Sarah Brody: Last minute gift ideas under $50 December 18, 2010

Having a minor meltdown over last minute gifts for your gal pals? Sarah Brody suggests great gifts that save you from the stress. 

We’ve all done it: putting off buying gifts until the last minute. With a couple of days left to order and ship before the holiday, rest assured, you still have time to get great gifts.  At under $50, the price is right with these stocking stuffer faves that your friends and budget will love!

Rebecca Minkoff Boxed Up Stud Coin Purse

In fire engine red with gold studded embellishment, this petite purse is a match for the card-carrying queen.  She’ll be able to hold everything from keys to coins in this functional, yet stylish case.

Hive & Honey Bracelet Set

You’ll get more for the money with this set of two trendy crystal and beaded bracelets.  They are a go-to-gift for any fashion-forward friend!

Hunter Welly Sock

In fun colors and festive prints, these fleece rain boot liners will keep her feet cozy and warm as the temperature drops. 

Michael Antonio Palmero Black Glitter Flat

Adorned in glitter, this LBF (little black flat) can be worn from day to night. 

Tinley Road Blanket Scarf

Calling all snow bunnies! This knit scarf will keep your gal pal cozy while spending her holiday in a winter wonderland.

Gorjana Double Rope Necklace

There is always something special about gifting a piece of personal jewelry.  And this tiny gold plated necklace is no exception for your closest pal.

Piperlime eGiftcard

No worries if you don’t have time to ship a gift to your cross-country fashionable friend! Send her an eGiftcard. She can pick what she really wants, and it spares the embarrassment of sending a late gift. (Bonus for saving on shipping!) It’s a win-win.

 

Sarah Brody: The best gifts for your best friends. December 14, 2010

Worried about what to get your besties this holiday season? Sarah Brody picks gifts for every type of girlfriend.

 
1. The Tech Trendsetter- Marc by Marc Jacobs Pretty Nylon Computer Commuter

Perfect for the gadget gal on-the-go, she can pack away her laptop and accessories into this chic quilted number. 

2. The Fashion Forward Friend- Current/Elliott The Cardigan Jacket

The cardigan shape with the look of denim makes this piece a go-to gift for you fashionista friends.  

3. The Haute Hipster- Joe’s Jeans Urbane Boot

Your downtown diva will love these wedge ankle boots, pairing them with her fave skinny and oversized tee.

4. The Winter Warrior- Juicy Couture Sequin Ribbed Loop Scarf

This will keep all cold-weather cuties warm throughout the winter. The pop of sequin adds a little glamour. Just what every girl needs, right?

5. The Gypsetter- Cynthia Vincent Berkeley tote

Your jetsetting friends can carry everything in this tote with rich colors and exotic print, perfect for the world traveler!

6. The Statement Maker- Sequin ikat Chains Statement Necklace

She’ll never take off this multi-metal mix chain necklace, making a bold entrance every time she enters the room.

7. The Glamour Gal- Tibi Sequin Top

For the glamazon that insists on wearing sequins at breakfast, this 70s inspired silhouette is a nod to vintage, with a modern twist.

 

Tuesdays with Sarah: Our weekly style Q&A. November 16, 2010

Our fabulous stylist contest winner Sarah Brody is back this week answering your style Qs on what shoes to wear with your BF jeans in the winter, finding cute tops that don’t cost a fortune and how to layer lace and faux fur. (You can!)

Question from Maggy:

I love my boyfriend jeans and would love to wear them in the fall and winter but I have no idea what footwear would work best? I was thinking maybe an Oxford-inspired platform pump but what about boots? Can I wear regular platform boots with them or do these styles clash? Help…please!!!

Sarah says:

I'm obsessed with boyfriend jeans as well and have come up with a few different ways to  transition them into the colder months. Taking a hint from the Fall/Winter Ready-to-Wear 2010 collections, I'm rocking lace up booties with wooly socks to channelthe cozy country weekend vibe. Also, try a military inspired lace up boot with buckle detail in army green or graphite for a go-to G.I. Jane look, which is totally on trend this fall. Take a cue from the boys and go for Oxford-inspired platforms paired with a button-up and a school-boy blazer to channel your inner English prep. As it gets colder, I'm always in search for extra warmth and suggest trying a boot with faux fur lining or shearling detail. Whatever your preference, just remember when pairing footwear with your go-to boyfriend denim, stick with a bootie that’s cut at the ankle or just below the calf for maximum style points.

