GapMag

Denim Diary, SF Edition: The Sexy Boyfriend

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:02:05 -0500

Yes, we have a new boyfriend. And yes we love it way more than our ex-boyfriends. With its perfectly balanced boy-meets-girl silhouette, the sexy boyfriend jean is understated and gloriously open to interpretation. To prove the styling possibilities, we asked three of the coolest girls in the company—all designers, of course—to wear it their own way.

Here’s SF-based, Old Navy women’s fleece designer, Jesse Wardlow, in the sexy boyfriend denim chino.

On Jesse: Uniqlo sweater. Pendleton scarf (Portland collection). Gap 1969 sexy boyfriend denim chinos. Fidelity peacoat (from Reliquary here in SF). Opening Ceremony shoes. Vintage turquoise jewelry from New Mexico. Squash blossom necklace from Reliquary. Photos by: Tug Leeder.

“My wardrobe revolves around classics, basics, stripes and neutrals. Although that combo doesn’t scream excitement, keeping things simple makes me feel confident, comfortable, and kind of surprisingly powerful. I also have a gigantic love—and beautiful collection—of turquoise that my late Mom passed down to me and that my boyfriend gifted me during our previous life in New Mexico. It’s kind of funny—I almost always feel uncomfortable in an outfit full of color, but I’m completely at home in a black T and five pounds of bright blue stone.

Creating a look around the ‘sexy boyfriend,’ I loved that I could throw on my easiest basics and the jeans’ fit and tailoring helped me look more put together, more fashionable even, than in my basic five pocket jeans. I also just picked up those Opening Ceremony heels (at the Barney’s year end sale) and I love how the jeans matched their simple elegance but brought down the sexy factor, making them appropriate for daytime.

It was raining when we took these pics so I was layered up with my favorite scarf and peacoat. You could throw those two over anything in my closet. They are definitely my security blanket.”

Check back tomorrow to see our NYC designer’s take.

Gapeteria: Look of the Day

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:28:40 -0500

Rainy days make for good people watching in the caf. We’re always on the hunt for new ways to work a wellie. First place goes to Fred for styling his duckboots so adorably. They’re perfect with the flannel. But actually, every piece is key. Sign of a solid layered look.

Adidas Originals jacket. FTC flannel. Hanes T. Gap 1969 standard fit jeans. Native duckboots. Booth & Bruce glasses. Hat from a shop in London.

Hidden Gems: Brights, His Way

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:57:06 -0500

This season, you can’t hide from color—the brighter the better, especially for the kiddies. Let’s face it, lively color schemes are the new black. Some of our fave pops of color come to us from the boys (we’ll be stealing…). Here are a few hidden extras we just had to shine a light on (as if they weren’t bright enough!). Looking cool like his big bro is easy in a pair of striped blue aviators, while perforated slip-on kicks rock in a handful of fun shades (we love neon yellow!). For the time-obsessed lad into counting down ‘til Friday, a standout sports watch makes a great starter timepiece. Go bright boys, we dare you!

Word on the Street: A Weekly Round-Up

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:48:17 -0500

You know when something’s so wrong it’s right? This plaid-clad video is still cracking us up. [YouTube]

Who doesn’t love a good find? We’re looking to score this leather tote (cobalt for us, please!) before it’s too late. [The Vault Files]

Spotted! Momma-to-be Jennifer Garner taking a stroll with her little one in our jeans! [DenimBlog]

Trend Alert: Red x stripes, his and her way. We L-O-V-E her way with our striped sweater. [Wear it Both Ways]

We adore this blogger’s prim & proper look that pops with color and this textured knit pick. [Dear Andi]

Work Together, Wear Together: Oxfords

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:57:00 -0500

From the first time we laid eyes on the samples last fall we’ve been lusting over Gap’s version of the new It shoe. Simple yet sumptuous, our über-soft lace-up oxford is foot-flattering and feels like you’re wearing slippers (REALLY, they do!). To be worn with everything from rolled-up boyfriends to knitted knee highs to bare legs, these extremely versatile, hill-friendly flats (SF-biased, of course), are making us think it’s time for something a little more down-to-earth and walkable. It’s hard to pick just one shade (trust us, we know) so stock up in a few colors before they all disappear…

On Christine: Gap oxfords in taupe. DKNY tights. H&M shorts. On Allison: Oxfords in blue. Gap 1969 sexy boyfriend jeans. On Nina: Oxfords in gray. Look from London tights. Organic by John Patrick dress. On Sommer: Oxfords in fuchsia. Forever21 tights (cut into leggings). Alternative Apparel dress. Vintage cardigan.

