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Showing posts with the label Women's Casual

Athleisure-Active Wear Fashion/Function

ACTIVE COLLECTIVE NEW YORK Trendy clothes for work and special occasions are rented   leaving footwear, socks-hosiery, under garments and casual-sports attire as the fashion industry categories most likely to be ACTUALLY bought nowadays. It certainly is a partial explanation why so many fashion designers are jumping (or have) on the athleisure - activewear bandwagon-joining already there-high end big names -like Ralph Lauren, Giorgio Armani, Tory Burch, Cushnie... From Active Collective NY: Pam & Gela- of Juicy Couture heritage-has fun separates in prints that synch-up with their RTW line. The bold animal textiles, cozy faux fur sherpa jacket with zipped pockets, and quite a few sequin pieces (say more LA-TX-Miami friendly than NYC)...were standouts for Fall. Pam & Gela Kappa- the Italian lifestyle goes into more active wear, wear-with that signature logo  on  black separateswith orange color accents. Desigual's exuberant B...

Spring Urban Outdoor Travel Apparel

Over a decade of covering-the used to be distinct fashion/urban-outdoor/travel clothing world...we've seen a gradual change...aka these formerly separate apparel lines-merge. Fashion labels source (more) sustainable -functional textiles, outdoor apparel doubles as streetwear and travel friendly garb, and all pitch to city dwellers-because that's where most of the consumers live. Additionally-rental services for everything from office wear to tech gear ...helps the buying public zero in on paying for everyday multi-tasking 2-3 seasons' clothing with stylish edge...eliminating wardrobes bursting with single use only pieces. Top Jacket Pick For Women on the go... Adidas Outdoors Urban CLIMASTORM $89 and  CLIMAPROOF  $149 Rain Jackets made with windproof/waterproof materials...are keepers- and real weather tough layers that ( almost ) does it all. Except in toasty hot weather - t he Urban Climastorm jacket works -and makes it ideal for traveling+everyday wear-in...

Cold Weather Chic Collabs

A lexander Wang x Uniqlo Fashion's marquee names have been collaborating with streetwear, fast fashion...and footwear companies for so many years now- there's a new collection every week. At least. Sure -some still sell-out (mostly)...but the on e we actually would wear (vs whatever-hoping for a quick flip profit on eBay) =  Alexander Wang x Uniqlo ...with everyday cold weather basics. The line-up for women includes L/S crews, ribbed crew neck tees, tank tops, body suits (L/S and sleeveless), undergarments, and THE bottom staple-slim fitted leggings...all available in neutral tones- at the very un Wang but very Uniqlo price points. There's a men's collection too. The smart and innovative Japanese based label Uniqlo...and its heat reflecting fabric HEATTECH deliver in warm and extra warm versions...and as with all Uniqlo merchandise (our experience)-the quality is outstanding.  From $9.90-$39.90 PS: not for nothing-we knew Alexander Wang was somethin...

Fall Favorites!

A new season...a good a time as any to replenish a few stand-byes! via GIPHY Reboot drinking + hauling options... Summer staple sip Pinot Grigio-gets a sophisticated upgrade that not only pairs well with light summer fare (ceviche, fresh fruit salads, grilled fish)...but also heartier cold weather soups+stews. Dessimis Pinot Grigio Fruili Isonzo DOC 2016 (Vie Di Romans) by the 3rd generation of Gallo family members (and no that those Gallo  ) is a way more polished wine than our previous palate memory of what that wine tastes like--- This one is refreshing yet has a memorable minerally palette-with some fruits that made us rethink pinot grigio period. (around $39). Actually say this is a Chablis competitor.   And while changing beverages-it might be time to ditch the beach bound hauler for game day ORCA coolers -decked out in your fav NFL/NCAA team's moniker. Tail gate alerts!