Question from Sally:

I am looking for some tops that I could wear with leggings and boots or heels. I always go for quality, but that means they’re usually more expensive, and then I can’t get as many as I feel like I need. Any tips on finding great quality tops that aren’t too pricey? Thanks!

Sarah says:

I love the idea of a transitional tunic and Riller & Fount has most definitely mastered the art. Their amazing jersey pieces can be paired with leggings and cute booties for day, or a statement necklace and a sexy pair of heels at night. Riller & Fount pieces are affordable, yet well made and extremely versatile. Their styles range from plunging or asymmetrical necklines, ruching and draping. Layer them under a faux-fur vest or a military-inspired anorak with lace-up boots. A belted blanket sweater, tights, and vintage-inspired boots rock the country weekend trend. I totally swear by these pieces!

Question from Emily:

Now that winter is right around the corner, I’m getting antsy to pull out my two favorite things: lace everything and fur vests. Can they be worn together? How can I wear the looks from day to night?

Sarah says:

Lace + Fur. I'm totally obsessed! Because these fabrics are so luxe, just a simple change in bottoms and shoes will transform your look from day to night. With winter approaching, I'm opting for a boho chic dress with lacy detail for day, layered under a fur vest. Fun tights and boots make this look both practical and well, practically amazing right?  For night, remove the tights and add a pair of heels or pair your favorite lace top in a dark hue, with black denim, and a faux-fur vest. A great statement mix-metal cuff paired with a natural face (complete with a nude lip) and wavy locks finish off this always on-trend, yet vintage-inspired look. A total 70s flower child, I seriously think I was born in the wrong decade! I'm constantly rocking vintage pieces with updated accessories for a 2010 edge. 

Sarah Brody on: the Refined Rocker. November 09, 2010

Want to add a rocker vibe to your look? Sarah Brody shows you how.

This season, leave the distressed leggings and sky-high heels at home. And go for a more refined rocker look with luxe leather pieces, a sleek pony tail and a smokey eye.

 

For day, I'm wearing a rough and tough motorcycle jacket (the ultimate rocker chic staple) over an easy tee tucked into wax coated legging jeans. The wax coating on these skinnies hardens up these classic cut pants, making them the perfect go-to piece to channel your refined rocker. Ankle booties in a neutral hue—I'm obsessed with charcoal gray—and a mixed metal chain necklace are the perfect accessories for this edgy glam look.

 

 

 

 

For night, I'm grabbing a sequin stunner in an unexpected color, like eggplant or hunter green with printed booties and a leather jacket. Prints and sequins scream rocker girl and I cannot think of a better combo to dazzle a crowd. Add spiky cone bracelets and cocktail rings to complete this classic rocker vibe—you won't be disappointed!

Looking for something transitional from day to night? Try a black mini with leather details paired with a tee and funky booties in a primary color like crimson red or cobalt blue for day. A silver fringe necklace and sequin blazer turn this into a night-ready look.

Whether at a rock concert, shopping downtown, or a night out on the town, the refined rocker is totally on trend this fall. Don't forget to grab your leather staple on your way out the door!

Sarah Brody on the glitz and glamour. November 02, 2010

Who says you can't wear sequins at breakfast? Sarah Brody tells us how to rock the sparkle for day and night.

From a sequin beret with my morning coffee to bedazzled shorts for a night out, I sport glitz at all hours of the day gals. Yes, I’m overly obsessed with glitz and glamour. I find myself constantly gravitating towards anything and everything shiny when strolling through my favorite shops in NY and D.C. From vintage sequin tops to harem parents, here are some easy tips that will easily transform your wardrobe from drab to dazzling!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Sequin Jacket- Nothing makes a statement like a luxe overcoat oozing with sequins. Some of the best pieces of this kind can be found at your local vintage shops. In fact, I've noticed an overflow recently of these sparkling stunners. I'm pairing my fave silver sequined number with uber wide-leg dark denim, black suede wedges and an easy tee. A knit beret, loose locks and sequin fringe earrings complete this 70s inspired glam rock look.