Gapeteria: Look of the Day

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:07:00 -0500

Lia does her hair herself, and it’s the first thing that caught our eye. But she has a clever way with clothes, too. Love this. An unexpected mix in a graceful silhouette with a retro wink.

Gap cardigan. Unknown denim shirt. Skirt from Etsy. Hue tights. Banana Republic heels.

Hey Guys, Just Curious: To Scarf or Not to Scarf?

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 03:01:00 -0500

We know that scarves were originally worn by men in ancient Rome but times have have obviously changed. Now we (women) have taken over adorning ourselves with the highly coveted accessory. But we have noticed a scarf surge in menswear recently, especially within the current Americana rage, with designers adding tartan, wool, and even silk options on the runway. There will always be a few cynics out there who view scarves, snoods, and neck wraps as ‘too feminine’ and who, in an emergency (read: near freezing temperatures or blizzards), will don the accessory in only the most neutral color palette. But what do you think? Should a guy wear anything scarf-like around his neck?

Word on the Street: A Weekly Round-Up

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 21:22:00 -0500

Tell us, what’s in your bag? This blogger keeps a notebook, iPhone, scarf (us, too!) and our city flats in hers. [La Petite Peach]

Say yes to socks and tights. We’re really into that little extra layer of style. Try it with winter shorts like this blogger. [Sorelle in Style]

We’re feeling pants of style jealousy. We love how she took our men’s jacket and made it into a completely covetable vest! [The NYC Streets]

What do you buy the baby who already has everything? We’re talking about Beyonce’s Blue Ivy, of course. This blogger says our furry jacket is best! [Fader]

This ladylike look rocks! We adore that little bit of edge this blogger adds with our layered necklaces and skirt. [Sidewalk Ready]

Inside Peek: Kids + Baby Spring Photo Shoot

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 21:22:00 -0500

We love getting scooped on the latest shoots from our photo team. OK, that’s an understatement….we really love it. From the moment they start packing up the shoes, clothes, and props, we’re already anticipating their return. Visions of mini models posing, fans blowing, and cameras flashing dance in our heads—we want all the deets. This time around, the kids/baby shoot was all about bright color (those shoes!) and so-cool handmade papier-mâché props (hand over that giant fortune teller, please). Check out a few behind-the-scenes snaps. We dare you not to be as excited as we are!

Inside Peek: Spring Photo Shoot

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 13:50:00 -0500

COLOR was certainly the theme of our spring photo shoot! In typical Gap fashion, it played out like a Broadway show with its cast of highly skilled artisans—photographers, models, seamstresses, stylists and the list goes on. Walking around the buoyant set filled with rows of shiny accessories, racks of handpicked garments, and very attractive people (what? You don’t want us to lie, right?), makes it hard not to consider a career change! Of course they make it look so easy but we’re fairly certain orchestrating this caliber of a shoot takes a TON of work, patience, and finesse (think hair, makeup, years of experience, natural talent…need we go on?). We know we are excited for spring (weather and wardrobes, of course)—how about you?

Gapeteria: Look of the Day

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:57:00 -0500

We love a blouse buttoned to the neck, and this one has cool mussed stripes and a darling silhouette. (Perfectly boxy, higher in back, lower in front.) Vicky wears it so well. Love her simple no-frills look. Stark and chic.

Dolce Vita blouse. Zara sweater. BDG jeans. Calvin Klein shoes. Feature jacket.

DIY: First Faves with Jenny Pennywood

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:38:00 -0500

We asked Jen Garrido of Jenny Pennywood, local artist/textiles designer and mom to adorable one-year old Jemma, to give our First Favorites bodysuits a little personality with her creative talents. At her SF studio, we called dibs on a few of her pillows, pouches, and paintings and got all the details on how to make our classic white onesies (they’re sooo soft!) into miniature works of art. Learn how here and if you try it, send us pics, please!

Supplies:

Fabric Pain (Non-toxic and baby-safe, of course!)

Paint Brush

Chipboard
X-Acto Knife
Carving Tool (Optional)
First Favorites Bodysuits

Step 1. Place the chipboard inside the bodysuit to avoid staining the back.
Step 2. Using your X-Acto knife and carving block, cut geometric shapes to use as stamps.
Step 3. Paint a thin layer of paint on your stamp and press down on your desired spot for three seconds.
Step 4. Start decorating! There are no rules. Stamp where ever you want and create your own unique design. Note: Feeling extra artsy? Use a carving tool to add lines and markings to your stamp.
Step 5: Let dry, machine wash inside-out and voila! A bodysuit all baby’s own.

