-Couture Is An Attitude-

Gabrielle Bonheur “Coco” Chanel

1883- 1971

No wonder Coco Chanel was so fabulous and her legacy remains strong, she lived in Paris!! Her apartment is still alive in her namesake and used for her haute couture fashion store. But, in all seriousness, Coco Chanel is THE most famous fashion designer in history. With her extremely hard work ethic, strong attitude, and perseverance, she is a true fashion icon and role model. Continue reading to feel empowered by such an incredible fashion *french* icon.

-Coco Chanel-

Where did the “Coco” come from? Well, Coco was brought up in an orphanage with strict rules as her mother died, and her father disowned her once he fell in love. She managed to get by with her life, but her sparkling personality aided her through her darkened days where she knew she could move forward. She got her nickname “Coco” singing a song one night at a bar, as she sang quiet often (Craven, 2016).

“Keep your heels, head, and standards high” – Coco Chanel

Coco was a simple woman… She liked fabric, horses, and rich men. **Not a bad way to live, huh? LOL** Her first & only love, Boy Capel set her up to be a milliner (making headwear and hats) in January 1910 with her own place on 31 rue Cambon in Paris. … This is important!!

In 1913, Coco opened up her boutique in Deauville, with merchandise including hats and limited lines of clothing. She stood out, hence her great success- but she had a strict budget. Although she was inspired by menswear, she bought jersey material to make her garments for women as it was a cheaper cost, and draped well. During this time period, the only item made by this fabric was mens underwear!! She is remembered for use of comfort in women’s clothing, as she avoided corsets when they were popular around World War I. Coco, was THE original Jersey Girl!! (McDowell, 2015).

“If you want to be original, be ready to be copied.” -Coco Chanel

In 1926, the Chanel suit was made and who knew it would turn into a forever staple item? The suit was a skirt and collarless jacket made from yet again, jersey material! How crazy! Coco followed a classic color palate that included black, beige, and white. Coco was an absolute perfectionist when it came to her garments, including the fit and design. She had a certain taste when it came to fashion, including modernism, and simplicity.

“I make fashion women can live in, breath in, feel comfortable in and look younger in.”

– Coco Chanel

In 1926, the birth of the LBD- the little black dress, a classic piece of Chanel changed fashion forever. Today, all of us women can say we own quite a *few* LBD’s as they are a timeless pieced item in our wardrobe collection. Coco was brilliant with this dress as it is incredibly versatile, from day to night, season to season. As Coco says, “fashion fades, only style remains”(McDowell, 2015).  Every woman wears her LBD with her own taste through their personal style. I know that my LBD includes an A-line dress that I pair with a statement necklace and funky shoes.

“The best things in life are free. The second best are very expensive.” – Coco Chanel

Around 1940, Coco disagreed with Christian Dior, as his designs included synched waist lines and feminine touches. She thought the designs didn’t capture the “liberated” women as they were making it out of another war, and taking on major roles in society. With perseverance and pure determination, Coco made it through a rough patch in her career securing her finances, aging to 70 years, competing with young minded designers in the market, while restarting her business. 1953, was the re-birth of the Chanel suit, AKA her comeback collection!! The comeback collection was presented February 5, 1954, where the American and British press FLIPPED! Her chic and fresh line allowed a pure rebirth of Chanel. The Chanel suit was a pure status symbol for women. It was a “slim skirt with a collarless jacket trimmed with pockets, buttons, and a sewn in chain to the hem” (Krick, 2004). The tweed fabric was prominent in her suits, as well as simple solid fabrics. Today, this is also a staple piece in both young women to even their grandmothers’ closets.

“Don’t be like the rest of them, darling!” – Coco Chanel

Each fashion season Coco kept moving forward with her career, bringing her handbags, jewelry and shoes into a strong role in haute couture fashion. She worked hard making sure she was targeting the wealthy women who would purchase these items from each collection. Chanel No. 5 was born within the re-birth of Chanel, and carried on to this day as the top selling perfume.

“Everyday is a fashion show, and the world is the runway.” – Coco Chanel

At the age of 87, Coco passed leaving behind a legacy like no other. Karl Lagerfeld took over the RTW (ready to wear) lines and haute couture designs in 1983 and continues to look into the past to capture the Chanel look. As times change, there are variances of Chanel that were brought to the stage. For example, the idea of comfortable clothing with the inspiration of mens wear, so Karl designed men’s tees and briefs along the way (Krick, 2004). Seamless & Savvy personally identifies with Coco through her determination and go getting attitude. Cheers to Coco Chanel, and her independent lifestyle that led her to great success.

