Shopping around Shoes

I set out last week to buy myself a new pair of shoes. I found what I was looking for at Nine West, where for $89.00 (a steal, if you ask me) I became the proud owner of these fabulous platform wedge gladiators (below & 1). They're light, and comfortable, and look amazing (in fact, a woman saw me trying them on and asked for a pair herself!).. but when I got home, I realized I had no clue how to wear them. I brought them in to work at Basic Basic for some help.


With Megan's help, I set out to match clothing to my new shoes. Who hasn't planned an outfit around a favorite pair of shoes? I know I'm not the only one. So I'm sharing my findings here. A sort of how-to wear this season's must-have sandal: the Gladiator.

Click to enlarge.

To start with, I knew I needed something hot to wear this out with. We went with long Tart leggings (2) - they're thin and tight, with a little sheen. If you prefer a thicker legging, So Low makes a great pair. On top is this Ruffle Tank by Parker Blue (3). It's long enough to cover all your questionable areas, and the ruffles add a sexy twist. Juicy's Sleeveless Ruffle Front Top is a nice summery alternative, or if you prefer something a little simpler, this Sleeveless Ruffle Tunic by Zooey has the same feel with less flounce.

On the other hand, I wanted to try the shoes with something girly, but not necessarily sexy. After trying on a few dresses with no luck, Megan grabbed Young, Fabulous, & Broke's Silk-blend Melrose dress (4). We found that the shoes looked best with an A-line skirt. The Melrose dress flows beautifully, and the pleating on the chest gives it a sweet little babydoll feeling. This Sleeveless Tiered Dress by Splendid ran a close second to the Melrose. To dress the sandals up, you can try Susanna Monaco's Pleated Scoop Tank Dress.

Finally I needed something to slum around in. Dressing these babies down was easier than I expected. I grabbed my new favorite white tee (Petit Bateau's Short Sleeve Light V-Neck.. it's their new super-thin fabric. I wish all my shirts flattered me like this one!) On top of that I threw on Juicy's Jacquard Terrycloth hoodie (5) in a color called "So Sari." I love the drawstring bottom, and the wide hood. So comfy! Kritik's hoodies are just as fantastic, and come in some seriously vibrant colors. A denim mini skirt or your favorite jeans will look great to finish off this outfit.

So I left the store a happy camper, with lots of new clothes (yay!) and tons of ideas, and hopefully helped a few of you that found themselves in the same situation. I'm debuting the shoes this weekend - wish me luck!


rachel rose

Deal of the Week, #2

I woke up at 2AM last night and realized it's finally Spring. Now, I know it's been nice out lately (in NYC, at least) but for the most part it's been a tease. So what was different, besides the warm-ish weather forecast? Well.. I woke up in my tee-shirt and sweats, and I was HOT. Which means it is finally (finally!) time to crack open the window and break out the lighter jammies.


And so, in honor of warm nights, this week's deal is this adorable (& light!)
cami-and-hot short PJ set by Splendid (on sale, $53.00). The set comes in either a berry or cobalt stripe, packaged in a cotton drawstring bag. The shorts have a drawstring waist for comfort, and sweet lace edging for that perfect girly touch.

They're on sale, so treat yourself (or your girlfriends) and rejoice. It's Spring!


If this set doesn't strike your fancy, here are some other cute and comfy sleep alternatives:
C&C California Classic Bold Tank
City Lights Relaxed S/S Crew
Hanky Panky Modal Boy Shorts
Juicy Couture Terry Drawstring Pants

Wardrobe Staples for Spring

Hey It's Megan Checking In!

This week has been crazy busy, but so exciting at the same time! Being on the set of the photo shoot, it was great to see all of our fabulous new items on the model instead of just the hanger. The clothes just come to life!



I am currently obsessed with the 2 strapless dresses from Susana Monaco and the light, gauzy Cassy dress from Velvet.

I have definitely found a few staples for my spring wardrobe after these past few photo shoots!

Susana Monaco Simpson Strapless Dress

Speaking of wardrobe staples, be sure to check out our collection of the Best
White Tees.

The other day while brainstorming, we asked "What is the one thing you have to have this spring?!" My answer: "An amazing white deep v neck tee" that can be worn with anything from high waisted skirts, to those old cut-offs from 5 years ago. So simple, yet so fabulously versatile!


James Perse Short Sleeve Vintage V Neck

Til Next Time!

Deal of the Week, #1

Before we get started, we'd like to welcome our "fierce" new model Lisa. You may recognize her as Christian's winning model from this year's Project Runway.. and we're thrilled to have her!

Lisa is wearing Karoo's Shorter Front Blouson Top, $143.00

Now, to kick off April with our very first Deal of the Week:

Bordeaux Pleated Tank Top
(on sale, $41.00)

This pretty tank is made of Bordeaux's signature form-fitting nylon-spandex blend.. it feels great and is super-flattering. The pleating at the top makes it the perfect wear-me-to-work-under-your-suit shell, but it's also just right for adding a bit of interest underneath a deep-V. And the best part? It's half-off. How can you go wrong??