Contemporary Muslim Fashion at the De Young

Earlier this week, team Canvas took a field trip to the De Young museum to see their Contemporary Muslim Fashions exhibit. We always love checking out their fashion-related exhibits and this may be one of our favorites yet.

Contemporary Muslim Fashions is the first major museum exhibit to explore the complex and culturally diverse nature of modest Muslim dress codes worldwide. We thought the De Young curators did a stellar job of visually exploring how Muslim women of today have become arbiters of style not just within in their communities but around the world.

Below are some of the highlights and a few of our favorite pieces. The exhibit runs through January 6, 2019 and we highly recomend checking it out!

Stay Stylish,
M&K


A New Fashion Market

What stood out to us in the exhibit was how many of today’s iconic Western fashion houses were represented in the exhibit, including Yves Saint Laurent and Oscar de la Renta. It was interesting to see how their high-end designs that have been customized for Muslim women’s diverse modesty considerations. The retail segment of “modest” fashion has been the target of large fashion houses and a growing number of muslim designers who desire to express their own form of beauty and style. Many of the pieces on display were designer with a small appearance from Macys and Nike. While fashion doesn’t come cheap and it was hard not to notice the opulence and brands displayed boldly in many ensembles and blogger looks. We found the fashion pieces refreshingly juxtaposed next to documentary photos of everyday life for a muslim woman around the globe. Below are a few of our favorite designer pieces (including a colorful feather print dress from Mary Katrantzou who we blogged about as a designer to watch last year).


Cultural Reflections of Faith

It was also interesting to see top Muslim style bloggers represented and their unique take on dressing modestly while still expressing their individual style. Color, texture, and print mixing where themes in many of the fashion shots. The strength and boldness of the ensembles was inspiring; however, the freshness of mixing tradition with pop culture influences was most exciting. Below are a few examples from Langston Hughes and Hoda Katebi as well as a flight jacket from design house Celine.


Posted on October 26, 2018 and filed under Style Tips.

Shop Talk: How New Tariff's Will Impact The Cost of Apparel in 2019

During our Monday morning meeting this week our conversation turned toward the China tariffs and the effect that they are going to have on the cost of clothing (among other things) in the very near future. Many of our past colleagues and friends in local retail buying offices have also hinted at future price impacts. As we started talking more in depth, we thought that it would be a good idea to update all of you about what to expect to see in the coming months.

Stay Stylish (and Savvy),

Megan and Kimberly


What is All This Tariff Talk?

In case you haven’t been following the tariff situation as closely as we have, here is a brief breakdown of what is slated to happen in the new year. The current administration recently imposed tariffs on an additional $200 billion worth of Chinese goods, including clothing, shoes, home goods, children's products, and furniture. After an initial 10% increase in late September, the tariffs will increase to 25% at the start of 2019. 

How Tariff’s Will Impact Clothing Costs?

According to the National Retail Federation, it is estimated that currently more than 41 of clothes and 72 percent of shoes sold domestically are Chinese-made.  That means that the 25% duties will likely be passed along in the retail cost of apparel and other items to protect seller’s margins. While many retailers are looking to shift manufacturing from China to other countries, this will take time as seller strategies solidify. In addition, be prepared for a likely shift in quality as new factories are getting up and running and skilled labor is developed. Many large retail brands may already be diversified in their manufacturing base but in recent weeks even they have warned about impacts.

What to Buy Now

While we can’t predict the future, we can be more savvy shoppers in how we invest in our wardrobe. Be proactive and look at your favorite pieces in your closet, then look at the tag—Where was it produced? Being aware of what you are buying and from where is the first step.

You can expect to see prices rise in early 2019 across the board on clothing items and we are predicting is may range anywhere from 10-25%. If you apply that across an entire wardrobe it certainly adds up. That said, you will probably feel it more in certain categories, where the US imports primarily from China.

Here are a few items that we recommend for shopping now:

  1. Eyewear/Sunglasses - The U.S. imported nearly $1 billion worth of sunglasses, goggles, and other eyewear last year from China. according to data from the U.S.

  2. Scarves/Shawls - China is also the top source for scarves and shawls.

  3. Sweaters - Your cold weather favorite is about to get pricier. The U.S. imported $4.6 billion worth of sweaters from China in 2017.

