spring 2016

The latest footwear trend you are going to love!

Mules are making a comeback this Spring. They have become one of the must have items on your Spring shopping list. And they are everywhere. From Nine West to Hermes, you can find this style hidden in plain sight. We’ve always enjoyed the comfort of a slip on sandal in the summer. Now the popularity of that shoe style is fueling the current promotion of this shoe as the must have sandal for the season.

Clearly the appeal to this style has everything to do with comfort. But versatility is big too. This style can be purchased in a wedge, a flat, a heel, any size your heart desires. It can also be purchased at any price point.  You can pair this style with your beach tunic or your new sundress for date night. It will go a long way in your wardrobe this summer.

If you’re looking for a new piece that is not only trendy but will also incorporate easily in to your current wardrobe… I think you’ve found it! Below are a few different style mules to give you inspiration this season.

J.Crew Factory Raffia Seaside Sandals

J.Crew Factory Raffia Seaside Sandals

Via Spiga Fabrizie Slingback Mules

Via Spiga Fabrizie Slingback Mules

Vince Camuto Elora Mules

Vince Camuto Elora Mules

Via Spiga Wynola Mules

Via Spiga Wynola Mules

Nine West Allto Open Toe Sandals

Nine West Allto Open Toe Sandals

Nine West Philomyna Slide Sandals

Nine West Philomyna Slide Sandals

Halston Heritage Suede Crisscross Mules

Halston Heritage Suede Crisscross Mules

Hermes Oran Box Leather Sandals

Hermes Oran Box Leather Sandals

Spring Style Crush: Off The Shoulder Tops

Hi everyone! My name is Kellie & I’ll be a guest contributor here on Beacon Style! I’ll be sharing with you my latest style and trend obsessions along with tips and tricks of building a dream wardrobe on a budget.

Although the weather in Boston has been unpredictable, I’m in full-blown spring mode. I’ve even worn my white denim (and broke the no white before Memorial Day rule) already! One trend that I’m seeing everywhere and cannot wait to embrace is the off the shoulder top. It seems like every boutique and department store that I walk in to have at least one or two styles. Personally, I find the feminine silhouette of an off the shoulder top incredibly hard to ignore (ask my online shopping cart…)

The best thing about this trend is that there truly is something for every style. I’ve seen anything from boho prints to preppy stripes & romantic crochet. Pair your off the shoulder top perfectly with distressed denim and espadrille wedges for a casual night out or with shorts and cute sandals for the day. I’ve already scooped up this one and am counting down the minutes to an upcoming beach vacation so I can finally wear it! I’ve also been eyeing this blush beauty and this chambray dress. I fully plan on embracing all versions of this trend through spring and summer.

Check out some of my other fab Off the Shoulder finds below:

Chicnova Off Shoulder Layered Crop T-shirt

Chicnova Off Shoulder Layered Crop T-shirt

Madewell Folktale Off the Shoulder Top

Madewell Folktale Off the Shoulder Top

Olivia Palermo & Chelsea 28 Silk Off the Shoulder Peasant Top

Olivia Palermo & Chelsea 28 Silk Off the Shoulder Peasant Top

Revolve Maison Shoulder Top - MLM Label

Revolve Maison Shoulder Top - MLM Label

New Arrivals at Banana Republic

Even though the current New England weather pattern is not cooperating, Spring is actually upon us. I think the saying goes... April showers bring May flowers. But it's now May... and it's still raining...

Ok, enough complaining for me. The sun will eventually shine, and when it does, what will you be wearing?! I love the changeover in inventory for a new season of retail. It can be a lot of fun perusing new arrivals. Whether online or in a magazine, I love seeing the newest shipment and all it entails. My latest retail crush is Banana Republic.

I have a hot and cold relationship with a number of retailers including Banana. Sometime I love everything in store and other times I can't find one thing that I like! I'm particular about the styles, colors and fabrics that I like so sometime Banana is spot on with what I like and other times, not. Today, I'm finding that they have a few pieces which peak my interest.

One question you might be asking is "What should I be looking to purchase this season to add to my wardrobe?" Whether you are looking for the latest trends or most popular colors of the season, you should always be looking for pieces that compliment you. What style and color will look best on you regardless of the trends. Just because it's trendy doesn't mean it will work for everyone. So when you're looking for something new, shop for what will be best for you!

What I like about the latest styles a Banana Republic right now is that they are versatile classic pieces that will work for a larger audience and go far in your wardrobe. This collection is on trend, feminine and classic. The basics are available in great neutral hues with additional pieces in just the right pops of color. The collection flows and the pieces can be easily combined.

Below I have highlighted some of my favorite pieces but be sure to check out the whole collection to see what inspires you!