Summer has begun to wind down, and with school starting within a few weeks, “what to wear?” will be at the forefront of everyone’s minds again. With retailers beginning to shift their styles in preparation for Fall, even if you don’t have to actually go back to school, you’ll notice all of the new clothes in stores and may want to test out some of the new style trends and update your wardrobe as well.

The best thing about shopping for “back-to-school” styles as an adult? You don’t have to go into trend overload when you shop; instead, search for upgraded, more elevated versions of your favorite wardrobe staples that will easily take your style to the head of the class.

Lace-Trim Pullover Chicos

Detailed Button Down
A crisp white shirt is always needed when you wear a school uniform, but a chicer, more sophisticated option for adults is a lace trimmed blouse with a more feminine fit. Lace-Trim Pullover, Chico”s.

Mother Denim Hustler Ankle Fray Indigo

Must-have Denim
New jeans are always number one on the shopping list, but instead of sticking with your tried and true skinny fit, vintage inspired denim with a kick flare is such a fun trend right now that will transition beautifully into Fall. Mother Denim Hustler Ankle Fray, Indigo

Vegan Suede Bomber Jacket Banana Republic

Too Cool for School Bomber
Varsity Jackets are one of those classic back-to-school “trends” for guys that will never go out of style, but once you get past a certain age they can look a little juvenile. A great alternative that gives you a similar silhouette with much more style is a bomber jacket. Keep it elevated by getting it in a vegan suede material. Vegan Suede Bomber Jacket, Banana Republic

Madewell The Medium Transport Tote

The Carry-All Tote
Kids have backpacks + messenger bags, moms and career women have carry-all totes. Whether you’re carrying around your work files and ipad or need a cute bag to store all of your junk for errands, now’s the perfect time to upgrade to a quality made tote that you can use every day. The Medium Transport Tote, Madewell

J. Crew Saturday Sneakers with Leopard Calf Hair Detail

Cool Kicks
New shoes are a given on your kid’s back-to-school list, so why not snag a stylish pair of sneakers for yourself as well? Doing the whole dad shoe trend can be a bit much, but you can easily rock a sleeker pair with your favorite skinnies or a pleated skirt and a fresh button down on the weekends. Saturday Sneakers with Leopard Calf Hair Detail, J. Crew

Sally Embroidered Blazer Anthropologie

Embroidered Blazer
Most uniforms include a classic blazer, but to keep your look much more fashion forward, try a fun embroidered style with your favorite trousers instead. Sally Embroidered Blazer, Anthropologie

 

To shop these trends, be sure to visit these local retailers in The Shops of Saddle Creek!

 

The 4th of July is one of our favorite holidays to celebrate. We get to spend time with friends and family, but also we get to nosh on so much yummy food! Whether you’ll be grilling out for a crowd or chilling on your patio with just a friend or two, here are a few easy recipes to add to your lineup (cocktails included!):

GRILLED HONEY LIME CILANTRO CHICKEN

Grilled Honey Lime Cilantro Chicken

grilled-corn-tomato-avocado-salad

Grilled Corn Tomato Avocado Salad

Parmesan-Garlic-Grilled-Corn

Parmesan Garlic Grilled Corn

Sunrise Piña Colada

Grilled-Watermelon-Feta-Stacked-Salad

Grilled Watermelon Feta Stacked Salad

Smores

S’mores

Summer Berry Sangria

Summer Berry Sangria

Patriotic Pretzel Bites

Patriotic Pretzel Bites

 

Keep the patriotic vibe going with these great tablescape finds from Sur La Table:

Stars + Stripes 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set

Stars + Stripes 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set, $24.96

American Flag Napkins, Set of 4

American Flag Napkins, Set of 4, $14.96

American Flag Melamine Rectangular Tray, $7.46

Stars + Stripes Melamine Servers, Set of 2

Stars & Stripes Melamine Servers, Set of 2, $2.96

 

To shop these items, be sure to visit Sur La Table in The Shops of Saddle Creek!

 

happy-fathers-day

Father’s Day is this weekend, and if you’re still struggling to figure out what to get the special man in your life, here’s a round up of gift options that any guy would love. Shopping for men can be hard, so these gifts are classic items that every cool dad will want this year.

If he loves style, a classic striped Summer sweater is a must.

Cotton crewneck sweater in navy stripeCotton Crewneck Sweater, J.Crew $98

Upgrade his eyewear with these dope frames.

SEE Eyewear 7903 Sun

SEE 7903 Sun, SEE Eyewear, $99

Skip the boring cufflinks and find him a pair with a little more flair.

