MD Fashion

Wrap Bracelets That Make A Statement: Hole In Her Stocking

With spring in full bloom and summer ahead, it felt like the perfect time to add some more color to my accessory drawer. As usual, I turned to Etsy, my go-to for something nice with a handmade touch, where I found a wonderful shop called Hole in Her Stocking.

It was hard to choose a single bracelet from all the great pieces in the shop, but remembering that they look like more than just one, I settled on a blue, turquoise, purple, and silver wrap. Intrigued with the shop and how their beautiful color schemes and styles came to be, I reached out to the owner, Jennifer, for some more information.

The Hole in Her Stocking shop was started several years ago as a hobby, with Jennifer taking time off here and there. Over the last year, though, she invested herself more seriously in the shop and created for herself a successful brand. Jennifer is a one woman team from Long Island, crafting each of her colorful pieces on her own, recruiting family only for modeling.

It turns out talent does run in the family, being that Jennifer first gained an interest in jewelry making growing up. She shared with me that her mother and grandmother were very crafty women and often made their own jewelry. Early in her life, Jennifer followed their lead and started creating her own pieces. Her natural taste in style has always been that bohemian, hippie style, so it is only natural that Hole in Her Stocking oozes fun and happy vibes.

We all love getting a great product in great packaging, and that element was certainly not overlooked by Jennifer. Several months ago she started experimenting with custom stamped sacks, and naturally the response was overwhelming. While looking to give her customers something unique, she ended up creating a keepsake bag, perfect for storage and travel, that comes with every bracelet.

The start of Jennifer’s interest in jewelry making, and the influences behind Hole in Her Stocking make for a great story behind the shop, but obviously the products speak louder than any words can. Let me start by saying, I was extremely excited to get the mail to catch my first glimpse of the custom stamped sack and multi-color wrap bracelet.

The sack, complete with my name and an arrow design to complement, has a light burlap texture and a drawstring on top. The bracelet fits securely in the bag, with the drawstring pulling to a tight close. Durability is key with any packaging, and the sack is cute and personalized means of protection from everyday messes. I definitely recommend keeping the bag, whether you choose to store your bracelet in it or just use it for travel.

I opened the little sack to unveil what would become my go-to color pop, and pulled out the slinky like bracelet. With nine layers of beads, my bracelet wraps from larger beads on the bottom to slightly smaller beads on the top. It starts with a line of light turquoise beads that sit securely against the loop ending on the bracelet. From there, it wraps to light blue, to silver rectangular blocks, to an almost wine colored purple. While I wouldn’t usually like blue and purple together, the accent of the silver blocks between the two layers adds a together but separate element to the bracelet, which is what ultimately gives the image of being multiple pieces. From the wine-like purple beads, it moves up to slightly translucent purple beads, and then to another layer of silver. The silver line here are faceted circular beads, yet again creating the image of a separate bracelet. My wrap finishes off with a layer of turquoise, followed by what I see as almost magenta, and ended with a line of dark royal blue that ultimately completes the bracelet.

The beads used on the bracelet are good quality, leaving no worry for sudden breakage. However, they do scratch easily, so it is vital to watch where you reach with the bracelet on. My initial concern with such a layered bracelet being a wrap would be that it wouldn’t fit my wrist properly; that either it would be too structured or bend very easily. The first time wearing the bracelet it did feel a bit stiff, resting on my wrist with room to spare between the bracelet and my arm in some places. But after the first couple wears, it almost came to fit my arm better, and now sits very comfortably every time I put it on- which is almost everyday.

The colors in the bracelets are incredibly bright and will stand out no matter what you wear, which is my favorite part. My personal favorite way to style the bracelet is with an all black outfit, letting the bracelet do the talking. On all black, the colors pop so much on their own that it makes me feel as though I need no other accessories. Another great style idea is to wear something that picks up one of the colors in the bracelet. For mine, I wore it with black flats, black leggings, and a flowy turquoise shirt. With the turquoise shirt and accents in the bracelet, the look was very fun, bright, and put together. I’ve also gone on to wear the bracelet with white, blue, and pink shirts along with a black cardigan, and the bracelet was, again, the perfect accent.