Travel Essentials-Outdoors/City/Beach

Getting aways to anywhere via public transport - demand multi-tasking, thoughtful clothing. No checked baggage or single purpose anything-head to toe apparel/footwear needs to function in many environments. No wonder outdoor brands are becoming urban mainstream labels.. .that stuff is made to last, weather tough-and now-fashion-y enough-for today's casually dressed traveller. Not an item to wear-but a traveller's essential...the multi-tool pocket 'knife.' Raise your hand -a round of applause.if you've had yours confiscated by TSA. via GIPHY OKAY THAT WOULD BE EVERYBODY. Solution- Victorinox Swiss Army multi-tool less the blades-travel ready-TSA okay. YAY. Award winning Jetsetter@work Alex knife  $70 has a removable 3.0/3.1 USB stick (on the left) with 16 GB of storage (ideal to store all those pictures you're gonna take w/o having to access a cloud service)-plus six functions-scissors, bottle opener, wire stripper, Phillips screwdriver0/1 m...

ADIDAS OUTDOORS - Bold B/W Statement

 Adidas is in the World Cup spotlight as a big time sponsor/outfitter  ( plus a  NY Rangers top, atop A$AP's  in that great ad?) The company's outdoor collection -like the acclaimed other function fashion apparel lines-has eye-catching black/white summer offerings...including this snazzy multi-tasking Agravic Wind Jacket visibility guaranteed-men's AGRAVIC Wind Jacket onsale now $69-handy high energy sports-run/hike option-as well as handy for travel+water sports on cooler days...with a slim fit, water repellant finish, full zip high neck, fitted hood and ventilated breathable mesh panels under the arms.. .women's version too -with flattering princess shape $69

Retro Prints Rule

Mad for plaid, prepped Madras and Hawaiian inspired prints-never look dated...in a bad way. Trendster understatements-practical tops for summer-go the distance -fashion wise-and are  practical too ...for life on the go where outdoor days -city nights require functional style. L.L.Bean has plenty of apparel options flouting Madras classic patterns like this L/S Women's Classic Madras Shirt - $59 -in Misses and Petite sizes too.Machine wash+dry-made from 100% cotton India Madras-the roll sleeves have button tabs -handy for hot days.Two button pockets...plus back pleats+rounded hem-gives it a flattering feminine un-tucked look. There's a Signature L/S  men's version -less the roll sleeve tabs and with a spread collar $69.  Matchy matchy- Madras Tote $69-durable cotton canvas body+100% sourced from  India cotton -plus internal hanging zipped pocket-roomy 35L size. L.L.Bean-women's Vacationland pullover -anorak-$59.99...contrast lining/stitching,  side ...

PLASTIC RECYCLED: ADIDAS x Parley For The Ocean

Another horrid story-a few days back... (another!!!!!) malnourished whale dying because it mistook ocean plastic as food-underscoring a world wide crisis that 18  billion pounds of plastic waste is dumped in the ocean, annually. It might seem a bit 'off' to highlight a commercial enterprise  -but it's also a big deal too-and in turn...helps create an eco awareness-when the popular global brand-ADIDAS - expands its well selling collab with PARLEY for the Oceans . Terrex Parley CC Voyager -sock like fit, Stealth® rubber outsole for grip, midsole sidewall- drainage and comfort level-is amazing-EVA footbed and TPU toe bump for protection. Overlays keep the foot stable.  For Fall -ADIDAS Outdoor...more Terrex footwear styles and outdoor apparel ...made with yarn -textile-from plastic trash-retrieved from the ocean (Parley Ocean Plastic™)---were recently previewed. FOR NOW...there a several summer ready super comfy -form fitting-woven upper sneakers -lifestyl...

Wardrobe Wear-For The Logo-Adverse

Women's casual APPAREL  - when a  " The Future Is Female " top =                                                    THE   statement! via GIPHY Gift ideas -L.L.Bean, Adidas Outdoors, Crafted by Lee, Wrangler, 5:11, STIO. Mountain Khakis L.L.Bean's Whisper Lodge Flannel -limited time offer $49.99-other color waves $59.95. Cozy warm  comfort in a lightweight cotton/Sorona poly blend with Western style snaps, feminine, slightly fitted silhouette, moisture wicking-and with stretch-good choice for outdoor movers as well as indoor only types. Easy care-wash/dry.

