cream

 Skin Owl eye+ $46

Ever since my birthday in January, I've become hyperaware are the lines around my eyes. What drew me into this product first is its consistency. It is more like a gel than a cream and immediataley cools the skin after application. Made with Hyaluronic Acid, periwinkle, licorice, cucumber and aloe, it is designed to combat fatigued, tired, run-down skin. I do notice my skin perk up and brighten after applying it in the morning a bit, but have found myself reaching for a more moisture-rich eye cream at night.

ProTip; Keep this product in your fridge and use it to cool down you skin and instantly reduce puffy eyes during the hot summer months. It can also be used on the forehead and cheek area for all all-over face treatment. When applying, use your ring finger. It will naturally apply the lightest touch and be least likely to tug the skin.

Reduce Fine Lines Eye Cream:

Tata Harper Restorative Eye Cream $95

I walked away with a sample of Tata Harper's Restorative Eye Cream after her event at Credo in February and couldn't wait to try it. This is the most expensive cream that we tested out, and now I understand why. The product promises to relax wrinkles within 2 hours, diminish lines within 24 hours, and minimize puffiness 80% after 28 days. The texture is incredibly soft and smooth, so it glides on with ease and has a nice, natural scent that isn't overwhelming. While I didn't have enough to use it for the full 28 days, I did see an instant change around my eyes. My crow's feet lightened up and fine lines softened. I looked more awake when I looked in the mirror in the morning and noticed brighter eyes throughout the day.

Pro Tip: Kimberly and I both learned that since these products are made with all natural ingredients, they only have a shelf life of 6 months. When storing your natural skincare products, keep them away from direct light or heat, since this can alter their potency as well.

Spring Fresh Pistachio Hummus

For our Canvas anniversary, Megan and I celebrated in style at Terrain, the Palo Alto Anthropologie cafe. It was a fun treat for a light bite post trend shopping and to a take moment to be inspired. Megan recommended ordering the pistachio hummus and I'm so glad she did! We were both instantly smitten. This spurred a little online research on my part to try and recreate it at home.

The recipe below is based two trial versions of Pistachio Hummus I made inspired by a traditional hummus recipe and infused with pistachio goodness from a SF Local, The Healthy Maven. I opted for Meyer Lemon juice for spring since it's a little softer on the delicate pistachio flavor and upped the pistachio and garlic quantity to enhance the flavor. The Antro Hummus version had a little more water, oil, and parmesan for a smoother consistency. I have a few non-dairy friends, so I wanted something everyone could enjoy, but feel free to adopt the recipe according to your taste.

Stay stylish,

K&M

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INGREDIENTS

1 can organic chickpeas, drained and rinsed

3/4 cup raw unsalted shelled pistachios + ¼ cup coarsely chopped

4 garlic cloves

2 T extra virgin olive oil

1/3 cup water (divided)

2 T Tahini (optional)

2 Meyer lemons juiced, 1/8 tsp zest

Salt and pepper, to taste

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INSTRUCTIONS

In a food processor add garlic cloves pulce until diced. Add 1/2 cup pistachios, olive oil and HALF of water. Process until a creamy paste is formed.

Add in chickpeas, Meyer lemon juice, Tahini, the remainder of reserved pistachios and water. Process until a smooth and fluffy consistency is reached but you can still see flecks of pistachios.

Serve with a sprinkling of chopped pistachios and drizzle of olive oil. Serve with pepper flatbread, lavash, veggies or a side of strawberries.

Recipe makes roughly 2 cups.

Canvas Turns 3: What We've Learned Along The Way

This past week Canvas turned 3! These past few years have flown by and we are both really proud of the company that we have built. Our process has evolved in how we empower people to feel their best at all stages of life. However, at the end of the day it has always been about people first, fashion second.

As we sat back and reminisced about the past 3 years, we couldn't help but think about some of the biggest lessons that we've learned as boss women and female business owners. We've learned a lot about ourselves and who we want to be and can't wait to see what the future holds.

Stay Stylish,
M&K

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Megan: I remember when we were still in the planning stages of Canvas, I don't even think we had a name yet, and I kept thinking how exciting it would be to say that I started a company. What I didn't realize was how much I would actually learn about myself along the way. It was hard to narrow it down to three key lessons, so I decided to list the biggest lesson I learned each year.