Word on the Street: A Weekly Round-Up

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:50:00 -0500

We’re a little bit obsessed with our new oxfords—what’s your fave color? We can’t choose! [Nylon]

Inspired! We adore how this blogger gives our GapKids party dress a fresh vibe with casual denim layers. Also, she rocked it on NYE. Love that! [Sidewalk Ready]

Hello, yellow—we’re really into the kiddie version of this sunny trend. Style tip: Yellow and gray. So cute. [The Little Style File]

New blog crush! Love how she rocks head-to-toe neon with our stripey sweater. [312 Style de Vie]

Sneak Peek: Spring ’12 Moodboards

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:49:00 -0500

Even though everything’s gray and bleak around here (is winter in full force in your neighborhood, too?), we’re totally buzzing with thoughts of spring. Here’s a peek into the look and feel of our upcoming collections—sunshine, warmth, and easy-breezy days will be here before we know it!

For women, it’s all about deliriously unexpected color. We’re pairing richly hued tops with even brighter bottoms—think colorblocking taken to a whole new level. Also, clean, retro silhouettes à la My Week with Marilyn, with a very modern sensibility.

For men, our all-consuming obsession with color continues. Youthful, carefree-yet-refined looks with a nod to road trips and the open road. Get ready to pack those bags…

For kids, we’ve got three words for you: BOLD, FUN, and COLOR (are you seeing a trend here??). The coolest youngsters on the block are definitely dressing themselves—mixing & matching outfits their way, every day. Watch out, mom!

And finally, for our beloved baby collection, we’re focusing on those cherished, incredibly special first moments with a new little one. Sweet, lovely pieces evoking lots of whimsy and emotion.

Gapeteria: Look of the Day

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 03:00:00 -0500

Terra has such a sunny air about her even on a brisk winter day. It’s partly her smile, partly her playful picks: leopard print jeans, swingy dangly earrings, mint green bike. Then she offsets these with subtler pieces—a simple blouse, neutral sweater and boots—for a perfect balance.

H&M sweater. Trove blouse. Paige denim. Cri de Coeur boots. Rebecca Minkoff bag. Anthropologie earrings. Warby Parker sunglasses. Unknown necklace. Vintage ring. Gary Fisher bicycle.

To Resolve or Not To Resolve

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 16:23:00 -0500

It’s that time of year again—a ripe new year to be exact. Time to take a reflective look back at 2011 and more importantly, a chance to look forward to new beginnings which, for most of us, translate to new habits. How do you feel about resolving to make some changes in your life?

Happy Holidays from All of Us at GapMag!

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 03:00:00 -0500

Wishing you and your loved ones plenty of holiday cheer. We’re taking a little break but we’ll be back soon. See you in 2012!

DIY: Gift-Wrapping with Katie Macdonald

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 03:00:00 -0500

You might remember Katie from her LOTD post back in August. We do! As the women’s FAST (as in fashion) designer for Old Navy, and terrarium maker and teacher extraordinaire, she’s quite the creative genius. A girl with a golden touch. Clothes, objects, rooms—everything looks lovelier and cooler under her influence. So we asked her to give us a few (very much needed!) gift-wrapping ideas. They’re totally DIY and of course, gorgeous. “You don’t really have to buy anything to wrap cute gifts. Just get creative with what you find around the house,” she says encouragingly. Try it yourself and let us know how it goes (detailed instructions below). Don’t forget to send in pics!

1. Cut a piece of denim big enough for your gift.
2. Trim a long piece of the overlock seam and set aside.
3. Wrap your gift box, stapling the denim in place (just once or twice should do).
4. Fold the edges and trim one side down to cut the bulkiness.
5. Fold the long side over the short side and staple in place. Repeat.
6. Tie with plenty of twine. (Hit the hardware store for an awesome selection).
7. Add a dried flower—or a fresh cotton blossom! So beautiful and great-looking with denim.
8. Then tie the flower and twine together with a small piece of the overlock seam.

1. Fold (or cut) your bandana down to the size of your gift.
2. Wrap your gift box, stapling the fabric in place (just once or twice should do).
3. Find a romantic underpinning (like a bra or slip) and trim a long strip of the edging.
4. Tie the edging around your gift (just as you would do with ribbon).
5. Finish with a luscious flower, like a gardenia.

1. Wrap your present and secure it with tape.
2. Tie with plenty of twine and add a colorful name tag.
3. Add a bright sprig of holly or a colorful flower fit for the occasion.

