Stylesmiths

what to pack for a bachelorette weekend when you're the bride-to-be

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 14:11:00 +0000

1. Marysia Antibes Bikini, 2. Aquazzara flats (on sale!), 3. Tularosa Bryce Maxi Dress, 4. Ale "All You Need Is Love" Clutch (only $33!), 5. SunnyLife Swan Floatie, 6. Self Portrait Azalea Dress (something blue for the bride, but comes in white too!), 7. Yumi Kim Date Night Dress, 8. Raye X Revolve Mia Heel, 9. Stuart Weitzman Leg Wrap Heels (on sale!), 10. Jimmy Choo Sunglasses (on sale!), 11. Ale Feather Sandals, 12. Yumi Kim Clutch (only $78!), 13. Flash Tattoos, 14. Aamaya by Priyanka Cat Ear Ring, 15. Self Portrait Serena Off-Shoulder Dress

Packing for a bachelorette is not easy! Of the options this wedding season, however, these are some of my favorites. The scalloped Marysia bikini is amazing for a bride-to-be because it is one of the few swimsuits that you will not have to worry about your tan lines in! I always get weird tan lines when I wear swimsuits with straps, and you want to make sure that you are not worrying about that for your wedding day. Also, you can re-wear it on your honeymoon!

I am also obsessed with this new brand I found out about called Ale, by the Victoria's Secret model Alessandra Ambrosio! When Victoria's Secret announced they were going to stop making clothes, I knew there would always be a void in my wardrobe. Although I am aware that Alessandra probably did not have a role in making the VS clothing line, her clothing line is slowly helping to fill that void...not to mention her pieces are very reasonably priced. Her "All You Need Is Love" clutch is only $33!

They always say that a bride needs 'something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in her shoe' as tokens of good luck. This Self-Portrait dress covers the 'something new' and 'something blue'! And maybe if one of your bridesmaids buys it and let's you wear it during your bachelorette, than it could cover 'something borrowed' too!

Last, I think that it is important to realize that your wedding is only one day. Fun and silly reminders of that are important, because it is easy to get caught up in the stress-fullness of planning. Remind yourself not to take things too seriously with a fun swan floatie, flash tattoos, or the most adorable cat ear ring!

x Kelley

Venice

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 22:38:00 +0000

Jacket - Lipsy (similar here), Shoes - Stuart Weitzman (similar here or here) and Denim - DL1961

Traveling is the best. These photos were taken on a trip I took with my fiance earlier this year! We went on a tour of Northern Italy, and particularly loved the uniqueness of Venice with it's canals, bridges, and cathedrals. The weather changed quite a bit on us since we were there in March, so wearing layers was super important. As winter is quickly approaching again, here are some tips for winter travels in Europe!

Pack light! You will get there and want to purchase e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g. Italy has amazing shoes and leather goods. We ended up having to purchase an extra suitcase or two to bring back all our stuff!
Layer, layer, and then layer some more. In the morning, it is chillier and depending on the country you are in, there could be random rain storms. These photos were taken in the afternoon - hence the sans-coat look. However, I was wearing thick socks, and was wearing a shirt under my jacket.
Wear denim. Denim is a super durable fabric. The longer you wear this material, the more broken in/comfy it gets, which is key for travels.
Sunglasses. In windier areas (I'm looking at you, France), debris literally flies everywhere. I felt like my eyes were being hit by millions of tiny rocks until I put my sunglasses on. They are a must to protect your eyes from UV rays and flying dirt.
Comfy, yet stylish shoes. I say stylish because it will curb your need to purchase every single pretty little heel you see. I love a comfortable low heeled boot. Mine were Stuart Weitzman, purchased via Nordstroms. Even though I probably shouldn't have done this (they are suede), I literally wore these everywhere - on cobblestone streets, in the rain, on a gondola - everywhere. Not only did they hold up amazingly, but my feet felt fine at the end of the day.

x Kell

river farm styled bridal shoot

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Wed, 02 Sep 2015 15:47:00 +0000

photo credit: Sweet Tea Photography by Lisa Marie
wedding gown and bridesmaids dresses provided by Hitched Salon

The best part about a photoshoot is the convergence of so many talented, creative, and humble people, as was the case in this styled bridal shoot at the River Farm in Alexandria. I mean, everything was just SO PRETTY! We shot these images back in June for the launch of Cheers Darling Events and Kaitlin, the Owner and Lead Designer, did a phenomenal job. I am a huge sucker for anything garden-party themed and the tablescape that Kaitlin designed made my little heart sing, and went perfectly with the gorgeous paper goods and invites designed by the super-sweet Kelly of Winifred Paper. And the photography. Oh, the photography. The photos speak for themselves, so I'll just say that working with Lisa Marie never feels like actual work and I can't recommend her highly enough!

