The Kimmie Chronicles

Black and White

2014-01-21T10:50:00.001-08:00

There isn't a simpler color palette that exists than black and white. It's a color palette that allows the less adventurous to play with texture, embellishments and patterns without risk of being thrown off balance.

I paired this Zara skirt with one of their embellished sweaters and old Nine West heels. I'm already excited about the possibilities this skirt will have in my closet.

Soft Pink

2014-01-17T17:38:00.001-08:00

Just a quick post. Wearing a very warm turtleneck I scored from the Zara sale. I hope everyone stays warm and enjoys the three day weekend!

One Dress, Three Ways :: Simple Layering

2014-01-13T16:36:00.001-08:00

When I first spotted this Zara dress last year, I instantly noticed the black and navy jacquard print. I also noticed the many styling possibilities and how well it would work with the items already in
my closet. Since I have issues with buying clothes at full price, I waited for it to go on sale and was lucky to find that my size was still available. Once it was in my closet I immediately set to work to find different styling combinations that will make this dress work year round. This is my first look, layering the dress with a simple charcoal tee and a fun bracelet.

Zara dress || asos tee || Michael Michael Kors booties || Anthropologie bracelet

Holiday 2013 :: Part 3

2013-12-28T18:27:00.000-08:00

Sparkle & Shine by thekimmiechronicles featuring antique crystal jewelry

LEFT : Oscar de la Renta | Charlotte Olympia | Isabel Marant | Shourouk | Matthew Williamson

RIGHT : Hervé Van der Straeten | Hervé Van der Straeten | Matthew Williamson | Etro | Valentino

Hello readers! I hope you're enjoying the holiday season so far. Here is the last part of my Net-a-porter holiday picks from their amazing sale. If you're looking for a finishing touch to your NYE look, take a look at my picks, or head over to Net-a-porter's site before their sale ends.

I wish you all a Happy New Year! Thank you for reading my blog and I hope you continue on this journey with me in 2014.

Holiday 2013 :: Part 2

2013-12-19T16:31:00.003-08:00

Hi readers! My holiday picks from Net-a-porter continues with glorious shoes. For me, the toughest piece to find, when shopping for a holiday look, are shoes. As my style evolves, I tend to gravitate toward pieces that can be worn during multiple occasions and in multiple looks. Shoes are no exception. So, it is important for me to find a pair that could take me from 9 to 5, to a holiday party, or even to dinner with friends. I've chosen shoes from Net-a-porter's sale that can fill all of these requirements.

Holiday 2013 :: Part 1

2013-12-17T14:07:00.001-08:00

from top left: Hervé Léger\\Donna Karan\\Diane von Furstenberg\\Alice + Olivia\\Roksanda Ilincic \\Milly\\DAY Birger et Mikkelsen\\Alice + Olivia\\Vivienne Westwood Anglomania\\Lover

Hello, readers! It's been quite some time since my last post. There are plenty of good reasons for my absence, one of which entails lots of research for buying a home. I post to instagram often, so if you would like another way to keep in touch feel free to follow me @Kimmiechronicles. Now, on to more important things like what to wear for the holidays.

Net-a-porter is having a perfectly timed sale with prices marked down up to 70%! I've scoured the sale and have found a few perfect items to wear for the season. These dresses range in price so there's something for everyone! More sale picks to come!

Structure with Cozy Knits

2013-11-04T19:29:00.000-08:00

This season, I've been curating a collection of knits that are high quality and that will last for many years to come. They're simple in design and can be easily worn with any item in my closet. To branch out from my safe zone, I've purchased a few chunky knits in oxblood and winter white. To keep the look from being too frumpy on my hourglass frame, I'll pair them with structured coats and skinny jeans similar to Olivia Palermo's looks here and here.

Top left: Coat // Sweater // similar Coat // Bag // Denim // Earrings // Watch // Booties // Pumps

Fall Tartan

2013-09-23T15:12:00.000-07:00

Zara sweater simlar || Anthropologie skirt (love this full version) || Kenneth Cole booties

Fall has officially arrived and with it came cooler temperatures in the Bay area. I'm trying a new bordeaux lip color by Kat Von D. I've always had trouble finding a red that suited my skin tone. We'll see if I still like it after a few wears.

I decided to rummage through my closet to see what I could pull together that was on-trend. The plaid Anthropologie skirt I purchased years ago and I'm happy that I can style it casually with a neutral sweater. I hope to acquire a few extra chunky knits the season so I can stay cosy and warm.

I'm still on the fence on these Kenneth Cole New York booties I purchased for a steal. There are still quite a few left, so snatch a pair for yourself. They're extremely versatile and comfortable to wear. I know they could be worn many times between now and next summer.

