Trending: Celebrate Personal Style with Stylekick

Personal style is like falling in love. It's something so intimate and special to each of us, yet you also want to show it off to anyone and everyone. But when it comes to showing off your flared skirt or pair of mules, where can you find the right audience? Facebook and Instagram are powerful platforms; however, most of your followers are your extended family members and old high school friends who probably won't geek out over your new dainty watch. Starting a personal style blog is another option; however, you may not have a shutterbug friend to take street style photos of you at your beck and call. Luckily, we now have an alternative. Introducing Stylekick, the coolest way to celebrate personal style.

 



Think of Stylekick as a fashion-forward Instagram: you can post pictures, follow fellow trendsetters and like or comment their photos. Available to men and women, users have the power to swipe through their followers or peruse the app's thousands of style savants in a general pool of pictures. After a few swipes in StyleKick's database, don't be surprised to find yourself loving everything on your feed. The app's special alogorithim pays close attention to your feedback on each outfit and tailors your selection to looks that are similar to your previous likes. And thanks to one common interest, and the consistent monitoring of malicious comments, Stylekick offers a friendly and encouraging atmosphere for anyone with a passion for fashion.

 

"The creativity and breadth of representation of our users is what makes Stylekick unique," comments Natalie Gray and Karn Saroya, Stylekick's CMO and CEO, respectively. "The playing field for creators looking for distribution of their content is certainly more equitable on Stylekick than say Instagram--where if you don't have [thousands] of followers, you can quickly get drowned out."

 

Stylekick sprouts from a classic tale of fashion meets tech. Gray previously worked with Russell Simmon's fashion marketing group while Saroya got his start building body-scanners to help inform sizing decisions at MIT.

 

"When we first started working on Stylekick we were building body-scanners to help shoppers be better informed about sizing of online purchases," they said in a joint statement. "Eventually, we decided to move away from that, and started experimenting with products we could build to help shoppers ‘cut through the noise’ when it came to discovering the styles they would be most happy with. Our app tries to figure out which styles and items you’ll love best through your interactions on our products are the result of a lot of tinkering!"

 



 Yet Stylekick also solves another personal style dilmena: where to find that amazing fringed skirt, amongst other covetable pieces, you saw your favorite budding fashion in?  With an e-commerce platform, users are able to include shopable links to their outfit in their posts. But what if you wore your mom's flared jeans from the '70s in a post? Fashionistas (and fashionistos) can list alternate options that resemble their threads. If a style savant hasn't posted links to their ensemble, users can reach out to him or her directly.

Today marks a major victory for the Stylekick team for a few reasons.  Perhaps its not as obvious to the eye of the app-holder, but smarter and faster technology has seeped its way into Stylekick, which will learn your personal style quicker and more intimately. Additionally, the emergence of in-app notifications, which will alert you when your followers inquire about your posts, and the option to shop and compare items based on your taste makes Stylekick even more user-friendly.


 As one of the top fashion apps on the market, what's next for Stylekick?

"As a company we think that contextual shopping will win over grid-based e-commerce," say Gray and Saroya. "Any experience, whether it be video, editorial, our outfits in the context of other real people that gives a customer additional confidence in a potential purchase pushes forward the idea of 'contextual shopping' and deprecates traditional 'grid-based' shopping. We are incrementally testing broader lifestyle content (interior design, D.I.Y., beauty, home, etc.) with the view that context matters, and are seeing great results as an early indication."

 

Stylekick, available for free on Apple and Android App Stores.

xx

What I Wore:Chic in Chicago

I love to travel. Okay, perhaps I don't love the plane rides so much (traveling with me is very much like this), but I love exploring new places. Last weekend, I spent a super glamourous weekend in Chicago. From sunbathing next to Lake Michigan to enjoying the sights from the Hancock building, I had the best time! Domestic or international, I always take the city into consideration when I'm packing my vacation ensembles. While I may whip out all my standout accessories for Paris,  Chicago was all about fuss-free threads: clean silhouettes in muted colors, to be exact. Check out some of my favorite looks from my ultra-chic weekend.

Dress: TJ Maxx. Flatforms: Calvin Klein. Purse: Rebecca Minkoff. Necklace: Vintage.

Dress: Topshop. Purse: Rebecca Minkoff. Sandals: Madewell. Sunglasses: Prada. Bracelets: Gems, Kate Spade. 

Cover up: Ralph Lauren. Swimsuit: Marc Jacobs. Sandals: Havianas. Sunglasses: Prada.

Want to score a Chicago-approved ensemble of your own? Here's how!

