Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: Team Canvas' Top Picks

It's that time of year again - the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! This is one of our favorite annual events because Nordstrom offers great discounts on new Fall items. It may feel early to stock up on sweaters and boots, but trust us that you won't want to miss out. We've scoped out some of the best buys for men, women, and home and are excited to share them with you!

Pro tip: The sale opens to the public today, July 20th. If you see something you like, act FAST! Things tend to sell out at the speed of light.

Stay Stylish,
M&K

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Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: Our Must-Haves

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WOMEN

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Kimberly's Picks:

1. STANCE Invisible 3-Pack No-Show Socks $15.90 (reg. $25)
   "I have clients who wear by this local brand--I've been waiting for this sale to test them out myself and am excited to try them at a discount. The color mix is perfect for fall a few months away."

2. NATORI Feathers Underwire Contour Bra $44.90 (reg. 68)
   "The Nordstrom sale is a great time to replenish basics that you use all year. Underpinnings are no exception. This bra from Natori is incredibly comfy and comes in a mix of fun shades."

3. HALOGEN® Long Open Front Cardigan $59.90 (reg. 89) "Long cardigans are back and big for fall. Halogen and Caslon, both private labels for Nordstrom, have some in many colors at a great price."

Megan's Picks:

1. STUART WEITZMAN Waverly Bootie $369.90 (reg. $575)

2. BLANKNYC No Limit Suede Moto Jacket $125.90 (reg. $188)
   "This is my go-to moto for clients who want a quality suede jacket at an affordable price. I own it in bright blue and it's on constant rotation in my closet."

3. ZELLA Sun Salutation High Waist Leggings $42.90 (reg. $65)
   "Zella is my favorite brand for athletic and athleisure items. This high waist leggings keeps everything in place while working out and they are super comfortable."

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MEN

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Kimberly's Picks:

1. PATAGONIA Better Sweater Performance Slim Fit Quarter Zip Jacket $88.90 (reg. $119) "A staple in any guy's closet in the city. I'm partial to the light grey to wear with button-downs during the week and a tee on the weekend."

2. BARBOUR Pod Slim Fit Water Resistant Quilted Jacket $132.90 (reg. $199) "Water-resistant style James Bond would approve of."

3. MAGNANNI Tanning Leather Belt $99 (reg. $150)
   "This is one of my favorite belts for men. The quality and color make them wardrobe staples that last."

Megan's Picks:

1. THEORY Scotty Bevan Zip Front Jacket $259.90 (reg. $395)
   "You can never go wrong with a Theory jacket. As a client said yesterday, "It just feels like and effortless while I am wearing it." Enough said!"

2. AG Everett SUD Slim Straight Fit Pants $129.90 (reg. $178)
   "My #1 recommendation for men wanting a comfortable pant that is stylish. It is a cross between a jean and a chino and comes in tons of different colors."

3. TIMBERLAND Wodehouse Lost History Chukka Boot $199 (reg. $299)
   "My male clients love this boot. It is super comfortable and looks great with everything. It only goes on sale once a year."

 

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HOME/BEAUTY

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Kimberly's Picks:

1. VOLUSPA Vermeil Mini Tin Candle Set 26.50 (reg. $40)
   "I like to keep small gifts on hand for birthdays and impromptu celebrations. This candle set is a perfect way to stock up and you may find yourself enjoying a candle too."

Megan's Picks:

1. NURSE JAMIE Uplift Facial Trio $69 (reg. 99)

2. AVEDA Must Haves Set $45 (reg. $68)
   "Aveda is great for all types of hair, especially color treated. This set has it all and is enough to last you a year."

 

 

 

SF Shop Guide: Summer Shopping at Everlane

Last month I made an appointment to "Cut the Line" at our local Everlane shop on Valencia street and check out the summer collection. It is one of two new brick and mortar locations for the company (say goodbye to online returns). Megan and I have been watching this brand for several years--attending open houses at their studio space. We love the business concept but have never been sold on the fit. However, we are open-minded fashionista's and are willing to revisit a brand we want to believe in. 

In short, I was extremely impressed with their current collection and the store experience. I actually had fun shopping! Perhaps it had something to do with the fact that my appointment was a 9:30 on a Saturday morning and I had the place to myself.