  4. T-Shirts/Tank Tops - $606 million in T-shirts, tank tops and other casual shirts were imported from China last year.

  5. Intimates - America imports more women’s underwear from China than from any other country. Last year, Made-in-China bras, girdles, corsets, suspenders and garters sent to the U.S. were worth $1.2 billion.

  6. Denim- Your true blues may get a hike as much of our “American” denim is now loomed and produced in China.


Curious to read a little more?

Here are a few educational articles we found helpful around the impacts of the current trade war conversation:

Bloomberg: China's Factory Heartland Braces for Trump's Big Tariff Hit

Retail Dive: Retailers warn of price hikes as China tariffs take hold

WSJ: Holidays Gifts May Escape Tariffs, but Retailers Won’t

Refinery29: Why Is The European Union Going After Our Jeans?


Posted on October 18, 2018 and filed under Style Tips.

Changing Seasons: What to Pack Away for Fall

Megan and I often get the question from clients, “How do you dress in the Bay Area when there are no seasons?!” While it is true what we largely have two seasons in SF - Fog and No Fog - that doesn’t mean you couldn’t benefit from a shift with the season.

Unsure what to pack away or shift to the back of your closet? Read on for our list to help you shift to a new season with ease and pack away seasonal pieces with care.

Stay Stylish,

K&M


Yes, Store Your Clothes For A Season

There are many professionals in our industry and organizational gurus who strictly direct to never packing away anything in your closet, but we support pausing pieces for a season or two (i.e. Fall/Winter). This cycling will increase the life of the garments by stretching their wear and help you to be more intentional when adding new pieces.

The Canvas Guide To Storing Your Summer Staples

Give It a Fresh Wash: Before packing anything away send it out to the dry cleaner or machine wash so that there are no stains. This also ensures that everything is fresh and ready for the following season when you take it out of storage.

Look At Fabrication: Anything that is light weight and cannot be layered under a sweater will likely not be your first pick in the morning, which is why we recommend packing away linen and light weight fabrics. By putting them away and out of sight, you can see your true choices in your closet and are less likely to always reach for the same thing.

Pro Tip: If you store your linen or summer sweaters in a box or plastic tote, slip in a paper wrapped bar of your favorite soap or sachet. Kimberly recommends picking up a set of Portuguese or Florentine soaps from World Market.

Color and Prints: It can feel tricky deciding which clothes to put away for Spring/Summer, when the weather is mostly the same all year round. We recommend packing your lighter colors and prints (pastels, bright florals, summer stripes), and leaving your jewel tones, deeper colors, and plaids for the cooler months.

Spring/Summer Accessories: Apply the pack-away strategy to your accessories. Straw sun hats, strapy sandals, and light weight scarves can be stored until your next vacation or season shift.

Pro Tip: Roll your scarves and store them in your hats. Not only will help your hats keep shapes, it will also help make the most of your storage space.

Storage Picks:


Jewel Tones: Color Mixing for Fall

Last week Kimberly blogged about how she is incorporating the plaid statement jacket into her wardrobe this fall. Today, Megan is sharing her favorite tones for the season and what pieces she is coveting the most.

Stay Stylish,
M&K

Outfit details: H&M pleated midi skirt (similar), green crop sweater (similar), patent leather studded flats (similar), Cuyana circle crossbody


Jewel Toned Color Palette

One of my favorite things about fall is all of the incredible jewel tones that come out. I have always preferred the rich, deep colors of the season that feel luxurious and indulgent. Oxblood, deep greens, rich blues, and golden hues all make up this fall’s color palette. Most jewel tones wear well together, so take some time to play around and see what combinations feel the most natural for you.

Pick Two Main Colors

The easiest way to colorblock with jewel tones is by starting with two colors that complement each other. I first picked my foundation piece, which is this deep purple pleated skirt I found at H&M. Then played around with what to wear on top.

Often times when I am getting dressed, I start with one item that I know I absolutely want to wear and then look for another items to plays well off of it.While black or white would have gone fine with the skirt, the forest green sweater felt more in line for fall and added extra color.

Pro Tip: Have fun with mixing and matching jewel toned prints to your outfits like a floral against a black background or a burgundy plaid.

