Fashion Reviews

New Stores I Love: Walk In Closet Boutique Review

by Kirsten on April 21, 2011

One of the greatest parts about writing this blog, is being introduced to new boutiques and online clothing stores. Rarely do I shop in-store anymore; between the time saved, the ease of purchase, and the amazing return/exchange policies, I adore online shopping.

When contacted by Kristin and Ashley of Walk In Closet Boutique, I was happy to check out their site, eager to find another fun place to indulge myself in some retail therapy.

One of the things that I like most, is the story behind their site:

Walk In Closet Boutique was founded by two sisters, Kristen and Ashley. Even though we are as different as night and day, the one thing we share is our love of fashion. When we were little girls, we kept busy for hours playing dress up and styling our dolls in fabulous outfits.

Now that we’re all grown up we still love to play dress up. We hope that Walk In Closet Boutique will bring back those childhood memories and also bring out the fashionista in you.

We invite you to take a walk in our closet and rummage through our clothes! You may notice that we each have our own sense of style which can be easily mixed and matched and we offer Price Points to fit any budget.

In addition to offering the following brands: Lucca Couture, Seventy Two Changes, !It Jeans, Pleasure Doing Business, Bloom Boom Boom, Ark & Co., Aryn K, Theme, Tulle, Plush, Sauce, Collective Concepts, Alternative, Hy & Dot, Factory, Left on Houston, Jenny Han, Fraiche, Charlie Jade, Daniel Rainn, Jayrun Jewelry, they also host trunk shows in the NY Metropolitan area!

I was lucky enough to try something from their new Spring Collection, this fabulous trench coat from Tulle. Made of 100% cotton and double-breasted, this jacket can be used through all seasons, and will easily become a closet staple. (PS – Read more below for an exclusive coupon code to be used on your purchase there!!)

One of my favorite things about this trench, is the interior print that lines the jacket. It is ADORABLE! Every time I put this jacket on, it makes me smile. I tried a Medium, and it fit perfectly. So I definitely would order true-to-size.

I highly recommend checking out their site, and to give you a little push to do so, they have kindly offered an exclusive discount code for Traveling Fashionista readers!! Use “SPRINGFLING” at checkout, and receive 15% off your total purchase!

Enjoy!

Love,

K.

{ 0 comments }

Valentine’s Day Gift Suggestion – Sculptz Black Hearts Sheer Shaping Tights

by Kirsten on February 14, 2011

It’s been a bit of time since I provided more than a sample sale list to you, so this is long overdue. Thanks to recently learning about my faulty hips (thank you, hip dysplasia), and the plethora of tests and potential surgeries they want to give me, you could say my life has been a bit beyond hectic. No worries though – I am happy and healthy!!

Nevertheless, I was able to try a pair of tights that are perfect for a great Valentine’s Day gift! (Yes, the irony in going from the above, to this, is epic!)

Whether you like to buy yourself a little something, or want to give your sweetie, friend, mom or any other woman in your life a little something – this is a great option. Not too expensive, something you can use time and time again, and simply put – they are ADORABLE.

Sculptz makes this amazing subtle black sheer that has just the right amount of sophistication and fun. Completely sexy and works with almost any outfit, this heart shaped print does not go overboard – and gives your outfit just that extra little bit of pop.

To top it all off, these tights offer unbeatable shaping! Think rear-lifting, tummy flattening, hip and thigh smoothing! They are unbelievably comfortable – and now on sale for $8.99!

These definitely do not just have to be worn only on Valentine’s Day, in fact, they make a great option to switch up the polka dot look! Comfortable and chic – I love my pair, and know you will too!

Pick up your pair here!!

Love, K.

{ 0 comments }

Fashion Spotlight: Casualmere with Exclusive Coupon Code!

by Kirsten on November 22, 2010

At the core of every wardrobe should be a strong set of basics. With a basic set of tees, you can create a variety of outfits by adding just simple accessories like belts, jewelry, cardigans, or scarves.

