Pastel Passion

There is one look that has been extremely evident in the spring and summer of 2012- pastels. Designers everywhere have been using mint, lilac, and pink to sweeten up their summer clothing lines. And personally, WE LOVE IT. Most importantly we think that pastel colors look good on the majority of skin colors, whether your fair, tan, dark, etc. Either way they bring out your best color. Pastel colors are also so feminine, they really know how to make your feel like a woman. Best of all, they are being used with another one of our favorite summer trends: color blocking. But even if you aren’t the “girly-girl” type to wear  head-to-toe pastel, there are plenty of ways to add some pastel to your wardrobe without becoming too out of character.

Full On Pastel

Wearing pastels from head-to-toe is a classic, girly look. You can even play around with floral prints to incorporate more colors into your outfit

Blazer: Johnlewis.com $165, Shorts: topschop.com $70, Wedges: heels.com $75

A Hint of Pastel

Is the head-to-toe pastel look too much for you? Try using just a hint of it in your outfit to add the color without changing your personal style. Wear a pair of pastel jeans with a neutral colored top/shoes. Add pastel bangles or a headband to pull the outfit together.

Blouse: dorothyperkins.com $39, Jacket: romwe.com $78, Pants: net-a-porter.com $126, Sandals: johnlewis.com $80, Bracelets: aldoshoes.com $12

Do you like the pastel look? Share with us!

Style Icons from “The Great Gatsby”

When someone mentions The Great Gatsby we automatically think back to our high school years- where the book was required reading as a great American classic. But now we’re absolutely ecstatic to hear the title as it refers to the release of The Great Gatsby film adaptation by Baz Luhrmann. We’ll be waiting in some anticipation as it won’t be out until Christmas 2012, BUT, with the first movie trailer released last week our office is in quite a buzz. Maybe Leonardo DiCaprio’s appearance as lead actor  has caused some of the excitement,  but our office is more worried about the fashion from the film. The Great Gatsby is set in the 1920s- think flapper dresses, feathers, beads and pearls- and we’re more than interested to get a bigger taste of what to expect for the film’s wardrobe. Even after seeing the movie trailer we’ve had a little inspiration to help our readers add some 20s fashion to their wardrobes at home:

Gatsby by Day 

During the daytime, 1920s women’s fashion was somewhat boyish. Dresses were typically knee length, like the navy one below, and paired with neutral flats. The high button collars add a great feminine touch to the ensemble. We also love the cardigans that were common during the time period- just like the one from our custom clothing line! Most important you can’t forget the hats and headpieces that were so popular! The one below is perfect for any outfit-  and it mixes the cloche style hat from the 20s with the straw material that is popular today.

Cardigan: SchoolHouse custom clothing, Hat: macys.com $28, shoes: welikefashion.com $128, dress: houseoffraser.com $235

Gatsby by Night

The 1920s were most remembered for the flapper style- complete with sequins, fringe, and feathers. These outfits were all about glitz and glam. What we love most about this look is the mix of fabrics- using sequined dresses, suede pumps, silk, and pearls. Try mix and matching some fabrics in your own outfit and add a little flash to really make it stand out, such as gold bangle bracelets or a vintage clutch.

Outfit on Left: Dress: usa.frenchconnection.com $198, shoes: dorothyperkins.com $75, earrings: charmandchains.com $350, headband: lordandtaylor.com $300

Outfit on Right: dress: stylebop.com $5000, shoes: stylebop.com $625, bracelets: dorothyperkins.com $27, purse: Chanel vintage pearl evening bag

How to: Color Block

shirt: AllyFashion.com $24.99, striped shorts: Freepeople.com $78, red shorts: Marc Jacobs $235, scarf: modlcoth.com $45, shoes: welikefashion.com $190

It’s impossible to ignore fashion’s biggest statement this summer- color blocking. We must admit, color blocking makes us feel happy and vibrant. It’s almost impossible to have a bad day when you’re dressed head to toe in your favorite colors. But color blocking can also be difficult for a beginner. Pairing the wrong colors together can be disastrous to any outfit, but if you follow these simple tips then you can master the art of color matching just as easily as any fab designer.

The Color Wheel

1) Pairing 2 colors: First take a look at the color wheel. When pairing 2 colors, you should try to use colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. They blend better together and will  match more of your accessories. Or, for an even brighter look, you can use complimentary colors (those on the color wheel that are directly opposite each other).

2) If you want to add a third color to your outfit, try using a colorful accessory that is opposite your first two colors on the color wheel. For example, pick a blue and purple color blocked outfit but add a yellow belt to the ensemble. In this case, your first 2 colors should always be next to each other on the color wheel.

