Friday, August 16, 2019

SUMMER CLOSET ESSENTIALS

Go check out the my "Summer Closet Essentials" video on Youtube!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8yLcxrX6Qo
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Sunday, May 19, 2019

GRANOLA RECIPE


Here is my favorite breakfast recipe! It’s super easy & healthy. The recipe makes enough for a week, I use it to top yogurt (my favorite is the Foragers cashewgurt) or a smoothie. Enjoy!

Ingredients
1 3/4 c Oats
1 c Chopped Pecans
2 tbsp Chia Seeds
1 tbsp Hemp Protein Powder (Optional)
1 tbsp Cinnamon
1 1/2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
1/2 tbsp Honey

Process
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F
  2. Spread out oats on sheet pan, top with chopped pecans, chia seeds, hemp protein powder, and cinnamon. Mix together and shake pan to spread it out evenly.
  3. Sprinkle cinnamon on top and mix in.
  4. Drizzle honey and olive oil over pan then mix and shake so the granola is even across the pan.
  5. Bake for 7-8 minutes. Watch the pecans they burn fast!

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Saturday, May 11, 2019

2019 Summer Fashion


Pastel dresses bedecked with stripes reminiscent of the lustrous candy colored umbrellas that line the French Riviera. Linens that allow the breeze to tickle your legs. Hats so large and heels so small you can stroll new streets all day- just look out for cobblestones. This is the fashion of  summer 2019- a light, classic, elegance.
Here are my top 7 styles for this summer! 
1. A Wink to the Past

Victorian Era elements are currently being infused into all sorts of garment and the final look is stunning. Puffed sleeves, boning, and draped silhouettes are being redone into crop tops and dresses. The effect? An old time romantic feel- perfect for those who lust for a return of grand gestures and sonnet proclamations of dearest love.

2. Stripes

We can agree floral reminds you of your grandmother's couch and polka dots haven't bedecked your blouse since at least the 3rd grade. Lest, this narrowing of appealing patterns has brought us to embrace the subtle flare (and slimming affect) of stripes.

3. Silk


There is no other fabric like silk. It gives an instant feeling of glamour and luxury. It is sexy but still classy. Silk flows across your skin, letting the air in making hot days bearable. After all, wearing silk feels as though you are wearing nothing. Free yourself of constricting poly dupes and invest this summer in a quality piece that will make you feel like a queen.

4. Linen

Looking for a more relaxed fabric than silk that still lets the breeze in? Try linen. This summer we are taking on struggle of linen's wrinkles for the comfort of its breathability and the beautiful natural look it has.

5. Bardot Style

For a tease of skin and no tan lines opt for off-the-shoulder looks this season. After all, who doesn't want to dress like the iconic Brigitte Bardot?

6. Wide-Brimmed Hats

If the sun is too much for you or you simply feel like channeling your favorite retro movie star pop on a wide brimmed woven hat this summer and the later will be complete!

7. Low Heels

Yes, we still have stilettos for night events but your feet are saved during the day this summer. Low, strappy, kitten heels are the way to go when your looking for the lengthening effect and glam of heels but have a day of walking ahead. 

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Friday, April 19, 2019

The Most Versatile Skirt


I discovered the circle skirt a few years ago when I decided to sew one, since then they have been staples in my closet. I adore the cute look that slims your waist and accentuates a woman's figure! Also, it is one of the most versatile skirts I have seen, you can dress it up or down. If you are interested in me selling them comment bellow. Here's a video from my IGTV of an outfit for EVERY season styled with one circle skirt! Enjoy :)
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Three Tips for Coming Home



After a long day of travel there is really nothing anyone wants to do besides crash and take a nap on that bed you missed so much- which is perfectly acceptable if you arrive home at night. However, if you get home during the day then it’s back to business. Here’s my top three tips on getting back to every day life:

1.     Unpack. This is the most important in my mind. To unpack is to move on and put the trip away. If I arrive home anytime besides night my first mission is to unpack and begin laundry. If I don’t right away that suitcase will remain full until I desperately need what’s inside of it- and so its best to get it done right away. This also tells your mind that you are home now and will take the burden of unpacking off your list of to dos (which seems like sadly long list whenever you come home from a trip).

2.      Eat well. We’ve all been guilty of using vacation as an excuse to eat whatever looks good but once your home don’t let this habit continue. The morning after I get back I like to make a healthy smoothie. I find this to be a good way to start the day off and detox after being away eating foods that are not usually in my diet- including the resentable “plane food”.

3.      Get back on schedule. Jet lag is real and only gets stronger if you fall to its powers. If you arrive during the day stay awake until your usual bed time. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck in a different time zone for even longer. Somethings I like to do stay awake are unpack, exercise or go for a walk, and do some work. 

Hope these tips help you get back to daily life! 


