Pack Smart, Look Fabulous

Headed somewhere for a summer vaycay? Let us help you pack smart! You can seriously cut down on baggage with a few key picks, and we’ve got all of them!

#1: Compact Crossbody Bag

A style like the Hobo “Mara” will hold all of your essentials, but will leave your hands free for dashing through the airport, perusing shops, or attending a festival! Pick a neutral color like Hobo’s newest shade “Doe” so your bag will go with everything you pack! Play up the silver hardware in your jewelry to make a more polished look for night.

Hobo The Original crossbody bag, $138

#2: Day to Night Sandal

If you pick a sleek sandal with fun details, it can easily carry you from daytime on the boardwalk to a night out on the town. Pick something easy to walk in all day, yet dressy enough to throw on with a maxi dress at dinner. We’ve got styles at every price point that will go with everything in your suitcase!

Left to Right:

Kork-Ease metallic slides - Full price $124, now $99 at 20% off

Dolce Vita black nubuck slides - Full price $58, now $41 at 30% off

Restricted cut out lace ups - Full price $44, now $44 at 20% off

#3: Simple Costume Jewelry

With the exception of the precious pieces you never take off, it’s probably a good idea to pack mostly inexpensive costume jewelry on a trip. That way if your bag gets lost, you won’t be pacing around the airport stressing about grandma’s necklace, or that bracelet your hubby got you last Christmas. Choose one long and one short necklace that can be worn alone or layered together—that way no matter what neckline you’re wearing you’ll have just the right length.  Add a small pair of studs that can stand alone or complement either necklace and you’re set!

Sunglasses - $14 a pair

Bar stud earrings - $7 a pair

Rebecca gold plated feather necklace - $32

Two-tone stone pendant - $22

#4: Cheap ‘n Chic Sunnies

The idea of scratching your pricey polarized sunnies in the sand or (even worse) watching them sink down into the ocean can be heartbreaking. Bring a cute and versatile pair of sunglasses that you won’t mind getting down and dirty with—all of ours are just $14 a pair!

#5: The Everything Scarf

We obviously love a sheer gauzy scarf for layering on a summer night, but these beauties can do so much more than that! Bring it on the plane to drape over your shoulders when you get chilly, knot it around your waist for an instant beach wrap, and tie it into a vest (see how-to below) to make a plain outfit pop!

Step 1: Open scarf long-ways

Step 2: Fold in half

Step 3: Holding the open corners in one hand and the folded corner in the other, tie ends into small knot

Step 4: Unfold and slip over shoulders with knot at back

Tie dye scarf - $24

#6: The Optional Carry On/Emergency Checked Bag

Ok, so we’ve all been there. You hit the shops a little too hard on vacation, and before you know it your bag is overweight! Pack a soft, lightweight duffel that can fold up compactly inside your bag, and fill it with all of the overflow! If you pick one with good enough closures, it can even be checked in a pinch! Not only does our quilted tote by Lani have strong zippers, but it also features a hidden loop for attaching to your rolling suitcase.

Lani quilted tote, $68

Follow these tips and tricks to take the stress out of packing and enjoy your trip! And be sure to tag us in your summer travel pics for a chance to be featured on our Instagram! @poppyandstella

the fashionista's guide to packing

Now that Summer is upon us, it's time to start thinking about what you are going to need for those upcoming vacations. Whether you're headed to the beach house for the weekend or on your way to an exotic getaway, these six summer vacation essentials will be a great starting point for all your summer packing needs!

1. Pack-able sun hats 

Protect your face from sun while looking sassy for your summer vacation. All San Diego Hat Co. hats have a UPF 50 rating, which protects your face from harmful UV rays. These hats bounce back to their original shape when crushed, making them the perfect travel companions as well.

San Diego Hat Co. pack-able hat, $45.

2.  Tinted lip balm and sheer gloss

Keep your lips moisturized during the warm summer weather and add a little lip color to your nighttime vacation looks. Go for a more sheer look with the lippy gloss or try out the tinted balm for more color coverage.

butter LONDON lippy and tinted balm, $18-$20 each.

