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?

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!

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!

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.

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!

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