Keep Your Accents Simple

The jewel tones are really the star of the show, so everything else can be muted or simple. I decided to add my patent leather flats (if only SF was a heel friendly city!) and round blush bag from Cuyana since the soft color can also serve as a neutral. Since the colors of the skirt and sweater were so bold, I opted for a softer pink lip and matching nail polish to keep the overall outfit from looking too severe.

If I were to mix this up for evening, I’d swap the bag for a metallic clutch, pop on some patent leather heels and add a darker lip. I wish I could say that I’d take my hair down too - but I am always just more comfortable with it up in its usual bun!

Not Everything Needs to Match

If you’ve been following this blog for awhile, you know that I have a bit of an eclectic sense of style. I always like to incorporate the unexpected into my daily outfits.

One of the easiest ways to do that is with jewelry. I find my jewelry to also be the most personal part of my wardrobe - most of the pieces I’ve either been gifted or have inherited - and I like to mix and match pieces for a high-low effect. If mixing silver and gold doesn’t feel authentically you, then try weaving in beads or stones with your metals to create depth and texture.

Pro Tip: Travel is the perfect time to add to your jewelry collection. The pieces don’t have to be expensive and they are a great way hold onto memories. Look for local markets to find authentic items.

Posted on October 5, 2018 and filed under Style Tips.

The Plaid Statement Jacket: How To Make It Yours This Fall

A few weeks ago we blogged about fall 2018 trends you’ll want to invest in. This week Kimberly is sharing what trend she is taking to her closet and how she is incorporating it in with what she already owns.

Find a Piece You Love

Last year winter I borrowed a plaid jacket from Rent the Runway to style our Beret Story and fell in love with the ba&sh Clock Coat but not the $695 price tag. Having a plaid wool coat not only added a layer of warmth but the playful print created a new set of combinations to my neutral wardrobe.

I added a plaid coat to my shopping list* and when I found a menswear inspired wool Zara coat at a French Consignment party over the summer for $25 I snatched it up. I knew come fall it would fit into my wardrobe perfectly and add a bit of freshness at a low cost.

The cut of the coat is longer and slenderizing, hitting me at just above the knee so layering underneath is easy. Many plaid jackets this year hit at the high hip which for women is often their widest spot. So, pay attention to cut, scale or print and direction for the most flattering look.

This year the Glen plaid or Prince of Wales Check is the plaid of choice. If you are petite, a small scale vertical print plaid (like the Glen Plaid) will work better on you than a large scale horizontal. If you are tall or plus size look for larger scale plaids or houndstooth. Unsure about how your plaid of choice reads? Take a selfie in the dressing room! The photo will give fast feedback on if the scale works for you.

*ProTip: Throughout the year I make a rough wardrobe shopping list and rank items in priority order from “need” to “like to have” by quarter and compare it to my budget. Having a mindful shopping list will help keep impulse purchases down and closet overflow in check.

Add Mix and Match Basics with a Twist

When wearing a printed jacket you can make the outfit all about the jacket or all about the ensemble. Because this jacket has an active print you can pair it with simple basics to showcase the details of the jacket and not detract from it. For this blog I decided to do exactly that, knowing that it would show up better on camera. However, I could have easily added a coordinating striped blouse or printed sweater to balance the power of the jacket. The trick is adding a coordinating print that is a different scale (larger or smaller than the scale of houndstooth fabric).

Pay attention to the details when selecting the right basic piece for you. I love the banded inverted collar on my Zara coat because it keeps the cut fresh and a little more modern. To mimic the modern feel I paired it with a basic camel turtleneck shell that is cut out on the back. Not only is this piece great for layering, it’s helpful during our Indian summers when a plaid coat is too warm midday and you still need to look put together. Similarly the side-zip Everlane pants add a small element of interest and half tucking the turtle neck keeps the outfit balanced and tailored.

ProTip: When building an ensemble think of it as an equation: one part interest and one part flow.

Compliment the look with Coordinating Accessories

Notice we did not title this section compliment the look with matching accessories! In fashion and certainly when creating compelling ensembles harmony does not mean every piece holds equal weight. Like art, any compelling look needs a focal point (or in this case piece—i.e. Plaid Coat) and a little unexpected tension.

