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

Summer Scorcher

Summer certainly is making a grand entrance at the party this week. Walking outside is like stepping into a very warm bath, and if you're like me, you feel like you're just barely keeping your head above water. In the heat, your energy wanes and you feel overwhelmed by all the activity that summer demands. It's hard to keep moving with that sun beating down and the humidity rising. You just want to curl up in front of the AC and take a nap.

What a great time to remember to take good care of our bodies. Drink gallons of water and take advantage of all the fresh, cheap fruits and vegetables that are in season right now. Keep your feet happy with some airy espadrilles or flats. Put on your most breezy maxi dress. Wear sunscreen.  Rock a great hat. I got my first wide-brimmed chapeaux this year, and what a joy it is to have instant shade no matter where I'm wandering.

But summertime traditionally is also a time when our soul health is in peril. Self-hate is just as pernicious as the heat. We hate our arms in sundresses, we hate our thighs in swimsuits, we hate our toes in sandals. We tell ourselves lies about how we compare to the next girl. And no amount of buying and outward fixing can really take away that self-hate. 

I try to encourage all the ladies who come into Poppy to be kind to themselves, body and soul--not because of what they have or don't have, but because they've been beautifully made from the inside out. It's a message I share because I need to hear it too, again and again.

One of my favorite parts of working at Poppy and Stella is meeting all the wonderful people who walk through our doors. Our fabulous customers are beautiful inwardly first, loving themselves and others well. And that inward beauty radiates out into a loveliness that goes beyond their great fashion sense. 

So to all my Poppy ladies--be kind to yourself this summer! Drink your water and take care of your skin, but also teach your soul to forgive your faults. I think you're just beautiful.

-Charlotte, Poppy & Stella ATC

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Even though Fall is speeding towards us, Summer is not ready hand over the keys.  In the hub of the heat you still have bbqs, pool parties, and let's not forget, weddings to attend.  What do you wear to that late summer wedding? Sure you may be thinking about transitioning, but trust me you have time, technically it is still July. Besides now's the time when summer items are on sale to make room for fall.  Seize the sizzling temps with some sizzling color and you will not be burned.  When the main attraction is wearing white, tempt the groomsman you have your eye on with some tantalizing tones.

The Cure: Vamped up Vibrant

Choose a bright color, like tangerine, magenta, or turquoise, and wear it boldly in a monochromatic, and in a cut that flatters your figure. Go neutral with your shoes and clutch, but play up the color with jewelry in the same palette.  If your dress has embellishment, no need to add a necklace, just add a bracelet or pair of earrings.  The idea is to let the color shine so you can stand out.

Disclaimer: While neon colors can be considered vibrant and bold, they are not recommended for this type of event.  You want people to notice you, but not be blinded by you.

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

With this excessive heat the country has been facing I feel it has become a necessity to have a/c built into my attire, that being said, please do not think I am walking around in 1980's mesh fashion, however the perforated look is very fashion forward when it comes to footwear.  Case in point, Miu Miu's Patent Perforated Peep-toe pump, try saying that 5x fast.  The highly stylized perforated woven leather will keep your feet perfectly pleasant during those hot summer nights, but at $650 the price is anything but perfect or pleasant.

Miu Miu, $650

Naughty Monkey has a similarly punctured style with its take on perforated woven leather.  The laser cut panels with side-cut outs and buckle adorned peep-toe, will keep your feet refreshed and refined.  At just, $97 you won't have to put your credit cards on ice.

Naughty Monkey, $97

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

One of the toughest things to deal with in creating a summer wardrobe is finding pieces that can be both work and play appropriate.  We want to bear the skin that has been hiding so long under sweaters and pants, but showing skin in the office is a big no no.  Is it possible to utilize a summer trend in an work environment?  You bet, thanks to the maxi skirt!

The Cure: Office Appropriate Attire

A great summer ensemble that is both on-trend and appropriate starts with a maxi skirt, which gives you the flowy light-weight feel of summer, but with a "take me seriously" length.  Pair the skirt with a ruffled print top, and top it off with a cropped blazer before you head into that meeting.  Pointy toed kitten wedges and a bag with some hardware are apropos accessories for this office outfit.

Preppy Chic

Who says preppy style has to be all top siders and Polo?  There is a new wave of preppies taking the stage this summer.  The "Nouveau preppies" embrace the classics and add their own spin.  According to InStyle,

"Nouveau preppy is sporty, upbeat, and--thank goodness--a little sexier than what Winky or Muffy would wear.  It's perfect for weekends, whether you summer in Boothbay Harbor, Maine, or Bayside, Queens, or the San Francisco Bay Area.  Inspried by waht some wear to 'the club', these togs definitely push the 'house rules'"

Mix and match traditional masculine styles with ultra girly ones, like a button down oxford over a bikini. Another nouveau look, take one traditionally preppy element and pair it with something a little more funky, like a tennis dress with a color-block platform sandal.  When it comes to color go bright or go home, and play around with fit, boyfriend chinos have a chic-slouchiness.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Summer concert series abound and you've got your favorite festivals all lined up, but what do you wear to  beat the heat and hopefully catch the eye of your favorite artist should the opportunity arise?