To say the least, I adore my bracelet from Hole in Her Stocking. The stacked look without the effort, the comfortable fit, and the bright colors to pop are just a few of the best qualities. There is near to nothing one of these bracelets wouldn’t look good with, and with most of them being under $30, there is no reason not to get one, or a million, of them for yourself. Mine in particular is only $17.50! So, do your wardrobe a favor and style it with the accessories it deserves.

Love what you see in the shop? The first ever lookbook is in progress, giving us all something to look forward to. And don’t forget follow @holeinherstocking on Instagram, where you can see all the new styles as they are listed and all the existing ones in all their boho glory.

Review: GiGi New York Embossed Python Leather Crossbody & Wallet

by Danielle Flocco

The brand best known for its luxurious python leather products, GiGi New York, offers the finest combination of classic and edgy style that one will find in bags and their accompanying accessories. The visible pattern and texture if the python skin with the durability of the highest quality leather are only the most obvious attributes of their products that one sees at a first glance. Actually use their products, and a whole different world of distinction and beauty is opened up to you.

The day my GiGi New York items came in the mail, it was easily the most exciting snail mail I’ve gotten in 2015. Packaged in a durable black box with their logo stamped in gold foil, were my new go-to items. First, I opened the embossed python leather crossbody bag, and then the embossed python leather phone wallet to match. Each item was individually packaged in protective plastic bagging, with leather cleaning towels, complete with the GiGi logo, enclosed.

From the first finger I laid on the python leather, I knew I was touching one the best quality items one could own. GiGi New York sources their leathers from all parts of the world, utilizing every region’s specialties, including the worldwide leaders in fashion tanning, Italy and France. Most of the products are made in the United States, guaranteeing the greatest attention to detail in the creation of every item.

Excited to use my new bag and wallet, I quickly began a top to
bottom inspection of the products. The bag is 10 inches wide and 8 inches tall with a detachable adjustable strap, offering up to a 27 inch drop from shoulder to bag. It has a zip top closure, and a front pocket that zips closed, as well. On the front of the bag there is a simple logo plate attached at the top, in the center of where the widest section of the python leather runs. Inside the bag is a soft material, stamped with the GiGi logo, giving a delicate look to the durable interior of the bag.

The bag is both chic and practical, with a slick appearance yet reasonable size for day to day use. It has proven to perfect for day trips when you don’t want to bring much with you, as well as for regular use like work and family visits. With spring in the works and summer around the corner, the crossbody is ideal for festivals and outings in the nice weather. Because of its size, it will hold what you need for the day without weighing down your arm during the time you’re trying to enjoy yourself.

The phone wallet is 7 inches wide and 4 inches tall, fitting perfectly inside the crossbody bag. The wallet also features the logo plate in the widest section of the leather, creating a flawlessly balanced look between the embossed leather and the metal add-ons. There are two spaces for cash, a zip closure back pocket for change, six credit card slots, and a slot to hold a variety of phone types- Apple and Android alike.

The wallet is easily the most versatile item I’ve owned. It fits great in any regular size bag, it tucks away just right in the crossbody, and it’s even excellent just on its own. The slot for the phone is what has me cheering the most. I didn’t want to get tangled in bag straps while maneuvering groceries, so I opted for a wallet only excursion with my phone securely tucked away inside of it. Not to mention, the wallet zip on the top and only one side, so when I opened it to pay, my belongings were not out in the open.

After being introduced to GiGi New York and experiencing their products first hand, there isn’t another brand I’d go to for this type of unmatched quality. Well, except for their parent company, Graphic Image.

All GiGi products come with the option for personalization of up to three letters, which can add the finishing touch to a gift for yourself or a loved one. So, head over to their site now to check out their variety of top quality items, and be sure to sign up for their e-mail list to receive 10% off your next purchase!

Fashion Review: Yosi Samra Foldable Flats

by Danielle Flocco

My YS Samantha Cap Toe foldable flats in "smoke black" — My YS Samantha Cap Toe foldable flats in “smoke black”.

After a long search for a new pair of flats for the spring, I came across the brand Yosi Samra. The name caught my attention, as did their claim of “fashionable yet comfortable”, as well as incredibly convenient, flats. Yosi Samra is a second generation footwear designer, bringing fashion, comfort, and convenience into his product lines like no other brand has before. His site has a wide range of styles and colors for foldable flats, along with a variety of other shoes for both women and kids. Roughly two hours after finding the website, and after looking at every shoe at least three times over, I purchased a pair of Samantha Cap Toe foldable flats in “smoke black”.