What I find most important with my own basics, is a high-quality, super-soft knit. Usually I fall in love with my solid color tees, and hate having to part with them. For instance, when I stain them, or they start to fall apart after much love and wear.

Casualmere is a perfect way to add these necessities into your closet. Comprised of high-quality viscose made from bamboo, their items feature the highest ecologically sourced bamboo content – typically 100 percent, with some pieces incorporating 5 percent spandex for additional stretch. Their founder, Dennis Fasone, had recently experienced the unbelievably soft hand-feel of viscose made from bamboo, and he knew the rest of the world would also fall in love!

What I love best about this new line, is the amazing prices. It is so rare to find basics with such a high-quality, amazing feel without spending an arm and a leg. Generally I view those types of purchases as a long-term investment, but this makes it so simple to add to your wardrobe without having to spend a lot!

What makes this fashion spotlight even better, is that Casualmere is offering Traveling Fashionista readers an exclusive discount code through December 15, 2010! Use code ‘TF4B’ for 20% off your total order, not including shipping!

I tried their long-sleeve tee as well as their unisex flat knit scarf. As soon as they arrived, I was in love! They are exactly the type of material I go after in my own wardrobe. I tend to be that person walking around the department store feeling everything before I decide to try it on. If it doesn’t feel good, I don’t want it. Casualmere feels amazing.

The long-sleeve tee is a perfect length. It covers just a few inches below my waist band, which is perfect to be worn with either jeans or leggings. It’s got the perfect blend of just tight enough, but with plenty of room and give to not be skin-tight. Which I hate. Their scarf is of average length, and I picked up the off white color, perfect to blend with just about any other color in my wardrobe.

Currently they don’t have a huge product offering, and I am hoping (fingers-crossed) that they develop more of their line. Thankfully they carry short and long-sleeve tees and a few other awesome options, and with that, I am a happy girl.

Here are some of their other items offered; what do you think?!

I definitely suggest picking up a shirt or two for yourself, or even a loved one. It’s perfect this time of year, and you will make some lucky recipient very happy! And with the exclusive promo code, you have no reason not to!

Love, K.

{ 1 comment }

Tsubo Shoes – Never Sacrificing Style for Comfort

by Kirsten on November 19, 2010

I love getting the chance to introduce brands and designers that may not be in your direct line of sight. When Tsubo contacted me to review a pair of their shoes, it was my first experience with their line. There is a part of me that loves to learn new things, try new experiences, and expand my fashion knowledge; this gave me the perfect opportunity to do so.

Tsubo was founded in 1997 and was later bought by Deckers Outdoor Corporation in 2008, joining a diverse family of brands including : UGG Australia, Teva, Simple Shoes, and Ahnu. Well, I do happen to love UGGs, so I was intrigued to say the least.

A company driven by a metropolitan style and ergonomic design, Tsubo creates shoes that are for the comfort driven individual; one that will settle for nothing less than the best materials, high-quality construction, and on-point design. Their signature ergonomic design is one that will amaze you. The quality of the soles and the construction of the foot pads will be a welcome surprise. One that you never knew how much you needed.

I tried out their Baco boot. A nice flat, knee-high style, with gorgeous lines and made of tumbled leather. There is an inner fleece lining which feels very luxurious to the touch, and has removable foot cushions. An added benefit is the rubber sole that assures a nice dry foot no matter what the weather may bring.

As you can see, the lines on the boot are very unique, and something that I found to be a welcome change from the majority of knee-high boots out there. I like having a different style, and received a lot of compliments on them! This particular style of theirs runs about a half a size small, so I would definitely suggest going up a half size from your usual. Completely comfortable, and beautifully designed, I absolutely love them, and know you will too!

With so many unique styles and designs, you are bound to find a pair that you will love. From booties to wedges, heels and tennis shoes, Tsubo covers them all!

Buy a pair of Tsubo shoes here!!

Love, K.

{ 1 comment }

Fashion Designer Spotlight: Payal Luthra

by Kirsten on November 12, 2010

We all know I have a teensy bit of an obsession with cashmere, and when I was introduced to Payal Luthra‘s line, I just might have died and gone to heaven.