Needless to say, DC's wedding vendor game is seriously strong and it was an honor to be a small part of this gorgeous shoot!

x Steph

Faux Crop Top at Dumbarton Oaks

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 12:37:00 +0000

Zara Skirt (similar here) -- Gap Wedge Sandals (similar here or here) -- ChicTreat Bag (Michael Kors option here) -- Feline Meow Top (also in pink here, and similar here, and here)

photos by Melanie

The long days of summer are starting to get shorter, but the temperature is still very hot! One of the trends that Steph and I love for these warm-weather days is the crop top. While crop tops are amazing for hot weather, they are not as practical in the cooler months and are less versatile than regular t-shirts. So, we thought, why not make your own faux crop top out of your favorite tee? One of my favorite t-shirts is my "Feline Meow" top designed by Brian Lichtenberg. There are several reasons this makes a lot of sense. For one, crop tops are often not a one-length-fits-all article of clothing. Some people have longer torsos than others, some people have smaller waists than others, and it becomes difficult to find a crop top that is designed exactly for your figure. Tying up your favorite tee into a faux crop top is a great solution because you can tie it at a place that accentuates your figure the best, while still keeping on trend and having the option to wear it as a regular tee in cooler months. Also, should the crop top trend ever disappear, you still have the t-shirt. Having versatility is key :).

x Kell

a paris engagement

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 14:49:00 +0000

On me: Reformation Dress -- Massimo Dutti Sandals -- Lo&Sons Bag; On him: Denim Shirt (similar here) -- Massimo Dutti Suede shoes -- Gap Corduroys
photos by Pictours Paris

It has been a whirlwind of a month! As those of you who follow us on Instagram may know, I'm engaged to an amazing man :D. After finishing up my MBA program, my sweet significant other treated me to a European getaway in Paris. Little did I know what he had planned, as he was being somewhat difficult leading up to the trip (apparently to throw me off the trail)! They say hindsight is 20-20. This is how it all happened!

One of the things I love to do when on vacation is document everything via lots and lots of photographs :). I think that photos are the best kind of souvenir and help bring me back to that moment in time. Plus, they are free! Because of this, you can often find me toting my Lo&Sons bag filled to the brim with my DSLR, alternate camera lenses, and my GoPro when traveling. The day I got engaged was no exception - clever Trey told me that there was an uncrowded bridge with incredible views of the Eiffel Tower. That was enough to get me out of bed bright and early for a quick breakfast in Champs Elysee followed by a hike to Pont de Bir-Hakeim.

I guess a photo is worth a thousand words, so I'll let the photos tell the story from here!

x Kell

^Trey said that he wanted to snap some photos of me on the bridge - I should have known then that he was up to something! He is more of a landscape photo kind of guy then a portrait person ;). One of the sneaky and extremely sweet things that Trey did was hire a photographer to capture the moments. I had no idea any of this was going on, and it probably required a good deal of coordination/secrecy. As someone who is extremely family oriented, this meant a lot to me because the memories could be shared with those who were not there with us! A big thank you to Lindsay from Pictours Paris for capturing everything! I love him.

cruise with me, baby

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Mon, 02 Mar 2015 15:55:00 +0000

The wintry mix we've recently been stricken with on almost a daily basis calls for some reminiscing of warmer days. Here's a roundup of my favorite pictures taken from our cruise in January to St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Princess Cays (a little island owned by Princess Cruiselines)! At first I was apprehensive about taking a baby on a cruise, but it turned out to be the perfect type of vacation because we always had a home base back in the room for naps, diaper changes, etc. It was also super cute because almost everyone we encountered would stop and play with her- which of course, she loved! One piece of advice when cruising with a baby: opt for a mini suite with a balcony! Getting extra space in notoriously tiny ship cabins is crucial, and the balcony makes it much nicer for enjoying room service and reading a book during baby's nap time! Another fun part about cruising: LOTS of opportunities for dress up! Every day pretty much requires two outfits- a lounge-y beachy outfit during the day, and a nicer, dressed up outfit at night. Let's just say I had a little too much fun coordinating the baby's outfit with mine on nearly every occasion. ;)

x Steph

suedes of grey

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Grey Suede Shoes (similar here) and Cross-body bag - c/o Bishop Boutique

