Karin Monfredo, Author at Clandestine Kitchen https://clandestinekitchen.com/author/karen/ Curating total body wellness Mon, 16 Nov 2020 16:32:01 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.1 Fresh Style: Dishing on Thanksgiving Outfits https://clandestinekitchen.com/fresh-style-dishing-on-thanksgiving-outfits/ https://clandestinekitchen.com/fresh-style-dishing-on-thanksgiving-outfits/#comments Mon, 16 Nov 2020 00:33:35 +0000 https://clandestinekitchen.com/?p=5096 Trying to decide on a Thanksgiving outfit? No sweat. Just grab some sweats or loungewear. If you haven’t had enough of elasticized waists at this point, why give them up now?

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Trying to decide on a Thanksgiving outfit? No sweat. Just grab some sweats or loungewear. If you haven’t had enough of elasticized waists at this point, why give them up now? From a legit sweatsuit to sporty bottoms paired with a statement sweater, we’re dishing some fashionable (and very comfortable) options for whatever kind of feast you’re planning.

Sweats + Sweater
These 3/4 cropped sweatpants made from lightweight french terry are fitted yet still super-relaxed, giving them a leg up on traditional sweats. Try them with a sweet sweater and a gold necklace and you’ve mastered the elevated sweatpants look. Not psyched for sweats? Start the day in your favorite denim and switch to sweats later. 😉

Sweats available at Assembly Showroom

Sweaters available at kloTH

Sweater available at Assembly Showroom

Cool + Cozy
If you’re embracing a full-on loungewear look, check out Electric & Rose at fig. a. I’m obsessed with pretty much everything this CA-based brand creates. fig. a has carefully curated options ready to mix and match for a modern, comfy style. From tie dye to velour, you’ll be giving thanks for comfort in anything Electric & Rose.

Available at fig. a in Hingham and on fig-a.com

Available at fig. a in Hingham and on fig-a.com

Available at fig. a in Hingham and on fig-a.com

Want to wear a dress but still have a relaxed vibe? Try the Sunday sweatshirt dress, available at fig. a.

Dining al fresco? Top off your look with a colorful hat. How amazing are these pompoms?! Hats available at kloTH.

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The Ultimate Wish List https://clandestinekitchen.com/the-ultimate-wish-list/ https://clandestinekitchen.com/the-ultimate-wish-list/#respond Sat, 21 Dec 2019 13:35:18 +0000 https://clandestinekitchen.com/?p=2307 Finding the perfect gift can be nerve wracking—especially this late in the game. Before you reach for your usual, go-to gifts, check out what some of our local tastemakers and friends are wishing for this holiday season. Get ready for some serious insight and inspo.

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Finding the perfect gift can be nerve wracking—especially this late in the game. Before you reach for your usual, go-to gifts, check out what some of our local tastemakers and friends are wishing for this holiday season. From socks to a Celine bag, here’s what they had to say. Get ready for some serious insight and inspo.

The iPhone 11
“For the camera.” Obvs.
Kerry Brett, Celebrity Photographer and Owner, Lifestyle Portraits

(photo credit: apple.com)

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones
“When I’m editing, I want to tune out the world and turn up a podcast.”
Kerry Brett, Celebrity Photographer and Owner, Lifestyle Portraits

(photo credit: Bose.com)

Socks—lots of them!
“I follow Tom Ford’s rule of always changing out socks every six months…. But I hate buying them! That makes them my favorite stocking stuffer every Christmas.”
Matt Gallagher, Owner, Assembly Showroom

(socks available at Assembly Showroom)

Floating Spa Treatment at Balans Organic Spa in Boston
“That or sit in a Himalayan salt room for a week.” Organic spa?!
Can we come with, Katherine?
Katherine Morse, Owner, Flat of the Hill

Artwork
“I’ve been gifted some beautiful pieces of art and seeing them around my home makes me happy—daily reminders of good times together, love, beauty, talent.”
Katia Orth, Owner, kloTH

Jewelry
“Beautiful and meaningful pieces that last a lifetime and yes, make you feel special. My pick this year is probably a ring or pendant from kloTH.”
Katia Orth, Owner, kloTH

(rings available at kloTH)

Anything to keep me warm…
“I’m always cold so anything to keep me warm…. Winter coat, socks, warm boots, and inevitability a new cozy sweater or two from—yep, you guessed it—kloTH!”
Katia Orth, Owner, kloTH

(socks available at kloTH)