 

3) If you want to accessorize-aim for neutral pieces that will work with all of your colors, such as gold or silver bangle bracelets or nude heels. You can go even further by adding a neutral pattern to the outfit, such as a beige patterned bag or SchoolHouse’s nautical striped bag, shown below!

And there you have it ladies, the simple 1 2 3′s of color blocking!

Summer Style: Patterned Nails

With summer just around the corner it’s time to toss all those boots and gloves to the back of your closet and trade them in for your swimsuits and sandals. And since we know that you will be hanging pool side all day to get your summer bronze, there is one thing you better remember: its time to paint your nails again! We tend to lose interest in the winter because of all that bulky clothing we cover up with, but its time to show some style. And this summer it is all about COLOR, and don’t forget the new quirky pattern styles! We love being able to show a little bit of personality on our fingers and toes with some polka dots, swirls and vibrant color combos. Check out these ideas to find the best (and most fun) way to polish your nails!

1. Polka Dots

Polka dots are a fun (and easy way) to add some color to your nails. First pick your base color and paint one 2 layers. Then use a cue tip to apply dots in different color over the base coat. Polka dots made easy.

2. The Ombre Mani

This swirled style is the perfect summer pattern. Pick two different colors which are in the same color family (they blend better together) and start by painting the darker color in a rough “U” shape at the bottom of your nail. Make it thick for better swirling capability. Then use the second color to fill in the top of your nail, and begin swirling where the two polishes meet with the tip of the polish brush. Add a top coat for extra blend!

Extra color idea: Use your school’s colors for the perfect accessory to your tailgating apparel once football season rolls around!

3. Cracked Nails

Cracked nails add a little edge to any summer outfit and are easy to do! You need to go out and buy a “cracked nail polish” which you will use to cover a base coat. There are a few different options out there now, some cheaper than others (such as Sally Hansen). However, based on reviews I would recommend OPI cracked nail polish to be the best and most effective. In order to get this look, pick a nail color that goes well with your “cracked” polish and apply 2 layers as a base coat. Let nails completely dry, then apply your cracked polished in a a thin layer over your base coat. As it dries the cracked polish will begin to recede into smaller groups and lines, giving your nails a cracked and fabulous appearance!

Not quite a nail artist? Check out Sally Hansen’s Salon Effects Nail Decals. They are easy to use stick-ons that you stick to your nails and then file off to form best to your shape. Best of all they come in a huge variety of patterns and colors, and last just as long as regular nail polish!

Paint away, ladies!

North Carolina Spotlight: Lit Decor

North Carolina is more than just where we do business here at School House. North Carolina is our home, inspiring our new line and embodying the American spirit that’s inspired us to rebuild textile and apparel communities across the state. That’s why we’re delighted to spotlight other designers, artists and businesses making it happen right here in NC.

Lit Decor’s moroccan inspired lanterns not only make a stunning summer accessory for a barbeque, but are proudly crafted with Southern charm in Cary, NC.  What do you think of these hand painted lanterns?

Lit Decor was also featured in Fossil’s Blog. Read their take on this NC company here!

And the School House Roster Keeps Growing

In case you’ve missed our updates on Twitter and Facebook, we’ve added a few new partners to our collegiate roster in 2012. And we couldn’t think of a better way to announce these new partnerships than via mascots. Because really, everything is better with mascots.

Oklahoma State: Pistol Pete

Haverford College: Black Squirrels

Carnegie Mellon University: Scottie Dogs

Colgate University: The Raiders

Westpoint Military Academy: Army Mule

Brown University: Brown Bears

NYU: The Bobcats

University of Minnesota: The Gophers

 

Which of these mascots is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

Grad Style: Dresses for the Big Day

Picking out a frock for the big day can be tricky. Do you go for the style of the moment? Stay classic? Here’s a few considerations and recommendations for your celebration.

Stay Classic

As much as it’s tempting to go trendy, grad photos are in the same category as senior portraits: you’ll look back on this day for years to come. Plus, do you really want to rock a neon ensemble with your grandparents around? Try this simple and classic look for

 Avoid Big Shapes

Yes, you’ll be wearing an oversize gown, but a big skirt or fluffy neckline will look bulky and just plain weird under that gown. Opt for a flowy or fitted dress instead.

Comfortable Footwear is a Must

While you do have to sit through the commencement speech, you’ll spend more time on your feet than you think. Skip the stilettos and anything you can’t wear (or stand in) for more than an hour. Plus, you don’t want to risk a fall grabbing for your diploma.