Flats, and the small shoe box. — Flats, the small shoe box.

First of all, shipping was incredibly fast. I selected basic ground shipping, and they were at my front door the very next day. Granted, I do relatively close to Manhattan, where they ship from, though next day delivery was far from expected. The packaging is likely the smallest shoe box one will ever receive since the flats come folded up.

Though the price of the shoes, $77 for the ones I chose, reflected a better quality than the average flats, I was not expecting the high level of quality they really are. Not only do they fold without ruining the material or foot bed of the shoe, but the sole is similar to that of a sneaker. It’s the comfort of a pair of Keds with the style of designer flats- what more could a girl ask for?!

YS logo on the heels.

The snake skin-like pattern is beautifully detailed, with different shades of grays and blacks throughout, quilted with stitching. The leather upper cap toe is very durable, despite the sides of the shoe being rather flexible and soft. Inside is a soft foot bed, complemented by sneaker like soles. Also, one of my favorite details, the top edge of the flat is lined with an elastic material, guaranteeing a comfortable fit that will not slide off your foot. And, on the back of the heels are metal YS logos, adding a small and chic designer detail to the shoes.

The shoes come packaged in their tiny box inside a dust bag. The dust bag is great for storage, as well as for when toting the shoes with you. Yes, they absolutely make great everyday flats. My feet happily survived a week straight in my Yosi Samra flats, including a day of heavy walking in the city. But, they are also perfect for “back up shoes” on nights you’ll be wearing heels. Undesirable situations, like going barefoot at a wedding or limping during an event, can be avoided with a practical pair of flats to come to the rescue when your feet need it most.

With a ready to shop website, and over 100 boutiques across the United States, there is absolutely no excuse to not do your feet the favor of picking up a pair.

The shoes only come in whole sizes, and Samra is right when he advises half sizes to order the next size up. For reference, I am usually a loose 7.5 and I ordered a size 8. They fit perfectly with a little room, but nothing to worry thanks to the elastic edging.

And please, as per the care instructions, take care of your YS shoes by keeping them out of the rain and away from oils, greases, and lotions.

Feminism in Fashion- Could It Be?

by Danielle Flocco

Feminism has been buried in fashion for as long as we can remember seeing 6′, size 0 women. But is it finding it’s way into the industry (finally)? The general consensus seems to believe it is- and who isn’t happy about this! Fashion used to be only for the tall, thin, and beautiful women with unhealthy and harmful lifestyles. However, all races, sizes, and ages are being brought into the standard for beauty now.

A less than subtle hint to the change in beauty standards was Aerie’s un-retouched ad campaign. Their campaign put normal women’s bodies in the spotlight, showing that not even models are as “perfect” as they Photoshop them to be. Aerie’s store windows display their stunning, yet human, women looking great in lingerie just the way they are. Before this, when was the last time you were in the mall and saw an advertisement with a model who has a scar? You haven’t, or at least you thought you haven’t. Photoshop is so easy to use and has endless possibilities, and at times it almost seems like they photograph one woman and create another. Plenty of the models have scars, birthmarks, or stretchmarks- but they are nearly always erased in Photoshop. So, when was the last time you actually met a person with an absolutely impeccable body? Every person is different in a million unique ways, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Thankfully you can see the real people in some ads, and women are finally being shown it’s great to love your body, just the way it is.

Aerie wasn’t the only brand to protest against beauty standards. American Apparel showed the world that aging is okay, and “older” is not synonymous with “ugly”. The brand posted their lingerie ad titled “Sexy has no expiration date.”, featuring a beautiful 62 year old woman. Vogue had reported that the model, Jacky O’Shaughnessy, was a perfect fit because of her natural elegance. While audience opinions ranged from disgusted to thrilled, the overall conclusion was that beauty has no age limit.

Advertisements are not where feminism ends in fashion, either. Last fall on the runway, Rick Owens shocked nearly everyone at Paris Fashion Week. He had 40 black, muscular women come stomping and dancing onto the runway in basketball style outfits. This was a huge change from the stereotypical white woman, floating down the catwalk in a delicate chiffon gown. Owens’ statement showed the world that there are many more desirable forms of femininity than that 6′, size 0. And along with diversity in femininity comes choices.