The Cure: Concert Chill

Flaunt your figure and shade your skin all at the same time.  Grab a pair of white cut-offs and top them with a bikini top and a knit tank.  Play peek-a-boo with a loose knit so you can stay chic and cool, while you cover up with sunglasses and hat to shade your skin.

Side-effects: Rock stars are intoxicating, take yours in small doses

You're making me blush!

Sweeping the runways is this "soft and feminine universally flattering and versitile shade" perfect for wall flowers that want to flirt with boldness.

According to InStyle:

"Generally considered ultra-girlie, the hue, somewhere between pale pink and champagne, can also come off as sophisticated--even edgy.  It adds personality to an ensemble without being loud."

 This shade works well as an all over look, mix and match textures and fabrics to add depth and interest.  Not into all over pink, pair with gray or camel for a soft look, or use it to break up bold shades like black and scarlet. Work in neutrals and metallics for your accessories and you will find yourself blushing all night long with the compliments you'll receive.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

When packing for that quick getaway, the less you bring the easier it is, but picking the right pieces is essential.  As promised, here are two brand spanking new looks created from the pieces that are already in your beach ready arsenal.

Simply by switching the tops and accessories you have two new and totally different looks to get you through your vacay.  Now no beach vacation would be complete without a great bikini and coverup.  The key here is to make your clothes do the work for you.

The Cure: Double Duty

Find a swimsuit with great color and print, it can stand alone or accent whatever else you're wearing.  When choosing a cover-up, consider a strapless, lightweight maxi dress in a color that complements your suit.  It's easy to throw on over your bikini, but accessorize it with that scarf you've already packed and you're ready to go out for the night!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

I think my heart is beating to a new rhythm, it's saying "Marc, Marc...Marc, Marc....Marc, Marc,  Marc as in  Jacobs.  It was love at first sight when I laid eyes on these Patent Wedge sandals!  The sleek patent leather crossover with the soft silhouette is a beautiful building block basic and the rimmed wedge with strips adds just the right accent.  With a price tag of $450 I'm afraid this love affair will be short lived.

Marc by Marc Jacobs

My heart however beats again for a similarly constructed espadrille wedge by Klub Nico.  The covered leather peep toe upper is similar to the Marc Jacobs crossover design, allowing for that basic look while the woven striped espadrille gives it that little something extra that sets it apart from rest.  At half the cost of its counterpart, my heart is a flutter again!

Klub Nico

East Meets West

If you're looking for something a little hip and eclectic, vibrant colors and vivid patterns set this style apart. Consider all things Moroccan when you want to be a bit adventurous.

Flowy fits, mosaics, ikat, and bright colors distinguish this mostly ancient style.  Shapes echo architectural arches and windows and patterns demonstrate the delicate and intricate design familiar to this part of the world. Make it modern by mixing in metallics and geometric accessories.  You are sure to rock the casbah when you rock this look.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Still planning for that beach getaway?  Well you've got a casual day outfit, how about something casual for evening?  You know that slow saunter down the boardwalk right before the sun sets? We want to make sure you strut your stuff. We'll start with all new pieces, and then you will be able to see that by mixing and matching pieces from both looks, the possibilities are endless!

The Cure: Twilight Traipse

Feel confident walking down the boardwalk at dusk in a pair of white skinny jeans and a blousey tank.  Choose a soft solid color for the tank, maybe with some crocheted details. Amp it up with a patterned scarf, perfect for wrapping up in after the sun sets.  Then vamp up your look with a great pair of espadrille wedges.  Can pieces from this week work with pieces from last week? Absolutely! Check out next week to see how!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

My, my Miu Miu, how you catch my attention.  These gorgeous stud-encrusted platform pumps are designer drool worthy! With your sleek, sophisticated structure and bold bad-girl edge,  I would very much like you to make yourself at home in my closet.  Alas,  $790 is a bit steep.

Miu Miu, $790

Thankfully, Vince Camuto has a similarly sexy, edgy-luxe look with a price that is just right.  This nude version has the same bold and brash branded pumps, but the price packs an easier punch.  At $118 I have no problem welcoming these home.