Alice + Olivia romper / Nude shoes, $215 / Precis Petite gold purse, $77 / Sterling silver jewellery

J.Crew j crew dress, $145 / ASOS wide shoes, $94 / Marc by Marc Jacobs leather purse / Karen Walker tortoiseshell glasses

Doublju button down shirt / Lisa Marie Fernandez bandeau bikini / Old Navy rhinestone flip flops / Shopping bag, $94 / Yves Saint Laurent round tortoiseshell sunglasses / Kiehl's sun care / Kassatex cabana stripe beach towel


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What I Wore: Office Friendly

On certain days, there's nothing more challenging than picking out a head-turnin', thought provokin' ensemble. Anyone can put on a pair of pants and top, but most trendsetters do not want to be compared to everyone else. So we become sartorial savages: we feverishly re-pin, create look boards by  tearing out pages from our favorite glossies and watch just about every retro film we can get our hands on. And then one day, usually when you least expect it, you put together an outfit that you are genuinely proud of. 

"Hooray," you silently cheer to yourself, "Heads are turning! Thoughts are being provoked! Where is Bill Cunningham to photograph my latest success?" 

Alas, the fame photographer is nowhere in sight (not to mention he may not be as smitten with your outfit as you may be, but let's just ignore that tiny detail because you look awesome). Consequently, you have to resort to the next best thing: forcing someone to take a picture of you. Self-centered? Of course. However, it's important to document your favorite ensembles-- it keeps the motivation to create that stellar ensemble alive. 

Top: Topshop. Necklace: Zara. Skirt: Tibi. Flatforms: Calvin Klein.

A few days ago, I sported this very eclectic look to the office. With the help of my amazing friend Erica, I was able to take some pictures.  Honestly, the silhouette is nothing new. A button-up and a miniskirt? Groundbreaking. However, I love this outfit because the details join forces and create something that feels innovative: the two-toned flatform, the skirt's fierce print and the scarce pearls that blend into the gold collared necklace, just to name a few. Even though it's important to dress professionally at work, I think it's imperative to never sacrifice your style. Whether you add funky accessories or opt for a jacket with a subtle peplum, feeling good in what your wear to your job will instantly turn you into a power woman.

Okay... I don't have the science to back that up just yet, but stay tuned!

xx

The 2012 American Music Awards

By now, you should know that I simply can't resist a red carpet review. Though time has been a little tight lately, there is no way I can ignore what happened at the American Music Awards on Sunday. From home-run ensembles to horrific getups, Justin Bieber's rampant winning streak and Taylor Swift's questionable musical genre shift were the last things on my mind. Behold: my best and worst dressed lists.

The Worst.

Cyndi Lauper: I know that girls just want to have fun; however, this is just terrible. Though Lauper is notorious for her unapologetic style, she's just too old to be dressing like this. Please put on some normal pants and take off that plaid throw -- you just look silly. (Photo)

PSY:  While I'm a sucker for "Gangham Style," I truly loathe this ensemble. The shimmery pants, alien sunnies, untied bow tie and awkward jacket are just too much to handle. No more, PSY, no more.(Photo)

Hayden Panettiere in Armani: I'm all for a metallic mini, but there's something very primitive about this pick. Thirteen-year-old me would love this dress, which is ultimately the issue. Not only does the frock beg to be worn to a Bar Mitzvah, the rest of the styling is quite basic as well. Although I am mildly concerned with the Nashville star's tiny frame, I just want her to sartorially grow up. (Photo)

Christina Aguilera in Pamela Roland: The songstress has never been one to watch on the red carpet; however, there's something about the dress' ombre effect that I truly hate. Though the silhouette complements the star's curvy shape, the slit is tasteless and the hair is too modern for this ensemble. Maybe next time, X-Tina.(Photo)

Phoebe Price: This ensemble is so bad, I'm personally offended. Not only is this dress way too sparkly, I'm seriously questioning her accessory choice. From the headpiece to the oversized earrings, this ensemble is undeniably trashy. Can someone ban her from all red carpets? (Photo)

 Brad Goreski: Oh no, say it ain't so! This ensemble is absolutely dreadful. I'm all for taking fashion risks; however, this is trashy. Are we at a cocktail event or a rodeo? I'm confused, and a little nauseous after looking at this ensemble. Please, make it stop! (Photo)

Carly Rae Jepsen in Gomez Garcia: Though I am shamelessly addicted to her poppy jams, this look has to go. While I'm so smitten with the relaxed updo, I loathe this ensemble. A halter and an excess amount of sparkle? When did we teleport back to 2003? Anyone?  Miss Jepsen, please stop pretending that you're a teeny-bopper: we all know that you're much older than you appear. (Photo)

The Best.