3. Crease-less hair ties 

Keep your hair out of your face for daytime activities without leaving a crease in your hair. Kitsch hair ties also double as a fashion bracelet!

Kitsch hair ties, $14-16 per pack.

4. Crossbody bag

Store all your small vacation necessities like you butter LONDON lippy and Kitsch hair ties in a convenient crossbody . Crossbody bags are great for keeping your hands free while you're on the move! 

Street Level woven crossbody, $48.

5. Pack-able sandals 

Everyone needs a great pair of sandals to take with them on vacation. Pack a lightweight pair that is versatile enough to wear with various outfits, but comfortable and durable enough for all day wear. We chose a leather thong style sandal that would look great with everything from shorts to maxi dresses.

Miz Mooz Inuovo thong style leather sandal, $69.

6. Colorful nail polish 

Show off those toes with a freshly painted pedicure in a tropical inspired color. Bright colors will perfectly compliment your summer tan!

butter LONDON nail polish, $15 each.

Spring Style Preview!

There may be six more weeks of winter, but we are celebrating Spring early, previewing our new arrivals exclusively to you! From fun floppy hats to strappy sandals, we have just what you need this Spring. These styles are perfect for a winter getaway, or just for those dreaming of warmer weather!

One of our favorite reemerging trends this season is the maxi dress, done in fun prints! Wear your maxis with casual sandals, or dress them up with wedges and a contrasting necklace. Add a fun hat to any Spring outfit for a pop of color and to shield your skin while outdoors.

Another trend we love for the upcoming season (and for any season!) is comfort shoes, whether they are flats or heels. The Born leather wedge featured below has a padded footbed and adjustable slingback strap, making it perfect for all day wear. The Bed Stu woven leather sandal below is also a great everyday shoe, absolutely made for walking with its leather lining and rubber outer sole!

Here's to SPRING and all it holds for fun and fashion!

Shop this look:

Olive & Oak striped maxi, $89

Born leather wedge, $115

San Diego Hat Co. ombre floppy, $28

Sunburst necklace, $32

Shop this look:

Olive & Oak chevron maxi, $84

Bed Stu leather woven sandal, $119

San Diego Hat Co. woven fedora, $22

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Have you been saving all summer so you can make an early season splurge? Have you been waiting patiently for that one special item to come along so you can treat yourself? Well I have a treat for you! Feast your eyes on the Manolo Blahnik Contun.  This strappy, sandal can add just the right amount of flare to any ensemble, casual or formal.  They are a serious splurge at $895, one that may have you thinking, "that one pair of shoes is the equivalent of multiple car payments".

Manolo Blahnik

If you aren't ready to take the plunge perhaps I can tempt you with a similarly snazzy splurge that may be more in your price range.  This strappy sandal from Butter is yet again a great way to add that little something extra to your outfit.  This pair is only (yes I'm using the word only to describe a still expensive pair of shoes) $284, but compared to the $895 sticker of the previous pair I think the Butter's are a much more reasonable splurge.

Butter

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

I'm very excited to start showing off our new fall collection, but I've got one more transition look to take you from summer to fall in a breeze.  Speaking of breeze, wouldn't you want to make your breezy bohemian chic blouse last another season? Here's how.

The Cure: Boho bonus

Blouses like these are perfect for summer with their light airy flow, but add a few layers and it's fit for fall! For now topping those high-waisted cutoffs and adding a great pair of sandals is perfect for your favorite late summer music fest, but if you're thinking about ahead, layering can probably make a lot of your pieces last longer.  In this case grab a pair of black leggings and your favorite Frye's and you have extended the life of your wardrobe!

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Are you finding yourself in a fashion rut? Are your favorite shopping standby's leaving you uninspired?   Did you know that Poppy and Stella now sells clothes as well as fabulous shoes and accessories???

The Cure: Poppy and Stella...everything AND the clothes!