Celine Phantom Tote
“The Celine Phantom tote is at the top of my wish list this year. It’s the perfect size and shape to take me from busy mornings to drinks after work.” Cheers to that!
Christina Reale, Owner, Chel Bella

(photo: Celine.com)

Sol Angeles sweats
“All about cozy gifts. I’ve yet to meet someone who doesn’t have a pair of go-to sweats when they get home. This set from Sol Angeles coupled with a wintry scent from Wary Meyers and you’re good to go.”
Evan Shuman, Owner, Assembly Showroom

(Sol Angeles sweats available at Assembly Showroom)

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Holiday Health & Happiness: Self-Care & Socks https://clandestinekitchen.com/holiday-health-happiness-self-care-socks/ https://clandestinekitchen.com/holiday-health-happiness-self-care-socks/#respond Mon, 09 Dec 2019 12:28:30 +0000 https://clandestinekitchen.com/?p=2233 Some people get massages, meditate, do yoga, or read a book. Self-care comes in all shapes and sizes.
For this fashionista, that size was One Size Fits All when I recently decided to treat myself to a bunch of new socks.

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Finding Self-Care in Socks.
It’s the little things.

Some people get massages, meditate, do yoga, or read a book. Self-care comes in all shapes and sizes. For this fashionista, that size was One Size Fits All when I recently decided to treat myself to a bunch of new socks.
Yep. Some good old socks were exactly what I didn’t know my life was missing.

As someone who typically eschews socks for a host of reasons, I’ve gotten used to not wearing them.
My bare feet feel great with Uggs. Ok-ish with sneakers. Meh with heels and booties… Sockless isn’t always the most comfortable, it just is what it is. Right? Wrong.

The Fashion Factor.
Socks were created for a good reason (duh) and this post isn’t going to focus on that (you’re welcome). Instead, let’s look beyond the obvious comfort factor and zoom into the fashion factor.
From glittery animal patterns to cool mantras (like Don’t Worry and Let That Sh*t Go), here’s a look at some of the pairs that I couldn’t pass up (see below).

How To Style Socks
Even before this sock binge, influencers and models sporting socks with shoes ranging from sneakers to stilettos started to appear in my IG feed. This is a real, legit thing happening now in fashion. Try yours with sneakers, peeking out of booties, and if you’re up for it, with heels or sandals.
The socks with heels combo can be tricky, so proceed with caution. When done right, it looks super fresh plus your feet stay warm (bonus!!).
Love the look but not up for the combo? Try sock booties.

Cheers to happy, healthy, and stylish feet.

Pictured here: Socks by Royalties Paris, available at Assembly Showroom in Hingham.
Socks by Mother available at kloTH in Hingham.

Stuart Weitzman, Axiom Sock Bootie. On sale for $379.00 plus an extra 50% off with code Hooray at saksoff5th.com.
Photo Credit: saksoff5th.com

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Timeless & Sleek: The All-Black Outfit https://clandestinekitchen.com/timeless-sleek-the-all-black-outfit/ https://clandestinekitchen.com/timeless-sleek-the-all-black-outfit/#respond Fri, 14 Jun 2019 15:16:31 +0000 https://clandestinekitchen.com/?p=1301 There’s a reason why all-black errthang is an official go-to for so many. It’s verstile, effortless, classic, and chic all at the same time. It comes with a city slicker, no frills vibe. Which at times can feel right.

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You know in the movie Runaway Bride when country bumpkin Julia Roberts is marrying Richard Gere, the slick journalist from Manhattan? One entire side of the church is dressed entirely in black. The groom’s side. The New Yorkers.

There’s a reason why all-black errthang is an official go-to for so many. It’s verstile, effortless, classic, and chic all at the same time. It comes with a city slicker, no frills vibe. Which at times can feel so right.

Despite the romperish look of my outfit, this is actually a matching set. The shorts are high waisted and include a belt which I knotted (side note: always do what works for you). The top has a feminine gathered neckline and elbow-length sleeves. Can be worn together or as separates. Score!

While spring/summer is the perfect backdrop for florals and pastels, a classic monochromatic look may be a city-inspired breath of fresh air. Warm up your look with gold accessories. And don’t forget to pair the ensemble with a little NY attitude. Wherever you’re from.

Shop the shorts and similar items at Nordstrom.com (click image to shop)

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What’s a Shacket? (and why you should be wearing one) https://clandestinekitchen.com/whats-a-shacket-and-why-you-should-be-wearing-one/ https://clandestinekitchen.com/whats-a-shacket-and-why-you-should-be-wearing-one/#respond Sat, 25 May 2019 11:55:25 +0000 https://clandestinekitchen.com/?p=1220 Aside from just being really fun to say, a shacket is that happy place between a shirt and a jacket.

