Styling the White Tee

We all have things in our closets - for example: a polished pencil skirt, an over-sized vest or a pair of worn out denim jeans that rarely ever make it out of the house due to them being more holy than some of our church members - that we never wear due to "not having anything to pair them with". When all we really need is an awesome white t-shirt. You can never go wrong with the tried-and-true white tee, and to prove it I have rounded up several creative styling options, just to show you how versatile it can be! 

 

  

             

               

            

               

     

The Wait is Over

July twenty-first was the day that I have been waiting on since September twenty-sixth of last year - for those of you already thinking it, yes I am that weird - Actress and style icon Blake Lively surprised us all by launching her lifestyle company 'Preserve' two days early (today actually being the originally planned launch date) and it's everything and more of what I thought it would be. The site blends commerce, storytelling and philanthropic efforts that cultivate what Blake describes as a virtual "Main Street, USA." Preserve, which has been compared to Gwyneth Paltrow's "Goop" website since it was announced, contains dozens of hand-curated goods that are made in the USA. According to the "Greater Good" section of the site, 5% of every purchase during Preserve's first year will be donated to the Covenant House, a charity that serves homeless, abused, abandoned and trafficked youth. 

Just when I thought I couldn't love Blake Lively anymore - Happy Wednesday Fashionistas! I'll leave you with the editor’s letter, which is somewhat confusing as it is lengthy. But it does explain the name of the website a little more – which is about preserving "elements of what makes life beautiful to us"

Sitting down to write this editor’s letter has been the hardest thing I've done yet on my Preserve journey. I’m more intimidated than I should probably admit. I’m no editor, no artisan, no expert. And certainly no arbiter of what you should buy, wear, or eat.

I am hungry, though… not just for enchiladas.
I’m hungry for experience.

I’m comfortable with the knowledge that I’m not a teacher, but rather, a student. I don’t do any one thing perfectly. I do a lot of things though. Some well, some not-so-well. I've been fortunate enough to travel. I've been all over the world and all over this country. There’s so much life teeming out of every pocket of this nation. There are people creating magic with their bare hands. Creating things which land at that amazing intersection between art and function.

I've found that when approached with a curious spirit, people are kind, they’re generous, they answer, if asked. They’ll often open their doors and hearts and let you in. Because people with wisdom have stories to tell, and want them heard.

Everyone has a story to tell.

This idea is the cornerstone of Preserve.

So here at Preserve there are people, stories, essays, videos and goods which hopefully inspire your home, your style and your tongue. There’s expensive stuff. Inexpensive stuff. And everything in between. But their value, is up to you. We may romanticize it, calling it treasure. What we’re really saying is, we see worth on every level.

The function of Preserve is part magazine, part e-commerce hub, part philanthropic endeavor and above all, a place to showcase the power of imagination, ingenuity, quality, and above all, people.

Preserve is a creative space. A space which honors both tradition and innovation — a space which honors the future, while having a love affair with the past…

As for how we operate, we haven’t looked at Preserve as a new website, but rather as a new street. A sort of greatest hits of “Main Street, USA”. While the whole world races to keep up with technology, we tighten our laces, join the race, but our end goal is to preserve what’s already there.

A pretty lofty goal, a pretty lofty statement, but a group of determined hearts behind it.As I wrap up, I have to recognize who Preserve really is now, before we've met you. “Preserve” isn't me. It’s a handful of the most dedicated, soulful, wise, patient people I've ever had the honor of working alongside. People who've filled the pages of this site with a force of passion, talent and integrity. I’m grateful for our countless late nights building a home out of pixels, light and imagination.

We have a true team at Preserve, one that I acknowledge and thank my lucky stars for more often than I tell them. Although we may be tight knit, there will be no one more influential to the direction of Preserve, than you.

We’ve created this space to multiply our experiences. So Preserve.us isn't just the U.S. It’s all of us.

With excitement and sincerity,
Blake

Fashion Dilemma: To Save or to Splurge?