Fall Favorites :: Metallic Shoes

2013-09-11T03:00:00.000-07:00

Fall Favorites :: Metallic Shoes by thekimmiechronicles featuring zara shoes

Zara shoes || J. Crew shoes

Now that we are officially gearing up for fall, I've been searching the web for fun ways to update classic items many of us have in our closets. Think white button-downs, a neutral sweater or dark trousers. One item that keeps popping up is the metallic pump. This style has been around for a few seasons, but I really like the addition of the double ankle strap to an otherwise basic metallic shoe. I've found perfect pairs on Zara and J. Crew. They're almost identical in style, but very different in price. The J. Crew version has a leather upper, a leather sole, and leather lining. The Zara version also has a leather upper, but the lining is manmade with a rubber sole. The J. Crew pair will last a long time as the soles can be replaced when they wear out. But, I may consider purchasing the Zara version and save my cash for a closet staple update instead.

Fall Prep :: Transition

2013-09-05T13:03:00.000-07:00

Hello all! A quick outfit post to show you how I'm transitioning my warm weather dresses for early fall. The Bay Area is beginning to experience our Indian summer, so it's actually warming up while the rest of the country is starting to cool down a bit. But, once the temperatures start to drop again, I'll be layering up and adding tights with booties to make my summer dresses fall appropriate. I'm lusting after these rugged-chic Chloé booties that would be perfect with a chunky knit and skinny jeans or flouncy mini and tights.

Have a great weekend!

Fall Favorites :: Blue

2013-08-27T03:30:00.000-07:00

Fall Favorite :: Blue by thekimmiechronicles featuring NIC+ZOE

similar jacket || ankle boots || dress || similar bag || skirt || clutch

I really like the rich blues that have been showing up for fall. This classic color easily transitions from spring, paired with white, to fall. With so many shades of blue and textures to choose from, it will be easy to create a monochromatic look that is far from bland.

Fall Favorites :: Snakeskin

2013-08-23T11:13:00.000-07:00

Snakeskin by thekimmiechronicles featuring shoes

pumps || ankle boots || booties || flats

I can't wait for fall. Even though most of the northern hemisphere is still experiencing temperatures well above 80, I can't help but look forward to when the weather begins to cool. One of my favorite animal prints is snakeskin worn here a few years back. I have a few animal print shoes left in my store, which will be perfect for this fall, so feel free to check it out.

Fall Favorites :: Zara Outerwear

2013-08-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

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With my mind set ahead to fall I've been perusing the latest offerings, from couture sites to high-street brands, to gain inspiration. It's no secret that I love Zara, and every season they do not disappoint. Their plaid jacket above was love at first sight. It's the perfect topper for our foggy August (Fogust) here in the Bay Area. I expect to see lots more plaid once the fall collections have hit the stores full force.

shop my favorite Zara outerwear picks:

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DETAILS

2013-08-06T03:00:00.000-07:00

1. wedges || 2. similar trousers || 3. similar blazer || 4. similar coat

It has been one busy summer. With my final three classes out of the way, I can now get back to having some fun. The weather has been beautiful here and I don't want to let it go to waste, especially with fall right around the corner. I'm trying to make room in my closet and have added a few items to my store.

During Zara and Anthropologie's summer sales, I picked up a few items that I could wear now and during fall at a steal. The photos above are of the details of my favorite pieces. The blazer is a perfect and less expensive alternative to Roberto Cavalli's Resort 2013 collection and the yellow and white check coat reminds me of Louis Vuitton's Spring 2013 collection. The jacquard trousers are amazing and I know they'll get lots of wear this fall/winter. I already have an idea on how to wear the blazer and the trousers here and here, but I'm not sure how I'll make the coat fall-ready. Any suggestions?

Current Picks :: One Skirt ~ Two Ways

2013-06-28T12:39:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I perused Topshop and I was pleasantly surprised when I found this beautiful pencil skirt. Equal parts sophisticated and sexy, this skirt has endless styling possibilities. I chose to create a day look; appropriate for running errands or grabbing lunch with girlfriends; and a night look with happy hour in mind. The flats are a current Shoemint offering, but if you're not keen on a monthly membership, then these are a great alternative.

Shop the look:

Adding the Bloglovin' Follow Button

2013-06-21T03:00:00.000-07:00

Hello, all! Since posting the tutorial on replacing Google Reader with Bloglovin', I've received requests to create a tutorial on adding the Follow button. In case you have not already signed up for Bloglovin', click here to see how.
This tutorial is for the blogger platform. If you use a different platform, like Wordpress, you would follow the first few steps of this tutorial, then add the button in the same manner as you would any other widget.

1. To add the button, you must first log in to Bloglovin', then hover over your profile image at the top.

2. You will see a drop-down menu appear. Click on the Bloglovin Button link.

3. You will be taken to a page with normal follow buttons, counters and artist icons. Choose the button you want to add to your blog by clicking it.

4. A window will appear with your button code. Copy it and continue back to your blogger Layout page.

5. Once there, click on Add a Gadget wherever you want the button/icon to appear. Select the HTML/Javascript widget, create a title, paste the code into the widget, then click Save. You can click on Preview to see how it will look on your blog. If you like it, then click Save Arrangement.

Let me know if I can help further.

