Sweater Together

Believe it or not, Fall is here. Californian’s be like “suuuuuuure it is…” But in all seriousness, it’s going to get really cold here shortly & one of my favorite but most difficult Fall styles is circling back around. && I want to make sure you babes are wearing this one to it’s full potential.

[The pullover sweater.]

That super cute, but super impossible wardrobe item you have a thousand of but are never quite sure how to style…that’s when I enter. The pullover sweater can be epically bad if not executed properly, so I’ve come up with the Five Sweater Commandments to alleviate any stress related to this item moving forward.

Let’s get to it.

Commandment #1: mix fabrics. With heavy knits & big blocked stitching, sweaters can quickly become terribly masculine, so adding a smidge of lace is the perfect feminine touch. Take your outfit to the next level with some of my favorite lace pieces here.

Commandment #2: add a layer. Some of my favorite wardrobe additions this Fall are all these beautiful trenches & coats showing up everywhere. [It’s like designers finally figured it out.] They add dimension to any outfit & kick up the class & sophistication. Pair a neutral-toned sweater, a statement coat & a great necklace…you’ve got Fall nailed. Next level: try a cape.

Commandment #3: never fear the cowl neck. The key to a great pullover look is fit & function. A cowl neckline flows effortlessly & adds a stylized element to a look that takes you from bargain shopper to runway walker in seconds. Pair it with a great pencil skirt or pair of denim & heels, && you’re set.

Commandment #4: leather always. The best partner to a big bulky pullover is a sexy, skin tight pair of cropped [faux] leather pants. They make your stems look thin & sleek, & add an edgy element to an otherwise conservative look. Some of my favorite pairs here & here. Key: wear this outfit on chilly days//nights #sweatingisntcute

Commandment #5: know when less is more. Sometimes a pullover calls for a big statement necklace & other times it needs nothing at all. To know the difference: identify how loud your sweater is [color, fit, neckline, knit, stitching, etc.] & work from small drop necklaces to heavier layered pieces & determine what look you like best. Tip: the thicker the knit, the less likely it needs a necklace.

These commandments are meant to guide not dictate. You & only you know what works best for your body & style, but tips & tricks are always helpful, especially when dealing with a tricky wardrobe item like sweaters. Start trying new sizes & fits, & work your outfits to a place where you feel confident & sexy…because that’s the entire reason we invest in these fabrics in the first place, right?

Happy styling, babes.

Xx.

Be Jeweled.

Having had about a hundred people compliment//question//touch my stackable, hammered, gold band rings throughout the past few weeks, I’ve decided it’s time to do a post on one of my absolute favorite jewelry staples in my wardrobe; delicate jewels.

Although I can’t share with you the woman who makes mine, because she’s an amazing gypsy-goddess that travels all over the world selling her pieces & only comes to Berkeley a few times a year with her 30 inches of stick straight, amazing, grey locks…I can share with you some seriously swoon-worthy jewelry brands that I’ve been pining over lately.

Deal? Deal.

Chisel & Chain: Angela Herrera’s designs are absolute insanity; they’re so beyond their years, so unique & seriously sexy. She mixes gold with gemstones & textures that you couldn’t even imagine. Not to mention she’s from one of my most favorite cities in the world [Encinitas, Ca]. Check her pieces & try not to go totally broke. I dare you.

Torch Light Jewelry: A Santa Barbara based brand, these babes do it all; leather goods, silver, gold, & accessories. Founder, Louisa Kimble is inspired by mystic, vagabond style & seems limitless with her designs. Their Sundown collection is my absolute favorite [I think I’ll take it all, please], but their Lyra collection takes a strong second place. Their entire website is a designers dream; it’s clean, organized & showcases each & every one of their amazing pieces. Just go. Now. Seriously, go.

Hunter Gatherer Jewelry: Australia is hitting the jewelry game hard lately & this amazing brand is no different. Renée creates amazing jewels for gypsy souls. Her pieces hold authenticity like nothing I have ever seen before & her pricing is incredibly reasonable. I challenge you to not get completely lost in her site…because you will. I promise.

Amarilo Jewelry: Ali Heiss’ LA based designs are probably my favorite of them all. Her concepts are delicate but strong, tough but sweet & simple but incredibly unique. She works with 14kt gold, Argentium sterling silver, & high quality gemstones. My absolute favorite piece in her current collection is the Amelia Wrap Ring. It is so chic & goes with literally everything. Not to mention, her Stackbook on the website will have you drooling. Go get yourself a few pieces of this goddesses work before it’s all gone. I mean hello, Christmas is coming soon.

With the holiday’s fast approaching, you deserve a new piece [or twelve] for all the parties you’ll be attending. Not to mention, each of these beautiful designs would make perfect Christmas presents for your girlfriends or loved ones. Not sayin…just sayin.

Happy Shopping & Happy Holidays, babefriends. Thanks for being wonderful.

Xx.