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Why Did You Wear That: Reflecting Your Style with Modani

By |November 6th, 2014|Sponsored Post, Why Did You Wear That?|

exposed brick studio apartment nyc

When I moved back to New York from California, my second cross country move, I was looking for somewhere that felt like home.  Somewhere that felt safe.  I had loved the apartment I’d been living in pre city exodus so much, that I tried to stalk the building for any availabilities, but to no avail.  Instead, I was sort of bamboozled into taking an apartment in the building directly across the street and it ended up being a wonderful mishap.  Originally, I was shown an apartment up six floors with a much better view, but a dog stained parquet floor and a random load bearing column that completely disrupted the studio apartment’s tiny “flow.”  Before I could chock this showing up to another loss, the building manager let me know that there was actually a similar apartment downstairs that would be available soon, but was undergoing renovations.  When we walked into the construction site, there wasn’t much to see, but the light was nice and the space was plenty for myself and Smitty.  Without knowing what it would look like upon completion, I headed downstairs to sign a lease.

Nearly two years later, the longest I’ve lived in a single place in the past 12 years, I still love my apartment, though I’ve not actually finished decorating it. I am even looking at the audio interfaces for garageband to get the right fit for my apartment. I think because I’ve grown accustomed to picking up and moving on year after year, it felt strange to fully commit to one place.  There’s an antique mirror propped up in one corner that hasn’t been hung, partially because my mother threatened my life should it be hung impetuously and come crashing down.  There’s no chandelier or signature wallpapered wall.  I have no desk or dining table.  My friends complain there are no counter barstools, but it’s rare that anyone is let into my inner sanctum.  Recently, I realized that productivity would probably increase exponentially if I had a place to work other than in my bed or sitting Indian style in front of my lucite coffee table.

When I stumbled upon Modani Modern Furniture‘s website one afternoon, it seemed all but serendipitous.  This was the perfect time to figure out what to do with my space and because I prefer a sleek, clean, line to bulky and comfy (as can be attested to by any of the uncomfortable guests of my couch), Modani Modern Furniture was a wonderful fit.  Though many people never see our homes, especially in New York, they are very clear reflections of our personal style– at times, even more so than our outfits.  If you’re looking to do a little home makeover yourself, be sure to checkout Modani’s Modern furniture stores.

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smitty in the city maltipooIdeally, I would have some strapping young man come (carefully) hang the mirror behind my couch.  In the space that the mirror was previously occupying, I would like to place the best leather office chair and some type of table where I could work.  This would also provide some extra seating for the guests I never invite over and another place Smitty could claim as his own.  Below are some Modani pieces I feel would fit in my space to complete the “look” of my home.

modani modern furniture Olga PillowIlda Side TableSavina Lounge ChairBlack Moon Medusa Chandelier

 

xx,

WhyDid

 

Why Did You Wear That: TenGems

By |November 5th, 2014|Sponsored Post, Why Did You Wear That?|

tengems jewelry kirsten smith whydidIf diamonds are a girl’s best friend, then rose gold, smokey quartz, and morganite are her inner circle.  When TenGems, a luxury jewelry e-tailer, asked if I’d like to curate a collection for them, I was more than happy to oblige.  Offering designer jewels from brands including Ippolita, Roberto Coin, and Baume & Mercier at 30-75% off of retail prices on a daily basis, you don’t have to wait around for the holidays to treat yourself (though now might be a good time to start your shopping).  Easy returns and free shipping are all the more reason to stock up on sparkling accessories to wear during gala season.  Below are a few of my favorites:

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Roberto Coin Ipanema Smokey Quartz Earrings, Paige Novick Natalie Stingray CuffEddie Borgo Pave Wing Open Work Hinged Ring

And you can shop the rest of of my picks (it was honestly very hard to choose) right here.

xx,

WhyDid

Why Did You Wear That: The Odd Couple (Costume)

By |October 31st, 2014|Personal Style, Why Did You Wear That?|

tortoise and hare halloween costumeAs I mentioned, Halloween can be a bit like New Year’s Eve.  Many people get very into their costumery and a lot of those people happen to be couples.  Being someone who normally loves a theme, I can’t explicitly identify why I’m less than enthusiastic about this year’s Hallow’s Eve, but I am.  Rather than race around gathering the ingredients for the world’s most clever costume, I’ve, instead, assembled items I already own and have let them begin to take on a lives of their own.  I’m calling it, “interpretive dressing.”  When people ask me what I’m going to “be” (and they ask a lot), I simply shrug and let them know that remains to be seen.

But, back to those poor fellows being forced into theme in order to appease their lady beloveds.  A guy friend of mine, was informed that not only would he be hosting a Halloween soiree, he’d need a costume.  I suggested he go as a wrecking ball and his girlfriend could be Miley Cyrus.  When he vetoed that, my next suggestion was to go rogue and dress up as a bumper car so as to take out his aggression as party proprietor.

