Style – Page 2

What to Wear: Thailand

Published on September 2, 2014May 15, 2018 by reganclemLeave a comment

Around this time last year I was wading in the water on the beaches of Thailand. Now that summer is slowly slipping away, and the whole world is planning their winter escape, I figured it was fine time to put together the necessities for any Thai vacation. Below are a few rules for packing that I found helpful when traveling to the Land of Smiles.

Keep it easy breezy. While this goes without saying, it is smart to reiterate to importance comfy, loose fitting clothing. Imagine getting a sun burn and having to wear tight jean shorts. Eek! Also, it does get hot and sticky during the day, so any help you can get to keep the breeze flowing will make a big difference.

Pack your maxi. If you plan on visiting any temples at all bear in mind that you need to be covered up in order to enter. At more popular temples in Bangkok, they will provide clothing for a retainer fee, but you’re better off avoiding the lines and showing up prepared. As long as your shoulders and shins are coverd, you’re good to go.

Stop the sun. Don’t hesitate to pack multiple beach cover ups and a hat. Sun burns are no fun and you’re better off shielding yourself from the rays for most of the day. Your skin is the ultiamte accessory and the last thing you want is to look like a lobster in Koh Samui.

Ditch the stilettos. More times than not, walking in heels is going to be incredibly difficult in Thailand. If you crave shoes with some height, swap out your stilettos for a cute pair of wedges. Not only will they be more comfortable, but you won’t have to worry about sinking in the sand.

Be selective with your jewelry. There are going to be plenty of cute little shops to grab jewelry, so I recommend just packing a few statement pieces. Thailand is full of color and glitter, so don’t be afraid to go big! Costume jewelry is a better option than your favorite treasured pieces. I always say, when you travel, don’t bring anything you would be afraid to lose, so leave the family heirlooms at home.

These tips are a good jumping off point, but be sure to check the weather conditions during your visit.

Leave any of your favorite Thailand packing suggestions in the comments below!

Windy City Style in Chicago

Published on August 28, 2014May 15, 2018 by reganclem3 Comments

Embracing the few days off I have left in Chicago, I decided to check out some of the sites that I had yet to see in the city. Between the River Walk, Cloud Gate, Millenium Park, and a few stops along the way to satisfy my sweet tooth, it was a successful outing.

Normally, I don’t traipse around the city in heels, but these ones by Guilhermina are so gosh darn cute and comfortable, that I’ve had a tough time taking them off these past few weeks. Now that the weather is slowly starting to cool down, I’ve been working to transitional those summer pieces into something a little more wearable for Fall. My advice: get ready to layer, and start sticking to a more neutral, muted palette.

If you have the need for sugar and sustenance like I do, consider taking the hike out to Ukranian Village where you’ll find Hoosier’s. The mini pies are great to share, and I love the decor!

Feel like staying in River North? Ikram is a great non-touristy option. They have a cafe on the second floor serving seasonal salads and thoughtfully prepared entrees. But, the real treat is the cookie plate that is perfect to share with friends! After you’ve satisfied your culinary craving, head back downstairs for some of the best shopping Chicago has to offer. The handbag selection alone is enough to make your head spin!

Looking forward to a few more updates on Chicago. Keep your eyes peeled for my Wrigley Field post coming soon! ❤

Shirt, Denim & Supply Co. (similary here) // Jeans, Lucky // Heels, Guilhermina // Sunnies, Cheap Monday // All Jewlery, Vintage

Outer Boroughs

Published on August 15, 2014October 22, 2014 by reganclem1 Comment

While in New York City working on the Ben & Jerry’s Core Tour, I was back and forth to Brooklyn on almost a daily basis. One of my favorite little neighborhoods I grew to love was DUMBO (down under the Manhattan Bridge overpass). With great spots to like Ample Hills Creamery to Jane’s Carousel to channel your inner child, and design shops like Stewart/Stand Design Store, there’s a little something for everyone.

Whenever I head across the East River, casual is the name of the game — meaning denim shorts and bright colors! I snagged this chunky, yellow sweater on sale, which has turned out to be one of my go to knits this summer. To add a touch of Manhattan, I completed the outfit with crisp, black accessories that give the look a little bit of edge. This Givency tote holds everything I need for work from my MacBook Air to my DSLR camera, meaning it’s fashionable and funcitonal. Does it get much better?

No matter how fun the trips to Brooklyn are, I’m always happy to head back over the bridge. At the end of the day, Manhattan will always be my happy place. ❤

Sweater: Sparrow // Shorts: Pilcro Hyphen // Sandals: Vince // Tote: Givenchy // Sunnies: Cheap Monday // Watch: Michael Kors

Easy Breezy

Published on July 8, 2014August 29, 2014 by reganclem4 Comments

Finally made it to New York City! After two whirlwind weddings in seven days, I’ve managed to settle in and catch my breath in the Big Apple, but only for a minute! Work has been super busy. Luckily, I’m getting to have a little fun while I’m at it, too!

