If you aren’t familiar with SSENSE, let me introduce you. SSENSE is an online retailer that specializes in high end luxury goods and street wear items. This Canadian based company has made quite the name for themselves since 2020, and they have some of the best deals I have seen. I would consider myself a very light luxury consumer, as I am always considering what to purchase at the best price.
SSENSE often runs sales and private sales on huge designers such as Gucci, Saint Laurent, Off-White and more, at discounts I can’t seem to find anywhere else. Right now, I have gone through and found my favorite picks from shoes to dresses, and what I recommend snagging before it sells out. During these sales, things go fast.
Shop each individual link here, or see more on my LTK.
Aritzia, Aritzia, Aritzia. The new colt favorite (and personal favorite of mine) has been steadily releasing their fall collections throughout the month of August. First came Wilfred, then came TNA, now comes Sunday Best.
Sunday Best is an Aritzia in-house brand that is tailored more towards their Gen-Z customer. The many tennis skirts, sweater vests and baby tee’s are the 90’s reinvention that we didn’t know we needed. And this 90’s to early 2000’s look is all the rage and a huge hit with the company’s target audience. But there is one issue with this style being so popular – the copying of designs from other companies.
I was beyond excited to see Sunday Best’s fall collection, but there were a few things that stuck out to me from their release. Their graphic tee’s are almost exact designs from Réalisation Par and Brandy Melville.
On the left, Aritzia, on the right, Brandy Melville.
While this original design from Brandy Melville has been copied many times in fast fashion, I was not expecting to this at Aritzia in their fall collection. They have also made similar designs on other shirts with the words “Ranger”, “Rodeo Kid” and “Buckaroo”.
The second design that I immediately recognized from another brand is this shirt originally designed by Réalisation Par. This brand rapidly increased in popularity through social media as their floral dresses were seen on many influencers throughout the summer. Their dresses weren’t the only thing that stuck out on their website. Their unique baby tee’s were flying off the shelves. Constantly sold out, this is an immediately recognizable shirt. So I was yet again shocked to see this on Aritzia’s website. Aritzia and Réalisation Par bring in the same kind of customer, so this won’t go unnoticed.
On the left, Aritzia, on the right, Réalisation Par.
While unfortunately designs are copied all the time, I am disappointed with these pieces from Aritzia. What sets Aritzia apart form its competitors is its timeless, unique yet classy pieces that are wardrobe staples to keep in your closet for years. But with this collection that is launching on Thursday, it shows that the company is taking a different approach to reach their target audience. And to be honest, the target has been missed. By this ever so slight rebrand from Sunday Best, they are putting themselves on the same playing field as other overdone Gen-Z brands. What they have works, there is not need to change that and it shows in their numbers. Some of their past quarters have hit company records in terms of revenue, so I am curious, why the change to be like everyone else?
The collection comes out tomorrow. While I will be browsing the new items, you won’t find me making any purchases from Sunday Best.
I don’t know about you but when I find something I love, I love it. I will love it so much I will run it into the ground and then randomly one day just hate it. But for the time being, they are they best things around. This goes for anything; clothes, breakfast foods, tv shows, etc.
Everything listed below is what I’ve been loving the past few months.
Tinx Erewhon Smoothie
I have a feeling this smoothie is going to be a breakfast go-to for a while. This smoothie “taste like a healthy chocolate milkshake” and is INSANELY filling. Full of protein and healthy fast, I have made this two days in a row and I don’t see this slowing down soon.
Here is where I found the recipe (I add a little honey as well).
New Balance 990v5 Sneakers
These have been a favorite since February, and they are not going anywhere anytime soon. Despite the fact these may look like dad sneakers they are trendy in an ironic way. Sometimes I even sub these for my running shoes if I’m going on a long walk – and honestly can say I’ve never worn a comfier shoe.
These are hard to come around as they are selling out quickly, so click here because Shopbop currently has them stocked up in every size.
Trucker Hats
The hats that have been seen everywhere this summer are a staple to my wardrobe. I love wearing trucker hats with braids, my hair down, in a bun – honestly this accessory never fails me. Some people are saying these will go out of style soon, but I guarantee a baseball style hat will never go out of style.
This hat specifically is from Aviator Nation, but I have also purchased hats from Amazon and Depop.
Anything Goes podcast hosted by Emma Chamberlin
I am a big podcast person. I love podcast because I can get content while on the go. This podcast in particular is at the top of my list. Anything Goes is hosted by Emma Chamberlin and is my go to podcast when I need a reminder that life is going alright, lol. This was recommended to me by my college roommate who describe listening to Emma talking “is like talking to a friend”. I couldn’t describe it better myself.
AptDeco
I am in the process of looking for new items for my first apartment, and a quickly realized that furnishing a new place is PRICEY. Like very pricey. And most of the time if you want high quality/ long lasting items, it comes with a hefty price tag. AptDeco carriers brands like CB2, Article, West Elm and more that are lightly used and at a great price point. And even better – they ship to select areas.