I paired the coat with my trusty oxfords to jab at the menswear them. The open work of the shoe mimics the houndstooth print but reads neutral given the color. To add a little more pop I choose my new Cuyana bag in burgundy and my gold and black watch to add depth and keep the accessories tied to fall shades.

Stay Stylish,

K&M


Our Favorites to Steal the Look:

Plaid Coat

Oxfords

Mix and Match Basics


Posted on September 28, 2018 and filed under Style Tips.

90's Revival: How To Make Old Trends New

Grab your plaid blazers and mini skirts because the 90’s are back! Walking through all of the major department stores this season, we can’t help but be transported back to the era when silk slip dresses, combat boots, and oversized blazers ruled.

If you’ve already lived it once, you may not be quite ready to repeat that decade. But there are ways to reinterpret trends to suit your own personal style. See our favorites from the late 80’s to classic 90’s below!

Stay Stylish,
K&M


Plaid Mini Skirt

Left: Cher from Clueless, 1995
Right, Fall 2018 BB Dakota

How to wear it now:

While we love a coordinated outfit, there is not need to go full “Clueless” with the plaid jacket and skirt. Instead, pair your mini with a crisp white blouse or an oversized sweater (we love this Treasure and Bond option). If your mini skirt days ended in the 90’s, try a knee length pencil skirt instead with sleek heels or booties.


Slip Dress

Left: Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City 1994
Right: CAMI NYC Sandra Flounced Silk Slip Dress

How to wear it now:

A simple slip dress can be timelessly elegant. For a sleek day-to-night look, try pairing a silk midi dress is with structured blazer and heels. Another option is to layer a T-shirt or thin knit top underneath. Not only does it provide another layer to keep you warm in cooler month, but the base layer helps silky straps stay in place. 


Menswear

How to wear it now:

Work it girl, but loose the oversized shoulders and bulky shoulder pads. Today’s plaid sport coat is designed for a woman’s build while embodying classic menswear details. Give the look a fresh statement by pairing the jacket with trim trousers and mule shoes or an accordion skirt and pumps.

How to wear it now:

Skip the sportswear look and update it with a leather version a la the belt bag. Granted the classic nylon fanny pack has made a comeback with some designers, we prefer the versatility of these little bags. Wear it around your waist at a concert or doing errands and then convert it to a mini shoulder bag or clutch at night. It’s a great way to play with the trend and not fully commit to it. Bloomingdales has a great assortment right now at investment and steal prices so you have no excuse not to try one yourself. Our other favorites include the budget friendly Street Level and Elizabeth and James.

Fall Fashion: Trends You’ll Want In Your Closet

Fall is one of our favorite times to take clients shopping. If you live in San Francisco, it’s the perfect time to shop for pieces you can wear year round. Not to mention, we’ve been programmed by a cultural norm of back to school shopping and starting fresh in the fall.

This year the runway stuck with some traditional fall trends, so it’s the perfect time to invest in classics that have staying power. If you are looking to update your look on a budget chose one trend and incorporate it with what you already own. Below is a guide to our favorite trends for men and women this fall. We’ve included both investment and budget-friendly pieces that are accessible to all.

Stay Stylish,
M&K


Fall Menswear Trends

1.) Shearling

One part manly, one part cozy, shearling is a trend we are tempted to steal from the guys this year. If you run cool, we recommend a fully lined shearling jacket, but if you are warm blooded opt for a shearling collar denim jacket that won’t overheat you.

2.) Corduroy

A casual fabric, corduroy locks in an extra layer of warmth to an ensemble. Additionally, corduroy adds a little texture to your wardrobe. You will want to balance out that texture with something equally soft, such as a flannel shirt or sweater.

3.) Plaid Flannel

Up your lumberjack game with a great plaid flannel this season. Plaid is always around in fall, and this season it’s showing up in shirts, jackets and even some pants. A flannel plaid shirt is perfect for a casual day at work, tailgating with friends, or paired with a shawl color sweater for an easy weekend look.



4.) Maroon

Maroon is showing up everywhere for men this fall. Pants, chinos, jackets, sweaters - you name it and they’ve made it. A nice maroon pant is a great denim alternative for the season, while a maroon jacket adds color to your wardrobe with making too much of a POP!.