Lately, it’s been hot, hot, hot, so I’ve been trying to keep things light and airy when it comes to outfits; especially because I’m running aroud the city all day for work. Skirts have been my best friends since arriving in the city, and I honestly think they’re the easiest piece to work into any wardrobe.

Instead of pairing my skirt and crop top with the usual sandals, I decided to mix it up and wear these super cute gray booties I just picked up from Topshop. Closed toe shoes make the outfit a little less Coachella and a little more office friendly, and they’re great to wear if you want to transition your outfit from day to night.

Often time I hear my friends say they’re worried wearing ankle boots with a midi skirt will make their legs look short. But, au contraire, my friend! As long as the boots have a heel, they will do your stems wonders and lengthen your frame.

Looking forward to posting more from my NYC adventures. Stay tuned! ❤

Top: Topshop // Skirt: Topshop // Boots: Topshop (I also love these) // Necklace and Midi Rings: Jessica DeCarlo (rings here) // Watch: Michael Kors

Summer Blue

Published on June 21, 2014August 29, 2014 by reganclem1 Comment

Happy Summer Solstice! The heat streak finally broke here in D.C., and I was relieved to be able to slip into one of my favorite pairs of jeans. These snakeskin ones are an awesome alternative to khaki or a pair of white jeans, meaning you can literally wear them with anything — other prints, bright colors.. you name it. In particular, I’m a huge fan of Blank NYC; they’re great for us girls who have a little junk in the trunk.

I decided to top them off with this cozy, blue merino wool top from J Crew. I bought the sweater a few sizes larger than normal to keep it cozy, and it allows me to play with proportions. Even though it is large, it still has a bit of structure due to the fabric, keeping the look put together, yet casual. I finished my outfit off with one of my favorite summer bags from Kate Spade. In my opinion, a neon yellow bag is a summer staple. Even on a cloudy day, it brings a little sunshine to your style.

Speaking of sunshine, did you guys notice that I went blonde?! I’m having a tough time grasping it myself. Luckily, I found an awesome colorist at Immortal Beloved down here in DC. If you ever find yourself in the area needing a root touch up or a color overhaul, make sure to ask for Jen Phillips, she’s my highlighting hero.

Til next time! xo, ❤

Top: J Crew // Jeans: Blank NYC // Sandals: J Crew // Watch: Michael Kors (similar here) // Sunnies: Cheap Monday // Bag: Kate Spade (similar here) // Lipstick: Lorac

Capitol Hill Casual

Published on June 8, 2014August 29, 2014 by reganclem3 Comments

Captiol Hill is a cute, little neighborhood that is perfect for a lazy Sunday. I started the day with brunch at Beuchert’s Saloon. Their garden patio is open in the back right now, making it the perfect place to unwind from the night before. Afterwards, I took a walk down to the Eastern Market to mosey and check out the different vendors. Aside from the market on the weekends, Capitol Hill is a cute little residential neighborhood with picturesque row houses. I actually went on a running tour through here with DC Running Tours last weekend and it was a great spot to explore.

It was a little toasty in DC today, so I decided to keep it light with a chambray top and a swing skirt. I paired it with my new Vince sandals, which are the comfiest shoes I own. And, because of the black and nude, they go with everything! I also picked up some jewelry from a local jeweler, Diament, yesterday at the DC Meet Market. It was tough to pick a couple of pieces because everything was so cute! Definitely worth checking out their stuff!

Until next time! xo

Top: Cloth & Stone // Skirt: Greylin // Bag: 3.1 Phillip Lim // Sandals: Vince // Sunnies: Cheap Monday // Candy Necklace: Diament Jewelry // Green & Gold Bangle: Diament Jewelry // Rings: Vintage

Crochet & Cargo

Published on May 25, 2014August 29, 2014 by reganclemLeave a comment

When the sun goes down in Tampa you can finally break out your favorite pair of skinnies! I’m in love with my Citizens cargos right now and decided to pair them with some girly pieces to mix it up. I always think its fun to mix and match unexpected items together; to me it seems a little more inventive.

I usually stray away from crop tops because I have a larger bust and they tend to be unflattering on me, but this easy breazy one actually turned out to be quite flattering. I think the crocheted sweetheart neckline does the trick. Now that I put it on, I never want to take it off. Seriously, I pair it with everything.

So, how would you style a pair of cargos? Tell me in the comments section below!