 Elisha Cuthbert in Georges Chakra: Talk about Golden Girl! I love how the metallic hue spices up the otherwise boring silhouette. For a sophisticated take, Cuthbert adds dangling earrings and a tight updo. Simplistic, chic and all-around gorgeous. (Photo)

Kerry Washington in Stella McCartney: Without a doubt, this pick is definitely a fashion favorite. While mainstream media may not enjoy this look, every style snob goes ga-ga for anything Stella McCartney. I love the contrast between her dark complexion and her lively ensemble. Major fashion kudos go to Miss Washington.  (Photo)

Jennifer Morrison in Abed Mahfouz: Though this ensemble may be a little too sophisticated for the American Music Awards, I'm so smitten. The high slit, deep v-neck and extravagant sleeves add some sex appeal to the silhouette. Morrison's relaxed updo loosens up the whole look. Brava! (Photo)

Gennifer Goodwin in Oscar de la Renta: As always, Goodwin sports a dress that is so obscure and fashion forward, style groupies instantly have a fash-gasm. The pale pink hue creates a striking contrast against the actress' light skin and dark locks. Between the thought-provoking silhouette and the glitzy details, this dress is sartorial heaven.  I love how the Once Upon a Time star pairs the de la Renta piece with small, but sparkly, accessories. (Photo)

 Gwen Stefani in Balmain: Though some of you may criticize the blazer's unflattering silhouette, I think this ensemble is genius. Stefani brilliantly combines her punk-rocker past with her sophisticated present. The blazer's eye-popping details are perfectly juxtaposed by that revealing v-neck!  Sporting her iconic red lip, the No Doubt front woman breaks her typical beauty regime with volume-infused hair. (Photo)

Zendaya in Alice+ Olivia: Disney Channel star or not, this look is absolutely supreme. The red carpet newcomer committed to a retro look with a 1950's do and that adorable A+O dress. For a contemporary twist, she adds an electric pink pout. Amazing. (Photo)

The Nicki.

Well I can't say I'm particularly happy about this.  First  of all, I'd love to have a little chat with Minaj's stylist. And by "have a little chat," I really mean yell at said stylist. Julie Bowen and Paula Patton rocked this Monique Lhuillier number. This is unacceptable. That being said, I kind of love this dress on Minaj. The in-your-face hue complements her zany personal style (as well as her lipstick, hair, jewels... basically everything that is Minaj). Agree or disagree, you have to admit that she looks better than she usually does.(Photo)

What looks are on your best (and worst) dressed lists? I'm dying to know! 

xx

Shopping Alert: Madison Maxey's Trunk Show

I don't just like blazers, I adore them. In my opinion, the sacred piece can do wonders for your ensemble. While most style mavens think of a blazer as a finishing touch to an already polished outfit, I can assure you that the treasured item has a lot more mileage. My tweed boyfriend blazer, which I will thank my mother for coercing me into buying it, always supplies an urban twist. But the versatility doesn't stop there: blazers can also exude fearless glamour.

This week, I had the pleasure of meeting Madison Maxey, a designer who is on her way to becoming "The Blazer Queen." Perhaps I should copyright that before more people catch on, yes? With bold collars and a bevy of different fabrics to choose from, Maxey gives you the power to design your dream blazer. 

I know, how could it get any better? 

This Sunday, Madison Maxey is hosting a trunk show that's sure to make you drool. Whether you're starting your holiday shopping early or planning to snag seven blazers for yourself, you must go.

Champagne, exclusive collar fabrics and possibly a free blazer -- how can you resist?

Since I'm still in Boston, I expect all my stylish New Yorkers to attend, shop until they drop and report back!

xx

The Candian Tux

It's no secret that I've been obsessed with the denim-on-denim trend lately. Just yesterday, I paired this trend with a gingham shirt to create what I like to call, "Canadian Farmer." Though this trend definitely has mixed reactions among the chic elite, I'm here to give you my style rules for sporting a rampant array of denim.