I've always had the hardest time choosing accessories, and developed a habit of letting my co-blogging sister choose these complementary pieces for me, as she has a better eye for them. However, since starting Stylesmiths, I have had the opportunity to learn about new brands and boutiques and being able to see these accouterments first-hand has improved my selection abilities. I hate compromising between style and comfort, and thought that it had to be a zero-sum game. However, I now know that does not have to be the case, thanks to these lovely suedes of grey.

x Kell

belabumbum

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 13:00:00 +0000

Belabumbum Ruffle Chemise

These were snapped while lounging around the house one Saturday morning- doing what I do every weekend- snuggle with the baby! We also sported some matching bedhead, but hey, it was the weekend! I figured the messy coifs could be excusable since I was wearing my pretty new ruffle chemise from DC-based Belabumbum! This maternity/nursing line has quickly become one of my favorites- I wish I had known about them while I was pregnant but lucky for me, they also have gorgeous nursingwear! Seriously, most of the nursingwear I've found up to this point has been all function and no form. Needless to say, I'm obsessed with my new nursing-friendly chemise. I love the eggplant color and the material is so soft- perfect for my leisurely Saturday morning baby cuddles!

x Steph

And as expected with any photoshoot involving babies, we had SO many funny outtakes.
Here is my favorite with my little raspberry-blowing enthusiast.

postcards from dewey

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Tue, 23 Sep 2014 17:27:00 +0000

Yumi Kim Romper -- Aldo Shoes -- BCBG Clutch (similar here and here)

Apologies for the gaps between posts lately! We have a few things in the works, and look forward to sharing them with you soon! These snaps were taken over Labor Day weekend at Dewey Beach in Delaware. I mean, is there a better way to celebrate the end of summer than by wearing a romper uniform during the few warm days left?

x Kell

district closets

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Thu, 18 Sep 2014 14:21:00 +0000

We recently answered some questions with the awesome ladies of SpicyCandyDC in preparation for this year's District Closets Sale at Secondi in DC! Check out the interview here, if you'd like!

If you're in the area, be sure to stop by this Saturday night from 5pm-8pm and shop our closets (along with some other stylish DC ladies)! We'd love to see you there!

mercedes-benz fashion week

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Mon, 15 Sep 2014 15:53:00 +0000

Dress and Belt from ASOS -- ZARA Shoes from SS13 -- Vintage Alligator Bag

Last week, I headed up to New York for my first time at MBFW. New York is definitely the city that never sleeps - I spent my time running to shows, going to events with Stylelist, shopping at one of my favorite new shops in Chelsea called ANTHOM (which has it's flagship store in the DC area), and wandering around various food haunts with the one and only Mera of MIRI. Between all of this, I only had time to shoot one of my looks from the week! However more fun things are coming that Steph and I are excited to share with you :).

x Kell

reformation

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Tue, 12 Aug 2014 15:54:00 +0000

Reformation Noelle Dress in Trousseau -- ZARA Shoes from SS13

Beautiful things mean very little without substance. The people behind the clothing line Reformation have made sure that their pieces have both. Their gorgeous articles are made out of either deadstock materials from fashion houses that over ordered or natural fibers that are therefore biodegradable and manufactured at local mills in L.A. I would literally buy everything in their line - and their future lines - because who doesn't want eco-conscious sustainable clothing production in the world?

x Kell

madison

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 13:59:00 +0000

Top (similar here) and Shorts from H&M-- ZARA Shoes from SS13 -- DvF bag -- South Moon Under Bracelets

Over the weekend, one of my dear childhood friends married the man of her dreams in Madison. I rarely travel to the Midwest, but it was refreshing and pleasant to escape city life for a more suburban and relaxing pace. I spent the days leading up to the happy occasion catching up with old friends in the Capitol area, sipping on soy chais, gleefully wandering between flower vendors at the farmer's market, and having my first (2nd, and 3rd) taste of Wisconsin cheese curds + spicy cheesy bread. Also, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that there is a Shopbop headquarters in the downtown area!