Are you curious how Megan and I shop solo? Well, today I'm taking you along for a behind the scenes view...

Stay Stylish,

K&M 

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Everlane Top Picks

ProTip: When visiting a new brand, be strategic in your shopping. Start by pulling the top styles you like and a few you don't. The goal is to get to know the fit. I pulled nearly every pant style they had in a size above and below by usual to get a sense of sizing grading. Once you have nailed down your "true size" then focus on the color that best works on you and your wardrobe. While sales people can be helpful, having all the sizes you need first will save you time in the long run.

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Everlane Soft Cotton Square Crew $68 (I'm wearing a small in Poppy Red)

Who shops for sweaters in summer, I DO of course! If you are in need of a casual summer sweater that is comfy, breathable and still upbeat for the season this is it. Wearing black in June and July only adds to the misery of our SF climate. This fun pop of color was so popular I actually passed this sweater to a fellow patron in the dressing room...yes I will occasionally style others on the fly. This color has since sold out, but they have a slew of other amazing colors. 

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Everlane Kick Crop Jean $78 in the color Bone

Shopping for white summer jeans can be an exercise in humility. The shopping experience is akin to bathing suit shopping depending on fabric, cut and dreaded dressing room lighting. Luckily, Everlane is a step ahead with dressing rooms that are filled with soft natural light thanks to well placed skylights. The fabric on these bone colored jeans has the right about of thickness to support and smooth. The cut of the high-rise kick crop pant is clean with a playful flair. I especially apprecited the raw hem for a touch of modernity. 

Protip: For these high rise jeans consider sizing down to maintain a perfect fit

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Everlane Wide Leg Crop Pant $68 (Front shot shown in Ochre) and Everlane Wide Leg Crop Utility Cargo Pant $68 (Back shot shown in Surplus).

These sister styles are exactly what you want on a Saturday morning! Super comfy with a sprinkle of style. I preferred the Wide Leg Crop Utility Cargo pant with back patch pockets and front pocket detail. These styles run large, so size down and consider the stretch impact. The smallest size in store was still a little big on me that I decided to pass on these (for now). If I purchased either of these crops I would have altered them to two inches above my ankle for summer. 

ProTip: Everlane does not provide in store alterations so make sure you have your local tailor on call.

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Everlane Denim Skirt $58, Indigo

Denim skirts have cycled in and out of my wardrobe over the years. This summer they are back and I love the super dark indigo versions. When I spotted this one in the shop I gave it a try and was pleasantly surprised by the fit. However, the length is a little short for everyday or work use that I left it behind. If we lived in a warmer climate I may have considered it.

Protip: When trying on skirts, dresses or slacks make sure you have a seat and review the fit while seated.

Everlane The Work Pant Ankle, $50 (shown in Ochre, purchased Black)

These pants are two legged miracle workers! I've put many a client into Rag and Bone slacks for work and have been saving up for a pair of my own. However, once I tried these on and saw the $50 price tag, I knew I needed to test them out. They may be the most comfortable work pants I have ever owned. While the fabric is not as thick and high quality as Rag and Bone, the high rise fit gives the right amount of smooth support and stretch. I ended up purchasing these in black to wear year round and will post an update on how they hold up in months to come. 

Outfit Details: Vince Striped Tie Back Sweater, $177,  Sam Edelman Floral Espadrilles $22 (on sale and they run about a 1/2 size big), Everlane Work Pants in Ochre $50

Travel Style: 5 Easy Day-To-Night Vacation Looks

Megan already shared how she packs for a beach vacation. This year her trip to Ibiza requires a little more planning. See below for her five go-to outfits that can make a day look last well into the evening.

Stay Stylish,
M&K

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When I was preparing for my trip to London, I knew that I needed 5 distinct looks: a night out in London, daytime beach club, dinner show and dancing, a day on a boat, casual afternoon exploring the town. While I did decide to create specific outfits for my events, I also felt a sense of ease knowing that if plans change on the fly any of the straightforward styles can easily be a day-to-night outfit.

Five Vacation Outfits to Have Your Ready for Anything

1. Night Out In London

I am spending my first night with my best friend and her husband in London. While our plans are just for dinner and drinks, I still wanted something that felt chic for the notoriously stylish city. Let's keep in mind that I will be coming off a 10 hour flight, so it needed to be effortless too. Jeans are always my go-to and can be easily glammed up with great heels and a colorful top. I decided to add in a studded crossbody for texture and edge.