Womenswear

1.) Plaid Menswear

We love the strength and structure of menswear inspired plaid jackets and coats this fall. If you are broader or bustier opt avoid the double breasted look and try a dropped lapel silhouette.

2.) Animal Print

Walk on the wild side this fall with a print that is everywhere. Cheetah is a very popular print in every cat-e-gory (bad pun) whether you are looking for a small hint in an accessory or a full commitment in a body conscious dress you will find it this year.

3.) The Combat Boot

The 90’s are back in a big way this fall, and it wouldn’t be a true 90’s flashback without the combat boot. Except this season’s variety aren’t your average Doc Martins. Expect to see patent leather, hardware, and sleek styles that you can wear to the office.

4.) Velvet

Velvet is such a luxe fabric it is usually reserved for the holiday season, but this fall you will see velvet everywhere. We love the trend translated into an easy-to-wear dress, a simple bodysuit, or as a sleek pant to replace your jeans.

Booties to Fall For: Our Top Steals of the Season

Booties have shown their staying power over the past five years. This year they are getting a slight upgrade with fresh silhouettes and shades. If you don't have a fun pair and an everyday work horse, you may have a gap in your wardrobe! Read on for our favorite picks for the season by category.

Stay Stylish,

M&K


The Day to Night Bootie

 

In San Francisco, the hills can finish a pair of heels in one evening. We love the idea of pairing a stylish block heel or wedge bootie with an outfit that will last all day long. A edgy detail like the Yente boots are a take on a more expensive Rag and Bone design this season. If you are a little more daring an animal print or pattern will add interest to an outfit.


The Everyday Bootie

Having a great bootie that you can rely on day in and out is an essential, and an upgrade from a flat. The key to finding the perfect bootie is durability, cut (look for styles that show more ankle for versatility and a slight heel or pointed toe to elongate your look), and color. A neutral shade in black or brown will easily flow with everything in your wardrobe.


The Office Bootie

Need to up your office shoe game? Explore a new addition to the bootie family this fall. We like the idea of adding a little perspective with a heel, just be sure to choose a height that you are comfortable with. The "shootie", ugh Kimberly cringes at the name, luckily looks more interesting than it sounds. 

Posted on September 7, 2018 and filed under Style Tips.

Summer Favorites: Fog-Free Weekend Spots and the Sunnies to Wear

It's full swing FOGUST in San Francisco. While the rest of the Bay Area is soaking up the last of the summer sun, we are living in a world of fog.  How do you survive until summer returns in September and October? We put together a list of our favorite sunny spots in the city and beyond, plus the best sunglasses to wear on your adventure. 

Stay Stylish,
K&M


1. Go on a Hike!

Don't let the fog slow you down. One way we love to find the sunshine is to explore a trail in Marin, Berkeley, or along the peninsula. Grizzly Peak in Berkeley is a great beginners hike with incredible views of the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate. For more experienced hikers, try the Marin Coastal Trail.

 

Sunglasses for Hiking:
Men: Smith Lowdown2 Polarized ChromaPop Sunglasses, $169

These sporty yet stylish shades will keep your eyes protected and keep up with the pace. The hydrophilic nose pads keep the glasses from slipping while the ultra light frame keeps you from getting that dreaded sunglass imprint.

Women: Oakley Latch, $163
The frames are super lightweight for all day wear, and their special lens technology helps enhance visual details for a crystal view, while blocking out too much sunshine. An extra feature allows you to clip the shades to your shirt, so they'll stay secure when you're hiking under shade.


2. Hit Off The Grid Presidio Picnic

Not only is the Presidio Picnic free, it takes place every Sunday rain or shine on the Presidio’s Main Parade Ground, with amazing views of the park, the city, and the Bay.  Enjoy the incredible views, 25+ food vendors, music, crafts for kids, and even a free yoga class from 11-12.

Sunglasses a Chill Park Day:
Men: Warby Parker Abe, $145
The Abe is an aviator style with a fresh square silhouette. These offer 100% UV protection, are scratch resistant in case you drop them, and have a cool silver frame.
 