Get the look: Cargos, Citizens of Humanity // Top: Zara // Shoes, Marc by Marc Jacobs (sold out in nude, but black is on sale) // Bag, Marc by Marc Jacobs (in black) // Jewlery, Vintage // Watch, Michael Kors

Hot Hot Heat

Published on May 10, 2014August 29, 2014 by reganclem2 Comments

Down in Tampa it’s been hovering right around the 90’s, so in an effort to stay cool I’ve been trying to stick with tanks and flowy skirts during the day. This floral patterned skirt is such an easy print to mix and match with other prints, so I decided to top it off with a striped tank from Madewell to add a little contrast. I have this tank in almost every color; the neckline and cut in general is perfect, and the material is so soft. If you can get your hands on a few, they’ll be a perfect staple to add to your wardrobe.

Striped Tank, Madewell // Skirt, Zara // Heels, BCBG // Clutch, BCBG

Island Hopping

Published on November 18, 2013September 1, 2014 by reganclem2 Comments

After Bangkok it was time to head down to switch gears and head to the beach. You can get to Phuket on just about any budget, but in my opinion, to make your stay truly enjoyable, it’s important that you pick a clean, friendly, well-located resort. For an extra $40-$60/night, you see a big difference. Katathani Resort on Kata Beach was a perfect choice. It is located a few minutes off of the main road, but it’s downtown Kata is perfectly walkable. With several pools, restaurants, and a great beach front location, I would highly recommend this spot for your next stay in Phuket.

While in Phuket, taking a day trip out to see the famous Phi Phi Islands is a must. The hotel recommended the Tropical Andaman Marine Tour, which ended up being a great choice. The tour costs 3,100 baht (roughly $100) and includes hotel pickup, lunch, and stops at five different islands.

One compliant that you will hear a lot regarding speedboat tours is that they are usually very crowded, and there is not a lot of time to enjoy on each of the islands. Unfortunately, for one day trips this is almost always unavoidable. The crew on our tour made a considerable effort to get to different islands and lagoons quickly, as to beat the crowds, but there were some spots that were likely crowded all day. If you are looking for an experience a little less crowded, it’s worth it to look into an overnight option on the islands.

One of the great parts about my stay in Thailand is that my mother was able to join me! After 7 weeks of travel, it was definitely nice to see a familiar face. Aside from relaxing, she was also breaking in one of her bags that she decided to bring with her on the trip. Her company, Hoist Away Bags, repurposes old, retired sails into functional tote bags that are perfect for any vacation. Everything we needed for the day fit comfortably, and thanks to the sail cloth, stayed dry all day.

After a long day of island hopping, it was nice to head back to the resort, order some room service, and watch the sun set from the beach with a mango daiquiri in hand. This day trip was a good first step on the way to relaxation for the rest of the trip, and is a must-do for anyone visiting the Phuket area.

What to Wear: Japan

Published on November 17, 2013September 1, 2014 by reganclem2 Comments

Striking a balance between stylish and conservative can make packing for Japan difficult. If you stick to these few rules, you’ll be well on your way to making a fashionable statement on your next journey to the land of the rising sun.

Keep your cleavage covered. Japanese women are very sensitive when it comes to showing off their décolletage. The rule of thumb is: if someone can see down your shirt when you bend over, it’s too low. Obviously, the trendier areas aren’t as conservative, but it’s always good to err on the side of caution.

Pack sensible and stylish shoes. You will be walking around a lot, and while five-inch heels will likely help you blend in, save your feet the pain during the day and invest in some fashionable sneakers. I went with a pair of Jimmy Choo sneakers. See how I wore them here. Not your style? A pair of converse will also do the trick. Not a sneaker fan? Just remember to keep the heel low, or even better, nonexistent.

Show some leg. While locals are likely to keep it conservative from the waist up, you will see women showcasing their gams. Short shorts and miniskirts are perfectly acceptable for just about any situation (outside of the office, of course).

Be a little adventurous. Have a cool piece of clothing that’s a bit too aggressive to wear back home? No problem. With the Harajuku mindset, anything goes in Japan. If you find yourself strutting through Ginza, don’t be afraid to oversize everything, wear crazy graphic prints, and pair heels with pajamas. Just remember, the best accessory is confidence. If you’re lucky, the hoard of fashion photographers who camp out on Omotesando might even photograph you.

Ditch the kimono. While it might be fun to dress up for an hour or two, leave the traditional looks to the professionals. Aside from the fact that walking around in flip-flops with socks on is obnoxiously hard, kimonos are tight and uncomfortable. Ladies, just think about the effort to go to the bathroom…

Check the weather. Summers in Japan can be unbearably hot, and winter temps are known to fall below zero. The last thing you want is a suitcase full of sweaters when you should have packed shorts. If you’re going during Spring or Fall, include light layers. Traveling during the rainy season (May – July)? Be sure to pack an umbrella and some jellies.

If you’re going to pack just one thing… make sure it’s an LBD like the Alexander Wang one above. Plans change, opportunities arise, and as it is in the states, a little black dress is always appropriate in Japan.