Outfit details: Alice + Olivia satin cami, Rag n Bone jeans (similar), Calvin Klein heels (old), Valentino studded cross body.

2. Daytime Beach Club

One day on Ibiza we made reservations for lunch at a daytime beach club. Since it will be hot and sandy, I wanted comfort without sacrificing island style. Throwing a basic cover-up over your bikini is the most obvious solution, but by adding just a little extra detail the outfit has potential to go so much further. 

Pro Tip: A sunhat can be bulky to pack, unless it is collapsible. To save space, pack items inside of your hat. That way it won't get crushed and you are utilizing the space it takes up.

Outfit details: Shein bikini, crochet beach coverup, straw hat from Jamaica, Old Navy flip flops.

3. Dinner and Dancing

Dinner and dancing at Lio is our dressiest night out. I wanted to play a little and not just do a straightforward dress and heels. I started with a sequin skirt and kept it as the focus piece. From there I layered on basic items that and finished with a beaded clutch and metallic heels .

Outfit details: H&M sequin mini, Kooples tank top (similar), Stella McCartney bralette (similar), Anthropoligie beaded clutch (similar), Aldo metallic heels (similar).

4.  A Day On A Boat

Anyone that knows me knows that I love boats! That's why I am most looking forward to the day that we chartered a private boat to take us around Formentera. The long sleeve white button down will offer perfect coverage from the later afternoon sun and since I am a fanatic about sun protection, I always need my SPF 45 face powder.

Outfit details: yarn beach bag, Ralph Lauren button down, Super Goop SPF powder, Shein bikini, Gap denim shorts, Dolce Vita sandals

5. Afternoon Wandering Around Town

Come on I am a stylist, did you really think I wouldn't set aside time to do some local shopping? Not knowing when we would be able to fit this in, I needed an outfit that could easily take me from the beach to boutiques, or vice versa. The Chanel scarf makes the perfect belt to match my cut-off jeans, but can also be worn tied around my waist as a beach cover-up too. 

Outfit details: Ralph Lauren button down, vintage Chanel Scarf, Gap denim shorts, Nordstrom studded sunglasses, Becca swimsuit, Old Navy flip flops.

The BBQ Ready Summer Salad

If you signed up to bring a side salad for the fourth or are simply looking for a lighter dinner this summer we are sharing a recipe that has been on repeat in our kitchens.

Great style isn't limited to your wardrobe and having the right mix of simple ingredients makes healthy eating easy. This recipe was created last minute for an unplanned dinner party. The mix of sweet squash and savory arugula is a fresh combination and pairs well with grilled chicken for a heartier dish...or alone with a cool glass of rosè.

Get ready to say goodbye to the heavy BBQ pasta salad of the past, this one may be a crowd pleaser!

Stay Stylish,

K&M

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Ingredients

• 3C Organic Washed Arugula
• 1/4C Skim Ricotta Cheese
• 1/8C Pine Nuts
• 1 Package of Fresh Ravioli or Tortellini
• 1 package zig-zag butternut squash ribbons (or Cubed Roasted Sweet Potatoes)
• 1 Sprig of Rosemary
• 5T Olive Oil
• Kosher Salt
• Fresh Ground Pepper

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Step 1

Heat 3T olive oil in a fry pan with a sprig of rosemary. Once the oil is heated add butternut squash pieces and saute until edges are caramelized. Add salt and pepper to butternut squash and  2T of water to the pan. Cover the pan and reduce to low heat until squash is tender, stirring occasionally. Remove rosemary, add pine nuts (lightly toasting) then reserve until step 3.

Step 2

In a separate sauce pan boil salted water and add pasta. Boil on high heat for 2 minutes or until all pasta floats to the top of the pan. Strain out water, drizzle with olive oil and reserve.

Step 3

Place three cups of arugula in a mixing bowl and toss in cooked butternut squash and pasta. Add 1/4C ricotta cheese, additional 1T of olive oil and gently stir, taking care to fold in pasta. Add additional salt and pepper to taste.

