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Friday Frocks: Hittin’ the Books

By |September 5th, 2014|Friday Frocks, Why Did You Wear That?|

private school girlsWhat’s easier than having a plaid skirt and button down laid out for your every morning?  A smart little dress that requires no mixing or matching because it is an entire outfit in and of itself.  Geek out in something plaid or opt for a collar that needs no popping.  The hardest thing about getting dressed in the morning will be deciding which shoes to wear.

back to school fall dresses1. KNITZ by For Love & Lemons Lumberjack Jumper Dress, 2. Joie Raley Plaid Fit & Flare Dress, 3. Jill Jill Stuart Collared Lace Dress, 4. Free People Teen Spirit Mini Dress, 5. Band of Outsiders Sleeveless Shirtdress, 6. Thakoon Addition Mixed Stripe Shirtdress, 7. Cooperative Wednesday Collared Romper, 8. Alexander Wang Paisley Shift Dress, 9. COPE Tie Neck Silky Shirtdress, 10. CeCe by Cynthia Steffe Rumer Lace Shift Dress

 xx,

WhyDid

 

image via

Why Did You Wear That: Private (School) Party

By |September 4th, 2014|Why Did You Wear That?|

private school uniformMove over Blair Waldorf, this fall preppy plaid and tailored blazers are having a moment lasting longer than your reign as prom queen.  But this isn’t a buttoned up and uptight renaissance.  Think of the girls in school who skipped class, spent lunch smoking in the hidden back parking lot, and unabashedly flirted with the cute English teacher.  Okay, I didn’t do any of those things in school, but I did manage to find each and every loophole in the dress code.  I was reprimanded more than once for having rolled my skirt or wearing shoes that weren’t deemed appropriate.  Many feel that a school uniform stunts a child’s ability to express him or herself, but I contest that belief as it takes a lot more creativity to own the look.  Plus, basically already knowing what you’re going to wear every morning gives you much more time to spend straightening your hair. Iron on labels can help you keep your school cloth well organized.  The only downside was that I didn’t wear thong underwear on a daily basis until I graduated as our ancient stairwells were a peeping Tom’s dream realized.

Can we take a moment and relish in the irony that my highschool had a “best dressed” superlative?

For fall, be at the head of the class by pairing an updated plaid or pleated skirt with an oversized blazer or varsity jacket and don’t forget to finish it off with a pair of absolutely inappropriate shoes.  See you in detention.

(In case you are wondering about these illustrious photos, the one on the left is from either my sophomore or junior year of school- clearly when I discovered bleach and the one on the right is my first day of ninth grade.  And yes, those are Doc Martens).

best plaid skirts fall1. A.P.C. Burnou Zippe Coat, 2. SMYTHE Three Button Schoolboy Blazer, 3. Roseanna Tommy Sherpa Lined Jacket, 4. J. Crew Schoolboy Blazer, 5. Opening Ceremony Tristan Wool Classic OC Varsity Jacket, 6. Sea Two Pleat Skirt, 7. Marissa Webb Paige Gerrit Plaid Skirt, 8. GETTING BACK TO SQUARE ONE Plaid Miniskirt, 9. BB Dakota Corvin Pleated Skirt, 10. JOA Checked Pencil Skirt, 11. Manolo Blahnik Rorita Oxfords, 12. Walter Steiger Lug Sole Patent Leather Loafers, 13. Studio Pollini Loafers, 14. J. Crew Kiltie Monk Strap Loafers, 15. Zimmermann Tie Up Ballerina Flats

 xx,

WhyDid

Why Did You Wear That: Leader of the (Back) Pack

By |September 3rd, 2014|Why Did You Wear That?|

how to wear a backpack overallsBackpacks aren’t anything new- we brought back the pack both last year (here) and the year before (here).  Long gone are the days of bulky canvas Kipling and Jansport and the current iterations aren’t of Clueless microscopic proportions either.  These bags are crafted of leathers, skins, and suede and embellished with shiny hardware in gold, silver, and in some instances even rose gold.  While many equate backpacks to textbooks and pencil cases, the backpack has evolved well beyond the playground and has become fashion “it” girls’ new “it” bag.  Trade in your slouchy tote for fall for a backpack slung over one shoulder or worn traditionally on two shoulders.  Tag- you’re it.