Current Pick :: Mary Mary

2013-06-18T09:13:00.000-07:00

CURRENTLY ON SALE @ NET-A-PORTER SMALLER SIZES HERE

When I first laid eyes on Mary Katrantzou's mirror print dresses, tops and trousers, I fell hard. There was something refreshing about the prints: interesting and eye-catching without being busy. This Current/Elliott + Mary Katrantzou collaboration dress is not immune to my feelings. I'm smitten.

Shop similar items:

Current Picks :: Casual Summer

2013-06-17T01:00:00.000-07:00

L.K. Bennett sandals \\ J Brand denim \\ Brian Lichtenberg tee \\ Ray Ban sunnies \\ Rebecca Minkoff bag

Summer has a laid-back vibe to which we can all relate. Light cotton tees and bright, festive sandals beg to be worn on a daily basis. In my dream closet, there would be an abundance of these staples, including destroyed denim, a cross body bag that can seamlessly transition to fall and the perfect sunnies to block out the strong summer rays.

What is your perfect summer look?

SHOP SIMILAR ITEMS:

Current Picks

2013-06-13T01:00:00.000-07:00

Zara

With summer officially baking us, and the outdoor activities that go along with it, I've been craving tops and dresses that are airy and lightweight. The cutout trend is especially tempting since it's like wearing a built-in air conditioner.

shop more summer friendly pieces:

Replacing Google Reader With Bloglovin'

2013-06-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

Hi readers! As you know, Google Reader will be on its way out in about 3 weeks. There's still time to transfer the blogs you read over to Bloglovin', and I couldn't recommend it enough. Here's how:

1. Set up a Bloglovin' account: If you don't have a Bloglovin' account, you can get one here. During the process it will ask if you want to import the blogs you read on Google Reader to Bloglovin'. Click on the button to import and that's it!

If you already have a Bloglovin' account, then here's what to do:

1. Log in to Bloglovin' and click on your profile picture.

2. On your profile page, click Edit your profile. This will take you to your account settings, notifications, etc.

3. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on Import blogs. Doing this will take you to a page that gives you 2 options. Click on Google Reader and follow the prompts.

4. The import literally takes a few seconds to work. Once the import is complete, it will take you back to your Bloglovin' homepage where you can view all the recent posts from your favorite bloggers.

It's possible with the close of Google Reader that Google Friend Connect may follow. To avoid any complications in the future, I've been following blogs directly on Bloglovin' by clicking on the follow link when I'm reading new posts. The follow link usually looks like a + or a heart.

Let me know if you need any help and I hope to see you all on Bloglovin'!

Go-To Basics

2013-06-11T01:00:00.000-07:00

top: Anthropologie; jeans: J Brand; shoes: Enzo Angiolini; Accessories: Anthropologie

My go-to basic color lately has strayed from my usual gray to black. While cleaning out my closet I've realized that I have quite a few items in this universally flattering hue. When I have the chance, I think it will be time to add some much needed color to my wardrobe.

What do you consider to be your fail proof color?

shop a similar look:

Closet Clean Out

2013-06-06T10:11:00.000-07:00

skirt: Nisa SF, tee: ASOS, shoes: Nine West, accessories: Anthropologie

I'm finally on a short break between semesters, so I decided to go through the clothes I haven't worn in ages. It was like finding buried treasure and I was so happy to find this skirt that has never been worn. I fell in love all over again with the oversized pockets, the high-waist and midi length of this pencil skirt. It reminds me of something Victoria Beckham would wear and I can't wait to experiment more with my "new" find.

There were many other found items that I still love but just can't keep, so I now have an online shop with clothes, shoes and accessories that are either never worn or lightly used and featured on the blog. I've added a Shop tab at the top, so it will be easy to navigate at any time. Be sure to check back as I will add more items to the shop soon.

get a similar look:

Current Picks : Black & Yellow

2013-04-25T04:00:00.000-07:00

follow me / make your own LYST

I've mentioned before that I'll often wake with a song stuck in my head and it won't leave until I hear the song played at least once. That's not the case today. I've been thinking about Wiz Khalifa's Black and Yellow almost everyday. The catchy, "black and yellow, black and yellow, black and yellow, black and yellow" to be more specific. So, inspired by the song, I created a look based on a pair of Zara pants that I find striking. It's not the typical shade of neon yellow we've been seeing lately, but a much warmer version of the summery hue. It reminds me of a beautiful sunset shared with my soulmate.

more black and yellow options:

Prints for Spring/Summer

2013-04-10T13:24:00.000-07:00

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Every year, around this time, I get so excited to see all of the beautiful spring colors and prints that will be out in stores and worn by tastemakers. This year I was delighted to find that prints were the style of choice. There's something for everyone from bold trousers to whimsical dresses. I might have a hard time just choosing one.

Current Pick

2013-04-05T15:48:00.000-07:00

shoes

I'm anticipating the day that I will buy my first pair of Louboutin heels. Until then, I can dream about these beauties, which are showing up on some pretty famous feet.

More striped options:

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