Eddie Bauer's Breakthrough- EverTherm Jacket

 " Down Re-Invented " is quite the claim-but for those seeking the ultimate warmth/weight ration efficient jacket-Eddie Bauer's new EverTherm jackets ( M + W ) delivers. ($249-$299) via GIPHY FINALLY-barely heavier than a simple nylon shell (9.12 oz)-but protective vs. cold temps ( to -15º)-the EverTherm basic slim silhouettes- in weather tough super durable material (StormRepel®)-are insulated with a proprietary high loft -no puff down- stuffed inside without the quilting/baffle stitching usually needed for the feathers...meaning no cold spots and a  streamline design. Delivers in longer parka for women + jacket lengths (M+W) ...with or w/o hood...with zip close chest/hand pockets. Eddie Bauer's Men's EverTherm Jacket $249-in Cardinal Red. Part of the First Ascent collection of tech gear worthy of any   winter activity.

A Van's Life...Part 2/Apparel

Clothes to take on any city-country-outdoor festival jaunt-have to be travel friendly, weather flexible separates + easy cleaners...if you ever get to that around to it ... via GIPHY    source :  codepen.io/chrisgannon/pen/PzRWNO SMARTWOOL, WALLS OUTDOORS, RYU APPAREL, TOMMY HILFINGER, EDDIE BAUER, ADIDAS SPORT PERFORMANCE, CARHARTT, FREE COUNTRY, 70 Years WRANGLER, WRANGLER X PETER MAX, ALTRA Top Picks: Smartwool boasts a bunch of lifestyle functional separates for Fall 2017-love this cocoon shape Urban UpSlope Hoody (black)-layers well-with outer nylon shell-protects against the wind... enough insulation (naturally warm/moisture wicking/anti-odor merino wool blend lining) for those cooling temps at sunset...belt it for more fashion flair--but there's a drawcord at neck+back hem adds to silhouette shape and keeps you warm. Hand pockets and smart of SMARTWOOL -reversible! $250 Walls Outdoor work/hunt wear is wear everywhere-for good reasons-pieces are well...

Fall Favs-SEASONLESS Apparel

Part One 70'sº in December-snow burying flowers-nope-this isn't JUST the weather in the southern hemisphere-anymore. via GIPHY With all the buzz (and hoped for retail $) of the much hyped Fall collections...practically speaking -smart buys to get in autumnal mood are three seasons wearable- multi-tasking-urban/outdoor trendy designs -and price approachable. Top Picks: NAU -sharp urban functional design paired with eco-friendly sourced components-make NAU a fav label. For Fall -this chic knit -with shoulder button-adds to flattering diagonal drape-in pale grey color take wearers from cool Fall nights-to over AC-ed under interiors in July.

Outdoor Festivals-What to Wear

Best Gadgets, Gear, Footwear, Clothes that can multi-task for  outdoor camping-to indoor city life. KELTY-camping gear and backpacks from Boulder...reaches out to the millennial with everyday gear -that looks stylish -not the most tricked out tech gear-but in reality they're not going to scale Mt Everest-they're rocking' out to tunes at Coachella-maybe camping out in a tent or RV, making day trips under big blue skies. New slogan #BuiltToWander   gets that... Part One-Beyond the tees/cut-offs/board shorts: KRIMSON KLOVER, MOUNTAIN KHAKIS, BERGANS, FJÄLLRÄVEN Wearing fashionable apparel from outdoor brands has become, for selfie promoting types- Instagram opportunities for 'what to wear'- when attending outdoor events. Patron Saint=Kate Moss at the Glastonbury festival (2005) and Hunter boots . via GIPHY stevetrippygif.blogspot.com-source Krimson Klover -out of Boulder Co.-tops and frocks-in the prettiest prints in cotton/wool/viscoise/rayon/spandex bl...