Summer Vacation: How Megan Prepares for a Week on Ibiza

Carrying on our summer tradition, Kimberly and I are taking to the blog to share what we are packing for summer vacation. Last year you got to see Kimberly's capsule wardrobe for her trip to London and Amsterdam. This time around, I am excited to give you an inside look at what I will be wearing during a week in Ibiza, Spain.

Stay Stylish,
M&K

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Beach here I come! For the first time in almost 4 years, I am actually taking a lengthy vacation filled with sun, sand, and friends. Where you ask? I am flying to London for 2 days and then heading to Ibiza, Spain for a week. 

Don't Be Afraid To Ask For Help

I guess now is a good time to let you in on a little secret - I love to help my clients pack for trips, but packing for myself is one of my least favorite tasks. Enter the best styling partner ever. Kimberly generously came over first thing on a Monday morning to not only help me pack, but also create some of my favorite outfits for the trip! If you have a vacation coming up and are feeling a mental block, it always helps to have a fresh set of eyes look over your wardrobe. Often times they will see something that you haven't.

Assess Your Needs

While I typically try to travel light, I decided to indulge myself this trip by ditching the carry-on and packing plenty of options. I knew that I would need outfits that could take me from a day on the beach to a night out. And given our itinerary, I needed at least 2 dressier evening looks. Oh, did I mention that I would also be seeing a lot of DJ sets? So that means comfortable shoes that I can dance all night in.

Make a Shopping List

When I travel, I like to make extensive lists of everything I need by category: accessories, clothes, shoes, toiletries, carry-on items, etc. That way I can check things off as I get them. Even better, when it comes time to pack I already have detailed lists of everything I need to remember. This also helps keep you accountable and not over-spend on items that you don't really need or overpack items that you may not even end up wearing.

Choose Where To Invest

Since San Francisco never has a "real summer" I ended up buying a number of new hot weather items for my trip. Big on my list were swimsuits. coverups, easy dresses, and sandals. I knew I could always put a denim jacket or blazer over a dress in cooler temps, so I felt more comfortable investing in both maxi and midi dresses. I also wanted to leave room to buy some special pieces abroad if I saw something that I just had to have, so I purposely left space for new additions.

I wear a swimsuit maybe 4 times a year, so that was one category where I held back from splurging. Instead I bought 5 moderately priced swimsuits to have a fun variety. Stay tuned to see if they hold up...

Pro Tip: Pack your swimsuits in ziplock bags. It will keep them organized in your suitcase and you have somewhere to stick your wet suit after a day at the beach.

Don't Forget Your Travel Outfit

I am going to be honest, what I travel in may be the most important outfit I prepare for a trip. Especially if it is a red eye or international flight. Comfort is key, so I usually pack a second outfit in my carry-on that I can change into either when it's time to sleep on the flight or during a long layover to freshen up a bit.

For this particular trip, it is a straight 10 hour flight to London. I am always cold on planes, so I wanted something I could cozy up in while still not feeling too schlumpy when I land. I've been in love with my "Female Equals Future" sweater since I bought it. It's super soft, while making a positive statement. For the flight, I've paired it with knit cropped leg track pants, a tunic length black tank, and my new flower embroidered jacket. My white sneakers are comfortable and easy to wear, and I always pack an extra pair of socks in my carry-on to put on once we take off.

Pro Tip: Wear bulkier items (such as a sweater or sneakers) on the plane to free up room in your suitcase.

Here is the complete picture of my Ibiza wardrobe. Stay tuned... next I will be sharing my 5 must-have vacation 5. 

Clothing details (from top to right): H&M Female Equals Future sweater (similar), Topshop flower patch jacket, Shein wide leg track pants, Goodfellow & Co. white sneakers, Old Navy flip flops, Shein orange bikini, crochet cover-up, Bella crochet swimsuit, Chanel scarf, AG denim shorts (similar), Gap embroidered blouse (similar), Shein gray bikini, H&M fitted black dress, Kooples tank top (similar), Stella McCartney purple bralette (similar), Anthro beaded clutch (similiar), H&M sequin skirt, Aldo silver heels (similar), BCBG sandals (similar), Yarn beach tote (similar), Ralph Lauren white blouse, Gap denim shorts, Shein black bikini, Dolce Vita sandals, ASOS red maxi dress, J.Crew hoop earrings (similar), Rag n Bone acid washed jeans (similar), Calvin Klein heels (old), Juicy Couture necklace (old), Alice + Olivia green cami (similar), Jigsaw metallic clutch (similar).