Women’s fashion is also evolving to focus on dressing the way you want to be viewed, rather than trying to get every man’s attention. Whether you want to look classy, intelligent, or casual there are tons of brands and styles out there waiting for you. And when you dress for yourself, you will attract the people you want to be around- rather than walking around everywhere like a sex bomb because you’re “supposed to” and getting all the wrong attention. Women are becoming less and less of “sex objects” as feminism is emerging in fashion, supported by the #1 selling item in women’s dresses being the maxi dress. The maxi dress cover the entire body, except the arms in short sleeve varieties. Beauty is not about how much skin you show or how sexy you can look anymore, but about looking more elegant and simple than before.

Not to mention that the world is not all about women. Dressing to attract every man you see doesn’t make much sense in this day and age, considering homosexuals are more comfortable than ever to reveal their sexuality. Not every man is interested in women, regardless of how they dress, and not every woman is interested in men either. Like I said before, focusing on dressing the way you want to be viewed as a person is respectable now, and attracts more of the people you wish to have around you.

Luckily healthy, human standards making their way into the industry will teach kids in a positive way, and help create a better future for them. Surrounded by real people, kids will aspire to be greater things than “tall, thin, and beautiful”. And hopefully this means the next generations will grow up with better self esteem than and wish to be nothing but the best they can be as their own unique self.

Sunglasses- Needed All Year Round

by Danielle Flocco

After a few long days outside these past few weeks, I realized that cold weather and sunglasses are not mutually exclusive. The sun has been very bright for the time it is out, and starting March 9th it will be out to enjoy even longer. That being said, snow on the ground or not, it is important to protect your eyes. And honestly, squinting is not nearly as attractive as adding an accessory.

This week I was lucky enough to have received a pair of Axiis Titanium Eyewear, courtesy of Runway magazine. My eyes feel better already and I look great. The best way to describe these glasses would be industrial meets vintage. Pictured below, they come in a durable metal case, so they definitely won’t break in the bottom of your purse. They feature oval titanium vintage style frames in a yellow-ish hue, accented by silver metal industrial styled bars. More styles are available at Axiis.us.

Let’s say you dig vintage everything, but aren’t quite there with the industrial elements. GiantVintage.com has everything you are looking for. They have vintage and retro glasses ranging from 70’s style to 90’s style, and everything else you could imagine. Aviators of all styles and big glasses in all different shapes and colors are rarely more than $20 on this site, so you don’t have to chose just one. Pictured below is a small variety of their sunglasses.

While vintage accessories are extremely popular, not everyone loves it. So if you aren’t a vintage lover, there are plenty of fashionable sunglasses for you, too. 6pm.com offers a variety of designer sunglasses at wholesale prices. This site offers an array of glasses of all shapes and sizes from designers like Alexander McQueen, Ray Ban, Michael Kors, and Stella McCartney. Pictured below is a peak of what they offer.

Whatever your personal preference of eyewear may be, do not skip out on a good pair of sunglasses. Too much sun can affect your vision, and squinting all of the time accelerates the forming of crow’s feet near the eyes. So, spend some money now on a nice pair of sunglasses and save later on all those eye creams.

Jake’s Hot in the Fashion District

by Danielle Flocco

Breaking into the fashion industry is no easy task, but Jake Labarbera makes it seem effortless.

This newly 21 year old is a student at the Fashion Institute of Technology, studying merchandising and jewelry design. He has an interest in photography, and most of all sharing his style with everyone. Jake blogs his personal style, showing the world how to make an outfit ‘pop’ in this competitive world of fashion.

Recently on his blog, www.jakeshotonfashion.com, silver was featured as the up and coming color to incorporate into an outfit. Tested by Jake himself in the fashion district of Manhattan, silver is definitely the way to go. Silver is subtle yet shiny, so your outfit stands out without being overwhelmed by it. This is perfect for those hesitant to go ahead with neon pieces. The easiest way to try silver for an everyday outfit is in jewelry, shoes, or belts- all of which can be found for low prices.

Here is a leather and silver bullet styled bracelet that Jake featured. This piece can be matched with any outfit, and can give theperfect New York rocker tone to an otherwise bland outfit. Again, not an overwhelming piece, but just enough to add the same sparkle as an average bracelet- just with a heck of a lot more attitude.