Long live the crisscrossed c’s… Visit 31 rue Cambon in Paris today, where you can shop the first floor!! **insert heart eyes here**

“Elegance is when the inside is as beautiful as the outside.” – Coco Chanel

Stay Savvy!

P.S. You can shop Chanel HERE 😉

Citations:

Craven, J. (2016, August 20). Coco Chanel. Retrieved March 30, 2017, from http://www.vogue.co.uk/article/coco-chanel-biography

Krick, J. (2014). Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel (1883–1971) and the House of Chanel | Essay | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History | The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Retrieved March 30, 2017, from http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/chnl/hd_chnl.htm

McDowell, C. (2015, November 27). Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel (1883-1971). Retrieved March 30, 2017, from https://www.businessoffashion.com/articles/education/gabrielle-coco-chanel-1883-1971

Well, It’s True… Paris Is Always a Good Idea.

The whole week I spent in Paris, I thought to myself… “How can I even put this adventure into words?” Well, the truth is… I really can’t, so I’m going to try my best! The pure beauty of Paris was captured through my eyes as I analyzed every building, person, as well as coat, handbag, and shoe each Parisian women had on. I couldn’t help but soak up the culture and lifestyle each part of the city offered. So, for this particular post I am sticking to just a piece of the pie… Fashion Central.

It was a true check off on my “fashion student bucket list” to visit THE most fashionable city in the WORLD. If I am being honest, I would totally, without a doubt, live my next life in Paris… With all of the incredible inspiration and putting my fashion forecasting skills to work, I found so many colors, accessories, and styles for the upcoming seasons that are so remarkable, I just can’t wait to make them my own. Without further a do, here are some of my most favorite fashionable memories in Paris shopping and adventuring!

Triangle d’Or

Translated to: The Golden Triangle, which consists of the following three fashion avenues, which make a triangle, LOL!

~~The Avenue des Champs-Élysées, The Avenue Montaigne, The Avenue George V ~~

They are known for their high end fashion stores and many flagship locations. A flagship location is defined by either the largest, first, or most important store the brand has. Flagship stores hold a high standard through merchandising and well, their merchandise as it is the “best of the best” location.

Haute couture fashion flagship stores that are apart of the triangle include: Chanel, Dior, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Celine, Givenchy, Valentino, Hermes, Balmain… UGH drooling/ crying/ wishful thinking!!!! These flagships were full of pure beauty through the displays, product, as well as architecture along the buildings alone. The Triangle d’Or experience is hard to put into words, but the feeling you have viewing gives you pure fashion jitters!! Theres nothing like owning something so beautiful and timeless, and being in that center of the city made me feel luxurious and had me thinking. It made me feel conent with my life believe it or not, because I WILL be back either traveling for fun, on business, or in my next life! Another two fun flagships include Longchamp (obviously, lol) and Sephora apart of the triangle found on the Champs!

Boulevard Haussmann

Oh my, oh my! If you follow along on my personal snap chat, you saw how INSANE the department store Galaries Lafayette is.  I am most def a Nordstrom snob, but O M G did I feel like a peasant there!!! Going through security just to get in, and then climbing my way up 7 floors that are organized by each designer/ brand was just breathtaking.  Naturally, I needed to make a purchase there… Just to say I did!! HAHA- anyways I could have used a whole day in there, just to shop.  I only went to the women’s store too. That did not include the mens, home, and food which were in different buildings. Christian Loubutin is also found on this boulevard… Okay so yeah, I am obsessed with Paris. If I lived there, I would be one broke, yet beautifully dressed gal!!

Place de la Madeleine

Well, we hopped off the metro (yes, public transportation in a foreign country wasn’t that hard to figure out), climbed up the escalator and as I turned, I saw the most amazing sight of a city I’ve ever seen. I found a flower stand to my right, and a 5th Ave lookalike but WAY NICER street to my left. With all sorts of stores available, I knew I needed to make some purchases. There was a Zara filled with many floors, and I even waited in a crazy line just to buy some cool Paris exclusive pieces. The streets were clean, the people were dressed to the nines, I could have sat outside at a cafe and people watched all day. Either way, the shops ranged from affordable, to I need a new job ;), but it gave it a great happy medium shopping experience. Shopping and window shopping around here gave me so much inspiration to express myself through my clothing and outfit choices.