Many of you probably already have some form of a cashmere scarf in your closet, but I doubt you have seen the beautifully tailored cuts, modern embellishments, and cool aesthetics of Payal Luthra’s cashmere line. With an innovative use of angles and folds, Payal blends influences from both her U.S. and Indian background, creating a gorgeous collection that is both minamalist-chic and fashion-forward.

From cowl-neck scarves adorned with tassels to button-chained neckwarmers, Payal only uses the warmest and softest Mongolian cashmere, ensuring neutral designs that are destined to easily become a part of just about any outfit you wear.

I was lucky enough to see her bandit cowl in person and can vouch that it is just as beautiful in person as they appear online. Am I sensing a perfect holiday gift for a loved one? Perhaps even yourself? Yes – I think so!

Here are a few of my favorites from her collection – all equally gorgeous – with unrivaled quality.

Love, K.

{ 5 comments }

The 10 Pieces You Need in Your Wardrobe – Vogel10

by Kirsten on November 4, 2010

One of the most innovative fashion lines I have seen, Vogel10 was created with the idea that you only need ten versatile pieces to create a wardrobe. Seem crazy? I bet.

Created by former celebrity costume designer, Vanessa Vogel, Vogel10 features high quality, off-beat basics, and essential accessories at a very affordable price. Solely sold online, they are able to give customers the best possible prices while still providing an amazing collection of high-quality, multifunctional items.

Vanessa believes that there are ten key pieces that every person must have in their wardrobe, whether they are worn on a daily basis, or the only pieces you throw into a suitcase when heading out of town. She collaborates with local and international artists, providing not just a great online shopping destination, but also a place to get new ideas and inspiration.

Here are Vanessa’s personal 10 must-have pieces:
3-tees
2-sweaters
1-Dress
1-Pant
1-Necklace
1-Bag
1-Shoe

What do you think of this idea?

The amazing part about her collection is that everything works together, and when I say everything, I mean EVERYTHING. Easily able to be layered and combined, it is simple to pull together different outfits with the same ten pieces.

I was fortunate enough to try out three of their items, their zippered legging, a cashmere cardigan, and a light-weight cashmere v-neck sweater. With such amazing quality, these pieces have quickly become heavily rotated into my wardrobe.

I’ll admit now that I am a total sucker for soft clothing items. If I could create a full wardrobe out of cashmere, soft tissue-weight tees, and body-hugging knits, I would do so in a heartbeat. Vogel10 goes above and beyond with their collection, and every single piece I tried is heaven on my skin.

I have completely fallen in love with this collection, and I actually saw it appear on one of the sample sale sites, Hautelook, just a few days ago. Unfortunately I had made a promise to myself to not spend any more money on clothes this month, so I was a good girl and refrained. (And of course, now I regret it!)

Thankfully the prices on the Vogel10 line are really reasonable, and they often have sales! Also worth checking out is the Vogel10 blog, showcasing the collection worn by various women around the world. The photos are beautiful, and it’s great to see others incorporate Vogel10 into their own travel fashion style.

Here are a couple other pieces from their line that I absolutely love! I definitely recommend giving Vogel10 a try, I know you’ll love them!

Love, K.

{ 2 comments }

Palladium Boots – Stylish Combat Boots

by Kirsten on October 26, 2010

It’s no secret that the celeb world is loving the combat look right now. We have seen them on the likes of Jessica Alba, Nicki Hilton, Kate Moss, Rachel Bilson, Rihanna, Sienna Miller, Alessandra Ambrosio and many more! Take a quick look at the photos below.

Combat boots can be worn in every season – paired with skinny jeans, leggings, a skirt and tights during the cooler months, or worn with skirts and shorts during the warmer months! Whether your look is more vintage, classic, rocker, or a combination, combat boots have their place in any of these styles. The key is finding a pair that fits you well, is comfortable, and stylish!