Father's Day: A Gift Guide for Dads of All Ages

In preparation for Father's Day, we decided to take a cue from our Mother's Day blog and share our favorite gift ideas for the guys. Dads are notoriously hard to shop for - if they want it that badly they usually end up just buying it for themselves. This year we dug into our digital shopping closet to help you find the perfect gift for your favorite man.

Stay Stylish,
M&K

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The New Dad

Since sleep may be elusive, his world may now need an alarm clock that doesn't cry. Keep feedings organized and biometrics in check with a smart watch. There are many options on the market right now at different price points. If you like to do a little more research, check out the best bets for 2018.

Protip: Make sure to look at the price to replace watchbands, which can get worn over time.

Apple Watch Series 1 38mm Space Gray Aluminum with Black Sport Band $192.73

Fitbit Versa Special Edition $229.95

Misfit Phase Smart Watch $75

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The Toddler Dad

Once the toddler years start, he is going to be running after his little one a lot! Give dad the gift of comfort, with some style thrown in, with these easy to wear, easy to care, clothes and accessories that will hold up to a day of playing at the park, running around the house, or chasing a now-walking toddler.

Bonobos Superfine Henley, $68

New Balance Luxe Sneakers, $100

Tumi Tahoe Elwood Backpack, $235

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The Dad of Teens

Once his little girl or boy hits the teenage years, a few grey hairs start to arrive as dad prepares for later curfews, kids learning to drive, and (gasp!) dating! Give him the gift of pampering and help him get ahead of any worry lines that may start to settle in. Dads can't help it... they worry because they love you!

Baxter "Better With Age" Kit, $39

Dollar Shave Club. $45 for 3 months

Kiehl's Healthy Skin Squad, 64

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The Grandfather

Grandfather's come in all shapes, sizes, and interests. The cool thing about seeing your own parents cross this threshold is how it can bring out a side that you don't have a memory of. Time is precious, and although you may have a few resisters, jotting down his life lessons is a great keepsake that will mean more than a ball cap or polo (but those are always great back ups). For older grandkids-this is a great project to do together.

My Grandpa: In His Own Words Book $11

My Life-So Far $30

Grandfather's Journal $13.66

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How to Wear Wide Leg Pants This Summer

Many people often misquote Mark Twain as saying "The coldest winter I ever spent, was a Summer in San Francisco." The author of this quip is unknown, but it doesn't make it any less true. Summertime can be a cruel joke in our fair city. How do you remedy this paradox with summertime style? This season, Megan and I are finding the answer in wide leg pants, culottes, and gauchos.

If your skinny and boyfriend jeans are feeling a little stale, add a silhouette change to your wardrobe mix. The wide leg pant has been creeping its way back into fashion for the past three years and we are predicting it will be a key player for at least the next two years. Now is a good time to invest or bring your old friends to the front of your wardrobe! Don't miss our selection below on some of our favorite versions at a mix of price points.

Stay Stylish,

K&M

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Find A Wide Leg Designed For You

Everyone has a unique set of proportions. Finding a wide leg pant that flatters your natural shape is key. When shopping for a wide leg pant keep these points in mind:

1. If you have a longer rise or torso choose a higher rise pant to balance your height and improve seat fit.
2. Select a thicker fabric with body to keep the cut crisp.
3. If you opt for a flowy wide leg pant, chose a fabric with drape for movement (no puffy pants) and a waist detail with a tie.
4. Look for wide leg pants that slightly flare at the hem, this will accentuate your waist for a more feminine look.
5. Consider tailoring so the pant hem hits at the most flattering point of your leg.

Balance Out A Wide Leg Pant With A Tailored Top or Sweater

Great dressing is centered around a little tension, balance and finding harmony in geometry. Wide leg pants are designed to add a pop of volume to a look.

Whether you are tall or petite the trick to pulling off the look well is balancing that volume with the other components of the ensemble. If you think of Da Vinci's Virtruvian man the center of the composition is the waistline.

To add focus to my waistline I paired my wide leg pants with a horizontal striped sweater that has a tailored banded waist. This top not only helps to visually balance me vertically but horizontally too. A tie in the back of the sweater adds a focal point and the open back is perfect for a summer day in SF.