His other favorite pop of silver is his pair of silver high top sneakers. He blogged this statement about these gleaming kicks: “I’m obsessed with my silver hightop sneakers. And I would totally wear them everyday if I could.” And Jake’s recommendation to everyone is to “pull out your old pieces, dust them off, and put them to good use.” This applies to anything- silver or not- because hey, you never know what will be the next big hit in fashion.

Jake is not only a blogging trendsetter, but he is currently an intern for couture designer, Ralph Rucci, as well as a model. He has been involved in modeling for a few years now, and has quite an array of experience. A few years back Jake modeled for prints for a small boutique in Rhinebeck. Then, he bust onto the Runway in 2013 New York Fashion Week for designer Marlin George. And for 2014, Seduka by Joe Dahan will be featuring Jake in a lookbook and their soon to launch blog.

Young, handsome, and determined, Jake is set to succeed in everything he does. He is still a fresh face in modeling, but a great reputation is certainly building. And let’s not forget he’s a student of jewelry design- we must keep our eyes out for his collections!

Patterned Tights To Spice Up Classic New York Style

by Danielle Flocco

Classic New York style is black from head to toe, and in this cold weather black boots, pants, and a jacket definitely seem like a warm choice. And sadly, this time of year our favorite little black dress often gets buried away in the back of the closet, but there’s no reason for that anymore.

Patterned tights are perfect to personalize the classic New York style and give our LBD some attention in the winter months. Stores everywhere sell huge varieties of patterned tights, usually in the $10 to $20 range- which is a small price to pay for an easy and versatile accessory. Depending on your personal preference you can add any edge to your outfit from wild party to simply unique.

Cheetah print, or any asymmetrical print, tights give off a party-ready look, but are appropriate for any time of day. For the office, the printed tights with boots and a simple skirt or dress will show off your personality that can’t always be seen under that 9- 5 suit. Classy, yet personalized, your work wear will be immediately upgraded. For a night out in the winter, when you’re dying to wear your go-to LBD but don’t want to freeze, printed tights will look sexy. Sometimes a little coverage on the legs is all we need to keep warm, so use those opportunities to find your perfect print. Following the classic New York style, an asymmetrical print- in black, of course- will be subtle enough to maintain a classy appearance, but just different enough to set you apart from the crowd. And in this big city, why not stand out a bit.

Many of us wear the same, or painfully similar, outfit more days than we’d like to admit (I plead guilty!). And odds are, if you don’t like to switch up outfits very much, a crazy print won’t be your first choice. Thankfully, patterned tights also come in a wide variety of simple, symmetric patterns for us. Minimalist accents to an outfit instantly boost chicness, both in the workplace and out in the world. Not to mention that minimalist style is highly regarded in modern fashion. Tights with squares, stripes, or dots add just enough of a personalized edge to a simple outfit to let your personality shine through while looking classy. Again, the subtle accent in an all- black outfit will be enough to separate you from the rest of New Yorkers.

Modern fashion is all about adding a personal elements to an outfit, and patterned tights are an easy and inexpensive way to do so. Using subtly accessories like tights instead of chunky jewelry or other large pieces are a much more modern way to draw attention to an outfit. Patterned tights are especially perfect in our city where we are all about simple and classy style in all- black.

Fashion and style aside, patterned tights can also be extremely flattering. Plain black tights will not shorten your legs, but they won’t lengthen them either- and being just barely 5 feet tall, I always try to look a bit taller. Patterned tights with details that are longer than they are wide will have a slimming effect on your legs, and in turn add a few inches. This is really great considering that occasionally we can look a bit short when wearing a skirt or dress with knee high boots. Patterned tights with details that are wider than long will not have the same effect. They will give your legs a bit wider of an appearance, and possibly make you look a bit shorter. However, if you are tall enough that you can spare a few inches, these tights will look great and not take away from your appearance at all. Depending upon what your pattern preference is and the look you are trying to achieve, either pattern type can be used to your advantage.

Whether you’re interested in patterned tights for fashion purposes, to look better, or both, they’re a necessity for the rest of the winter and the upcoming spring. And again, tights are not expensive and what is better than looking great on a small budget.