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Aside from just being really fun to say, a shacket is that happy place between a shirt and a jacket. It’s a shirt-like top that’s just heavy enough to be used as a spring jacket or as a layering piece in the colder months.

If you already know this term, bravo and amazing—you’re cutting edge. But for people like me who just happened upon this fantastical word, we can enjoy not only wearing shackets, but also dropping the expression into conversations.

If you already own a shacket, you’ve no doubt been rocking it for the past month or so. They’re perfect with jeans, over dresses, and even with jean shorts. And if not, here are a few for shopping inspiration:

Pistola Camilo Jacket, $88 revolve.com

Topshop Jack Raw Hem Shirt Jacket, $75 Nordstrom.com

Anine Bing Sawyer Military Shirt Jacket, $199 Nordstrom.com

Sundry Stars and Hearts Army Jacket, $284, SundryClothing.com

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The Denim Shorts You Need For SS19 https://clandestinekitchen.com/the-denim-shorts-you-need-for-ss19/ https://clandestinekitchen.com/the-denim-shorts-you-need-for-ss19/#respond Thu, 04 Apr 2019 19:44:32 +0000 https://clandestinekitchen.com/?p=1050 I’ve always been a jean shorts junkie. I love the versatility and comfort factor. With so many different styles available this year, there’s literally a pair for everyone.

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All The Fringe

With warmer weather around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start planning your go-to spring and summer styles. I’ve always been a jean shorts junkie. I love the versatility and comfort factor. With so many different styles available this year, there’s literally a pair for everyone.

Here are a few details to keep in mind when choosing:

1. Inseam. Be sure there’s enough length to give you the kind of coverage you’re comfortable with. I’m gravitating toward a longer inseam this season and that’s reflected in some of my style choices below.

2. Rise. Like jeans, denim shorts range from low to high rise. I prefer mid…. Find what works for you.

3. Fit. Are they relaxed, tight, boyfriend? 100% cotton or with stretch? Jean shorts tend to look better on the looser side. Leaving some room between your thigh and the shorts has a slimming effect.

Here are a few of my current favs:

Agolde Micah

AGOLDE Micah Boyfriend $128, Assembly Showroom
This brand is now a go-to for jean shorts and I can’t wait to try these on. A 4-inch inseam makes them super wearable. Add them to your try-on sesh at Assembly.

Agolde Parker

AGOLDE Parker in Swapmeet $128, Assembly Showroom
Must-have! These just might be the perfect jean short. Everything about them works—the length, the rise, the fit. Arriving at Assembly Showroom soon. Reserve yours now.

Moussy

Moussy Vintage Kelley Distressed Denim Shorts $230, barneys.com
Loving this Japanese denim brand. These shorts have a bit of an a-line cut, giving you nice definition at the waist and a looser fit in the leg.

Frame Le Brigette $165, Shopbop.com
Another option with a “generous” inseam of 3.25” and some stretch. Frame is a high quality brand that won’t let you down.

Agolde Rumi

AGOLDE Rumi $128, Shopbop.com
These are basically denim Bermudas and they’re super cute. The inseam is almost 7 inches, so you’re getting great coverage but still have a jean-short look. I’d wear these with wedges or heels for a night out. Exclusive on shopbop.com

Citizens Marlow

Citizens of Humanity Marlow Easy Shorts $198, Shopbop.com
If you’re looking for a longer short, these are for you. The 3.5-inch inseam provides a little more coverage, while the side slits add a nice detail.

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What’s On My Fashion Radar? https://clandestinekitchen.com/whats-on-my-fashion-radar/ https://clandestinekitchen.com/whats-on-my-fashion-radar/#respond Sun, 17 Feb 2019 13:37:17 +0000 https://clandestinekitchen.com/?p=904 Whether it’s in the cart or already in my closet, here are some of the online treasures that I’m hearting big time.

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Whether it’s in the cart or already in my closet, here are some of the online treasures that I’m hearting big time.
Here is what’s on my fashion radar:

tough as a mother

“Tough as a Mother” Sweatshirt; $54.00
Because yes. We are tough….As a mother. And who doesn’t love a super-soft, super-fun sweatshirt. I wore this for the first time a few days ago and had 3 questions about it within an hour of leaving the house. Just discovered this brand and I’m loving their vibe.