There comes a point in time - for some of us it's an everyday occurrence - that we are faced with the number one shopping dilemma out there...when to save our hard earned pennies and when to splurge! Are you a handbag lover or a shoe fanatic? It all depends on where your fashion priorities lie that really determine whether you want to take the leap to splurge or to hold on a little longer to your cash. I have rounded up some of my must-haves that give love to both points of the price spectrum.

When you can find a classic striped top as perfect as this one, why spend more than you have to? Keep it simple and save your money when it comes to buying basic pieces.

J Crew Painter Tee $49.50 (on sale now $44.50)

It's hard to tell between a pricey pair of denim shorts and a more affordable set. Why bother spending the extra cash when you really don't have to? This pair from Gap is not only affordable but will get you through the hot, muggy months ahead with ease!

 Gap Boyfriend Denim Shorts $49.95

Finding a well-made, affordable sandal is an easy task, simply because there is not much to them - which is why you will probably burn through them within one season. With that being said, save your pennies on this one. I love this sandal from J.Crew - the metallic gold is the perfect addition to any outfit!

J Crew Summer Sandals $98

There are countless plaid, gingham, denim shirts in this world. Spend wisely and rotate them out. I love these shirts from Gap, not only are they money-friendly but they are available year around and come in several patterns/colors.

Gap Gingham Button-Up $54.95

Save up for a quality everyday bag by getting an inexpensive, simple clutch with one or two standout details. Clutch trends can change overnight. Which is why common sense dictates you to go the cheaper route.  

Jack Wills Metallic Tassle Clutch $75.26

Save your money up for your dream leather jacket or that luxurious handbag you've been wanting by opting for this chic, affordable denim jacket. 

Top Shop Denim Jacket $90

Can't keep a women away from her jewelry. When it comes to big baubles, it’s best to head straight to the costume jewelry department. Consider it maximal style with minimal impact to your credit card balance. 

J Crew Statement Necklace $58

 From the workday to date night and everything in between, the little black dress pump is a necessity to your wardrobe. You'll magically feel a slight more confident when you slip them on - I can't explain how that happens. but it happens - The little black dress pump is always appropriate and it never lets you down. Invest in one good pair and you're ready for anything!

Stuart Weitzman Black Pumps $355

This perfect black blazer will come to your rescue in a multitude of situations. From classic to boyfriend, there is a fit for everyone. For the best fit and fabric, invest in a go-to brand for quality.

J Crew Black Blazer $198 (on sale for $98)

Look for a roomy handbag made of quality leather, with classic detailing such as the gold detailing on this Michael Kors handbag. By choosing a more classic look rather than a trendier piece - it's a guarantee to stay in style for years to come.

Michael Kors Leather Hobo $795

A good cashmere sweater is a wardrobe staple. Unfortunately, the real deal doesn't come cheap - a cheaply made cashmere sweater is not a pretty sight after a few wears and a trip to the dry cleaner - Instead, invest in quality cashmere in a neutral hue. 

Equipment Cashmere Sweater $268

For the perfect wash, rise, and fit in one pair of jeans, it’s worth it to splurge for a pricier designer pair. You’ll wear them on a regular basis, and you’ll look cool and put-together every time you do.

Mother Denim $198 (on sale for $138)

Everyone needs that "go-to" flat that makes any outfit come together. With Tory Burch you get the comfort along with the chic-style but it doesn't exactly come cheap. Opt for a neutral tone that can go well with the majority of your wardrobe. You won't be sorry you invested in a pair every time you slip them on and head out the door!

Tory Burch Ballet Flats $250

Most fitted, buttery-leather versions won’t come cheap, but the joy your purchase will bring you when you repeatedly reach for it will justify how diligently you saved your hard-earned cash. I am obsessing over the unique detailing and the quilted leather of this Anine Bing design. I am now accepting donations at this time.

Anine Bing Leather Jacket $1,099