Winter Boots That Look And Feel Great

by Danielle Flocco

Croft and Barrow, Manhattan, Manhattan Digest — Croft and Barrow

Shoes that are snow appropriate and fashionable are nearly impossible to find. UGGs and similar boots can make an outfit much less stylish, and actual snow boots are a complete fashion disaster. Luckily, stores like Croft and Barrow have stylish boots that are perfect for winter.

My mother gave me the boots pictured above for Christmas and I haven’t taken them off since. I have tested them on the streets of New York City in all weather and I’d give them an A+. I’ve walked miles in rain, snow, and sludge and these boots have kept my feet dry and warm every time. Not even an ankle deep puddle got in my way. These boots have a foamy sole, so it’s like slipping your feet onto pillows every time you wear them. Also, you won’t get leg pains after walking a long distance in them.

The small heel is just enough to be feminine and makes walking feel even easier. And the buckles add a little flare to an otherwise simple boot. These boots are also excellent for any outfit- I’ve tried them with almost every combination. They are perfect for work or a night out, or really any occasion because of their amazing ability to be paired with anything.

So far, my favorite outfit to wear with my boots has been black leggings, a long black sweater, and turquoise boot socks that came just under my knee. This outfit was not only incredibly comfortable, but I was complemented all day on my pop of color with the socks.

Skinny jeans are another great item to pair the boots with. You can wear any top you want with jeans, and these boots will be sure to match. Any outfit you’d wear with UGGs or snow boots would be instantly more stylish with boots like these. Also, a nice sweater and matching leg warmers is very trendy for winter and perfect for these super cold days. Dresses and skirts look great with these boots, too. My preference is to add a pair of black tights, since it is winter, and sometimes leg warmers. However, a simple black knee high boot alone can make any outfit look very classy. One might consider these black boots the winter alternative to pumps.

There really aren’t many things I can personally rave about, but my Croft and Barrow boots are my true love this winter. Anyone who does a lot of walking in the winter definitely needs a pair of boots like these, and investing in a great pair is not a waste of time or money.

Turtleneck Bras- Here To Keep Us Hot This Winter

by Danielle Flocco

The greatest fashion battle of winter is looking hot in the freezing cold. It definitely seems impossible to look great when we’re more worried about frostbite than what to wear. However, a bizarre, and questionable to some, new piece of lingerie has made its way onto the racks of True & Co. The turtleneck bra! [Read more…] about Turtleneck Bras- Here To Keep Us Hot This Winter

Peplums Are Here To Stay In 2014

by Danielle Flocco

The peplum trend may have been at its peak last spring, but do not give up on it in 2014!

Very few clothing styles look great on every body type, but the peplum does. If you don’t have curves and want them, wearing a nice peplum dress or skirt will create the illusion that you have an hourglass figure. The short overskirt draws attention to the tinier waist area, and then puffs out to give your hips some shape. It also works for curvy bodies. Rather than creating an illusion, it accentuates your natural shape. Please, ladies, take advantage of this all around flattering trend.

The peplum is also just as versatile as it is flattering. These adorable dresses with the little overskirt come in a variety of lengths, materials, colors and patterns. While a solid colored, polyester dress is most common, there is a tremendous amount of options to fit your personal preference. They also give you the opportunity to go from office to outing with minimal fuss. Adding a simple blazer over the dress creates a polished, professional look that will catch everyone’s eye. But, remove the blazer and you have a wear-anywhere chic and vintage outfit on. It really can’t get any easier than that.

Most peplum dresses fall just above the knee, so your shoe choice has a great effect on your outfit. Go for your favorite pair of pumps or high-heeled sandals to lengthen your legs and add elegance to the dress. If you’re not comfortable in heels, throw on some flats! Your comfiest flats give the dress a more playful and casual appearance. Peplum dresses are one of the only dresses that can be fun and feminine regardless of shoe choice.

Finding room in your wardrobe for one of these dresses is also great for your wallet. Although they’re most commonly worn in the spring, they can be fall or winter ready with a pair of tights and a warm sweater. Wearable year-round and anywhere, you’ll be glad you have one.

Love peplums but not dresses? No problem. Designers have made a variety coats, shirts, skirts, and even pants with the little overskirt. Give it a shot and look your best this year.

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