rethink the religious

I always imagined St. John Knits clients to be a very specific demographic.  Maybe it's because my favorite mentor and Vice President in college had an unending supply of the brand's trademark woven jackets, shells, skirts, and pants, but I always associate St. John Knits with powerful women, established in their professional and personal lives, and worldly.  After seeing their latest collection, I'm adding a few new adjectives to the mix: young, flirty, and seriously sexy.

What's most impressive?  The brand hasn't lost their core.  Still present are the jackets, day dresses, and everyday pieces you'd expect. But also in the mix are body hugging skirts, skin tight tuxedo pants with sheer lace up the legs, and everything else with a dash of flirt and flair. 

An eye-catching geometric pattern covers this St. John three-quarter sleeve Elia knit jacket. Boasting a jewel neckline and a knit trim border, this jacket is an inspired option perfect for the office.

SKU: K61G031-6R2; US$ 1495

An elegant foundation to any ensemble, this St. John stretch silk crepe de chine shell features a contrast bow neckline and side slits. SKU: K91GW01-6R2; US$ 495

The St. John Classic Cady pant goes comfortable and carefree in this wide-leg cropped Gaucho fit. Pockets and belt loops make these as functional as they are chic. Pair them with a knit jacket and gold jewelry for a playful yet polished look. SKU: K81GW21-6R2; US$ 595

This collection is inspired by the jetset life, with a dash of Greece and architectural Europe.  The gaucho pants above have the perfect movement and drape, making for the perfect piece in your wardrobe.  Easily transition from professional to personal events in a look with these tall, column-like silhouettes.  Unlike other brands, St John produces all aspects of their looks in-house, from proprietary patterns and hand-painted fabrics to elaborate buttons and jewelry.

Brighten up for the new season in this St. John Windy knit topper. Offered in a fresh shade of aqua, this immaculately tailored jacket is an inspired choice for any occasion.  SKU: K61G071-6R2;
US$1695

An enlivened option for workweek chic, this St. John windy knit dress boasts a classic scoop neck for versatile styling. Pair this flattering sheath with it's coordinating topper for elegant ease.  SKU: K11G0H1-6R2; US$ 895

 No detail is too small.  Feather light knits not only breathe, but stretch in all the right places without compromising the integrity of the garments.  Bespoke details you'd expect from higher end ateliers like visible darting, hand drawn fabric design, laser cut details, and top quality materials are the name of St John's game.  This aqua look makes for the perfect base to your new Pantone Color of the Year accessories in Rose Quartz and Serenity. 

A sophisticated draped neckline imbues this St. John liquid satin top with timeless appeal. A shimmer knit back panels adds extra sparkle to any evening separate. SKU: K52G031-6R2; US$ 495.

 

A glamorous iteration of the signature St. John skirt, this shimmer knit fit and flare silhouette transitions seamlessly from day to night. Pair with a liquid satin top and gold jewelry for effortless sophistication. SKU: K72G011-6R2; US$ 695.

As always, St John makes for easy mix and match, between the entire collection and items you already own.  The collection has a City Chic tone, highlighting gold zippers, lace panels, perfect pleats, and the right amount of fringe and finesse. 

Don't worry - the brand hasn't lost its base.  You'll still find the everyday black and navy suiting, double knotted fringe, and plethora of shells, cardigans, and jackets.  Only now you'll add sexy jumpsuits and sultry skirts. 

Maybe now you won't think twice about raiding your Nana's closet. 

Super shout out to Natalie & Co. at Nashville's Green Hills Nordstrom for the invitation.  You provide a world class shopping experience every day, for every customer, every time.  Keep up the great work. 

the femme fatale - these looks can kill!

I'm loving the big trends right now from women's fashion.

(in no particular order of importance, of course) -

-- statement jewelry. still loving the cocktail rings, giant bangle bracelets, and amazingly awesome earrings. Just don't go overboard. If you're incorporating one of these trends into your ensemble, don't incorporate the others. The statement piece is supposed to make a positive fashion statement, not a negative argument that's loud and obnoxious.

-- lace. Whether it's a laser cut leather pump, etched to look like lace, a lace overlay dress, or lace accents on fabulous, flirty shirts - I'm loving the intricate, delicate features of lace.

-- the power of flowers. I'm loving floral. In prints, both large and small, on fabric. In accessories, from silk petals on necklaces to bejeweled cuffs, to accentuating shoes, bags, and the ever classic broach pins, I love the femininity and natural elements of flowers.

-- embroidery. Fashionable frocks, terrific t-shirts, and summery sun dresses, I love the embellishment and attention to detail found in embroidery.

-- I'm loving flirty flat shoes. From the casual flip flop sandal, to the comfortable ballerina, to the dependable driver, to the glorious gladiator, I'm loving flats. (but don't get me wrong - I'm still loving the super tall shoes as well!)

-- I'm loving the confident, power women who's comfortable with the juxtaposition. The flat and the heel. The short mini or the long, flowing dress. The polished, proper suit and the rugged, rockstar appeal of indie chic. The new-wave, ingenue and the classically edited icon.

-- I love rich, international inspiration. Bali. Bombay. London. Los Angeles. Marrakesh. Milano. Paris. Prague. Stockholm. Sydney.