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Saturday, March 23, 2019

Closet Essentials: White Sneakers



It is known that in Italy there is always a certain white sneaker “in”. Until I moved to Arizona I never understood this, why would anyone want a shoe that gets dirty so fast?? However, now I’ve learned- while living in a dryer environment- what a key item a set of white sneakers can be. Their classy but comfortable and gives an instant style boost. Moreover, they make your casual outfit more sophisticated- perhaps simply because you have white shoes and can keep them white makes you appear more composed. Now to answer the biggest question of how to keep them clean: buy leather or faux leather. Faux leather is much easier to wipe off than canvas, looks more luxurious and fashionable. If you do live in Oregon or- some other wet area- these are perfect summer shoes that go with everything so don’t shy away! Ready for a pair of white tennis shoes that match everything? Here’s some of my favorites!

What I Own
Tommy Hilfiger - Two Sneakers
The sock and gold details really set this shoe apart and add a fun flare!
High end
Dior - Walk'n'Dior low-top Sneaker in white
I tried these on last October in Rome and LOVED them!


Middle Range
Cole Haan - Women's GrandPro Tennis Lace-Up Sneakers
If there is one brand I trust buying shoes from its Cole Haan, I have repurchased shoes from them many times and the quality is impeccable!

Affordable
Converse - Chuck Taylor All Star Low Leather Sneaker
Why not a classic converse?

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Saturday, March 16, 2019

How to Have Energy While Traveling


Long times spent in trains, planes, and automobiles are bound to wear anyone out. Yet, I have discovered a few simple tricks to keep my energy up while away whether it be a business trip or vacation!

1. Hydrate. This is potentially the most important tip on this list. Travel- especially by air- will dehydrate your body, therefore you have to compensate by increasing you water intake. I aim for two too three liters a day (about 4-6 regular sized water bottles). How I do this is easy! Instead of ordering soda simply ask for water or tea. Trust me after awhile you won’t miss the carbonation. Also, if I don’t bring a water bottle then I buy a skrew-off cap one at the airport and refill it though out my trip, this way I always have water with me.

2. Adjust to the time zone. Once on the plane, begin sleeping to other time zone’s schedule. For example, if your flight lands in the morning then sleep on the plane. Then, when you arrive stay awake. It’ll be hard as first but if your having trouble keeping your eyes open then go for a walk and explore whatever new location you are in! Remember the enemy is comfy places and sitting down- they guarantee your passing out.  

3. Eat well. We all know there are McDonalds everywhere and restaurants abroad have menus that you can’t even pronounce but don’t fall into the fast food curse. The high sodium, high refined carbohydrates, and low protein will dehydrate and make you tired. Go out and try some local cuisine! (This does not mean live of croissants in France as much as we all may want to :) )

4. Get moving. When I was little and traveled internationally my dad would lead the family on “forced marches” to keep us awake. Now, even without my family I keep up the tradition. I love walking around seeing a new city! Also, travel is no reason to stop working out. Especially on vacation I like to take the extra time to exercise so when I come home I feel completely rejuvenated. 

Above all else do not say “I’m not tired”- it’s a jinx I swear!
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Wednesday, March 13, 2019

A Shopaholic's Guide to Buying Less


I am a shopaholic. I loving looking at clothes, trying them on, and taking them home. Ever since I was little I have enjoyed strolling through stores. Yet, I have learned control and often do go looking without buying all because of the golden rule: Quality over quantity. Here are a few tips to tame your inner shopaholic make more valuable purchases!

1. Put it on hold. Stores are designed to make you want to buy everything at the moment and sales associates are talented at convincing shoppers to do so. This why I put clothes on hold it. Gives time to walk away and decide if you really want it. Also, who knows, maybe you'll find something in another store that you like better. If you still have a strong desire to buy it when your done shopping then go ahead!

2. Plan outfits & Have a style. Before you buy a piece make sure it works with your closet. Think of possible outfits- the more versatile the better! To make this easier know your style and have a color palette. For example, I dress in mainly natural colors (black, white, beige, etc), so when buying clothes I gravitate to these tones which will go with other many pieces of my closet.

3. Save money for when you'll be in shopping destinations. If you know you need more clothes- but not urgently- and have a trip planned to a location with more shops then are available in your hometown then wait. Then, take sometime to visit these stores and have fun on your trip! Some of my favorite shopping locations include: Soho in New York, Palma de Mallorca in Spain, Los Angeles in California and  London in the United Kingdom.

4. Shop with the right people. Everyone knows a King or Queen of pressure who will go to no end to convince you to "have fun" and "go crazy"- these are not the people to shop with. You do not want to be pressured into buying something you don't need or truly want. Instead, go with someone who knows your style well and will make for a good time!

5. Save your money. If you don't love it and don't need it then don't buy it. Instead of buying those kinda cheap looking tops that only work with one pair pants you own save your money and invest later on in a better quality piece you really like!

6. No "what ifs". Yes, we all know that someday you might get a chance to wear that one cool piece you had to buy "just in case"  but honey, its been years. Do not buy something unless you know when and how you could wear it.