Vince Camuto "Missie", $118

American Classic

When I think of American Classic, I think about Ralph Lauren, the Kennedy's, Martha's Vineyard, Lauren Hutton, Katharine Hepburn, and most notably Jackie O.  This sense of style is timeless and effortless and yet not the easiest to master.  For some the simplicity isn't enough and they want to add something extra special, but this look is less about the clothes and more about you.

Keep to classic tailored lines and a subtle color palette of navy, white, red, and tan.  The sharp contrasts when combining these colors is enough to make you stick out, but not in the sore thumb kind of way. If you must add something to create interest, a stripe within this color family is best.  The clothes should fit, nothing should be too tight or too loose.  Keep accessories to a minimum. A neutral shoe or boot and simple gold accents are just enough to accentuate the look.  Less really is more, let your personality shine through.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Are you making a quick escape and trying to pack for that weekend getaway to sun and sand? The key to the fast getaway is sticking with a small number of essential items that you can mix and match for stellar style.  Here begins your basic assembly for perfect packing.

The cure: Beachcomber Bliss

A pair of boyfriend cut denim shorts, printed tank, and a light layering cardigan for those cooler nights are great for a stroll on the boardwalk or an afternoon excursion.  Add a flat sandal, layered chains, and a graphic tote to complete the look.  The best part, you'll be able to incorporate these pieces into other looks with ease.

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Hybrids are all the rage these days, from cars to plants to even shoes!  Take for example Pedro Garcia's suede peep-toe wedge, a combination espadrille and clog with wearability from summer to winter.  Tonal pickstitching splits the upper, the sling back fastens with a hook and loop closure and the cork footbed separated the covered linen wedge for a lighter look.  But as well all know, hybrids tend to be a bit more expensive, the particular pair will run you $440.

Pedro Garcia, $440

If you don't think you can get the miles worthy of $440 out of Pedro Garcia's wedge, the "Lively" by Nicole may do the job for you.  The platform wedge offers a liberal lift and a chic, comfortable look.  The peep-toe and buckle sling back make it great for summer, and the leather makes it an easy transition piece to fall.  At only $142, you're sure to get the most bang for your buck!

Nicole "Lively", $142

Surfer Girl

Catch a wave and you're sitting on top of the world, especially when you're laid back in your style and your attitude.  While we may not all have that California girl beachy blonde hair and blue eyes, we can still emulate her style.

This relaxed look is the epitome of summer. String bikinis, bright colors, and of course stellar sandals.  You don't have to try too hard to pull this off.  Frayed jean shorts or boyfriend cut denim, paired with a bikini top and a loose fitting graphic tee are signature surfer girl style.  Girly it up by wearing a bright colored maxi and a cute hoodie on those breezy cool beach nights.  Stick to a less is more rule and enjoy the wind in your hair, sand under your toes, and the sun shining down on your skin.

Fresh Cuts!

Check out some of the new inventory from Jeffrey Campbell, Not Rated, Vince Camuto and Corso Como.  Summer is just beginning, grab these stellar summer styles while they last!

Not Rated, $49

Jeffrey Campbell, $98

Jeffrey Campbell, $89

Jeffrey Campbell, $72

Jeffrey Campbell, $109

Corso Como, $99

Vince Camuto, $118

Vince Camuto, $89

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

As the temperatures continue to rise we wage war with our wardrobes, trying to keep cool and comfortable, but delightful and demure, revealing too much skin is a major faux pas.  Can you stay easy, breezy and refreshingly swell without skimping down to your skivvies? 

The Cure: Short and Sweet!

Now is not the time to max it out, make it short and sweet to beat the heat!  Choose breathable fabrics, like cotton, and consider light layers.  A chambray button down, layered over a white tank will take you from a frigid air conditioned office, to the sweltering sun outside by just removing a layer.  A simple striped skirt that falls just above the knee is cute and comfy. Pair with a strappy espadrille or a great flat sandal and you won't just win the battle with the heat, you'll look good doing it!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

The ever elusive embellished sandal, something with just enough glamour but not so much that it's gaudy, does it exist?!?  Well Giuseppe Zanotti seems to think so.  The coral flat sandal with t-strap design is embedded with multi-cut coral stones, golden beads, and tan crystal insets.  A sandal like this rivals the styles of the Roman empire, but can your wallet compete at $995?  We may be bordering on gaudy here.

Guiseppe Zanotti, $995

I'm certainly not going to shell out $995 for a pair of sandals when I can find a perfectly comprable pair that doesn't set off the gaudy meter.  Not Rated has a thong style coral sandal with a bead encrusted vamp that gives you just enough glam.  The intricate design details add interest and the elastic back and padded footbed provide comfort.  The best part...they are just $49, a sure winner!

Not Rated, $49