Brooks Brothers Mens Accessories Gift Set

The Finishing Touches: Men’s Accessories Gift Set, Brooks Brothers, $60

If he lives to grill, he’ll love adding these to his collection.

Sur La Table Pro Ceramic Grill Grids, Set of 2

Pro Ceramic Grill Grids (Set of 2), Sur La Table, $48

True techies are always looking to upgrade their gadgets. Beat him to the punch.

IPad MiniIPad Mini, Apple, Starting at $399

 

There’s nothing like a great smelling man; surprise him with a new scent for Summer.

Joseph Abboud FragranceJoseph Aboud Fragrance, Jos. A. Bank, $49

Cool dads love cool kicks, and they don’t get much cooler than these.

Porter Derby Sneaker

Porter Derby Sneaker, Allen Edmonds, $180

A stylish and classy timepiece is always a good choice.

Blake Silver-Tone and Leather WatchBlake Silver-Tone and Leather Watch, Michael Kors, $175

Men love grooming products too, so don’t skip out on finding him some new skincare goodies.

Baxter of California | Facial ScrubBaxter of California | Facial Scrub, Banana Republic, $20

 

To shop these items, be sure to visit these local retailers in The Shops of Saddle Creek!

Memorial Day Weekend unofficially kicked off Summer, which means it’s time to refresh your wardrobe for the warmer months ahead. This season is filled with BBQs, pool parties and patio linkups, so you want to be extra cute no matter where you go. New trends come around each season, and thankfully, some of the biggest ones for Summer are super easy to wear no matter your age or personal style.

straw bag

Before you head out to shop for a new wardrobe, here’s a peek at 6 accessory and style trends that you’ll see everywhere all Summer.

Tie Dye
The tie dye trend instantly brings to mind a Cali cool girl vibe. You can go totally psychedelic with it ala the bright, punchy hues from the 70s Dead Head days, but an easier (and more polished) way to rock it is in slightly subdued tones, and more watercolor-esque hues. Try it in a kimono with your favorite denim or cutoff shorts or a comfy, casual tank.

Spellbound Tie Dye Kimono2

Spellbound Tie Dye Kimono, Free People

ADY WALLET MELBOURNE

Ady Wallet Melbourne, Brahmin

Animal Print
In our book, animal print is a neutral that can be worn whenever, wherever, but it’s still considered a trend because it’s so popular. The trick is to find it in fun, versatile pieces like a leopard print skirt that can be worn casually with graphic tees + flat sandals or an allover printed dress with your favorite wedges.

Jessica Simpson Twist Front Leopard Print Maternity DressJessica Simpson Twist Front Leopard Print Maternity Dress, A Pea in the Pod

LOFT PLUS LEOPARD PRINT SMOCKED PULL ON MAXI SKIRTLeopard Print Smocked Pull On Maxi Skirt, LOFT

Wicker Bags
A straw bag is synonymous with Summer, but no longer do you have to get a huge tote better meant for the beach in order to try out the trend. Bags are a LOT sleeker (and chicer) when you pick one in a circular style or a bamboo wood finish.

Penelope Basket ClutchPenelope Basket Clutch, Free People

Aguna Round Rattan Crossbody in WhiteAguna Round Rattan Crossbody in White, Francesca’s 

Patchwork Prints
Mixing prints is nothing new, but the new patchwork mixed print trend has been gaining momentum. A more “creative” trend if you will, this is one that you want to let shine on its own. Pair with simple accessories and tops/bottoms so that you don’t look like you got into a fight with your grandma’s crafting drawer (and it won).

Melody Patchwork DressMelody Patchwork Dress, Anthropologie

Sonatina Midi SkirtSonatina Midi Skirt, Anthropologie

Neon
Expect to see electric hues ev-er-y-where this Summer. Our favorite way to incorporate this trendy style into our wardrobe is with accessories, especially via sunglasses, bags and earrings, but you can also make more of a statement in a flirty maxi dress or skirt.

Pleated Maxi DressPleated Maxi Dress, Banana Republic

SUPER by RetroSuperFuture® Drew sunglassesSUPER by RetroSuperFuture® Drew Sunglasses, J.Crew

Kacey Perforated Clutch

Kacey Perforated Clutch, Freschanca’s

WOVEN CRISS CROSS SLIDE SANDALSWoven Criss Cross Slide Sandals, LOFT

Tiny Purses
I know, I know, you’re wondering what you would even put into a tiny purse but that’s not the point-this is about FASHION, people, so test this uber cute trend out on a day when all you really need to leave the house with is your cellphone, credit card + maybe a lipstick.