No 6 Clogs

Clogs (No.6 Leather Clog Buckle Boot; $395)
Yup. 2019 has been dubbed the year of the clog. Consider this an evolution from Uggs and an investment in stylish comfort. No.6 clogs, which The New York Times called “the new mom uniform of Park Slope,” offers a bunch of options from classic to shearling-lined (bonus: they are waterproof). Love the black/brown combo, buckle, and the tread bottom on these ones. And if we’re going all hygge shouldn’t we have the shoes to match?

glam bobby pins

Rhinestone Bobby Pins (Rhinestone Bobby Pin, By Kitsch Collaboration with Justine Marjan; $29, Kitsch Bobby Pin Set; $8)
If I had long hair, these sparkly wonders would 100% be making an appearance in my life. Saw these fancy statement bobby pins at store in Vermont. Most of them are already sold out, but “Glam” is still available on Amazon. Stack two for a double-whammy glammy look. More reserved? Try the non-word edition below.

rhinestone bobby pins
bracelets

Rainbow Anything (Alex Mika ring; $100, Roxanne Assoulin bracelets; $75-$350)
Has anyone else noticed the color explosion during New York fashion week? From catwalk to sidewalk, everyone is dripping in vibrant colors. (More on this in a future blog post.) It’s amazing! Also a good reminder to take risks and add some pops of brightness to your look and life. I added a few colorful items to my closet over the summer and fall, and now this fun jewelry is calling my name.

ring

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2019 Denim Refresh: Part One https://clandestinekitchen.com/2019-denim-refresh-part-one/ https://clandestinekitchen.com/2019-denim-refresh-part-one/#respond Fri, 11 Jan 2019 12:31:40 +0000 https://clandestinekitchen.com/?p=737 A Local Round Up of 8 Pairs That Will Update Your Wardrobe

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Every now and then it’s a good idea to update your denim. Take inventory of what you have, what you actually wear, and what looks and feels good. Donate the pairs that don’t work for you anymore and then have fun filling in with some of the latest trends. Having a curated selection of perfect pairs that you can reach for and rely on is the #goal.

Here’s a look at some of this year’s trends and eight great pairs available now (hello instant gratification!!) at two local shops:

stripes

Racer Stripes
Side stripes aren’t new, but this color combo is. The black denim with contrasting ivory racing stripes is super fresh and can be styled seven ways to Sunday (think more stripes, florals, solids, graphics.) The uneven hem ups the cool factor. Race over to Kloth before these are gone. (Already got mine!). Pictured: Mother Insider Crop Fray $218. Available at Kloth.

pinstripe

Pin Stripes
The menswear as women’s wear trend makes a chic appearance in denim with these unexpected charcoal pin stripes. I didn’t have a chance to try these on, but last time I checked, vertical stripes were elongating so expect these to be flattering and versatile. Juxtapose with a graphic tee and cardigan or play up the trend with a crisp button down and blazer. Pictured: McGuire Newtown Skinny in Pinstripe $225. Available at Kloth.

Slits
The slit hem gets a makeover with double the fun. Featuring cuts on the interior and exterior, these McGuire jeans have visual interest and make for a nice update on the classic skinny. Pair these with your favorite booties, flats, or sneakers. Pictured: McGuire Bootie $225. Available at Kloth.

reverse

Reverse Step Hem
Another way to update your classic skinny is with a reverse step hem. We’ve come to know and love the step hem, and now Paige denim has literally turned it around. This pair is low in the front, higher in the back and looks super cute on. Pictured: Paige Ankle Slanted $219. Available at Assembly Showroom. (15% off through Saturday 1/12.)

Cropped Kick
If your closet is full of skinnies, add these for a fun change of pace. Flattering on most people, this silhouette is easy to wear and looks good with anything from sneakers to stilettos. This rich black pair from Paige fits like a glove and feels really comfy. Trust me, you should try these on! Also available in dark blue denim. Pictured: Paige Crop Flare $198. Available at Assembly Showroom. (35% off until Saturday 1/12.)

crop 2

Wide Leg
Boho babes rejoice. These wide-leg jeans are retro and ultra-modern at the same time. Juxtaposed with the sea of skinny jeans, which have become a staple in most closets, the wide-leg cut channels a more relaxed, of-the-moment vibe. Pictured: Mother Tom Cat Roller $230. Available at Kloth.

coated 2

Coated
A sleek coated pair can round out your wardrobe and help step up the drama for a night out—or a coffee run if that’s your thing. The Agolde high-rise skinny cropped leatherette is perfect for the colder months (aka NOW unfortunately). Enjoy the fact that these look like leather but come at a much cooler price. Pictured: Agolde Sophie High Rise Skinny Crop $198. Available at Assembly Showroom. (35% off until Saturday 1/12.)