If you're looking for something fun and on trend we are your one stop shop for clothes, shoes, and accessories! Take for instance this great look, it's 100+ degrees out there so a pair of dressy shorts is perfect for running around or a night on the town, pair with a great platform sandals to kick it up a notch.  But wait, you aren't done with this one, come fall layer a pair of opaque tights underneath then add a cropped blazer and a close-toed pump for a great transition outfit!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality!

Are you still on the hunt for the perfect flat sandal, well look no further, this beauty from Lanvin is sure to be the winner! This leather thong sandal with chainlink accents and toe strap is sure to catch your eye! The best part they are on sale for $389! Still seem like a lot for such a minimalist shoe? Yes I think so too.

Lanvin

Which is why I want to introduce Splendid's Morocco Sandal.  It has the same minimalist look in a leather thong with toe strap, but instead of chainlink accents it has contrast color stitching.  The best part, these are a steal on sale for only $34! If I were you I'd hurry in before they're gone!

Splendid

Sheer Madness

Showing some skin is one of the perks of spring/summer fashion, but have you ever thought of showing skin while remaining covered up? According to InStyle, this trend is quite simple to take on by following a few key rules.

The airy fabrics should have some kind of "built in coverage" like pockets or strategically placed panels, if not consider layers.  Blouses that are sheer require opaque underpinnings, something must be left to the imagination. Adding bold jewelry and statement sandals can keep the look from looking too "boudoirish".  Finally sheer pieces are great as coverups for the beach, the transparency of the fabric still leaves a little something to the imagination.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Have you been feeling the heat lately? Need something to help lighten things up?  There is no better cure for feeling the pressure (and the temperatures) than a pretty outfit that makes your feel good!

The Cure: Lighten Up

A light and airy dress is a great way to beat the heat. Choose a cool color like this light blue to help soothe your mood and help relieve stress. Stick with a simple silhouette and amp it up with accessories that will give the look something special.  Finally give your feet a break from a pump and select a flat sandal, great for comfort and cooling your heels!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Happy Fourth of July everyone!  While planning your perfect patriotic ensemble you might be wondering what the perfect pair of shoes would be.  You know me and that I'm a less is more kind of girl, so if you're already donning red, white, and blue I would suggest a neutral shoe.  Chloe's leather  v-strap sandal with open toe and closed back is the necessary neutral to balance your red, white, and blues, but the $775 price tag may make balancing your checkbook a challenge.

Chloe, $775

Which is why I'm strongly suggesting Sam Edelman's Karli wedge.  This semi-v-strap wedge has adjustable buckle accents, open back, and perforated leather to keep your feet cool and comfy this 4th of July! Best of all they're only $148 and if you're lucky you might just find them on sale!

Sam Edelman, $148

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Chambray is all over the place this season, well it is every season, but this season it seems to be center stage.  You aren't fond of a denim on denim look, so chambray isn't on your shopping list, but there are so many other things to pair with it!

The Cure: Chambray Chic

There is nothing better to pair the faded, soft, worn denim with than white, whether shorts, pants, or crops, the combo is clearly classic.  Roll up your sleeves and style it with layers of chunky jewelry and don't be shy, the more the merrier.  Keep the rest of the look clean with a simple sandal and sunglasses. Sashay in your chambray till your hearts content!

South Beach Sexy

It's vacation season, which means an escape to a place where you can really step outside your fashion box and explore a little.  If you're heading to a place like South Beach, Miami you're looking to pack bold prints, body conscious silhouettes, and anything that's going to show some skin!

Stock up on shorts and mini's, but go for bright colors and patterns, and don't be afraid to mix and match a little.  Max out your maxi with a bold print and while you're at it, look for a statement sandal that's sure to turn heads.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Well ladies I think I know what you might be asking yourselves this week.  How do you beat the heat? With the temperatures constantly on the rise the last thing you want is to feel uncomfortable in your clothes. You know the "less is more" approach is key, but you've got to keep it office appropriate, so what is the look you should go for?