Montmartre

 

Okay, so after climbing up to the tallest part of the city, and 10 miles of walking… I found the cutest part of Pairs! LOL I’ve been saying that about every fashion spot… I wonder why! Not only did I stumble upon fabric central, aka a whole street filled with fabric stores… But I found the cutest boutique, where I purchased an awesome, edgy metallic, shiny bomber jacket. (I CANT WAIT TO WEAR IT!!) It is so Paris CHIC~~ We were quick to befriend the sales women, who were simply “doing their job” by styling us in a Parisian manner… SO MUCH FUN! There were beautiful boutiques from children’s, mens, women’s, and skincare. Each store had an amazing color scheme on the outside on top of a fabulous window display. The cobblestone grounds, colorful storefronts, with the amazing architecture with gold embellishments made for a perfect view. **Sighs…** Why did I leave??

Up on the highest spot, behind Sacre Ceur was also an outdoor marketplace with paintings and real artists doing their thing… It was so neat! Tourist central though… AKA holding my cross body bag with the tightest grip LOL.

Versailles

What a quint little part of Paris. I guess my favorite part about exploring the massive city was to stumble upon the cool places.  We went searching for lunch after a gorgeous morning at the Palace of Versailles, and wound up on the cutest streets filled with the most gorgeous boutiques. The colors, prints, and silhouettes of the tops and bottoms were just to die for. The fashion was just bursting for spring and summer love. My favorite part here was being just enough out of tourist central and seeing the language barrier and have store owners running their boutique ironing and simply chatting to their customers. Oh yeah.. there is a lot of history behind Versailles, but I was too busy looking at the boutiques ;).

Bercy Village

Okay, maybe I’m a little biased because it was right outside my hotel…BUT this was so quint and cute! It reminded me of Quincy Market. There were some great shopping experiences and some little purchases made here, and I can’t neglect to chat about it. Although this definitely was not found in fashion central, or near the amazing shopping experiences, I had a great interaction with someone from a boutique, Bensimon, which holds a strong memory. The woman working was delighted I was checking the store out and all it had to offer. She was willing to help with assistance and inform me of all that she had.  We started talking in French, but she was excited to use her English!  Although a lot of my purchases in Bercy Village were glasses of wine, the shopping was obviously a great piece too!

All in All…

Either shopping, eating, drinking, or adventuring (I think thats all I did? LOL) I learned that there is so much more to life then just living. Having the the thrill of a new place and learning a new culture for a week had me on cloud nine. Paris gave me so much inspiration to not only express myself and be me, but I learned to dream, live, and explore without fear of the unknown. Even though the men had tighter pants than I did, and there were so many kisses and hugs exchanged with one another… I couldn’t have thought to end my senior year fashion experience a better way, even though my life as a fashion major is just beginning! Heres to the city of fashion & love… Paris, I LOVE YOU!

Stay Savvy!

SEE the WORLD this Spring Break

Paris READY!

Well, its that time of year… Spring Break 2017! Wheew!! Seems like we just began classes, and for my fellow seniors reading… Let’s slow it on down (am I right)!?  But, let’s not get ahead of ourselves, we still have a few SHORT months! So, let’s take the time to soak up all of the sun, booze, memories, and laughter this SB (spring break).  In order to do so, we need the right outfit, attitude, and obviously, a good SB adventure.  No matter where you’re headed this break, here are a few essentials that you will so appreciate having!

The 10 essentials Seamless & Savvy can’t travel without:

1. Comfy Street Sneakers

These are ~HOT ~ HOT ~ HOT~ right now… You can find them everywhere, and it seems to be that so many brands/ designers have their hands on them too. You really have all of the options from a slip on, to a sporty look, or casual plain sneaker.  Either way, if you’re planning on doing a lot of walking, go with a  brand you know so you can avoid the blisters and achy feet, because lets be real- there’s nothing worse than a blister. BUT- It’s great news to me knowing I’ll be walking a lot next week, but simultaneously being fashionable with my cute new sneaks! These are the ones I bought; I know you love them, don’t you! Other great brands for casual street sneakers include Steve Madden, Vans, Adidas, Converse, Sam Edelman, & Vince.