Kosas Sun Show Baked Bronzer
This bronzer is the highlight of my makeup routine – literally. This gives the perfect summer glow that every person is trying to achieve.
This comes in three shades but they always seem to be out of stock, so run to Sephora while they still have them.
Color Wow Dreamcoat Supernatural Spray
This spray has single-handedly saved the texture of my hair. This anti-fix and heat protectant works like a charm, I. haven’t used anything better. I spray this in my hair as soon as I get out of the shower. You’re supposed to then style immediately after, but it still works after air drying and then going in with a straighter. 10/10, couldn’t recommend more.
All sold out on Sephora, but get this on Amazon today.
Outdoor Voices Powerhouse Bra
This is by far my favorite sports bra I have ever won. This blows every Lululemon bra out of the water. This is best for high impact workouts or for running, and will keep you in place and comfortable the whole time.
This comes in four colors and is finally back on OV’s website.
If you have read any of my previous blog posts… you know I have a crippling love for Aritzia. But the price tag? Not so much. Lucky enough their annual clientele sale is going on right now, with twenty to fifty percent off everything if you’re a loyal customer. If you are not yet part of the clientele sale, don’t worry. They have many other items up to fifty percent off for you to try. Making a few purchase during this sale isn’t a want, but a need.
With half of my wardrobe coming from this store, I have found truly the best pieces and will tell you what is worth your money.
Oh and I recommend heading to www.artizia.com before everything sells out. Sale ends 06/20.
I only have this hoodie in one color due to the steep price for a plain hoodie, but that will change when the weather starts to get colder. I have this in black and have washed it a MILLION times and there is not one sign of wear.
I don’t own this skirt but I bought it for my sister for her birthday and she wears it all the time. It is super light and flowy with built in shorts, and isn’t too athletic so it an be dressed up or down.
I talked about these in my very first blog post almost a year ago they are still a favorite. I work out and lounge in these – they are basically a second skin.
Again with the cozy fleece, it just doesn’t miss. I have two pairs of the three inch short, but it comes in other lengths including two, five and six inches.
This is hands down the best cropped t-shirt I have ever owned. I have this in white and brown and have worn it into the ground. I wear a size medium and it is tight fitting, but not in a “it’s too small” way.
When it comes to denim I am an avid Agolde lover. But again the price is not ideal for my post-grad budget. These jeans from Aritzia are the closest dupe I have found in length, style and material. They are the perfect straight jeans and hit just above my ankle. Even though they are just a plain pair of jeans, they are cut extremely trendy and flattering. And right now they are only $68.
With restaurants and bars starting to open back up you may be thinking… what do I wear out? It has been a long time since everyone has gone to a bar or out to nice dinner, and since early 2020 style has changed tremendously. Fashion evolves so quickly, and with that comes with the uncertainty of what to wear out.
I have styled outfits from some of my favorite retailers such as SSENSE, Shopbop, ASOS, and more. Each outfit made for a different occasion, but all supposed to make you feel confident for hitting the town this summer. Shop them all with the links below and via my LIKEtoKNOW.it .
I have recently graduated college (sad), so I know the stress of finishing the perfect dress for photos, ceremonies, parties, etc. Since these dresses are typically white across the board, I have found some of my favorite white dresses to wear under your cap and gown. These range in price, style, and formality so you can find your perfect dress.
I have linked all of the dresses shown in the header photo. If you are looking for more dresses, there are more linked in my LIKEtoKNOW.it.
The text between my sister and I when we saw this collection preview yesterday morning are embarrassing. We are a bit too excited.
If you know me at all, you know I am an Aritzia lover. Aritzia is the ultimate store to get your elevated basics – which is all I wear. Any time there is a new release at the store my alarm is set because everything sells out so quickly. Everything.
Majority of my wardrobe is from Aritzia, so I would say I know most of these items to a tee. I could tell you my favorite things, but I could also tell you what’s worth the purchase from each collection. Below are my recommendations on what you need to buy from Aritzia’s TNA Spring 21 collection.
The sweater vest trend is still around. This season I am seeing more people ditching their oversized vest for a cropped one, as it can be worn on its own or layered with a turtleneck, matching sweats and sneakers.
A modern take on a classic Ralph Lauren sweater, this v neck knit is the perfect transition piece from winter to spring. Aritzia’s sweaters are unmatched, so I know this is going to be a must have.
More of a retro take on the OV Exercise dress, the Bedford Dress is perfect for running errands or tennis. Super easy to style and wear, ideal for warmer months coming up.
So simple, yet such a staple. As I said in the intro the basics from Aritzia last forever, as they are the best quality. I have multiple tanks from here and the cut of this one is a little different, so it will definitely make it into my basket tomorrow.