1. Don't compare your success to the success of others - When you are first starting out it is so hard to not look at other people in your industry and compare yourself to them. Especially with social media. I would literally wake up in the middle of the night to look at Instagram. But doing that will just make you crazy! What's most important is to stay true to who you are and trust your gut with each step. Instead of comparing myself to other people, I try to learn from them and see how I can grow not only as a stylist, but as a person. 

2. Don't forget to have fun along the way - This was a big learning from last year. Kimberly and I both can put a lot of pressure on ourselves and trying to do everything. There was a small period at the end of last year where we became so focused on accomplishing certain things that we somehow forget to have fun. So, we both sat down and talked about it and agreed to only do things that made us happy. Since that moment, everything has just seemed to fall into place. Now, I always make sure to remind myself that it's not just about the end point, it's about enjoying the journey along the way.

3. Always check your motives - I learned this lesson last week when I got a call that my Aunt had passed away. The first person I called was Kimberly. I had a client that morning and Kimberly told me to call and reschedule, but not wanting to let anyone down I insisted on taking the appointment anyway. When I hung up, I paused to think about why I wanted to take the appointment. Was it what was best for my client or was it for me? I ended up realizing that I wanted to shop to take my own mind off of what had happened, but in that situation I wouldn't be able to be fully present for my client. While sometimes we think our motives are from a good place, they aren't always what's best for everyone involved.

What I learned from Kimberly: Kimberly's taught me a lot over the past three years (like to always carry a snack for long days and the joy of an excel spreadsheet), but the most important lesson I've learned from her is that it's ok to take a breath and ask for help. When you start a business you always want to feel like you are doing enough and contributing enough. That can carry over into a partnership too. It's important to feel that you are showing up to your partner everyday and contributing equally. But sometimes you need to tap out and ask for help. Kimberly has helped me learn that it's ok to rely on someone and knowing when to rely on someone else is a strength instead of a weakness. She's helped me to slow down and see the overall larger pictures, instead of just bouncing from task to task.

Kimberly: The start of Canvas was not as straight forward as other entrepreneurs, but an opportunity that landed in our laps. I'm thankful we were brave and bold enough to take it. Megan and I had only known each other for about 6 months when we were seated at a negotiation table determining if we wanted to go into business together. It was a very stressful time, but we banded together and realized our strengths really worked well together.

1.) Ask for What Scares You - Great businesses are not run by people who have all the answers, but by those willing to ask the tough questions and explore the answers. Megan and I both have sent emails and had tough conversations where we step back after and think, "Wow, who was THAT?!" It's important to push yourself and each other to ask boldly and not assume you know the answer. This mindset has really kept our business evolving and carried Megan and I through some challenging seasons of roadblocks and fear.

2.) Know Your Worth - Starting up a small business it is easy to second guess yourself or give away too much. At the beginning you will need to extra scrappy, but hold firm to what your core brand is all about and your value. It is easy to backslide when your numbers are down a month or a blog doesn't get as much traction. Having a teammate and a network of supporters to remind you of value, your own limitations, and the strength of a partnership will keep you going in the long run.

3.) Partnership Is Everything - Canvas would not be what it is today without our dynamic duo. We joke about being the ying and yang of style, but it takes work to keep in balance. We were lucky enough to have a few rockstar mentors who coached us in what a healthy partnership looked like. When we started, one of our first meetings was with a life coach. In the last three years, we have found the health of our partnership is linked to the health of our business. When we both feel like we are both contributing to the vision of Canvas, we are happier and business thrives. No one can do it all, and I am so thankful I have a partner who meets me in that space. It's been a learning in humility and in the freedom of letting go.

What I learned from Megan: As our business has grown and we have spent more time in the trenches, we've come to realize how similar we really are. Megan has a big heart that shows up in generosity, but she balances it well with boundaries. She often reminds me to enjoy the moment and inspires me to have more fun with my own style. Her drive and ability to blaze forward, jump on an opportunity, and keep asking for what you want have taught me that often you just have to go for it even if you make a few mistakes along the way. Our greatest learnings have also been our greatest oversights. Other times there will be no clear path forward. We have found that is when you just have to try something to see if it works, you might find an answer you never could have predicted otherwise.