2. Head Phones

DUH. From airport chilling, to the attempted AM workouts before you cram in your fully planned itinerary, headphones are a can’t live without accessory.  Keeps you busy on the plane, or train, and you can use them for more than just music… hello Netflix! And of course, I’ll be listening to the new Ed Sheeran album!!

3. Polarized Sunglasses

Sunglasses are one thing, but polarized sunglasses are a whole new ball game LOL.  I personally have a love for all things nice, hence the fashion major, but one nice investment I love, is a good pair of sunglasses. Seriously, if you are still wearing cheap sunglasses you found for 10$ YOU WILL THANK ME. Polarized lenses have changed my life forever (thanks for the recommendation Dad).  I have tried different brands, and designers, but the one consistent thing about each one are the polarized pair.  Ray Bans are super trendy right now, and have always been such a staple item that never dies out.  So, if you’re in the market for some new sunglasses, I truly recommend a nice pair- especially those who have blue eyes, the sun stings!

4.  A *GOOD* Book

My favorite part of a vacation is to have “me” time, and not having a top priority to trump a good book.  I really do enjoy a fun and easy read, especially on the beach, or on the plane.  People watching definitely is a distraction for me, but if there is a good enough book in my hand, I’m invested.  So, if any readers have a suggestion, I’d love to hear! I have a new book ready to go for my Paris trip, but there is always next trip!!

5.  A Scarf

Light weight or heavy, thick or thin, wherever your trip takes you- this will save you!  On the plane, walking the streets, or sitting on the beach, a trendy bathing suit wrap, this simple accessory will do more than just cover your neck.  It warms you up, it covers you up, it can be used as a blanket on the plane, or just simply worn for the look.  I am taking a different turn on my scarf this SB and I am going to *attempt* the parisian look with a cute neck hie.  (I will keep you all updated on how/ if I pull it off LOL).

6. Hats

Baseball hats, fedoras, sun hats, straw hats, felt hats, berets… Whichever you may choose to bring, you’re not going to regret the space they took up in your suitcase.  They’re perfect for travel days, beach days, and days you just don’t want to waste doing your hair! Just like scarves, they are sometimes the most perfect accessory to wear out and about.

7. Lysol/ Hand Sanitizer

YES- Seamless & Savvy is so SUPER germ afraid it is a serious issue!! A “germaphobe” would be the correct term to identify with.  So, with that- always sanitize both on the way to your destination, as well as each destination you may end up.  Who wants to be sick on a getaway? Although, hand sanitizer peels off my gel manicure, I still can’t help but pump out that stuff, especially in the airport,  seriously that place is so dirty. So, not only should you be packing your travel pack of lysol and germ-x bring some over the counter meds JUST IN CASE!

8. Camera

An iPhone camera is perfectly fine, especially the iPhone 7, but it depends what you are looking for from these vacation photos.  A Polaroid camera is super fun & all the rage right now, so that would spice up your VK with only the ~coolest~ of pictures.  Then, there are what I consider the “real” cameras like a Nikon or Canon, which make the images come to life with their use of mega pixels and quality.  At the end of the day, the perfect Instagram post is the goal, LOL kidding… I am such a millennial.

9. Cross Body Bag

Well, this is definitely an essential for every weekend you go out shopping, or out with friends hitting the town.  So as for VK and SB- it is a must! It is seriously just so reliable as well as convenient.  Since we are foreign to where we may be visiting and considered a tourist cross body bags are essential.  They’re great to avoid thieves and pick pocket-ers, UGH! When traveling, I like to keep them small so I can keep them nice and close to me, and in the front of my body, instead of the casual side hold. I recently just got an amazing Tory Burch one for my birthday, (thnx Dixon’s) and honestly I’m SO obsessed.  Kate Spade has great ones, as well as Rebecca Minkoff to name a few!

10. A Watch

Believe it or not… These are timeless.  Really, though.  Sometimes your cell phone may be powered down, or on airplane mode.  If your cell phone is on airplane mode, it may not adjust to the new time zone you are in… Which makes you LATE!! So, take the advice and wear a watch and feel content and positive about meeting your dinner reservations LOL!

Last but certainly not least…

11. An Open Mind 

There is nothing like the feeling of exceeding expectations and standards, so go into your trip with an open mind.  Be ~open~ to trying new things, meeting new people, and stepping out of your comfort zone.  Be okay with letting go what you can’t control, and don’t waste precious time. After all, vacation time seems to go 10x faster than when you’re at the office….