The best $8 dollars I ever spent was during a recent trip to Home Goods with a friend of mine.  We were on the search for a throw pillow or a tissue holder or some other household item that you never knew you needed (and probably don’t), but when I stumbled upon a Smitty sized turtle costume, mission was temporarily aborted and costume was acquired.  Not long after at a French themed dinner party with my girlfriends, I told them of my purchase and one exclaimed, “Please tell me you’re going as a rabbit!”  I hadn’t thought about it, but once she said it, I thought it was a pretty solid suggestion.  Oh… except for one thing… Smitty is a dog.  Sure, it would make for cute photos (who the hell is going to take them?), but upon exiting my home, I’d just be some chick in a bunny costume.  Truth be told, I’ve brought out stranger “props” than a living animal and if I would ever get around to registering Smit as a service dog this would be a non-issue.  But alas, my little turtle must stay in his shell.  It’s entirely possible that dressing your dog is the new “cat lady,” but offering him a peanut butter chewbone in return for his services seems like a bargain compared to dealing with a human beau. (Several reasons why here).  And honestly, is dressing your dog any worse than dressing your boyfriend in a coordinating denim ensemble?

Oh, and if you’re looking to make your own ears, check out my DIY here.

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xx,

WhyDid

 

Photos by Michael Stiegler

Why Did or Why Don’t: That’s A Bum(mer) Bag

By |October 22nd, 2014|Why Did or Why Don't?, Why Did You Wear That?|

sarah jessica parker chanel fanny packThe fashion industry may have cleverly renamed them “waist bags” and “belt bags,” but they’re not fooling me.  I roller skated to Ace of Bass “I Saw the Sign.”  These are glorified fanny packs (known in the UK as “bum bags” since “fanny” means something entirely different) and having just returned home from Orlando, Florida, presumably the birthplace of fanny packs, I know one when I see one. It may  have taken a bit longer for fanny packs to trickle down from the runways (the trend was first spotted in early 2013) to the retail stores, but they’re here and they’re happening.  From Chanel to Sarah Jessica Parker (not her first time wearing a hands free handbag), the waist bag has gone mainstream and now you’re going to have to experience it… perhaps for the second time.  I suppose it could be worse.  You could be carrying your dog as a tote. Something I can’t get enough of are fashionable bags, I usually buy hermes birkin bags ever since my friends have recommended them to me.

And there are always upsides to even the most troublesome trends.  One brand called their version a “dance bag,” which I guess makes sense if you’re one who frequents nightclubs.  Gone are the days of guarding your bag from sticky cranberry juice stains and drunk girls with sticky fingers.  Dance the night away with your handbag safely resting on your hips.  Hanging your valuables from your waist will also cure the epidemics of uneven arm strength and scoliosis.  The only downside is that I don’t believe you’ll be able to safely stash much more than your cash, cards, and beloved iPhone.  So looks like you’ll be stuck carrying that shopping bag from Forever21 for all to see.

waist bags fanny pack1. Rebecca Minkoff Quilted Affair Fanny Bag, 2. NewbarK Eva Metallic Textured Leather Belt Bag, 3. Clare V Leather Trimmed Shearling Belt Bag, 4. ONE by Erin Dana Evan Large Fanny Pack, 6. What Goes Around Comes Around Louis Vuitton Geronimos Waist Bag, 7. Times Arrow Asia Lamé Dance Belt Bag, 8. Pendleton, The Portland Collection Convertible Belt Bag, 9. B-Low the Belt Samantha Belt Bag, 10. Alexander Wang Leather Belt Bag

Since the belt bag is readily available at many of your favorite shopping outposts, now’s your time to weigh in on the trend. And don’t forget to check the Wicker basket bag too.

 

xx,

WhyDid

Why Did You Wear That: A Day at the Office

By |October 17th, 2014|Personal Style, Why Did You Wear That?|

daisy fuentes kohls nyc whydidWorking from home has its obvious perks.  Wine for breakfast, dog friendly, flexible work hours, pajamas welcome.  Though fewer, it also has its downfalls.  One of which I’m convinced I’ve contracted called “agoraphobia.”  Another, though disguised as an upside, is never really needing to put on pants.  Without the need to put on clothing that doesn’t include elastane in the fiber contents, it’s fairly easy to overlook your ever growing waistline.

Also, there are those times when my job does require me to interact with other humans and show face in professional work environments and that’s about the time I shift into a near panic attack as I stare into the abyss of my closet because we are always expected to wear some kind of uniforms that are part of are business attire.  What the hell do people wear to work?  Are crop tops considered business casual?  What if I wear one with a blazer?

When I received this ponté fit and flare dress from Daisy Fuentes for Kohl’s, I knew immediately that it was the perfect option for these terrorizing occasions.  Never again would I break into a sweat before a business meeting because this curve hugging, office appropriate dress is the perfect combination of classic and cool.  With a few added accessories like a studded belt, leather jacket, and strappy pumps, I felt professional without being overly prissy.  At this rate, I may have to get a desk job.

(P.S. you’re welcome, RKF.  I’ll happily take a cut of the commission earned from this post).

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new york city street style why did you wear that kirsten smithdress: c/o Daisy Fuentes for Kohl’s, belt: DVF, similar by B-Low the Belt here, shoes: Sam Edelman, jacket: Marc New York, bag: Balenciaga, lipcolor: Clinique Different Lipstick in Angel Red

 

xx,

WhyDid

 

Photos by Michael Stiegler