When Palladium Boots sent me a pair of their Pallabrouse Baggy in khaki/putty, I was really excited. They are an ideal combat boot – not only are ridiculously cute and comforable, but they also can be worn two different ways!

Palladium Boots have been around quite a long time, check out this great history:

Palladium was founded in 1920 to make tires for the fledgling aviation industry. Tires were made by layering canvas bands underneath vulcanized rubber. Palladium’s expertise was so advanced that soon the majority of Europe’s aircraft were using Palladium tires.

After World War II, with aircraft manufacturing screeching to a halt, the demand for tires decreased dramatically. Palladium decided to open a plant in Pont De Cheruy, France, to start producing footwear that was as hard wearing as their tires. In 1947 the legendary Pampa boot was born, and the functionality, comfort and durability were so outstanding that the French Foreign Legion adopted it for their use. The Foreign Legion put the boot to the test in the harsh desert conditions of North Africa, and throughout the rugged terrain of the Atlas Mountains.

Today, the original design, classic lines and time tested utility are as relevant as they have ever been. Combining over 60 years of authenticity with modern manufacturing, premium materials and cutting edge styling, Palladium boots are ready to help you explore your street, your city, or the world.

Over the years, combat boots have always held their ground, and at this point in time, are back with a vengeance! As women, we tend to select highly uncomfortable shoes over sacrificing style – and yet with Palladium Boots, you can have both – style and comfort!

The Pallabrouse Baggy, which happened to be worn by Ellen Degeneres on the runway of NY Fashion Week 2010, comes in an array of colors and materials. Here is an example of the two different ways you can wear them.

Check out a quick video of me showing the two ways you can wear the boots! Forgive me as I have a bit of the sniffles as I am battling a bit of a cold… yuck!

I definitely suggest picking up a pair of your own Palladium Combat Boots! You will love them! You can also pick them up here!

In addition, here are some great shots from their lookbook highlighting the Baggy boot!

Love, K.

{ 4 comments }

Socks for Traveling – FUTURO Aims to Please

by Kirsten on October 25, 2010

Now many of you may be wondering what in the world I am doing writing about socks and traveling. Most of you may think that socks are just socks – all created equal. Not necessarily the case.

A while back I was on a long flight and chose to wear a new pair of socks that were cozy and cute. I figured they would be great to have when my feet got chilly. (I tend to travel in flats or sandals at times, which equates to cold feet on the flight!) Unfortunately, the socks ended up being ridiculously uncomfortable. Who would have thought?

My biggest complaint was that they were too tight around the calf. I ended up pushing them all the way down, so they still kept my feet warm, but I had really hoped that for that extra bit of coziness in having the socks warm up my calves too! My next flight I chose to go with a pair of ankle socks, figuring this would be a better alternative to avoid the previous issue. Wrong again! On this occasion, I was wearing the socks with boots. Of course the socks got a little too loose, and started bunching up and sliding past my heel. So very annoying and uncomfortable.

So, when asked to try FUTURO’s line of socks – deemed especially appropriate for the traveling community – I thought, what the heck? Let’s see what they have to offer!

FUTURO really did a nice job in developing these socks. The particular pair I tried was their Revitalizing Trouser Sock. I admit – right off the bat, I wasn’t sure about the name of the sock, as it didn’t scream “fashionable and chic”, but sometimes it’s all about quality, and not the packaging or the name. This is definitely one of those times.

Take a look at what this particular line of socks is designed for:

Ideal for sitting in one place all day, while traveling or at the office
Graduated compression improves circulation, with maximum compression at the ankle that gradually decreases up the let to provide an energizing feeling
Massage-in-motion’ action massages tired, achy legs as you move
Vein therapy helps to relieve symptoms of mild varicose or spider veins and swelling
Soft, comfortable material features an attractive wide band that holds socks in place
Durable, reinforced toe and heel keep you looking professional all day long

Now, who would have guessed that there could be this much thought put into a pair of socks? Not me!!