The Sequin Vest- Punch up your daytime look by throwing on a luxe vest with a hint of sequins with your go-to denim. Funky cut-out cage booties, a basic tee, a knit beret in a shocking color and an armful of bangles create the perfect boho chic look. Just a dash of sparkle can totally take your everyday look to the next level. Right?

The Sequin Top- Easily transitional from day to night, a sequin top should definitely be in every woman's closet!  I'm wearing mine with boyfriend jeans, suede booties and a cross-body bag during the day. For night: Peg leg pants, sky high pumps and a printed clutch. (We all know how much I love animal prints—I had to include it in this post too.) Pair the sequin top of your choice with denim in any wash and style it with a great pair of heels. You'll be sure to captivate the room.

The Sequin Dress- The basic LBD just got a fashion makeover. So start channeling your inner glamazon! This one brings a little sparkle at the top of a classic silhouette. It’s an unexpected touch and I'm absolutely obsessed. My tip: Pair your favorite sequin stunner with basic pumps and minimal jewelry so that it won't overwhelm your look.

 So, whoever said sequins were only party garb was extremely mistaken. I think that something sparkly can always be incorporated to take your look to the next level.

Tuesdays with Sarah: Our weekly style Q&A. October 26, 2010

 It's getting chilly! So our stylist contest winner, Sarah Brody is here with tips on how to stay cute (even when it's gross out). Have your own style questions you’ve been dying to ask? Email her with your Qs to piperlime@gap.com.

 

Question from Michele:

Is it appropriate to wear rainboots to the office? If so, how can I put my look together?

                                                   

  

Sarah says:  

 

Staying glam in gloomy weather is always a daunting task, but lucky for you and every fashionista out there, chic waterproof staples are popping up everywhere! When looking for an all-weather shoe that is also work appropriate head back to basics with boots in neutral hues like Aquatalia by Marvin K.'s Yo Boot in brown or La Canadienne's Sandie Boot in brown, both conveniently chic and waterproof, the best of both worlds. My personal fave? Loeffler Randall's LR Rain Boot in army green; keeping with the company's design aesthetic these boots are sleek with a wedge heel and in this season's hottest color—what's not to love? Don't let the weather rain on your parade, literally. Step into a pair of these rain-friendly wonders and don't forget your umbrella!

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

Question from Erica:

Gloomy weather is officially here and I want to be warm and cozy. Blanket sweaters are everywhere, but how can I wear them without making me look too bulky?

 

 

Sarah says:

Comfy and chic? The two words almost every woman aspires to use when describing her
wardrobe. Blanket sweaters bring these together, creating a cozy yet stylish look. I'm rocking my personal fave, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent's 50's Cozy Melange Cardigan with black peg leg pants, suede booties, a chunky necklace, and a knit beret. Cinch your mohair must-have at the waist to create an ultra flattering hourglass silhouette. My tip: scope out your favorite vintage stores for a belt with some character to personalize your look.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sarah Brody on: Spot On October 22, 2010

Sarah Brody’s obsessed with animal prints. Here’s all the different ways to wear them.

 I’m a leopard lover and animal print aficionado. (I don't think you can ever go wrong wearing a statement stamped piece.) My addiction started as a tot, strutting through the early 90s in printed jumpers and leopard headbands. And I’ve been obsessed with this trend year after year, so I’ve picked my top pieces that can be easily incorporated into any wardrobe.

Printed Faux-Fur Coat: Part faux fur, part animal print, what’s not to love? The Natalia jacket by What Goes Around Comes Around is ferosh. Try pairing the printed piece of your choice with black skinny jeans and a sky-high bootie. Then unleash your inner wild child rocking neutral basics with this statement stunner.

 

 

 

Snakeskin Shirt: I realize that jumping into a leopard faux fur coat might not be everyone’s cup of tea. So for a more subtle take on the trend, Nation LTD's Karen Snakeskin Tee is the perfect twist on the oversized tee.  Pair your snake embossed shirt with wide leg denim, wedges, and a leather jacket for a casual look with a downtown edge. 

