The Best Styling Hack I’ve Seen in a Year and 7 More Regret-Free Sale Buys
Two words: Amy Smilovic.
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Before we get started, I just wanted to make sure you saw a styling tip that I simply love. It comes from Amy Smilovic, the founder and creative director of the beloved brand Tibi. (I had the pleasure of interviewing her for my podcast Second Life and 11/10 recommend listening to her episode, as she’s had a fascinating career.)
Amy posted the most genius shirt hack, which happens toward the middle of this video. I love it because it makes a classic piece feel completely fresh, and it’s a trick that’s quite democratic. (By that I mean there’s not much gatekeeping, as there is a slightly oversize button-down shirt available for most bodies and budgets.)
Amy’s TikTok is a real joy for fashion nerds like me who love a backstory and a behind-the-scenes moment, both of which she gives quite generously. Honestly, we’re not worthy, but it’s much appreciated anyway.
As you might have noticed, we are in peak summer-sale season, and it seems like every major and minor retailer is having a sale right now. In last week’s installment of this newsletter, I covered the three questions you should ask yourself before buying something on sale:
Can I style this with three outfits I already own?
Can I style this for three different occasions?
Would I buy this at full price?
And to be honest, it’s really the last question that is the most important one. I’m sure I’m not alone in saying sometimes I buy things not because they’re perfect for me, my wardrobe, and my life, but because my head was turned by a really excellent discount on a designer item. (I once bought a lovely floral chiffon blouse by Giambattista Valli for 90% off the regular price, but it hung in my closet, unworn, for years before I finally sold it on The RealReal. Turns out I liked the idea of the savings and the piece more than the blouse itself, but you’re not really saving much if you never wear it.)
There’s no harder place to test this theory and your willpower than a Net-a-Porter sale, which is currently going on. There are almost 13,000 items in its clearance section right now—many of which are 50% or more off—from literally the chicest and coolest brands in the world.
I have found myself seriously considering if I need or, more specifically, can justify, the purchase of Gabriela Hearst’s incredible Constantin Embroidered Wool and Cashmere Blend Trench Coat, which normally would run you almost $10K but is currently available for a mere $3800. (Answer: NO, I CANNOT JUSTIFY THAT, MA’AM, but the fact that I was thinking about it shows what this insane sale can do to one’s otherwise quite sensible brain.)
But that’s neither here nor there. Moving on! Please find a few of my favorite things from the NAP sale, for your shopping pleasure. They are not dirt cheap, but they are high quality pieces you will use for years to come. Happy shopping!
Gianvito Rossi Ribbon Beachclub Suede Espadrille Sandals ($347 on sale)
I loathe buying designer sandals at full price, which is why I watch the sales very closely for timeless pairs and then pounce. For my foot, Gianvito Rossi sandals always work, and they’re really well-made, so I know they’re a solid investment that I will wear all summer long for literally years.
Jacquemus Alzou Cropped Mohair-Blend Cardigan ($210 on sale)
It’s giving luxury It-girl Euphoria vibes, in a color that’s sure to cure your why-am-I-not-in-Italy-or-Greece blues. If you’re all in, wear it as shown. If you’re me, wear it over a similarly hued pink silk slip dress.
Khaite Abigail Printed High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans ($220 on sale)
Fashion girls LOVE Khaite (guilty as charged), and these classic jeans are going to go so quickly. Yes, still spendy, but 50% off and a very covetable wash makes them a no-brainer.
Jimmy Choo Palina Stretch-Suede Over-the-Knee Boots ($775 on sale)
If I know two things for sure, they are that Jimmy Choo makes some of the most comfortable and well-made shoes I own, and you never regret an over-the-knee stretch-suede boot, period. So combine those two, and this style is a strong yes for me. In the winter, an over-the-knee boot styled over heavy matte-black tights keeps you incredibly warm, and it looks chic peeking out from a dress or skirt. Versatile styles like this rarely go on sale, always look cool, and will last you for literally a decade or more.
Slvrlake Virginia Distressed High-Rise Slim-Leg Organic Jeans ($210 on sale)
Fashion editors and friends are big fans of Slvrlake jeans, and while they didn’t make my favorite-jeans roundup, it mostly was because they, like Khaite jeans, are very expensive. They are 40% off right now and still expensive but also look really amazing on. I’m not usually one to recommend distressed denim as an investment piece, but this high-waisted, slim (but not skinny) style is pretty classic.
Proenza Schouler Convertible Faux Leather-Trimmed Cashmere Coat ($1047 on sale)
Are you going to scream at me for suggesting you buy this coat? Probably, but hear me out: cashmere. That’s it. That’s the pitch. Just kidding; I have more. It’s the perfect neutral soft gray, which goes with nothing and therefore goes with everything. And did I mention it’s two coats in one? It is! You can remove the outer layer and wear the shorter one alone when it’s warmer, then double up with the outer layer when it gets colder. See, I’m practical!
Nike SuperRep Go 3 Embroidered Flyknit Sneakers ($60 on sale)
NAP low-key has some really amazing activewear options, and the current sale has quite a few excellent specimens, like these subdued knit sneakers from Nike. Slightly more interesting than basic black but still subtle, this pair is an easy yes at this price.
Before we go, I just wanted to let you all know that I’m still working on that story about pelvic-floor health, as “After having two kids, how do you not pee yourself on the trampoline?” is overall probably the question I get the most. If you have any specific requests for topic coverage, please feel free to DM me; info below.
I’m also working on a try-on story about the best trousers (for a person who hates trousers), so if you’ve found any styles or brands you love or are curious about any specific items, please send them my way for consideration.
As always, thank you for being here, and thank you for sticking around. If you have any questions or concerns, or want me to touch on any topics in particular, I’m all ears. Leave a comment on Hi Everyone’s Bulletin or DM me on Instagram—I’m @hillarykerr—my inbox is always open!