This legging is almost an identical dupe to the Lululemon Align legging but better. They are thicker, can hold up during a workout but are still perfect for lounging. They have been out for a while, but they have new colors like this blue dropping tomorrow.
These. Shorts. I cannot wait and want them in every color. I have the hi-rise 3″ sweat shorts and I wear them with everything. They come in a variety of colors so you don’t have to buy an exact matching sweatshirt to have the perfect matching set.
2020 was an unexpected year for fashion. Vogue and Harpers Bazaar predicted trends such as feathers, multi-tiered clothing items, waistcoats and more, but these forecast did not make it out of many people’s homes. With the pandemic hitting at the beginning of the year it forced everyone to stay home and adjust to new fashion norms. Since we were (and are) home longer than expected, working professionals needed to find a daily routine that kept them moving and motivated. And what is the first thing you could do to shift your mood in the morning? Change your outfit.
We said goodbye to many trends forecasted for 2020 and made our own. Clothing items such as matching lounge sets, bike shorts, casual leather and more were closet essentials to fulfill a trendy stay-at-home wardrobe. Seeing this transition shows the power we have to shift fashion norms within society.
As we enter 2021, there are trends that I see carrying on into the new year and beyond. Spring and summer runway shows have shown what will be released this year, and while they are amazing, they don’t always fit with everyone’s lifestyle. This is based on my studies and admiration for the fashion industry , but here are my trend predications you’ll actually wear in 2021.
***Again, I do not have any education on this subject, just a high interest. There is never a need to follow trends, always wear what you feel comfortable and confident in (:
Vest
Yes, VEST. My preppy fourteen your old self is screaming. Not your old J.Crew puffer vest, but more of a sporty, boxy look. Oversized is everything and in the colder months it starts with a puffer vest.
Tight Knitwear
Second-skin tops will be everywhere. I am SUCH a fan of this as tight long sleeves turtlenecks are my favorite. Snug knitwear will give you that warm, second skin layer that you can definitely transition into the spring and summer months.
Acceptance of Athleisure
COVID really changed the game with this one. Now, matching sweat sets are seen as “put together”, which is socially acceptable to wear in many places. Specifically, it is changing in the workplace. I wrote an article for VIM Magazine on this topic that you can read about here.
Powerpuff Girls Color Palette
While this may seem an odd way to describe it, bubblegum pink, french blue and lime green will be all of the rage in the spring and summer months. Slowly incorporating these colors into you basic, neutral wardrobe will be seen everywhere from the runways to Instagram.
Chunky Sandals
I will never be mad about a chunky shoe. Chucky sneakers were the first wide-footbed sandal to come back in recent years, and now we are leaning more towards sandals. Chucky thong sandals seem to be leading in this category, but slides will be right up with them.
Natural Nails
No, this does not mean giving up your bi-weekly manicure. 2020 was all about the colorful nail art, but has slowly been leading into more natural styles like French tips. And while the French tip trend has incorporated plenty of color, this will continue to trend in a natural direction. Translucent polish will definitely be something you need to pick up on your next grocery store run.
Monochromatic
Another color scheme trend, and not mad about it. Pairing different shades of the same color together looks chic – whether that is a workout or suit set.
Sustainability
I have talked about this before on my blog and I have continued to learn more about sustainability and how it takes such a toll on retail. Brands such as Sporty and Rich, Girlfriend Collective, Pangaia, and more will rise against their competitors this year as they take more eco-conscious steps in materials and production.
Your Dad’s Pants But Better
This was a trend in 2020 and it is sticking around this upcoming year. From denim to trousers, extra oversized pants are not going anywhere. And trust me, they will be paired with plenty of tiny tops.
Halloween is on of my favorite holidays. It allows you to dress up to in ways you don’t dress on a day-to-day basis, and get creative with your fashion sense. Every year I think long and hard about what to be for Halloween, so I won’t match everyone else. It’s okay if you do – but it’s better if you don’t.
“You HAVE to stop being a space cowboy for Halloween”
Jenny from the Block
A 90s and early 2000s icon. This is another take on a pop star costume besides Brittany Spears. Shop her look here:
Everyone is always Disney characters for Halloween, what about Nickelodeon? This iconic Victorious trio is such an easy and recognizable costume, especially for a group of three.
This one is so fun because you can get as creative as you want. If you buy a doll from the store, you can mimic the clothes on the doll to tailor to your style. If you want to get the same look at this one, you can look at the links below.
Her style was unbeatable, and still remains such an inspiration today. You probably already have these in your closet, but if you don’t here is where you can find them.
ICONIC. Kim Kardashian’s Velour Skims Collection is coming out tomorrow, so get these exact looks while you can, because they are sure to sell out ASAP.
This video broke the cards last spring when Justin Bieber’s “Yummy” came out. I may be able to copy their costumes, but I definitely cannot dance like them!
Kayce Wright 