ProTip: If you have longer legs you can move that horizontal midsection lower (think drop waist top). If you have shorter legs you can move the waistline up (high waist pant and crop top) to add vertical balance.

Pair Your Wide Leg Pants With Accessories That Elongate Your Look

Keeping with the theme of balance, accessories play an important role in pulling off a wide leg pant look. Shoes are the one thing that often stumps our clients. To elongate your legs try a wedge, heeled sandal, or low cut flat. I particularly like spectators with a wide leg pant for a Annie Hall look. For flat shoes try a nude shade to avoid breaking up your leg line further.

For your earrings, if you are wearing a crewneck top help elongate your neckline with a drop earring. If you pair your wide leg pants with a v-neck or wrap top, top off your look with studs or hoops to soften the angles.

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Our Favorites:

Emmett Wide-leg Crop Pants $88

Jigsaw Hutxon Jeans $145

Everlane Wide Leg Crop $68

Outfit Details: Jigsaw London Hutxon Pants $145, Vince Striped Tie Back Sweater $177, Staple Jigsaw London Wedges (alternative), Jessica Thompson Triangle Champagne Earrings $48

How To Care For Your Linen Like a Pro

We love natural fibers, especially during the summer when the temperatures rise and keeping cool is a necessity. As we blogged earlier this year, linen and cotton linen blends are very popular fabrications in fashion. The natural texture adds richness to a summer wardrobe and the composition of the fabrics work well in warm climates. Now that you have a few great linen pieces, how do you take care of them so they keep their shape and last several seasons?

Megan and I set out to do a little research beyond recommended use and care labels. While those little white labels are helpful (yes, please read them!), dry clean only may not actually be your only option. See below for our guidelines and what we recommend for loving your linen.

Stay Stylish,
K&M

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Why Choose Linen Over Cotton

Once you know the basics, linen is just as easy to care for as cotton and can be more durable over time. Plus,  the fabric gets better with each wash, unlike cotton which can become threadbare as the fibers are weakened. Linen also uses less resources in its production, which makes it a more eco-friendly fabric than cotton.

Washing Your Linen

You want to hand wash your linen pieces when possible with a gentle detergent, If it is a linen sports coat or structured piece, opt for the dry cleaners. Spot clean areas for a deeper clean when needed, but with its natural structure linen will break down with harsh chemicals. While linen will get softer with each wash, we recommend hang drying linen pieces to retain the shape and color. If you have a spot to line dry your linen outside, even better!

Steam, Do Not Iron Your Linen

Wrinkles are just part of the linen lifestyle, so if you are very particular and pressed, this may not be the best choice for you.  Keep in mind that most plant-based fibers are known for their structure, but not necessarily their bounce back retention. Expect linen to shrink up with wash and release and stretch with wear. Higher quality linen will have a stronger weave and fiber that will not lose as much shape, but change is to be expected. We always recommend investing in a good steamer to release wrinkles and keep your garment looking crisp.

Pro tip: Steam items inside out to protect the finish of the fabric. Additionally, steaming inside out will lessen the likelihood of scorching or bleaching out dye from your linen.

Storing Your Linen

Linen items will wrinkle if stored in dresser drawers, so opt to hang them in your closet instead (this will save your from steaming items before each wear). Use sturdy velvet or wooden hangers to help the linen items maintain their shape. When it comes to storing your linen pieces, you want to avoid plastic bags, cardboard boxes, or cedar chests. Linen naturally has insect repellant properties, so you don't need to worry about moths or other insects creating unwelcome holes in the fabric. When you take linen out of storage, give it a good airing and wash if it needs a bit of a refresh.

Tips for Wearing Linen

Below are a few of our favorite tips to prevent your linen clothing from wrinkling during the day:  

1. Remove your linen jacket while driving or during extended periods of sitting. Keep a hanger in your car and behind your office door to hang your jacket until you need to wear it again.

2. Linen pants tend to wrinkle easily. To reduce fabric stretch, sagging, and extra wrinkles, gently lift your pants from the knees as you sit down. 

3. Keep a small bottle of wrinkle release spray in your desk or purse. Spritz it on the fabrics and gently tug to release any wrinkles mid-day or before heading out at night. 