Leopard Pumps: Gone are the days of pairing your LBD with LBPs (Little Black Pumps).  This season it's all about a striking shoe to spice up your all black ensemble.  I love L.A.M.B.'s Pounce Pump; a five-inch stacked heel donned in printed pony hair. (Kind of amazing!) Did I mention the super sexy side view? Obsessed.

Printed Purse: Multifaceted, multifunctional, and oh right, covered in black and cream snakeskin, Foley + Corinna's Disco City Shoulder Bag is my pick for a gal on-the-go.  Try your favorite print, be it croc, snakeskin, leopard, or tiger, in a clutch, cross-body, hobo, or shoulder bag and you’ll have a stylish sack your gal pals will envy.

So ladies, unleash your inner wild child with these purrrfect prints and transform your style from simplistic to spot-on!

Tuesdays with Sarah: Our weekly style Q&A. October 19, 2010

Our stylist contest winner, Sarah Brody shows you how to wear cargos for fall. Do you have your own style questions you’ve been dying to ask? Email her with your Qs to piperlime@gap.com.

Question from Angie:
I'm attending an all day fundraiser in Nov......bus tour of several wineries with a dinner and auction as the finale.  Need to be comfortable, not too dressy, not too casual.  Can you help?  Thank you! 

Sarah says:

For a casual look when touring the wineries, try chic cords as an alternative to your go-to denim (it looks more effortless). I like AG Adriano Goldschmied's Angel Bootfit Cord paired with Textile Elizabeth and James' Kennedy Pullover Sweater. The boot cut is sophisticated yet stylish when you wear it with a trendy, cropped sweater. Not cold enough for a sweater? Channel a casual countryside look with Current/Elliot's The Perfect Shirt. The denim twist on this classic button-down is an ideal pairing with your cords. Add a great utilitarian piece in rich tones like Elizabeth and James' Shrunken Surplus Jacket, (my must-have item!) and a luxe eternity scarf. Wedge booties finish off your look. They create a leaner line, yet keep you comfortable while strolling through the vineyards. Don't forget your sunnies!

Xx,

Sarah

Question from Emily:
I bought a pair of black ankle wedge boots and I'm not sure how to wear them! Are they best with boot cut pants and jeans or with leggings or maybe skirts and tights?

Also, in the warm weather, I've paired my Free People skinny cargos with nude peep-toe wedges but as the weather gets colder, what is the right closed toe shoe to wear? A high boot or more of an ankle bootie?

Sarah says:

The great thing about wedge booties is that they are extremely versatile and work well with just about any bottom. I’m always leaning towards uber-wide leg jeans, so I'm wearing my fall wedges with J Brand's Lovestory Flare Jeans in pure. (They’re super flattering.) Try your same signature booties with different materials like velvet pants or skinny cords in different hues to add some color and texture. Or go chic with your favorite black wedge boots and Current/Elliot's The Skinny Cargo Pant in Midnight Overdye for a take on this season's go-to military trend. If you want more of a glam, evening look, pair the same booties with a statement skirt in a copper hue with opaque tights. It’s perfect for the holiday season!

To take your cargos into fall, I’d pair military-inspired lace up boots like Sam Edelman's Vancouver Boot in Graphite which has ankle buckles or even something a little more rugged like Joie's Refugee Boot. Finish off either look with a fitted schoolboy blazer or an army anorak for the ultimate on-trend cadet look.  

 

Xx,

Sarah

Sarah Brody on: Staycay to Vaycay October 15, 2010

Our stylist contest winner, Sarah Brody, gives us her take on fall weekend getaways:
 
Midway through October, I'm itching for a quick yet much needed weekend getaway, isn't everyone?  Whether you're leaving on a jet plane, train, or automobile, what to pack in your suitcase is just as important as where you're going!

