stress for success.

It's that time of year again. Finals week: the everlasting eternity of a week that tests your limits of focus, patience and caffeine intake. The only thing keeping me sane is my overwhelming collection of Missoni office supplies, including folders to categorize notes, freshly sharpened pencils to take the exams, post-its for flagging important pages, a mug to hold my latte, the list goes on and on. On my few and far between study breaks, I've madly pinned everything I can get my mouse on on Pinterest, cuddled with our adorable kitten (shown off below), and painted my nails forest green with my polish from as a reminder to myself that Christmas is right around the corner. (To do: Decorating and presents and baking... oh my!) Half of my courses this semester are actually very interesting (since I am finally getting into my major, Retail Merchandising & Product Development) and the material is (almost) enjoyable to study for. I can tell you all there is to know about textiles and the many elements of visual design--I'd further elaborate, but my nail polish is dry/time's up... back to studying...

She insists on helping me study. So loyal.

What's the first thing you reward yourself with during a study break or after a stressful time? An hour-long massage? Godiva chocolates? Perhaps a fabulous wardrobe-update for some retail therapy?

Ciau,
K.René

from dawn til dusk: making sequins a statement.

Nothing is more festive than the shimmering glisten of a sequin garment. The sparkly piece instantly attracts attention and creates a fabulous look. Due to the intense glamour of these eye-catching pieces, fashionistas usually associate sequins with nighttime apparel. Although appropriate, step away from the norm and into a fabulous sequin garment. Pair it with a denim button down, jeans, or even a blazer to contrast the girly look with grungy accents. When its time to transition into your winter wardrobe, add tights or an oversized knit sweater. Different takes on this concept result in the ultimate balance of comfy chic. Featured below are multiple unique and ready-to-wear approaches to making sequins a wardrobe essential.

with an oversized knit sweater---with a blazer.

with a utility jacket---or denim top.

with bold colors.

Ciau,
K. René

christmas class or tis-the-season sass.

It's the time of year where you really need to reflect on your wardrobe from the past eleven months. Did you take risqué risks? Did you attempt the most far-out new trend; and did you feel invincible while doing it? If yes, then you should reward yourself with the most dangerous looking pumps you can find: including patent leather, a sky high heel and possibly a studded clutch to go with. If no, then sit back and bask in your sophisticated glory; you kept it safe with your fashion choices, meaning you definitely did not land yourself in any fashion faux pas. Your classic look lands you an excuse to go out and buy a fabulously timeless structured bag, a beautiful navy blazer, or a pair of crisp riding boots.

With holiday soirees approaching us, you have the opportunity to keep up your current look or to surprise the crowd with the unexpected. The following outfits take current trends and tweak them to be "naughty" or "nice."

spotted:

the perfect holiday hue: forest green.

event-worthy shorts paired with a crisp blazer.

{all images from polyvore.com}


When it comes to your style this holiday season, will you be playing it safe or playing with fire?

Ciau,
K.René