Cats and Dogs...

It's raining again... by kmvstyle featuring a belted trench coat


So, I'm feeling a little uninspired at the moment...because it is pouring...again.  I am, however, determined to be productive.  This is a topic typically reserved for Spring or early Fall.  But, with the soggy Summer we've been having... paired with daily storm clouds predicted for the next week... I think it's a topic worth brushing up on.  It's quite simple, really....rain gear.  The only way to appear polished in a torrential downpour is simple.  Stay dry.  A belted trench is your new best friend.  I prefer traditional tan, with the color accent on my wellies (necessity #2), and umbrella (#3!).  That said, nothing brightens a day more than sunny yellow on a dreary day!  I happen to own a wide array of  wellies in varying shades of blue and green (might have been slightly obsessive about getting the perfect pair for a time), but I may need to set my sights on the gold Union Jacks above...and brushing up on my faux British accent!  Too cute!  So, should these June showers hold on a few days longer than we'd all like, no worries!  Grab a belted trench in your favorite shade, pull on some Hunters (they even look great with shorts!), and head out to puddle jump...just don't forget your umbrella!

Black & White & Pink all over...

Black & White & Pink all over by kmvstyle featuring flat shoes


So, here we are...back in the heat!  We visited with the fantastic fashion of Fall for a bit, but we're back!  In the stifling heat of July, and August, and September, and sometimes even October (crazy Northeast weather!), it can be a challenge to look polished.  Black and white (with neon pink and gold accents) will always save the day...or outfit!  My general rule is, if you're wearing primarily black & white (like a breezy, chevron maxi dress), bring in color with an amazing neon cross body bag (the Tory Burch above is a great color pop for now, and always)...and keep accessories minimal with gold bangles and some gold Havianas (not pictured).  On the flip side, sometimes you're ready to go for it with a fabulous pink ensemble (nothing accents a tan better!).  This is the time for those black & white graphic accessories...love the tribal Zara sandal!  And, again, a little gold shine goes a long way...especially if your tan starts to fade from too many hours at the office.  You can always cheat it a little with some Jergen's Natural Glow...or a well-planned sick day!  Your secret is safe with me!

I've always been more of a jewel tone girl...

So, I was completely prepared to leave my Autumn daydreams from yesterday behind.  I was totally focused on refocusing...on living in the now, man.  I really wanted to provide a revolutionary discussion on all the fabulous fashion of Summer...because, really, it's Summer that's just begun.  We've got months left of maxi dresses, sandals and neon everything.  I mean, there is a lot to talk about.  But then...this happened.  I walked into J.Crew at Garden State Plaza.  And, anyone who knows me...knows my weakness for J.Crew. And J.Crew, well, J.Crew is ready to talk about Fall...or transition...or whatever it is that we're calling the newest concept to hit the Plaza.  So, really, J.Crew has spoken...and it would be rude to ignore!

The navy and green that greets in entry is gorgeous...and I love all the white that binds it to Summer, and wear now looks.  Beautiful!

Of course, it wouldn't be fall without the richness of burgundy (or oxblood...or wine...call it what you will, it's gorgeous) and tons of jeweled accents!

More jeweled necklines, accented with a beautiful foulard pant...and an exploded pattern sweater.

The color on this sweater is stunning!  I love that the neon coral jewelry is carrying through next season!

There are no words...these are the statement pieces I've been talking about!  An absolute wardrobe necessity

I will dream of this one until it is mine!

My beloved Tartine satchel...in rich, pebbled leather.

And suede Etta pumps that will rival any designer shoe!

Nude...check!  Studded...check!  In silver and gold...I thought you'd never ask, J.Crew!

And, because I love anything resembling a monogram!

So, tomorrow, I promise...it's back to patterned shorts and flowing tops...here, at least.  But...my closet...it's definitely moving on to some of these beauties from J.Crew!

Transitional Style

Pre-Fall by kmvstyle featuring leather ballet flats

As temps soared near the triple digits here today, what better reason to start dreaming of Fall?  There are so many great basics to have in your wardrobe that are practically season less...particularly in the fickle Northeast weather! And, it's certainly not helping that most of my favorite stores are rolling out early Fall items already!  Pictured above are just a few of my favorites...I'm not re-inventing fashion here.  Most of these pieces would fall into just about any one's requirements for a base wardrobe.  That said, these are my personal preferences but, as I tell any of my clients, you can make each piece your own in the way that you style it!  No matter the season, I require at least three pairs of jeans that look great!  These days, I prefer more of a boyfriend style, with some rips and tears for character. I usually buy my favorite style of skinny jeans a couple sizes bigger, so that the legs still have a great cut and don't add bulk.  I'd like to say that I only have one Breton style stripe tee, however, the sad fact is that I probably own closer to twenty!  No matter, they add instant chic to a pair of ripped up jeans.  Finish it with a great statement necklace, a pair of nude ballet flats and a classic military jacket to ward off an impending chill (albeit a sudden change in weather or a frigid movie theater).  Either way, the look is totally polished!  Another must have for any wardrobe is the customary white tee...I know, groundbreaking.  But, in all seriousness, a great one is hard to find.  So, when you find the one that speaks to you, buy three...you will wear them out quickly!  A fantastic black skirt is always a necessity.  I would venture to say that most people favor a pencil, but I prefer a skirt with some edge.  The Stella McCartney pictured above fits the bill, and can be paired with a black tank, heels and some great jewelry for a night out, or a chambray shirt and some flip flops (not pictured...blasphemous!) for running errands about town.  Some unlikely summer additions are a cozy cashmere sweater (for breezy night walks on the beach), a lightweight scarf (which can add color or texture without a lot of bulk and, for me, a required leopard print) and Hunter wellies (mine have seen more wear this soggy Spring than ever before!).  Classic monogram jewelry adds a personal touch...aviators add style...and, let's face it, is there anyone that doesn't covet a Celine bag??  The leather motorcycle jacket and riding boots (unless you're an equestrian) are quintessential Fall items..but who says you can't start shopping for your favorites now.  You never know when a great pre-season sale will strike!  So,  double check your wardrobe for the basics, and get stocking!