1. Wrap your present and secure it with tape.
2. Tie with plenty of twine (here, cotton covered wire).
3. Add a textural blossom—like a thistle or two!
4. Finish with a bookmark for a more personal touch.

Gapeteria: Look of the Day

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 03:00:00 -0500

Ashley has a girlish look (refreshingly happy and comfortable) that drew us in. We loved her bare legs on that freezing day. A bold move in the name of fashion, because tights would have dressed it up too much and the Converse were critical.

Gap cardigan. Urban Outfitters T. Gap skirt. Gap socks. Converse low-tops. Unknown necklace. Elizabeth & James ring. Text by Dante; her brother wears the first half of the sentence.

Blogger Edition: Gift This, Gift That

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 03:00:00 -0500

The holiday alarms are sounding—have you checked everyone off your list yet? We’re a little bit behind on our shopping (ok, ok, we haven’t started…) so we asked a few of our tastemaker friends for gift ideas. Each pick says buy me, buy me (Carine’s new book for us, please)—but tell us, what are you wrapping this year?

Julia Samersova, Planet Awesome Kid

1. Irreverent by Carine Roitfeld
Carine Roitfeld’s new book Irreverent features some of Carine’s most noted editorials; from her early work at The Face to her landmark shoots for French Vogue. A must-have for any fashionista.

2. GapKids Faux-Fur Jacket
I absolutely love this jacket! It is so chic and can be dressed up or down. A must-have!

3. Jonathan Adler Grapefruit Candle
The most amazing scent in a bold Pop Glass vessel with packaging as fresh as the product. I want everything, everywhere to smell like this!

4. Porcelain Tile Frame by Xenia Taler
I just adore these elegant, gorgeous frames. Your photographs are your memories, and they deserve to be displayed in the most beautiful way.

5. SoulCycle Gift Card
SoulCycle’s full-body workout has revolutionized indoor cycling and taken the world of fitness by storm. It’s an engaging workout that benefits both the mind and the body. I am obsessed!

Danny Feekes, FabSugar

1. Gap Shearling Blanket
This is my godson’s first Christmas and I know he (and his parents) will absolutely love this shearling blanket. I love the faux-fur underside and the fact that it’s something he will use for years to come.

2. Carrie, The Musical
I’m a bit of a Broadway buff, so I love giving the gift of live theater (mostly because I get to go, too!).

3. Le Labo Santal 26 Candle
To say that I’m obsessed with this candle would be an understatement. It’s a very masculine scent—musky, leathery, smoky—but would work for women, too. I love that you can customize the label. Personalization is key.

4. Haley Bonar’s Golder album
Golder is the perfect soundtrack to a quiet, rainy day spent at home in front of the fire. She’s the best thing since Mazzy Star.

5. You and I by Ryan McGinley
Any lover of modern photography will appreciate this first retrospective monograph of Ryan McGinley’s. I only wish I could afford to gift an actual piece of his art; this book will have to suffice.

Brittany Stephens, FabSugar

1. Bill Amberg Leather Kindle Case
I’m planning on hooking my Dad up with this sleek leather holder from Bill Amberg for his new Kindle.

2. Linda McCartney by Taschen
My mom is a huge photography buff, as well as a Beatles fan—so this book is the best of both worlds.

3. BaubleBar Wrap Bracelets
I love gifting friends with bracelets—these boho-cool wrap pieces are easy to mix and match, and are affordable enough to stock up on and include with holiday cards.

4. Gap Cheetah Sweater
I saw this sweater recently and instantly fell in love. It would be the perfect cozy, cool gift for my younger sister.

5. DearColleen “I Would Rather Have Champagne” Print
My best friend and I share a love for cheeky handmade prints, so she’ll definitely be getting this one to frame in her dining room.

Cacky Rhodes, Gap Inc. Social Shopping Advisor

1. Twitter Nameplate Necklace
A great stocking stuffer for the “ultra chic and über geek” in your life.

2. Tom Ford Nikita Sunglasses
This is the ultimate sunglasses shape right now and I know my sister will die for these! And who am I kidding…one for you, one for ME!

3. Gap Metallic Mini Skirt
This is a fabulous skirt for any holiday fête that my friends will go crazy for! It’s always nice to open up a present that sparkles.

4. Cambridge Satchel
These bags are a great gift for any working fashionista, who is always on the go. They are the perfect size for a laptop or iPad and come in great colors. Plus, you can monogram them!

5. Chanel “Rouge Carat” Red Nail Polish
A stocking stuffer for your best girlfriends! Every girl needs that perfect nail color for holiday parties.