x Kell

breezy denim

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Fri, 25 Jul 2014 19:35:00 +0000

ASOS Denim Dress-- ZARA Shoes from SS13 -- Limited bag -- ZeroUV Sunglasses

While I am normally drawn to more form-fitting pieces, summer calls for breezy dresses. This blue ombre denim one I found is the breeziest. Strange, I know since denim is typically not considered a breezy fabric - but I am oh so glad that I took a chance on a potentially seasonally inappropriate find (can purchase similar here or here).

x Kell

splash

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Tue, 22 Jul 2014 19:36:00 +0000

Miri NYC Tie-Dye Tunic - Zara Mini Wedge Sandals

My postpartum modus operandi for dressing is the more billowy the better. Enter the Miri NYC tie-dye tunic designed by our good friend Mera Anwar, also seen on the likes of Penssatucky...I mean Taryn Manning. I wore this to a casual dinner with Kell at my favorite neighborhood salad joint. Additionally, I got a haircut that I've been referring to as a "slob" (super long bob). Catchy, no?? It's just short enough that my daughter and her tiny baby hands can't pull on my hair every chance they get. :D

x Steph

saffron

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Fri, 11 Jul 2014 15:30:00 +0000

MIRINYC Top and Skirt -- Jeffrey Campbell Shoes -- BCBG clutch

In between the "liquid sunshine" rainy spells of the Bahamas, I was able to snap a few shots of one of my favorite looks for summer travels. Rompers, cover-ups, and jumpers are lovely but I reserve the largest spot in my heart (dedicated toward clothing, that is) to matching separates. Much more convenient for hot days at the beach. If it was socially acceptable to wear the same thing every day, then I would live in this saffron number by one of my good friends and favorite designers, Mera Anwar of MIRINYC.

x Kell

postcards from freeport

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Wed, 09 Jul 2014 15:31:00 +0000

Wearing: above- VAVA by Joy Han and last photo-Yumi Kim

As those of you who follow us on Instagram know, I recently went on a trip to the Bahamas. Only after booking the majority of my plans, I found out about this great trip planning tool - Pintrips. "Ironic" by Alanis Morissette was playing through my mind as I realized that finalizing my travel plans would have been so much easier using the Google Chrome-based trip builder - so easy that even my technically challenged self could figure it out (learn more about it here or here).

These photos were taken throughout the island of Freeport in the Bahamas. Every time that I go somewhere new, I have this desire to never leave and start thinking up ridiculous ways for me to stay forever. After going on a jeep tour across the island, exploring bat caves in the Lucayan National Park, visiting Gold Rock Beach (where Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed), horseback riding on the beach, documenting the pantone-worthy home colors, and swimming with dolphins, I feel like I have to pinch myself! Dream come true.

x Kell

junior

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Fri, 13 Jun 2014 16:51:00 +0000

You could probably tell from my near radio silence on IG and lack of posts that I finally had my baby girl! Meet the Junior Stylesmith. :)

I've been taking the last month to recover from birth and bond with baby- but I hope to soon start posting about my new mama/nursing wardrobe!

x Steph

diamante

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Fri, 30 May 2014 16:17:00 +0000

DvF Corset top (similar here and here) and Skirt -- J. Crew Clutch -- Zara shoes

I haven't written a poem in ages, but this gorgeous two-piece by the infallible Diane Von Furstenburg has inspired me to compose my first written diamante since my elementary years.

Summer Weddings
Warm, lovely, romantic
Enjoying, laughing, celebrating.
Time for outfit decision making.
Flowing, flattering, form-fitting
Polished, unique
Apparel.

x Kell

fraiche

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Mon, 05 May 2014 15:48:00 +0000

Victoria's Secret Dress -- ThreeJane Map Necklace -- Capuccine rings -- H&M shoes (similar here)

There will always be that place, whether your childhood home, the location of a life-changing event, or simply somewhere that you can just be yourself, that makes you smile. Having these memories and stories is what life is all about. Last week, I attended the first ever ThreeJane Map Necklace party in Capitol Hill. The super sweet founder of ThreeJane, Katie Schloss, has accomplished the incredible feat of bottling all those good memories and feelings into a necklace; truly a work of art.