The Cure:

Light colors and light fabrics should be the foundation of this outfit.  Choose a light-weight cotton skirt that hits right above the knees. I recommend a silhouette that flows away from the body. When it comes to the top, a cap sleeved loose fitting blouse is perfect.  Mix up the look with color and texture and pair with a great neutral, heeled summer sandal.  You won't feel hot, but your look could ignite a flame!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Spotted: Celebrities everywhere love wearing one of our favorite summer staples, the Sam Edelman Gigi.  These simple thong sandals are the perfect finishing touch for anything from shorts to maxis.

Want to emulate the style of Gwyneth, Halle, Kim, then hurry in and grab your pair before they go! These stylish sandals are far from a splurge at just $50 ON SALE!!!

Wet 'n Wild Watermelon

Bright, bold, and brilliant, watermelon is a summer hue you'll want to warm up to!  Why? Well according to InStyle magazine,

"We think designer Peter Som, who used watermelon in his current collection, summed it up best: ' It has the graphic impact of a lipstick red, but it's just a bit more feminine.'"

The pinkish red shade with a hint of orange is a first class feminine statement maker! Structured silhouettes will help "emphasize the color's strength." Pair a solid separate with a graphic print and combine with whites, khakis, tangerine, or even cobalt for an engaging ensemble.

Resort Ready

Planning your vacation? Getting ready for that weekend getaway? Do you find that packing for these events sometimes proves more difficult than planning them in the first place?  With a few key pieces you can be!

The great thing about summer is how effortless dressing can be.  White bottoms, whether a skirt, shorts, or pants are the perfect starter, a couple tanks, a couple tees, all of various colors and patterns, a sundress, a great sandal, bathing suit w/ cover up and a bag that can double as a beach tote and you're all set! Can you add more, of course, do you need to? Not necessarily. Spend more time getting that r&r than worrying about what to wear!

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Since I know you raced out and picked up a pair of those Gigi's I wrote about on Wednesday (if you didn't I know you're going to because spring and summer shoes are now marked down 20-50% off) you might be wondering what to wear them with first.  Let me off you one of my favorite go to looks.

The Cure: Gigi Glam

A black tank maxi is a great basic piece to have in your wardrobe, easily dressed up or down and can transition through just about any season.  To go for something right in the middle, pair the dress with bold jewelry and tone it down just a not with the simplicity of your Gigi's.  You'll fit right in at just about any occasion!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

It's sandal season and if you're building your summer white wardrobe you will want to add the perfect little seasonal sandal to the mix.  Consider for yourself the Christian Louboutin Flanana, this t-strap, thong sandal with espadrille bottom is simple, smart, and perfectly paired with anything summery. While it may be smart in a stylish way it certainly won't be your wisest purchase as they retail for $450.

Christian Louboutin, $450

Of course you can always opt for the ever popular Sam Edelman Gigi.  Same t-strap, throng design, with a snake embossed upper instead of espadrille. And talk about smart, these will only run you $62 and are also available in rosegold and black snake skin! I mean really could it get any better?!?

Sam Edelman, $62

Fashion Rx: Your Weekly dose of what to wear!

Well it's Memorial Day Weekend, which means picnics, barbecues, and pool parties.  Outdoor activities do not require dressing to the nines, instead you want to stay cool, comfortable, and chic as you battle the summer heat.

The Cure: Pleasant Picnic Picks

Easy, breezy, loose fitting silk is the way to go.  The lightweight, flowy material will keep you cool, choosing a spirited print will keep you in the fashionista spotlight.  Pair the tank with tailored shorts and flat leather sandals and you are picnic perfection.

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Are you looking for something fun and funky to add to your summer wardrobe? A statement sandal perhaps?  Opening Ceremony has a pair of platforms that are sure to turn some heads.  This suede, peep-toe sandal with cut-out details, adjustable slingback, and two toned platform prove to be more than just fun and funky and unfortunately they may prove to be too much for your budget.  A pair of these will run you $615.

Opening Ceremony, $615

Not to worry, I have a pair to fill the fun and funky void in your closet without leaving a void in your wallet.  The "Twiggy" by Madeline is a similar sandal with peep-toe, adjustable slingback, and colorful platform guaranteed to get you noticed. At just $69 you will surely strut your stuff down the street!

Madeline, $69