Have fun, be safe, &…

Stay Savvy!

A Bright Spring… To Do Your Thing!

With this crazy weather here in New England (65 outside of Boston), I totally have been day dreaming of warm weather, pretty flowers and walks around the city. I thought to myself, why not look forward to spring fashion essentials that I can wear while wishing this weather would last forever?!  Now, here you are reading my research, findings, and own personal forecast on what is soon to come, and what’s in STORE this Spring… Literally!!

So, I took some time to search with my eyes, and feel with my hands what is going on in the world of women’s fashion… & with that I am so excited for it all that I disregarded my planned post and starting typing away, as I’m totally springing into new and improved fashion trends.  Although I’m not at London Fashion Week, or MAGIC trade Show… (Ugh Vegas I miss you) I used all of my tools to find out the best of the best of what’s actually going on and happening!! (TY social media)  Sit back, relax and think  –S P R I N G-

Embellishments 

The rule of thumb this spring is to simply embellish your outfit.  Wear something that makes a statement.  You can see these in the stores already, whats on trend: big pockets, funky buttons, tassels, layers, ruffles, voluminous tops, tied belts, embroidery, textures, lace, pom-poms, and chiffon.  Cute sneakers, off the shoulder wild tops, spunky flow dresses, fun workout pants, bright and metallic colors & you’re good to go this spring!!

Some outfit inspo is to come, once I return from Paris, but for now- I am sticking to what I know.

Living Colorfully–––––

So, when you think spring, you think color, right?  Sooo… It’s time to put away the black and get out there and make a bold statement!  The SP17 colors are so bright and motivating it’s hard not to!!  WWD (Women’s Wear Daily) has the pantone colors on swatches, and they’re just so tempting & FUN! If you’re thinking about living life, feeling bold and confident- go for the greens, yellows, blues, and yes pinks this spring!! There are definitely some soft colors as well as bright with each color above- so check out the link and get ready to revamp your closet!

All about the – ARMS-

It seems to be that no matter what the material may consist of, season, or brand, funky sleeves are the GO TO!  The sleeves trending right now are so sleek and embellished with style.  The perfect part about fun sleeves is they fit various different attires, whether you’re going to work, or to the bar- not to worry… You’re so covered on a fashionable level. A few of my favorite sleeves include: bell sleeves, exaggerated bell sleeved called cape sleeves , layered or tiered sleeves, balloon sleeves, and flounce sleeves.  HINT HINT: (Click on the name & you’re directed to what they are)

Prints on prints on PRINTS…

Ok… Seriously… From gingham to floral to tribal, you’re covered no matter where you choose to shop.  The bold colors really make the different garments stand out through various brights aesthetics.  And, if you’re feeling really adventurous, it is looking like it is in fact OKAY to wear multiple prints together, now would you look at that!!

Texture, ooh laa laa…

Nothing better than throwing on a soft sweatshirt when you get home from a long day… But in the fashion world it’s even more exciting and satisfying to see 3D texture come to life on a garment.  This spring so many pieces of clothing are more and more unique through their own use of texture.  There is just something about lace, embroidery, buckles, buttons, and tassels that add so much more to the average outfit.  These simply “pop” the standard top or bottom into something trendy and extravagant.  Spring 2017 fashion is so incredibly F U N, and there is no other way to describe it… But if I had to, it would be something like, I feel bad for you if you don’t express yourself through your wardrobe kind of thing (L-O-L).

Stay Savvy & think S P R I N G!

The U.S.A.- Home of the Free, Brave, and Fair Manufacturers

It’s not that we are self-absorbed (well, speak for yourself- LOL), it is just that we are all interested in our own style; wanting to wear what we feel most comfortable in to portray who we are.  Some of us are brand loyal, a.k.a we wear one brand and one brand only for certain items.  I would consider my family members and I brand loyal to Nike for most workout wear products and sneakers.  Other brands just have great customer service and products, which makes you purchase from them more often.  For me, that includes Nordstrom, j. crew, and obviously TJ Maxx & Marshalls!