Kentucky Derby Style

Nevermind Cinco de Mayo – Derby Day is first up on Saturday, and like any good Southern Belle, we’re mint julep’ing and getting party ready. If you’re set to play croquet and wear your biggest hat, too, here’s some tips for creating the winning look.

DERBY HAT HOW -TO

http://www.dailycandy.com/everywhere/video/fashion/101334/Eugenia-Kim-Makes-a-Kentucky-Derby-Hat

HOW TO BET

• Avoid rail runners. It may be the shortest way around the track, but think of it as the 405 (too much traffic). Only one horse since 1964 has pulled a win from the inside draw.
• Find a closer. Front-runners rarely win the mile-and-a-quarter race.
• Jockeys matter. Calvin Borel has won three of the last four Derbies. This year he’ll saddle up on Twice the Appeal, a colt who would otherwise have very little chance.
• Consider only horses that finished in the money in their last starts. You’ll be surprised how many long-shot Derby winners have actually improved and are in good form.

RECIPES

Mint Julep

4 fresh mint sprigs
2 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
1 tsp powdered sugar
2 tsp water

Muddle mint leaves, powdered sugar, and water in a collins glass. Fill the glass with shaved or crushed ice and add bourbon. Top with more ice and garnish with a mint sprig. Serve with a straw.

READ ON

Read on and get more fashion tips and Derby Day advice from Daily Candy: http://bit.ly/J4zriD

Monday Social

Our favorite thing to find when we’re poking around the web trying to attain interesting things to tweet about on our awesome twitter page (we might be a little biased) are companies that are not only making great products but also giving back.

We’ve all heard of TOMS and their “one for one” way of life.  We aren’t sure if TOMS started this giving back trend, but if they did we thank them.  So many companies are beginning to build their business plans on this same foundation.

Side note: One day without Shoes is April 10th!

Today we want to gush about a great company that is helping the world see, SOLO Eyewear.

We came across SOLO Eyewear this past week when browsing through Ecouterre.com (which if you haven’t visited Ecouterre.com yet, go take a look! You can find some very interesting articles about green fashion) and we haven’t been able to stop talking about them! Hence, the blog post.

First off, their sunglasses are adorable!  They come in two styles, bamboo and plastic and bamboo and metal, and many different colors.  We were sold just from the pictures. (Especially the white ones…love).

Then came the coolest part! SOLO Eyewear teamed up with Restoring Vision, Aravind Hospital, and LV Prasad Eye Institute.  For every pair of sunglasses bought, SOLO Eyewear will donate a pair of prescription glasses or help fund an eye surgery!  How awesome is that?! And their sunglasses are very reasonably priced, especially if you consider all the good that comes out of purchasing a pair.

Right now SOLO Eyewear is allowing you to pre-order their summer collection through their Kickstarter page which has already raised over $12,000!  Pre-orders will be accepted until April 26th so hurry and check it out!  If you act really fast you could snag the last of the “first come first serve solos” for $15 below retail price!

You can also follow SOLO Eyewear on Twitter to get the latest on not only what they are doing…but what new colors they are going to have this season!

Startup Advice: Finding the Right Space

As a small business still very much operating in “startup mode”, we feel there’s a lot of lessons to share in the do’s and don’ts of building a business. One hurdle every entrepreneur must overcome is space. Juggling the overhead expenses and setup needs can be difficult, and if you’re on a budget like pretty much every small business is, making the leap from working in your home to official office is scary.

That’s where Smoffice comes in. the Durham Chamber Commerce in conjunction with some fabulous Durham sponsors are running a nationwide competition to win “the world’s smallest office.” If you’re anything like me and love browsing those super tiny rooms/homes in IKEA, then you probably share the same level of excitement for this initiative. To enter is super simple:

• A one-page business summary covering your idea, your market, and your team

• A 60 second video telling us about yourself and why you and your company would be the best candidate for the Smoffice

That’s pretty much the easiest entry process. Ever. And, the rewards outweigh the prep 10:1. The winning startup receives:

 

 

• Six months of free office space in the world’s smallest office, conveniently positioned in the storefront window of Beyu Caffe, Durham’s entrepreneurial gathering place.

• Some high-end office furniture

• A tablet

• Wi-fi

• Legal, accounting, and marketing assistance from the best in the business

• Endless introductions and access to area entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders

• Tickets to sporting events, music and theater venues around town

• A condo in downtown Durham

So here’s our advice: apply for The Smoffice today. You’ll not only be giving yourself a huge boost for your business, some time to get your feet under you and access to a community we’ve loved calling our home!