Women: Quay Australia Somerset Aviators, $60
Megan recently picked up this style on a weekend trip to Vegas, making it her second pair of Quay's. The highly reflective lenses make them great for protecting your eyes, while the sleek brow bar amps up the style.


3. Explore a Farmer's Market or Flea Market

If you are willing to drive a little, why not pick up picnicking supplies for wine tasting at the Healdsburg Farmer's Market? Located just off the main street, local vendors offer a mix of fresh flowers, cheeses, and breads perfect to beautify your spread.

If you want to explore something closer to the city and still find some sunshine, Kimberly is a big fan of the Alameda Antiques Faire held the first Sunday of the month. Find your latest vintage piece, grab lunch at the market and take in the views of the city (if it's not fogged in).

Women: J.Crew Seaside Round Cateye, $65

Perfect for adding a little color to your life and a retro nod to summer. These frames are easy on the eyes and the pocket book while providing standard UV protection.

Men: TOM's Dawson Milky Honey Fade, $139.95

Understated in a soft honey fade, these chic sunglasses are a softer take on a masculine wood frame. This slightly square shape does more than make you look good. With every pair of eyewear you purchase, TOMS will help restore sight to someone in need. One for One®

 

SF Shop Guide: Essentials at Modern Citizen

Megan and I always have our ears open for new brands and when they have a San Francisco connection, we are even more compelled to check them out. A few weeks ago I blogged about Everlane's new storefront in the Mission. It was so fun sharing some of my favorite picks from their collection, that when I heard about Modern Citizen I dragged Megan along to shop the store for our clients and blog readers. Our take? This may be your new destination for basics.

San Francisco Modern Utility Paired with Feminine Minimalism

This brand has been thoughtfully curated for a San Franciscan wardrobe but applies to anyone looking to freshen up their basics routine or add a modern feminine piece to their closet. Perhaps we have been living in the Bay Area too long, but finding a good quality $30 tee shirt (see here and here) with a flattering cut was refreshing. For certain pieces, we were giddy with happy sticker shock. The price points are sharp and the cotton and rayon blends are soft. From what we found they are still fine tuning their sizing consistency in certain pieces (we are tough critics). In chatting with the co-founder who happened to be manning the racks when we were shopping, most of the products are produced in China and a small number in LA. We would love to see that number flipped in the future but it also enables the reasonable pricing.

Accessories To Invest In

In addition to focusing on the key clothing pieces everyone should have in their wardrobe, Modern Citizen sells and manufactures a limited number of staple jewelry pieces that are 14 karate gold or sterling silver. If you are a jewelry minimalist who wants to invest a little more but not to the extent of fine jewelry, this is a great option to explore. Earrings range from $32 to $198. This fall tortoiseshell is having a moment so consider these hoops for a fashion statement or keep this simple and invest in this classic metal drop earring.

Hello August, Layer Us Up

Last Fall I invested in the J.Crew Sweater Blazer (see the story here) and have been possibly "over-wearing" it this year as a light jacket. When I tried on Modern Citizen's long Sweater Coat cardigan in store I was smitten. Longer cardigans are back in vogue this fall and this $92 cardigan is a great steal staple.  The longer knee length and charcoal grey color transitions well from weekend to a casual office day. We paired the cardigan with the Brooke High Waisted Ponte Pants and the Lindy V-Neck tee for a sporty chic look.

Similar to my camel blazer, this item is dry clean only but if you take good care of it, it shouldn't require much upkeep. It's an acrylic, polyamide, and elastane blend so if you run warm during the day it might not be the best match for you. Modern Citizen does offer a lighter structured cardigan that hits at mid-thigh that could be a good alternative.

If you are looking for that Friday to Sunday outfit--consider Modern Citizen's Side Zip Cashmere Sweatshirt. This piece is as stylish as it is comfy. The hint of cashmere blended into the fabric makes it oh so soft and we love the side zipper that can be styled slightly open for warmer days. Pair it with light jeans or a fitted skirt now and enjoy it with work trousers or coated denim come fall/winter.

Stay Stylish,

K&M


Our Favorites:


Details: Modern Citizen Side-Zip Sweater $88, Everlane Kick Crop Jean $78, Cole Haan Pewter D'orsay Flats (similar in silver $68 on sale).