My question to you is, do you ever look at what you are purchasing thoroughly? Do you check where your garments are made or do you only look at the quality, quantity, & price…Well, if your answer is yes- same here! It is actually interesting because I feel as though we, as Americans, aren’t educated enough on the importance of products that are manufactured behind the scenes in other countries.  On the other hand, in the United States we know how our factory workers are getting treated, as well as how much they (should be) getting paid. The comfort that comes with American brands is beyond our quick-thinking mind when we see a fast fashion shirt on sale that we just HAVE to have.

Well, let’s look into the benefits we can share with our country with American made products.  By purchasing these goods, we aren’t supporting child labor, sweatshops, and prison-like work environments.  We aren’t supporting long work days with barely any salary to show for it.  If we are buying from the US, that means we are supporting jobs, and with that comes job creation- more workers getting hired through more and more purchases, benefiting our very own country.  No matter how small or large the company, it makes a difference.

So, with that information I want to take time to discuss Under Armour, and the latest news to better their company through something new: The Arris Project.  The Arris Project is a line of clothing, including a type of sports bra and legging, made in the USA. Under Armour made 1,000 of each and they are currently available on their website (how exciting!!).  The company opened up a facility in Baltimore called the UA Lighthouse.  There, the production is done with the designers and production assistants together- how efficient and effective is that?  Under Armour was incredibly shocked to see their plan of 18-20 months for production of the 2,000 garments happen in just 3 months!

Kevin Haley, is the president of innovation for Under Armour and he stated that creating the facility in Baltimore allows for much more than they thought. The technology used for a “speedier garment production” with 3D body scanners allows for a real body to be measured. It simply “embraced local for local” manufacturing, as well as the creation of jobs.  With “about 97% of the clothing sold in the US being imported”- Under Armour took a unique stand to start a new trend.  (Halzack, 2017).

I am not here to shame companies on their lack of consideration for overseas production, as it is a complete norm in 2017; I am writing this for some hope in our future to see if companies work off of one another moving slowly back into the US.   The fashion industry is filled with waste, water, and dyes, and that alone is something many companies are working on- but that is another story for another time.

Seamless & Savvy wants to give a great amount of love to a handful of brands for their use of America / American made products.

-American Apparel-

-Alex and Ani-

-Hanky Panky-

-Lindsay Tia-

Made in Massachusetts!

-Loren Hope-

Made in Rhode Island!

-Michael Stars-

A clothing line made in the USA.

– Nanette Lepore –

Handcrafted in New York.

-New Balance –

A line of sneakers made in USA (search made in america).

-Under Armour-

Read about The Arris Project.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you walked away from this article wanting to make the world a better place.

Stay Savvy!

Halzack, S. (2017). Under Armour debuts ‘made in the U.S.’ gear — and tests what we think we know about manufacturing in America. The Washington Post. Retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/business/wp/2017/01/30/under-armour-debuts-made-in-the-u-s-gear-and-tests-what-we-think-we-know-about-manufacturing-in-america/?utm_term=.8e67a72fc183&wpisrc=nl_sb_smartbrief

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

Happy snow day, Massachusetts… Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

Living in Massachusetts for 22 years has allowed me to become a well-rounded individual who has a love/ hate relationship for 4 seasons. Well, definitely more of a love- because hey, SNOW YAY, SNOW DAY! One of the many reasons why I adore living up north is the fashion through all four seasons. Fashion is how I define myself and how I express who I am. That’s right, although I am wearing my North Face parka coat shoveling through todays storm… You can catch me in my Lilly dresses throughout the summer sipping on some Malibu Maggie’s @ The Summer Shanty on Bass River, Cape Cod. Have I ever mentioned that I never plan on leaving Massachusetts? #GOPATS … Clearly I am hitting a lot of major points here… Seasonal fashion, Tom Brady (World Champion), Boston, Cape Cod… I could go on and on.

ANYWAY… Let’s step into the snow. What are you wearing on your feet to keep them warm and dry? Better yet… Any comfy warm sweaters that are simultaneously cute and keeping you warm? Pictured above are my favorite versatile winter boots. I can’t deny that I’ve worn all of these in a snowstorm, but allow me to explain myself.

Tall Hunter Boots

Large & in charge… I feel like every time I step into these shiny bright boots I feel as though I should be walking the streets of London. Or, that I am Mrs. Claus… LOL! Either way, they are so fun and speak for themselves. They say, “ I love expressing myself, and no stormy weather can bring me down!” They actually DO weigh me down, though. They are the classic rain boots that are clunky and chunky. By the end of the day… I am totally ready to take these beauties off!! All in all… they’re a classic rain boot that is well known to get the job done, fashionably.