As soon as I got them out of the packaging, I was really surprised by how silky and soft the material was. With a light pattern, and in a black color, they were perfect to use under boots, beneath your jeans, or perhaps if you do as I do – pack extra socks in your carry-on! I wore them around for a while – giving them a true test of how they would fare for long periods of time, and I was really happy. Totally comfortable and they aren’t bad looking at all! They are ideal for those that experience swelling on flights, or who tend to have achy muscles.

If there is one thing that I learned in this situation, is that we shouldn’t always choose our products based on price or designer brand. I may have totally passed these socks up based on the fact that, well – they are socks – and I never have had to delve too deep into thought about socks and traveling before. But, I am so glad that they were introduced to me. They really are superior for this instance, and I think you’d do well to have a pair in your travel bag!

Buy a pair of FUTURO Revitalizing Trouser Socks here!

Love, K.

{ 1 comment }

Travel Fashion – The Clara S Collection

by Kirsten on October 21, 2010

It is always a pleasure being introduced to new brands, especially those lesser known. I recently had the opportunity to try out a product from the Clara S Collection, and it’s something I wanted to share with you!

Created by a mother/daughter team (I love that part), Clara S combines fashion and innovation, with a strong focus on versatility. All of you know my thoughts on versatility – it is a must when it comes to fashion, travel fashion in particular. Clara S really bases itself on the ability to mix and match their pieces, which is so important to have with a true, multi-functional item.

In addition, the designs are shaped to work for all body types – yay! As a woman that has some curves and a more athletic build, I can so appreciate this. Many clothing lines aim for a particular body type (think stick-figure), and curvier woman have a hard time fitting their cuts. In addition, much of their clothing is designed to be completely wrinkle-free which is a a huge benefit when traveling, or packing.

I tried out their harem pant, which is becoming increasingly popular across the celeb scene. In fact, I posted a TF celeb style post of Jessica Alba sporting the look on a recent trip to Paris. I had been a bit leery of the style, but thought this would be a perfect time to try it out!

Ok, they are uber-c0mfortable. I feel like I am wearing pajamas, yet when I look at myself in the mirror – I look cute, very cute! First the extra material around the thighs and butt made me feel a bit odd, but when my boyfriend D. complimented me on the pants – I knew I had found a winner.

They also have a bunch of other fun stuff to choose from. I was a bit thrown through a loop at first – and you may be as well – when I took a look at the collection. They carry a lot of flashy prints, which tend to not be my style, but if you take the time to look at the full collection, you will see they have something for everyone.

Here are a few of my favorites. Their faux-leather pant, a fun dolman top, and their legging. All of these items are huge right now, and they are perfect to bring on any trip. They easily can go from day to night, be dressed up or down, and the quality and comfort are amazing.

I am so excited to have found a new brand that carries great items – perfect for traveling. They have a pretty fair price point, and for the quality it’s well worth it. I suggest giving them a try, you won’t be disappointed!

Shop the Clara S Collection here!

Love, K.

{ 1 comment }

Best Jeans for Travel – Review

by Kirsten on May 10, 2010

Traveling in jeans can be a bit of a conundrum. Jeans happen to be one of my favorite clothing items, bar none. In fact, I have so many pairs, it is slightly embarrassing. (Well, not to me, but to others who may not share the same obsession). Denim can be really fashionable as well as really comfortable, although I have found that pairing the two together can be extremely difficult, so difficult that most of my pairs of jeans rarely are worn when I am en route to my destination. There are a few reasons for this; the jeans are too tight without having enough give to be seated for long periods of time, the jeans may be too stiff to allow for any flexibility, or the jeans are not the right look for my outfit. I only bring a couple pairs of jeans on each trip (should the weather permit long pants), and it is an excrutiating task to pick which jeans are the lucky few. I love to travel in my boyfriend jeans, but they are not always the jeans I want to have on the remainder of my trip, particularly because they cannot be dressed up very easily. Functional and fashionable is key, which is why I find a pair of skinny jeans to be exactly the type of jean I want to have with me through my various travels and experiences. Red Engine Jeans does the job with ease.