Have fun shopping!
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Tuesday, March 12, 2019

Why I love shopping in Soho: The Power of Image


What fashion lover doesn't enjoy simply strolling through stores to see what they carry? I can say I do, and there is no better place than surrounded by the elegant, candy colored buildings of Soho. The storefronts stand bedecked with brands that promise a well curated stock. Businesses know who their customers are in Soho. Between the shops sit a small grocery store with fresh produce, cold pressed juices, and other delectable items the area's target market (including models, fashionistas, and more) desires. I belong to this classy, target group making these streets one of my favorite shopping locations. The small, H&M holds not a jumble of messy, cheap garments as most do but instead its pieces are reminiscent of the classic but still in Aritzia store (one of my favorites!) down the street. This means they are elegant, and of a better quality. Moreover, the store is clean and organized because the shopping experience is emphasized in the design of these shops. The previously mentioned Aritzia even contains a free cafe for customers. The stores here have a collective style like this, each with its own flare, making it easy for one of us who it is made for to stop in and find fantastic items. They have together created a Soho image which leads the area's popularity to prevail even in the times of online shopping.
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Friday, March 8, 2019

De-Stress Travel Checklist


To all those who stress in  their Lyft to the airport here is a travel check-list to ensure your prepared.

One-Week Before

At one week before, prepare your clothing and get an idea of everything you need to bring. This makes it so there no last minute rushes to the store.
  • Check the weather (Sunny? Make sure you have sunscreen, Cold? Add gloves and hats to your packing list)
  • Create a laundry plan (Any dry cleaning? Send it in now)
  • Know generally what clothes to bring (or fully plan outfits if your like me)

One-Day Before

At one day before you need to make sure you know what your bringing and if you leave in the morning pack.)
  • Here are some commonly forgot items:
- Undergarments (Plan lingerie with you outfit )
- Sleepwear
- Sunglasses
- Rain coat (if needed)
- Gloves & Hat (if needed)
- Toothbrush
  • Prepare your cosmetic bag (Forcing yourself to pull out each item as you need it over the next day will remind you if you forgot anything)
  • Hang up your airplane outfit so you can get ready fast

One-Hour Before 

Almost out the door! Here’s what you might have forgotten to throw in your bag:
  • Chargers (Phone, tablet, computer, camera, etc)
  • Cosmetic bag (Check you bathroom counter!)
  • Glasses 
  • Wallet 

Bon voyage!

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Monday, March 4, 2019

Gown Process: Draping

Here is a video of the first steps of making a gown! I drape it out in a cheap version of final fabric on my dress form to see if the design will work and fit the piece. After this, I will remove the pieces and make a quality mock up of the gown. This technique is very old and still often used in couture sewing. For the full video check out my IGTV channel on Instagram @kenziekfashion! Also, comment if you want more videos and posts on my process like this :)
music: "Raspberry" by Homebody

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Tuesday, February 26, 2019

Why you need to care about sustainable fashion


Where your clothes come from matters. Today, fast fashion has taken over the industry and consumers care more about paying less than buying quality pieces. This not only means that we are going through clothes faster but that corporations are doing whatever it takes to get the lowest price. Corporations move their production to whichever developing country has the lowest labor/manufacturing costs and pay minimally. The people who made those clothes often don’t even get paid enough for basic essentials like food and housing. Moreover, the conditions that they must work in are dangerous. A horrendous example of this was the Bangladesh Rana Plaza building collapse that killed over 1000 workers. This disaster could have been avoided if corporations invested more into and took responsibility for their manufacturing. Additionally, many current production methods hurt the environment. For example, rivers- that provide drinking water to towns in developing countries- are polluted by the dying of fabric.

What can you do?

There are not enough options for accessible, fashionable, clothing that is produced sustainably making your best option for fighting this is be changing your shopping patterns. Here are three steps to build a more sustainable wardrobe!

1.       Invest in quality over quantity. Instead of buying heaps of cheap clothes or going on random shopping sprees invest in a few key essentials (I’ll be posting an article on what mine are soon!) that are of high quality. They will cost more but are worth it! If your clothes are better quality then they will last longer- and usually look better- making it so you have to buy new clothes less often.

2.    Spend your dollars wisely. Every penny you spend is vote for what company will survive, if people continue “voting” for damaging companies then they will continue their hurtful practices. So, invest wisely and avoid fast fashion companies. There are many lists online of specific fast fashion retailers, however, an easy way to determine if a retailer is a fast fashion company is by looking at the quality and price of their clothes. Any shirt under $10 is too good to be true- so be wary.

3.    Be informed and spread your knowledge. The only way to end the fast fashion crisis is to come together and stop supporting companies who aren’t sustainable or responsible for their supply chains. 

For more information check out these websites J


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Saturday, February 23, 2019

The Courtesan Top

I am happy to present The Courtesan top- my newest creation. This lace-up top with airy, peasant-style, sleeves was inspired by the beauties of 16th-century Italy who refused to give up their lives to loveless marriages. Instead, they used wit and charm to steal the hearts of weal-off men and earned a living for themselves. Courtesan were the most educated and cultured women, yet, only allowed the privilege of education because they sold themselves. They represent women who found power in the deepest of oppression and may their methods be degrading, it was their only chance at truly living.
I cannot wait to wear this beautiful top this Summer! It is unique but still classy and chic- perfectly my style! Comment if you would be interested in me selling more similar to this top :)



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