1. Be fearless:. Seriously. This trend is simply not for you if you don't like to stand out. Sure, some people give you weird looks; however, I doubt they're as cool  as you.
2. Mix up your denim colors: From colored jeans to your trusty black skinnies, there are so many different types of denim. The key to rocking this trend numerous times is  to mix a bevy of different pieces together. You can pair your jean jacket and black skinnies together one day and your chambray and orange skinnies the next. It's the same trend, but two completely different looks.
3. Break up monochromatic denim with a different fabric: As much as I love the trend, you should never pay homage to Britney and Justin's major denim faux pas. But what are you supposed to do if you find yourself wearing the same colored denim in one ensemble? Cry yourself to sleep? Absolutely not! Instead, add a soft sweater underneath your jean top. Crisis averted, ladies and gent.
4. Invest in thought-provoking silhouettes: If your'e really smitten with this trend, expand your closet! Pick up a denim playsuit or a denim dress with amazing cutouts (see below, please). 
5. Finish your ensemble with stellar accessories: As with any outfit, your denim-on-denim ensemble needs some statement pieces. Incorporating spikes and skull accessories is the perfect way to toughen up your outfit. If you don't want to add a stack of bracelets or an awesome scarf, please add a colorful lip. Otherwise, you won't look stylish-- you'll just look confused.

The Candian Tux by kmulvey featuring marc jacobs

Tshirt dress, $40 / Marc by Marc Jacobs marc jacob / Madewell / Denim coat / dVb Victoria Beckham skinny leg jeans, $310 / High waisted shorts / Dieppa Restrepo wood heels / RVCA denim bag / Vintage jewelry / C. Wonder cuff bangle bracelet / Cuff bangle bracelet / Alexander McQueen

xx

A Little Bit Rock-n-Roll

Though I love my florals, lace, and girly apparel in general, I'm such a sucker for a rocker-inspired ensemble. Maybe it was because I was seeing Fun later that night (yes, they're the best band ever), but I was compelled to unleash my inner Joan Jett.

From the spray-paint effect to the black and beige color combination, this tank is versatile and edgy.

Although I rarely don silver jewelry, do you really think I could say no to this statement bracelet? It gives the perfect dose of hardcore edge. Whenever I wear this bracelet, I feel like a powerful woman- kind of like Wonder Woman.

In true Trendologist fashion, no outfit is complete without a fun pattern. These leopard loafers are super versatile, comfortable, and undeniably fierce. 

FYI: I sported a bright pink shoulder bag to the concert. Sine the leopard loafers and bag had enough distance from each other, it gave this look a quirky dose of personal style. 

Want to copy this trend? Well, my lovely readers, vintage-inspired tanks and jeans are officially your new BFFs.

Once again, these fantastic pictures were taken by none other than Christine Chen. 

Did I mention that Fun was incredible? This bad boy was taken by yours truly.

xx

Allow Me to Slip into Something More Comfortable

Can you believe that spring is finally here? It feels like just yesterday I was bundling up in a plethora of layers. There are so many awesome trends to try this season, so expect a lot of fashion photo shoots starring yours truly. A couple weeks ago, my mother and I dominated Newbury Street in Boston. As always, Urban Outfitters was the first stop. I snagged a bunch of pieces that I cannot wait to wear, including the pieces from the shoot. I'm trying something new this sunny season. Previously, spring always meant "funky bohemian." This time, I'm all about stunning silhouettes and pops of color. Since I'm inevitably urban, I decided to start this season off with a effortless,black dress.

I'm all about the asymmetrical hemline lately. The mullet train can be either dressed up or down. For this shoot, I took a mid-range approach by rocking super casual flat-forms.

Say what you will, but I'm obsessed with flat-forms. In my mind, these bad boys are the happy medium: the height and forwardness of heels and the comfort of flats. The floral print gives this ensemble that oh-so necessary burst of color. J'adore.

Aren't these sunnies absolutely everything? My mom got them for me as an Easter present and I've been head-over-heels in love with them ever since. The mod roundness works perfectly with the whimsy sunglass arms.

I love the slinkiness of this dress. It's so comfy and gives off a lingerie feeling without being too risque. 

Who doesn't love stacking bracelets during the summer. I officially am double stacking- let's see how high I can go this summer! 

This ensemble is simple enough that it can be recreated in so many ways. Not feeling the mullet hem? Rocking a maxi dress has a similar, glamorous effect. Not a dress kind of girl? Try an asymmetrical skirt! For an effortless look, nix the necklace and pile those bracelets and rings! As for the flat-forms, expect a flat-form post in the very near future.

All photo credit goes to Christine Chen. Check out her portfolio because she's such a talented graphic designer and photographer.

xx

MADGAME.

Yesterday was a (potentially) significant day for me. While I'll spare the details, because they are both lame and I've bored my friends enough,  I was really feeling a laid back and fabulous outfit. As a result, I came up with a really awesome styling DO. Ready for it?

STYLE DO: Crop Tops and Maxi Skirts.