1) City Escape- New York in the fall, there's nothing like it.  To stay stylish in the city, I suggest sporting Bailey 44's Werewolf Faux Fur Coat in leopard with velvet skinny stretch pants and a basic tee underneath.  Whether you're hailing a taxi or hopping on the subway, black suede booties like House of Harlow 1960's Sahara Boot, vintage inspired baubles, and a supple leather bag make this the perfect look for a gal-on-the-go.  You'll definitely make a bold statement opting for two of my personal favorite trends: faux fur and leopard print. Get ready to take a walk on the wild side!

 
 

 

 

 

 

2) Country Weekend- With the weather finally taking a turn for the better (in my opinion), I think it's time to partake in the ultimate fall festivities: drinking apple cider, pumpkin picking, and cozying up with someone special on a late night hayride.  When retreating from the hustle and bustle of the big city to the quiet simplicity upstate, I immediately opt for a chunkier shoe and cozy knits. I love Rag & Bone's Skinny Corduroys in Burgundy, for unexpected color, paired with a blanket cardigan, belted at the waist (of course), and a knit eternity scarf for extra warmth.  Go hands free with a cross-body bag and don't forget your mittens, if the weather calls for it!
 
3) Napa Valley Vacation- Grapes crushing (hypothetically) beneath your over-the-knee suede boots complimented with a natural blush from the whipping wind, try pairing your wine & dine look with black peg-leg jeans and 525 America's Slouchy Cashemere Turtleneck layered under Ella Moss's Kennedy Sweater.  A chunky gold link necklace and petit chapeau, are the perfect touches for this wine country chic ensemble.

Ladies, the staycation is over, it's time to ditch the sweats and sneakers and vacay in style!

Xx,
Sarah

Ask Sarah your style questions - email her at piperlime@gap.com 

Tuesdays with Sarah: Our weekly style Q&A. October 12, 2010

 

 

 

 

Our stylist contest winner, Sarah Brody is back this week with answers to your style questions. Email her with your Qs to piperlime@gap.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Question from Robin:

My question is this: Peep-Toe-ANYTHING with winter coming, is it a fashion faux-pas to wear them with a closed-toe tight? I have my eye on a fab pair but am not sure what the "rules" are?

 

Sarah Says: 

 I think that peep toes paired with the perfect opaque or printed tights are spot-on for fall, no pun intended. For a party ensemble, try pairing Sam Edelman's Niland Pump in black with an opaque tight, Plastic Island's Grey Gardens Dress, and a cropped tweed blazer, creating a Jackie O inspired look with an edge.

 

 

For a utilitarian chic look, opt for Pour La Victoire's Lonlee Peep Toe Boot, your go-to cargos in an army or natural hue, and a belted military inspired cape.  Add a chunky knit headband and warm mittens to battle the cold coming your way this fall. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For something more 70s inspired--my favorite--try L.A.M.B.'s Guru Wedge in cognac suede, with wide leg denim, and a vintage inspired silk or lace top. A knit beret and layered necklaces create a fun, yet fashion-forward outfit you'll never retire. Who says peep toes are a fall faux-pas? I think they are a shoe go-to year round!

 

 

 

 

 Question from Siomara:

I just moved from Florida to Washington DC and as you could imagine I don't have many winter clothes. I've been wondering what kind of shoes, jackets and whatever I should buy to start my winter wardrobe. My question is: What is the basic winter wardrobe for someone who is going to change her winter lifestyle. I'm afraid of coldness...

 

Sarah says:

As a current Washingtonian myself, my winter closet consists of five main wardrobe  
staples: a faux fur coat, an oversized sweater, over-the-knee boots, wide leg denim and a wool cape. For a fall military look, try pairing Loeffler Randall's Fur Military Jacket with cargos in a natural hue, and a lace-up bootie adding a knit eternity scarf for extra warmth on those chilly days. For a casual day look while shopping in Georgetown or strolling through Dupont, opt for wide-leg jeans like paired with Beyond Vintage's Sweater Jacket, cognac suede wedges, and a wide brim 70s inspired hat. My go-to city chic look? Spiewak's Morton Cape, paired with black knit skinny pants, and an over-the-knee boot in an unsuspected color like Cynthia Vicnent's Devi Boot in taupe suede. A knit beret and your favorite oversized sunnies are the perfect accessories for this fall forward fashion statement.

 

  

xx,

Sarah Brody