There was an old woman...

There was an old woman... by kmvstyle 


There was an old woman who really loved shoes...that is the nursery rhyme, is it not?  It's no secret...I love to talk about fabulous, gorgeous, expensive designer items.  I love to own them even more!  That said, not all of us can spend thousands a season (me!) on shoes.  Each and every shoe highlighted above is $100 or less, with quite a few under fifty...the Hell you say!  It's a fact!   I own quite a few, and can vouch...they're so good!  But seriously, at these prices, it's too hard to justify NOT owning every pair!  You're wallets...and husbands (maybe not) will thank me!

What would Ginger do?

Rockstud by kmvstyle featuring valentino shoes


Yesterday, I highlighted several of my favorite (and coveted) bags.  But, when it comes to shoes, there are just far too many variations!  Unless, of course, you put me on a deserted island, and forced me to choose just one style.  In that case, it would be the Valentino Rockstud...I know, perfectly sensible islandwear!  They are just too amazing...perfect shape, two perfect heel heights (plus a ballet flat!), and an amazing mix of ladylike and edge.  The marine is complete perfection!  Did I utilize the word "perfect" nearly enough?  I obsess over every new color...and you should too!

Hello Lovely...

Timeless Structure by kmvstyle featuring chanel



Most people list a top 10.  I'm more of a top 9...far more aesthetically pleasing!  There is absolutely no better investment in your wardrobe than a neutral-colored, structured bag.  I prefer some variation of tan, because it plays just as well with color as it does with darks and blacks.  I am partial to the Reed Krakoff (#3), and the Maison Martin Margiela (#4).  With that said, the absolute dream is, without a doubt, number one!  The shape, the color, the detail...Celine has constructed perfection!  It is the number one item here... and on my wish list!  It's a true beauty!  However, it doesn't require thousands to get the look...The J.Crew Tartine (#2) is stunning...and currently selling for under $300 (amazing!).  As long as you follow the guidelines of structure, neutral and, of course, gorgeous...this bag will elevate your look immediately!
Happy Hunting!

Because you're only 8 once...

Anyone that knows me at all knows that I love a party with a great theme.  It's the reason I enjoy planning parties so much.  A themed party feels special.  And there is nothing more special than a birthday party...but I'll elaborate more on that next week!  In any case, I think everyone should feel extra special on their birthday.  I try to think of something new and fun for each year.  Tomorrow, my eldest turns eight, and I'm so proud of her! This year, her birthday coincides with her last day of school...a definite cause for celebration!  So, I am treating her to a birthday scavenger hunt, complete with eight treats...one for every year she has brought me joy!  And, since I love a theme, the gifts have two...Lalaloopsy dolls and fairy books.  I'll bet you can guess two of this eight year old's favorite things!  The banner was a last minute addition, since I couldn't find the one I made for her last year.  This one came together in about 20 minutes, with the use of glittery, self-adhesive letters and the all-time best craft tool ever...the Martha Stewart circle cutter!  Mine's gotten  some real mileage on it since purchasing three years ago!  Invest...you'll thank me!

 Lots of pretty bows and cupcake/ice cream cones...will blend perfectly with her birthday party theme!

 The birthday hunt supplies...all ready to be packaged.  As you can see, lots of pink and gold, with aqua accents...so pretty!

 All wrapped up!  All that's left is to find eight great hiding spots...and write eight fun clues!

This one is Clue#2...The fridge that doesn't work!

Her birthday card, and the start of all the fun!  A pretty clipboard, complete with clues!

Happy 8th Birthday, Sophia!

KMV Maison de Style is experiencing a sort of relaunch.  I started the company in September as a way to further assist former clients from my personal shopping days at J.Crew.  They were looking for someone that could update the entirety of their closet, and help to find more focus in their personal style.  With two decades of fashion and retail experience, and a passion for styling, I knew I would be a great liaison.  It has been a whirlwind turning my passion into my business, but I have loved every second of it.  I have found that, with the majority of my clients, they are looking for daily inspiration for wardrobing.  I am happy to answer any emergent text inquiring, "What do I wear for...?," but felt that it was finally time to extend into the exciting world of social media.  With that, a new logo was designed (by moi...I might add), an Instagram (@kmvmaisondestyle) account was opened, and this blog was born!  I hope it can be a source of daily inspiration for anyone wondering, "What do I wear?!"

Enjoy!

Wish List...

Wish List by kmvstyle featuring a swarovski crystal necklace

Weekend in Nantucket...

Weekend in Nantucket by kmvstyle featuring a signet ring

Summer is finally here!  I'm dreaming off packing up, and heading to Nantucket!  For me, that signifies lots of red, white and nautical...with luxe accessories to polish!  Need a big, woven bag for days spent shopping...and Rockstuds in marine can never go wrong when paired with boyfriend jeans and great tee!  Lots of J.Crew and some variation of a monogram (like this fun signet ring) will  fill up your weekender...it's off to sunshine and sailboats!  Enjoy