Sometimes,
my blog pictures
make me feel
like the Phantom.
Of the Opera.
Obviously.

I fell in love with maxi skirts this summer and recently got a crop top when shopping with one of my bosses, did I mention I have the best internship ever?  The juxtaposing proportions of this look are awesome and I think are quite sultry. Anyways, when I got home from my venture, mommy dearest really wanted to take some pictures because she loved the outfit. 

This look is so laid back that it doesn't require many accessories. Key word: many. I'm not planning to start a "jewel-free" campaign anytime soon, but this is what I'll say for accessorizing this trend: one awesome statement piece. Whether it's a intricate necklace, seen in my look, or a bright lip, stick to only one incredible piece. Too many and you'll look like an Olsen twin gone wrong ( I love the Olsens, hence the "gone wrong").

What makes me love this outfit is how I played with textures, not color. While this trend would look outstanding with some good 'ol color blocking, I really like to wear black. The ruffles on my skirt makes this an ant-minimalism piece. And you know me, I'm always looking to be "anti-minimalism." What I like most about this color scheme is that this look can easily be worn in the fall. Or Indian Summer. Whatever floats your boat.

While maxis can be jazzed up, I truly think that crop tops are a celebration of youth. I mean, do you see the carpool mothers wearing crop tops? If so, they should be kicked out of the carpool. If you're a young college student, like yours truly, I say embrace it!  Contrary to Irene Cara's belief, you're not gonna live forever. Also, it's the perfect way to say adios to summer!  I understand why people may not be comfortable with the crop top/ maxi skirt combination, but there are variations! Let's be creative, shall we?

1) Crop Top with high waisted jean shorts.

2) Crop Top with body con skirt.

3) Fitted Maxi Skirt with a loose top.

4) Loose Maxi Skirt with a fitted top

If you cant guess by now, wearing a crop top and maxi skirt, whether you're rocking these trends at the same time or not, is about....PROPORTIONS! The fittings for the top or bottom should contradict the other. Having two tight or two loose things will make you feel like Kelly from 90210.

xx

Sexual? I love this crop because it doesn't force skin on unwilling onlookers.

On my posing stump, naturally.

Especially with this trend, I encourage you to mix and match, colors, prints, and textures.

On a more serious note, I hope that all of the East Coasters are taking proper precautions for Hurricane Irene: she's a little meanie, isn't she?

xx

Style-Spiration: Olivia Palermo

I don't necessarily think of myself as a cultural elitist, but I can safely say that I don't follow the popular masses: I have never watched an episode of "Jersey Shore", hate Silly Bandz (as many know), and never form...sprung. But, there are some things that I do succumb to. A perfect example: "The City" is currently recorded on my TiVo. I love how it's main central theme is fashion. So it's no surprise that girls with amazing personal style are the stars of the city. My personal favorite? Olivia Palermo. Yes, she is the resident mean girl on the show, but I like her because of her style. She is very trendy and knows how to mix- and-match amazing pieces. Her knowledge and intimacy with designers alone is absolutely inspirational. I love how she's not afraid to mix and match textures to make them look absolutely chic. She tends to wear a lot of black, but makes them look fashion forward and not boring. In my mind, she's a type A fashionista in her style tips, but she's unique. I think it's pretty understandable that I would make her my first "style-spiration" for my up and coming wardrobe renewal. So....congrats!

xx

Why I Hate American Apparel.

In terms of clothing, I am not a "normal" teen. I'm not trying to say that I am super unique and everyone should want to be me, but there is something I refuse to do: frequently shop at American Apparel. I will admit, it is a good place for costume clothes, but besides that? I hate it. I hate it's strive to be "all hipster and cool" because everyone shops there. So what's so cool and unique about something everyone does? And I hate their advertisements: they do not show off he synthetic and kind of gross clothing, but essentially naked people. I don't like it. And based on a recent article I read, I hate it even more. Apparently, the big shots at American Apparel find it necessary to base their employment off of people's looks. This article taps into wanting pretty people and whenever I go in there, for five minutes, I never see people who are not conventionally beautiful. I hate that: I genuinely believe everyone is beautiful in their own way. And they are never dressed "normally", but always in American Apparel metallics and other crazy wear. This is disgusting. Of course, as aspiring fashionistas, we'd love it if everyone was their fiercest always. But the world isn't perfect. Some people lack an ideal personal style but they have a good work ethic. The Devil Wears Prada?! COME ON, NOW! News flash, American Apparel, fashion doesn't have to be shallow. It can be based on good work ethic...just saying.

xx