Cuffed Cuties (Sale Alert!)
You can find lots of great jeans on sale, too. Assembly is in the midst of a major winter sale (all denim is 15-45% off through Saturday 1/12) and Kloth has an awesome denim section organized by size making it super easy to browse the bargains and find gems like these cuffed cuties. The exaggerated cuff adds the perfect amount of interest. And at 40% that’s a stylish steal. Pictured: Mother Pony Boy Ankle Fray on sale for $176.25 (40% off original price). Available at Kloth.

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Hosiery? Or Bare Legs? https://clandestinekitchen.com/608-2/ https://clandestinekitchen.com/608-2/#comments Sun, 09 Dec 2018 15:51:29 +0000 https://clandestinekitchen.com/?p=608 Do you brave the harsh New England temps with bare legs? Or do you love a nice pair of opaque tights or silky stockings?

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Leggs Karin Monfredo

Hosiery or bare legs? Fashion’s leggiest debate.

Are you one those people who braves the harsh New England temps with bare legs? Or someone who loves a nice pair of opaque tights or silky stockings?

For me it’s hard to answer that question definitively, as in one choice forever. But this year, these tootsies will be sporting stockings. The kind that I literally haven’t set foot in since you could buy L’Eggs in egg-shaped containers at CVS.

Hosiery can add polish and a touch of warmth to your winter looks. My days of suffering for fashion have dwindled, so not freezing my a** off when wearing a dress or skirt is all sorts of awesome. (It’s the little things.)

From skin tones and patterns to shimmery and bejeweled (think Jennifer Lopez circa 2012), the options are endless and you can’t go wrong with whatever you choose.

I recently purchased the Wolford Neon 40 Tights in cosmetic and off black (pictured here). Wolford has been in the biz for over 60 years, so they know their stuff and these did not disappoint. They’re silky and comfortable, have a subtle metallic sheen, and the quality is 100.

Bottomline: If you haven’t already jumped on this trend, it’s definitely worth snapping up a pair or two. Here’s to hosiery!

Woldford Neon 40 Off Black

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How To Look Fab Fast https://clandestinekitchen.com/how-to-look-fab-fast/ https://clandestinekitchen.com/how-to-look-fab-fast/#respond Mon, 19 Nov 2018 11:01:09 +0000 https://clandestinekitchen.com/?p=516 As social calendars light up with the upcoming holidays, having a few outfits ready to go can take the stress out of getting dressed—and have you out of the house in record time.

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Fresh Style How To Look Fab Fast

Hint: Get the outfit together before the invite arrives.

As social calendars light up with the upcoming holidays, having a few outfits ready to go can take the stress out of getting dressed—and have you out of the house in record time.

I recently went to an event which required me to trade in my jeans for an evening look. With literally 10 minutes to throw myself together before Uber arrived, I stayed calm and reached for a dress I had added to my closet a while ago.

When I bought this navy number, I had nowhere to go, but knew the dress would make an appearance eventually. I had mentally paired it with accessories and shoes, and filed it away in my closet. So on that night in October, with minutes to get ready…I was actually ready. In every sense of the word.

I guess you could say I’m not a big fan of occasion shopping. It’s too much pressure and often leads to settling for an over-priced, one-wear, what-was-I-thinking piece. (Ugh).

Do you plan out your daily schedule or prep your meals in advance? Try applying the same idea to getting dressed up—or just getting dressed in general. Having a game plan makes it so much easier to get pulled together and out the door.

Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Know what’s in your closet.
Take a quick inventory of your closet to find the dressy items that make you look and feel good. Try pairing things you’ve never considered for a fresh look. Extra credit: donate any items you haven’t worn in a year to make room for some new pieces.

2. Purchase items when you see them.
Next time you’re shopping, snap up that knockout dress, jumpsuit, top, or whatever it may be. If it fits well and feels good, it’ll find a place in your life. You’ll be glad you have exactly what you need whenever you need it.

3. Don’t forget the details.
Remember the accessories—shoes, jewelry, bag, undergarments, coat or shawl. Put together the entire look—even if it’s just filed away in your head. Consider whether your clothes could use a press or steam. Having the items in turnkey shape eliminates any last-minute fussing.

Karin Monfredo Fresh Style

Industry Appreciation Night at the JFK Library

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