Garden Party: Our Favorite Floral-Inspired Easter Dresses

Spring has sprung and we are ready for lighter, brighter colors. Whether you are looking for a dress to celebrate Easter this weekend, or are just ready to welcome in the new season with fresh florals or color we are sharing our top picks for dresses that are blooming with style.

Stay Stylish,

M&K
 

Try A Jumpsuit

A jumpsuit is a stylish alternative to wearing a dress, especially for day events or brunch celebrations. Like dresses, jumpsuits come in a mix of styles, so part of pulling off the look is all about finding the right jumpsuit for your body. As a great rule of thumb, look for a style that is fitted at the waist, so that the jumpsuit doesn't overwhelm your body, and then flows through the legs.

Megan's wearing the Marilla Maxi Dress $248 available at Antropologie

Go Light With Linen

This year linen and other natural looking fabrics are popular. While we have a love-hate relationship with linen, knowing that stretch and wrinkles happen will set you up for success. Look for a dress with structured seamlines or stripes (this will keep you from looking frumpy). A great example of this would be a shirt dress. The silhouette is having a come back this spring but in a very quiet minimal design. We love that it is an easy piece to transition to a workday.

The Dress That Wraps It All Up

Flowy wrap dresses with plenty of movement and ruffles are popular again this spring. To balance out the movement and volume, pay attention to the scale. The size of the ruffle and print should enhance your shape, not overwhelm you. If you are tall or plus size, play with longer ruffles and bigger blooms. If you are a petite limit the number of ruffles and explore small sized florals or a print with more solid color and floral accents.

Our Favorite Picks:

Anthropologie, $228

Express, $40

Universal Standard, $110

Reformation, $218

Madewell, $178

Ted Baker, $335

Megan is wearing the Paradiso Halter dress, $178 available at Antropologie.

Celebrating Spring In Technicolor: What Colors to Invest in This Year

Last week, on another very rainy day, Megan and I headed down to Palo Alto. We decided to take the morning to visit the large Anthropologie near Stanford and find inspiration for a new season. We'll share more on that trip and the other reason behind the visit in a later blog.

Today, we are talking about COLOR! In the past we have blogged about the top Pantone colors of the season and guided all of you in what colors to invest in. This spring, we are letting the clothes do the talking. There are so many refreshing pops of brights this year that winter already feels like a distant memory.

Stay Stylish,

K&M

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Find A Hue For You

Snappy orange, powder blue, and mustard yellow are all popular colors this season. Brights are sometimes tough to master, but I know this bright orange-red works with my coloring.

Start with a shade that gives you a natural glow. Everyone has different undertones to their coloring. Being aware of this, and what shades work well with that undertone will make shopping easier. For example, I know colors autumn colors make me look energized and dusty ones cannot hide a lack of sleep (without some coverup). 

ProTip: Add brights slowly and pair with a neutral. I.e. Bright orange looks great with navy, camel, white or grey. Avoid wearing this specific shade with black for the sharp contrast.

Add A Fun Print

I feel like we constantly talk about florals on this blog, but the fashion world keeps on serving up more. This season vintage-inspired florals are popular and I fell in love with this 1950s rose print denim skirt. It reminds me of a skirt I had in elementary school, so I suppose there is a strong nostalgia factor. If florals are not for you try a happy polka dot or fruity colorful stripe both are also popular this year.

Experiment With The Unexpected

It was fun playing with this skirt and exploring different combinations available in store. Since it is still chilly in most of the country, my natural choice was trying the skirt with a cozy turtleneck sweater. Megan found this piece and I'm now kicking myself for not picking it up since it is sold out online. Retail lesson: Buy what you love, and double check the price tag when you see it.

To change the look and push the skirt toward evening or a party, I swapped out the orange components with pieces with a little more lux. After a quick trip to the sale section, I paired the skirt with a burgundy suede sandal and gold metallic blouse (see the look below). 

 

 

 

Our Favorites:

Outfit Details: Maeve Denim Pencil Skirt, Orange Cashmere sweater, Anthropologie Pommed Heeled Sandals, my own Madewell Necklace