Short Hunter Boots

Super effective, less clunky… Just totally not as chic as the tall ones. They’re petite and cute, but yes boring in black. Easy to slip on, and with a warm sock, honestly you’re good to go. Hunter does offer these in many bright and exciting matte/ shiny colors, too… They’re truly a timeless treasure, although the tall boots are only $10 more! Don’t forget about their welly boot socks you can buy just for Hunters!!

Sperry Duck Boots

These are definitely up there on my list of favorite snowshoes. Not only do these cuties get the job done, they are unique and sleek. They’re not the average boring duck boot, they add some flair and fun into an outfit. The delicate detail of gold trim adds the perfect feminine touch to the army green body. They are lined with fleece on the inside that keeps your feet extra warm, without the bulk!

Ugg Boots

Before you start to laugh… YES I still rock the Uggs and I don’t care who knows it!! There is nothing better than a snuggly warm boot. Before you read anymore… I do take them off once I get to my destination where I need to be taken seriously… LOL. You can catch me on the cold weekends rocking my boots, because they make my cold feet happy. Although they don’t keep me dry, they work well for the day after the snowstorm, and so on. Tom Brady wears them, and he is the GOAT…

Coach Snow Boots

Okay, yes restrictive to certain snow day outfits, but certainly a timeless piece that will one day, (or is already) totally retro! These boots reach a little bit below my knee, and truly work wonders in a foot or more of snow. What better way to show off your furry, fun side by strutting these old beauties!!

j.crew Cheetah Chelsea Rain Boot

Obsessed!! These lightweight ankle boots are perfect for a light snowfall, or rainstorm. They seriously are incredibly comfortable and fashionable! I love a Chelsea boot because of the size and look. I bought these for both my mom and myself at an amazing price, and I would 100% recommend these especially for travel and walks to work.

 

… Are you wondering what I was wearing on my feet photographing through the blizzard? 1986 Bean Boots! That’s right… You heard it here first!! L.L. Bean  clearly has some serious quality in their products.  Thanks, Mom!

L.L. Bean 1986 Bean Boots

Stay Warm, Stay Dry, Stay Savvy!

22 Reasons to Sparkle

Julie Mollo Champagne Clutch

Well… Hi everyone, and welcome to Seamless & Savvy! I am so excited to have you following along with all of the adventures this wonderful life brings! As it is suddenly a day away from February… (WHAT?!) it is essential to set goals and lifestyle alterations.  Life seems to move so quick, so lets soak up every bit of sunshine, love, & happiness… Or everything we are thankful for, for that matter.

Today is a special day… Not only is it the grand appearance, that has been much anticipated … (started brainstorming November 2016)!! Today is my 22nd Birthday, and with that, here are 22 reasons to make this year the best yet. Cheers to 22 reasons to live each day, for the next 365 days to the fullest.

#1 Kindess is a strength, not a weakness.

#2 You deserve a good sleep.

#3 DOUBT … Just go for it, what do you have to lose?

#4 Be a better person.  Or for that matter, be the bigger person.

#5 Explore.  Take your vacation, or stay cation. Relax, & take time for yourself.

#6 Express yourself.  Wear that fur vest, girl!

#7 Live a little.  At only 22, you should spend that paycheck, don’t be afraid to buy yourself something nice.

#8 Treat yourself to your favorite coffee.. (Starbucks… You get me)

#9 Be inspired & inspire others.  Through kind words and actions.

#10 Don’t dress to impress… Dress for the day you want.

#11 Be the type of person you want to meet.

#12 Find a hobby you enjoy.  (@ Mom & Sara.. Rae Dunn mugs)

#13 Leave people better than you found them.

#14 Enjoy a lazy Sunday- better yet, spend it with family.

#15 Trust. Trust the timing of things that happen in your life. And also trust your gut.

#16 Dry Shampoo does go a long way…

#17 “Plant dreams. Pull Weeds. Live a Happy Life.” –Glamour Magazine

#18 Remember everyday is a fresh start.

#19 Find the beauty in the little things.

#20 No beauty shines brighter than a good heart.

#21 Never say never. (Especially in fashion… AKA the 90’s choker comeback).

#22 Passion & Persistance.

I hope you take these sparkling ways of living into consideration as you live day-to-day.

Stay Savvy- Cheers!