10 top backpacks1. Alexander Wang Dumbo Textured Leather Backpack, 2. Proenza Schouler Python PS Small Courier Backpack, 3. Opening Ceremony Izzy Backpack, 4. meli melo Mini Backpack, 5. See by Chloé Cherry Backpack, 6. Jerome Dreyfuss Haircalf Florent Backpack, 7. ZAC Zac Posen Eartha Backpack, 8. Deadly Ponies Mr. Chain Mail Backpack, 9. Balenciaga Arena Classic Traveler Backpack, 10. KARA Suede Backpack

xx,

WhyDid

 

Photo by Michael Stiegler, full outfit post here

Setting the Mood: Hall Pass

By |September 1st, 2014|Setting the Mood|

fall fashion 2014Many of you have sung summer’s swan song with the commencement of Labor Day, but I would like to take an optimistic moment to point out that the official end of summer isn’t until September 23rd and if this Amazonian jungle like heat is any indication (don’t worry- the worst is coming), we have a few more weeks to revel in the sun.  As the city refills with co-eds and those who spent all summer out east and jet setting around the globe, it starts to feel a little bit like a reunion.  While I’m several years past returning to the classroom for another semester of mundane lectures and assignments I don’t understand, something about the beginning of September and the onset of Fashion Week festivities feels like the first day of school and trying to find a seat in the cafeteria without spilling your chocolate milk.  Fall in New York elicits an excitement that is both magical and anxiety inducing.  So, brace yourselves, ladies.  Class is in session.

fall fashion accessories(clockwise): Thakoon Addition Karolina 2 Paneled Snake Effect Leather Brogues, Smythson Superstar Textured Leather Notebook, Illesteva Whitman D-Fram Matte Acetate Glasses, Valentino Embellished Textured Leather Headband

xx,

WhyDid

Somethin’ for the Fellas: Copious Row

By |August 28th, 2014|Guest Blogger, Somethin for the fellas, Why Did You Wear That?|

david chines copious rowRecently, I had the pleasure of virtually catching up (as he’s spent most of the summer traveling and sunning in the Hamptons) with my dear friend, David Chines, founder of Copious Row.  Having always had impeccable taste and being my favorite friend to “spill tea” with, creating an online shopping destination only seems like a natural progression in his career having a major background in fashion, marketing, and digital media.  Below, David answers some questions about the concept behind Copious Row and what makes a truly dapper gentleman.

What is Copious Row?

Copious Row is an e-commerce site dedicated to the discerning man who is looking for unique and interesting items for themselves, their homes, their offices and beyond. It is also the perfect place to find an amazing gift for any man in your life!

How was the concept conceived?

The concept came about because I, personally, couldn’t find a website where I could find different and outstanding products. I felt like the male population was under served in the realm of on-line shopping. I don’t want to buy things that everyone already has.  I was also familiar with many international brands that weren’t available in the US and/or on-line. The site has an incredible international set of vendors that don’t have much US presence. I also kept hearing from my girlfriends that they have the hardest time finding gifts for men – another problem the site solves!

copious row landing pageWho is the Copious Row man?

The Copious Row man isn’t necessarily just one person. The goal was to create a site that men of all ages, geographies, and interests would want to shop on. The only unifying factor I would say, is that the Copious Row man likes the unexpected and appreciates incredible quality and craftsmanship. Our man is looking to invest in beautiful items that are timeless and classic but are definitely conversation starters.

What makes it different than say, Mr. Porter or East Dane?

Unlike those sites, we don’t carry ready-to-wear or shoes. We focus on lifestyle items, our pieces are not seasonal or trendy and don’t have a shelf life. It’s also a very easy sight to shop.  We very rarely have sizing in our items, so there is no need to worry about fit or size. We are also very selective about what we carry – we curate and edit very carefully. We choose the best of a product line making for a great, comfortable shopping experience that isn’t overwhelming.

leather gear cufflinks copious rowWhat must every dapper gentleman have in his closet?  In his bathroom vanity?

Every dapper man has to have a great wallet and a great pair of cufflinks. These items can really define a man and tell the world who he is.  Although most men are very casual these days, cufflinks can be fun and full of personality. They’re a great conversation starter and can tell a great tale.  Your wallet also tells a story – are you casual? formal? practical? It speaks volumes!

For the bathroom vanity – the right hair product! Knowing what works best for your hair type and knowing how to style your hair is essential, it’s one of the first things people see. Dapper starts from the head down!

hairbond hair distorter

What is the biggest style mistake that men make?

Not paying attention to details. When you walk out of your house you are sending the world a message. People appreciate a man who takes care of himself and takes pride in the things he owns. Carrying around a 12 year old wallet is not sexy. Using your grandfather’s torn up luggage is not cool. Women love a man who is sleek and put together.

troubadour leather wallet billfoldWhat is the one item that can take you from looking a bit disheveled to totally dapper?

A great bag. Whether it’s a beach bag, gym bag, briefcase, etc. If you see a man on the street who may be a bit disheveled but he’s carrying a great bag, he will still turn heads and keep people wondering.

mens tote bagWhat must men throw out from their wardrobes immediately if not sooner?

Flip-flops!! If not on the beach, a man has no business wearing flip-flops. They’re way too casual and make you look young and sloppy.

 

Gentlemen, I hope you took notes and ladies, if you’re looking for something extra special for that special man in your life, whether it be your father or fiancé, be sure to head over to shop Copious Row.

xx,

WhyDid