Our Linen Care Picks:

Velvet Hangers

Downy Wrinkle Release

Pur Steam Steamer

Begleys Natural Wrinkle Release $9.99

Fresh Scents: Our Favorite Spring Summer Fragrances

Every season both Megan and I like to change our fragrances to reflect the changing environment. Because we are often working with clients we are careful in what we select so it is neutral and clean and not distracting from a styling session. Scent can be highly linked to memories and emotions so it is always safer to tread lightly.

As we continue our search for healthier products this year our scents have started to change as well.  I am finding myself more drawn to wearing a blend of essential oils most days that adapt to my own ph (because your scent should be as unique as you are). If you are curious to get a little more of the nitty-gritty on natural fragrance options and what your nose knows--check out this Credo Blog covering the topic.

Below is a listing of our favorite mainstream scents -some are unisex and others are better for outside client sessions, but all are perfect for a mix of your spring-summer adventures.

Enjoy and stay stylish,

K&M

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Megan's Pick's

Van Cleef & Arpels Gardénia Pétale Eau de Parfum, $150.00

I love the smell of gardenias and have had a hard time finding a perfume has a simple, pure scent. Lush and feminine, this perfume is the truest to the natural gardenia scent that I have found. It includes green notes, citrus notes, lily of the valley, jasmine, and gardenia.

 Gucci Bloom, $83

Gucci always has wonderful fragrances. Bloom is slightly more masculine (but not overwhelming) while still being crisp, clean and, refreshing. It has a blend of white florals, galbanum leaf, cassis, musk, and sandalwood. 

Kimberly's Picks

MAISON MARGIELA Replica Flying Eau de Parfum, $180

Fresh and crisp this unisex fragrance has had me taking a detour in stores for a midday spritz. The top notes of bright neroli and bergamot remind me of a Negroni on the Italian coastline. The fresh citrus scent is light and airy but strong enough to hold up on a warm summer evening.

Aesop Tacit Eau de Parfum, $115

Clean, peppery, and slightly herbal this parfum by Aesop is another great unisex scent.  This is a low maintenance fragrance with earthy top notes of citrus and basil. Because of this, it's a good match for the contemporary minimalist. This parfum has less staying power than other fragrances and softens on the skin with long wear.

Mix It Up: How To Ace High-Low Dressing

If you've been following our blog for awhile, then you know that I love high-low dressing. It's an easy way to wear those dressier pieces that live in your closet. You know which ones I am talking about... the nicer items you may have spent a little more on but always seem to be saving for a special occasion. I say embrace the day and wear what you want when you want!

What Is High-Low Dressing

High-low dressing is the art of mixing dressier pieces with more casual items to create an outfit that is uniquely you. Typically "high" pieces are more pricey and considered statement pieces such a designer purse, embellished jacket, or in my case the sequin skirt I am wearing. "Low" pieces are basics, such as a t-tee or your favorite denim. 

To Invest or Not Invest

We always recommend investing in timeless staples that you will wear over and over (such a tailored black pants, classic handbag, or a sharp blazer). Spend less on trend pieces that you will only wear for a season or two. Even then, make sure that it's something that is true to your own personal style. Don’t buy into anything that doesn't feel "you" when you put it on. 

Tips for High-Low Dressing

High-low dressing is a lot easier than it can first appear. The key is to find the right balance. Here are some tips that will have you high-low dressing like a pro:

1. Pick Your WOW! Factor: What is your standout piece going to be? This is the item that the rest of your outfit will be based around. In this case, I wore a sequin skirt that I'd bought for my upcoming vacation but couldn't wait to wear.

1. Build with Basics: Think of these as the supporting characters. They are your more simple pieces, such as a bright white t-shirt or basic pair of denim that won't compete with your statement item. Since my sequin skirt was the focal point of my outfit, I went with a simple sweater and white K Swiss sneakers.

2. Be Creative With Layers: You can make your less expensive pieces elegant by wearing them in creative layers. Add interest with contrasting hues. For example. I wore my $20 Target denim jacket over a bright yellow Vince. cashmere sweater.

4. Finish with Accessories: When in doubt, reach for an accessory. Often times these are the more expensive pieces in your wardrobe - and the ones you tend to wear the least often. A bold necklace or embellished pin can instantly make your outfit pop and stand out. I topped off my look with my face Gucci sunnies.

Stay Stylish,
M&K