Nothing like traipsing around on a warm weekend afternoon with the people you love in the places that you love.

x Kell

cherry on top

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Wed, 30 Apr 2014 12:37:00 +0000

Victoria's Secret Dress -- Prada Sunglasses -- Capuccine rings

Breaking news: Victoria's Secret will no longer be selling clothes. As someone who has adored their clothing line from the start of it, I think that we will be hard-pressed to find items that are equally babelicious (yes, I just used that word) at the same price point. I mean, who wouldn't want to wear the same dress as Behati Prinsloo?

x Kell

bloom

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Fri, 18 Apr 2014 13:40:00 +0000

Limited Bag -- Anthropologie Dress -- Zero UV Sunglasses -- Zara sandals

As the Dalai Lama says, "The very purpose of our life is happiness, which is sustained by hope. We have no guarantee about the future, but we exist in the hope of something better. Hope means keeping going, thinking, ‘I can do this.’ It brings inner strength, self-confidence, the ability to do what you do honestly, truthfully and transparently."

Here is to new growth, happiness, and hope - this springtime and every time.

x Kell

vita

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie) — Tue, 15 Apr 2014 11:33:00 +0000

Preggers Tee and Mini Bow Earrings c/o ILY Couture -- H&M Maternity Pants -- Zara flats

Just to eliminate even the slightest shadow of a doubt that anyone could possibly have- I am very, very preggers. This cheeky t-shirt has been one of the easiest and cutest things for me to throw on in these final weeks of pregnancy, and because I'm in the final stretch it's also nice to fully embrace the status! I'm also in love with my new mini bow earrings; they're unique and unfussy, which is perfect for the late stages of pregnancy and entering new-mom territory. We had my baby shower last weekend (you can check out some photos on Instagram, if you'd like!) and it was awesome to celebrate our new baby with close friends and family. These next few weeks will be spent building furniture, washing all the adorable baby clothes and linens, and playing the waiting game for this junior Stylesmith to make her big debut!

x Steph

pink blush

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Wed, 19 Feb 2014 15:32:00 +0000

Pink Blush Maternity Crochet Sleeve Top c/o -- ASOS Black Maternity Skinny Jeans -- Restricted Footwear Wyatt Booties c/o

It's no secret that black is the most slimming color- and while it's impossible to look "slim" when you're 6 months pregnant, the color black will, at the very least, succeed in making you feel put-together and sophisticated. This is what I wore to grab montaditos (tasty Spanish tapas sandwiches) with Kelley and her boyfriend last week. My new Pink Blush Maternity top has all of the right details: the ruching along the mid-section is flattering and, of course, accommodating for the baby, and the mesh cut-out details on the arm keep the shirt interesting and feminine. Before I was pregnant, I liked looser fitting tops, but surprisingly I've gravitated towards more body-con silhouettes during my pregnancy. Guess I just like to show off my bump!

x Steph

Pink Blush Maternity is an on-trend maternity boutique that is graciously offering a $25 gift certificate to one lucky Stylesmiths reader! Contest ends at midnight next Wednesday, February 26th!

The giveaway has ended. Congrats to our winner! We'll be contacting you via email shortly. :)

pebbled print

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Smith) — Mon, 10 Feb 2014 15:05:00 +0000

Isabel Marant x HM dress -- Restricted Shoes Western booties -- Zara bag

These photos were taken on a grey winter day that happened to be warmer and nicer than the typical polar vortex weather. In honor of the temporarily balmy temperatures, I decided to break out my Isabel Marant X H&M dress, with the twirl-happy floaty hem, and the comfiest and cutest booties I could find, c/o Restricted Shoes! I honestly did not know what I was missing until these shoes arrived - they've filled a niche void in my shoe closet (ie the extremely comfy, cute, cold-weather appropriate, easy-to-walk in space) and I would not trade them for most anything.

Our readers can use the code "Stylesmiths30" to get 30% off full priced items at Restricted Shoes until the end of February! Here and here are some of my other favorites.

Getting a little bored of the east coast dreariness - so decided to book a Valentine's trip to San Francisco! See you soon Bay Area :).

x Kell