Cheers to the Weekend with Kate Spade Saturday

We can all recognize Kate Spade by its iconic colors, perfectly chic bows and polka dots, and cute taglines and phrases that bring the brand to life (live colorfully anyone?). So when Kate Spade introduced a sister brand that boasts prices that are 50% cheaper, it was no shock when all of us non-New-York-non-Japan millennium consumers flocked to the Kate Spade Saturday website to get our hands on the coveted girly sweet (but not saccharine) products.

Saturday’s represents an offshoot of the Kate Spade brand’s success, which has only been exponentially rising over the past decade. Though still upholding the signature Kate Spade design aesthetic we know and love, this line features more affordable inventory that reaches out to a younger customer with more casual and minimalist looks.

The brand has already ascended to international prominence with six permanent stores in Japan, and plans to open more in the future. More U.S. stores are also slated to open, including other New York locations as well as outposts on the West Coast. For now, customers in the U.S. can get their hands on a $70 splatter paint wallet or a $150 canary crossover dress through purchasing online or through visitng the New York pop-up shop.

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Beyond success in the Japan market, a key guerrilla marketing tactic in New York helped the brand solidify its stardom and generate buzz before announcing more store launches. A partnership with eBay to create cutting-edge window shops made Saturday’s the talk of the fashion and business world. From June to early July, “shoppable” storefront windows allowed customers to buy clothing and accessories from a catalog of 30 inventory items through a touch-screen device displayed in the windows. Passerby selected what they wanted on the screen, entered in their phone number to receive order confirmation, greeted a messenger who delivered the products within the hour to select areas for free, and payed upon delivery. Talk about truly experiencing a revolutionary brand.

Taking this a step further, Kate Spade Saturday has extended their stay at 30 Gansevoort Street in New York by building out the space behind the digital storefront. This pop-up shop will be open through October 31, with special events held every Saturday (no surprises there, but we surely approve of the weekly celebration to celebrate the brand name!)

Here are our top two favorite looks from the Kate Spade Saturday 2014 Resort Collection. Let us know which one you love more!

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This pairing screams “live colorfully” in the most subdued way possible, and that’s why we love it. A cool lavender paired with gold accent jewelry and a pastel checkered mini-skirt? Yes, yes, and yes.

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The “because we’re excited about Fall fashion” look. The combination of a simple charcoal sweater, metallic tote bag, and a soft sea-foam hue is cozy but glam. Understated, but not underwhelming.

Be sure to follow Kate Spade on Shopilly, and visit the Kate Spade Saturday website to browse through the apparel and accessories.

As always, happy shopping!

Team Shopilly

Keep Cool From Head to Toe

If the recent heat wave on the West Coast is any indicator, this summer may be a scorcher, but it’s hard to stay indoors when sunshine and fresh air are calling your name. Whether you’re eager to head outdoors for a casual pick-up game, or you’re determined not to let a little heat disrupt your outdoor workout routine, here are some pieces that will help keep you cool from head to toe:

Performance Train Cap

Performance Train Cap, Reebok, $18

A good athletic hat serves multiple purposes: keeping the sun off of your face and keeping hair and sweat out of your eyes. Look for a breathable hat with reflective panels like the Performance Train Cap by Reebok to keep you cool and visible during your workout. However, don’t assume that wearing a hat will absolve you from wearing sunscreen! You should still apply waterproof sunscreen on your face and other exposed parts of your body every two hours to avoid sun damage when exercising outside.

Azagra Running Tank Top

Asics Azagra Running Tank Top, Sports Authority, $42

We love this tank top’s unique perforated cutouts and sweat-wicking fabric. This well-ventilated tank top also provides a supportive shelf bra and UPF protection from the sun’s rays, making it perfect for outdoor activities like a game of kickball or leisurely jog.

Run Speed Short

Run Speed Short, Lululemon, $54

The Run Speed Short is one of Lululemon’s most popular items, and for good reason. Its 2 ½” inseam is short enough to keep you cool, without showing too much leg. Lightweight fabric, paired with a COOLMAX liner, wicks moisture away, while a convenient zipper pocket on the back of the waistband allows you to go hands-free during outdoor activity.

CoolMesh II Tab Back Socks

WrightSock CoolMesh II Tab-Back Socks, REI, $11

Fans of WrightSock’s CoolMesh sock series swear by its ability to wick moisture away even on the hottest of days. Don’t let the CoolMesh II’s double-layer design fool you — these socks are surprisingly light, and the layers absorb friction and moisture to prevent blisters. The high tab-back also prevents uncomfortable chafing along your heel and achilles.