ModCloth X Wrangler DENIM COLLAB

Launching...denim brand pioneer WRANGLER and retro-vintage flavored ModCloth =collab on a series of  guy jeans worthy of those hup 90's-skater styles-super wide legged...and our pick-a  terrific denim skirt for women. Available now in ModCloth's Austin store, Wrangler stores in Denver and Dallas, and ModCloth.com Prices range from $39.99-$89.99 via GIPHY source viceland.com details-vintage leather logo patch.... Jeans in 3 cuts-wide leg, flare leg and straight leg, a denim skirt, denim jacket and a Wrangler t shirt-focused collection of the basics.

ACTIVE COLLECTIVE HIGHLIGHTS:Part 4

FREE PEOPLE MOVEMENT, REEBOK, TIEM Spin Shoes via GIPHY Higher waist bands, autumnal tones, two tone prints pops-and a lot more white separates than usually sees in Fall-mixed in with year round pieces-for indoor, casual and workout wear -wherever ...

ACTIVE COLLECTIVE Athleisure Style-Urban Edge

Part 3 HARD TAIL FOREVER, SPIRITUAL GANGSTER, THREADS 4 THOUGHT Metropolitan Pavilion Bold Black/White stripes from Hard Tail Forever (MADE IN THE USA)-can see how these graphic pieces work with cool black or white lifestyle staples-like their cool  to jacket Hard Tail. ..also had several shades of gray-in subdued camo casual sweatpants-jogger style with comfy drawstring waist- and tie dye patterns in stretch pants/leggings hybrid with slimming flat waist. At this tradeshow-we saw prints in layered bands as pictured above on the left-which imo-more flattering (slimming)---vs last season's overall bright patterns that add visual inches to thighs. Probably why we see very few overall print pattern bottoms at the gym we belong too-but see loads of-mesh inserts in all black leggings/capris-that adds a fun lingerie element to gym wear. Spiritual Gangste r-yoga inspired clothing-black/white crop new High Neck Bra top-racer back available now $48... Threads ...

ACTIVE COLLECTIVE -Activewear-Streetwear

Part 2 ALOYOGA, lucy, ONZIE via GIPHY Street to studio, or skip the workout and just be casual comfy-wearing performance wear aimed at the yoga-pilates-gym pursuits...aka athleisure wear...is a celeb clogged category-but our top picks are from the smaller labels that showed great Fall 2017 pieces--- that would really work year round...less super hot times. ALOYOGA Moto Legging is our most coveted item---available now in six colors $114-and adding more next season (pictured above). Mixed matte shine fabric with mesh detail, hidden key/card pocket in waistband, and spot on-moto inspired quilted stitching legging. A big plus the comfy wide band high waisted, and functional high wicking, four way stretch, anti-microbial material. LOVE.

ACTIVE COLLECTIVE-ATHLEISURE-WORKOUT WEAR

MPG, RHONE Part One The NY version of the sports-yoga-workout wear focused Active Collective had loads of terrific athletic style-that anyone would wear on or off the courts, in a gym, or outdoors on weekend downtime. IMO-athleisure is a permanent lifestyle apparel category...and we saw plenty of multi-tasking pieces made from tech fabrics for Fall 2017-in subdued autumnal colors, fewer prints (than what we have seen for Spring)-but interestingly enough...a bunch of bold black/white items at several exhibitors. MPG ( MODETTA PERFORMANCE GEAR ) started as a fashion savvy- dancer focused collection of studio separates to wear off th barre- but has grown into a brand for athletes pursuing various activities-with performance pieces for runners, gym-heads, yoga buffs and dancers---and comfy casual wear that also doubles as versatile travel pieces. In the front-cozy long knit cardigan for woman-belt it for wearing to an office-or keep it loose for downtime comfort, In back te...