Tag / fall essential

by Beau H.

Fall Style Essential: Velvet

Fall is quickly approaching and I have my eyes set on a trend that was all over the Fall 2013 runway during fashion week– Velvet.  Velvet has been huge for the past few seasons and it will continue to live on this fall (According to Vogue and many other fashion sources).  Sure, velvet might remind you of tacky ’80s fashion or Scarlett O’Hara’s iconic green velvet curtain dress, but its texture adds an interesting element to any outfit.

The best part about this trend is that it is extremely affordable if you are on a budget and worried that the trend won’t last.  Because velvet was huge in the ’80s and ’90s, it’s all over thrift shops and vintage stores! I found an awesome velvet blazer for less than $5 at Goodwill. An item like this can dress up any casual outfit and add an edgy element.

My velvet blazer paired with palm patterned pants. Taken from my instagram: @oliviahayhoe

My velvet blazer paired with palm patterned pants. Taken from my instagram: @oliviahayhoe

For a more casual look, try velvet leggings or shorts.  Velvet or crushed velvet leggings are great when paired with combat boots and a tank for a daytime look.  If you live in a hotter climate, like myself, velvet shorts are an interesting way to incorporate this trend into your wardrobe without overheating. Check out Velvet and Leather by Jean J. on Lookbook.nu for a cool, casual outfit inspiration.

If you are looking for a nighttime look, a velvet minidress is perfect for you.  It’s a great combination of dressed up and playful.  Pair it with some studded heels for a super edgy look!

If you want to try this look but are a bit afraid of it, start with a velvet hair bow or velvet loafers.  Once you feel comfortable rocking the accessories, move up to a bolder piece.

A great location to purchase all of your velvet essentials brand new is American Apparel. Online and in-stores, they have so many colors and styles of velvet.

This trend works in all climates depending on the pieces you choose to style and is very affordable.  Although it has been around for several seasons, velvet is a trend that will continue to be very popular this fall.

by Beau H.

Back-To-School Essential: Cambridge Satchels

Walking around campus or to and from your job requires more than just a plain bag — you need something eye-catching, functional and fashionable. Something lasting and timeless is great, too!

Whether you are going back to high school, college, or even entering the workforce, The Cambridge Satchel Company has a bag for you! They have so many different sizes, styles, and colors, you are sure to find exactly what you need.

I have been a huge fan of the company since I discovered them in the spring of 2012.  I used my first summer paycheck to purchase one of their classic 13-inch bags in pink.

Pink 13 inch Classic Cambridge Satchel

Pink 13-inch Classic Cambridge Satchel

The 13-inch is the perfect size for all of my daily necessities and it functions well as my carry on purse when traveling.  These bags are so structured and well-made-I’ve been using mine for over a year and it is still in perfect condition!

11 inch Sweet Pea Cambridge Satchel

11-inch Sweet Pea Cambridge Satchel

I also have the 11-inch satchel in Sweet Pea. This color is absolutely beautiful! With this picture I won Pic of the Week and I was featured on The Cambridge Satchel Company’s blog and social media outlets! The 11-inch is great if you don’t have many things to haul around with you. Tucking the shoulder strap inside the purse turns it into an adorable clutch for night!

Photo taken from CambridgeSatchel.com

Photo taken from CambridgeSatchel.com

The backpack is a great option for students who need to carry their laptop and notebooks to class. Their color options (red or brown) are traditional fall colors that will also carry over nicely to winter and spring.

The Music Bag or Batchel options are perfect if you are in the workforce. They are larger sizes that offer more space for paperwork, supplies and other necessities.

Although the bags are a bit pricey, I can assure you they are worth the price.  They are versatile, durable, and timeless.  They are a perfect gift idea, and you can even get your initials embossed on the front flap.  The Cambridge Satchel Company offers so many colors to choose from.  If you are willing to sacrifice some quality for a lower price, they have a clearance section featuring bags that have slight cosmetic flaws for a huge discount.  I am absolutely obsessed with these bags and they are a staple fall essential no matter your age!

-Olivia