Piece By Piece CrossbodyPiece By Piece Crossbody, Free People

 

To shop these trends, be sure to visit these local retailers in The Shops of Saddle Creek!

What trends will you be trying this Summer?

kimthomas-kpfusion-memphisblogger

Fashion Writer. Stylist. Beauty Enthusiast. Visual Content Creator. Lover of pretty things.

Hi I’m Kim (friends call me Kimmie), a fashion and lifestyle blogger + photographer based here in Memphis, TN, and I’m so excited to be blogging for The Shops of Saddle Creek! I first started blogging back in 2010, and over the years my blog (KP FUSION) has evolve to provides of the moment news, fashion & beauty tips+ trends with a little Memphis, TN flavor thrown in. I love all things fashion and beauty, and have been lucky to partner with brands like J. Crew, Lane Bryant, Kendra Scott, Redbook and more. I like to show life through my own lens, and in this space I’ll be sharing fashion + style tips and tricks that anyone can implement no matter their style. I’ll also be highlighting some of the fun events and happenings going on with the retailers here at Saddle Creek so stay tuned!

Be sure to follow me and  Saddle Creek on Instagram so that you can keep up with us, and check back here regularly to get the full scoop!

Have any style questions or want to see something specific here? Shoot me an email at Kimberly@kpfusion.com.

 

It’s hard to believe but Christmas is only one week away! We don’t know about you guys but we’re still finishing up our holiday shopping, so Sadie the Elf (Saddle Creek’s special little helper), has agreed to give us some tips on where to shop for all of our last minute gifts.

If you’re still on the hunt for a few gifts yourself, here’s a roundup of some of Sadie’s favorite places to shop in Saddle Creek. Whether you’re looking for holiday party gifts, stocking stuffers for the fam, or ready to splurge on a gift for someone extra special, here are some great gift options you can pick up this week:

Gifts $25 + Under

When you’re shopping for coworkers and new friends, get them something fun that you know they’ll enjoy. Sur la Table has popcorn gift sets ($20) that are perfect for movie night (or snacks when you’re on break and trying to avoid work).

while Banana Republic has a great range of mini colognes ($25) and candles to choose from.

Sadie also loves a good suit!

Gifts $50 + Under
Have friends or family that love all things home decor? This Christmas in Memphis picture frame ($50) from Southern Avenue Company is a unique way to #repyocity during the holiday season.

Shopping for a set of homebodies? Gift her the softest blanket from Vera Bradley and him a spirit and glass set from vomFASS ($48).

They’re a match made in movie night heaven!

Gifts $100 + Under
Who doesn’t love cozy, comfy PJs? Indigo carries the cutest sets by PJ Salvage; get these for your sister or friend that loves to wake up and lounge in style.

SEE is known for their super cool frames, so a pair of aviators ($99) from here will have your brother (or bae!) #selfie ready.

They also carry regular frames, so you can throw in an eye exam too!

I swear she knows what she’s doing!

Major Splurges ($300+)
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend (especially on Christmas), and the Penny Preville necklace from Southern Avenue Company (call for pricing) would have her shining bright (and grinning from ear to ear, ha!) if she got this under the tree.

Allen Edmonds has some of the flyest shoes and accessories for men right now, and the Boston Duffle Bag (canvas/leather; reg $650/on sale for under $400 through December 24th) is a must for the guy in your life that’s a jet-setter and always on the go.

Stocking Stuffers
American Threads is a go-to source for trendy, fashion forward clothes and accessories, so pop in here if you need some last minute gift ideas for your bestie or sister and they love earrings, sunnies, and scarves.

Vom FASS also has some specialty oils and vinegars that would make for a delicious white elephant gift that you’d actually want to keep!

And if all else fails, you won’t go wrong with gift cards from Sephora, Anthropologie and J. Crew!

Once your shopping is done, head over to the Paper Source to pick up your gift wrap supplies. They have a ton of different designs to choose from, and they also offer gift wrapping services ($8 per gift) if you’d rather have a professional do it, lol.

Sadie has her picks, but I don’t think she would be much help with the actual wrapping!

Thanks for your help Sadie!

Saddle Creek will have extended hours through Saturday, December 22 and stores will be open until 9pm. Click here for the holiday schedule and full store directory.

Happy shopping!

After a busy day of errands and a photoshoot project, I was able to stop by Saddle Creek’s Pour & Explore Event, a special fundraising event that let’s attendees sample wines from all over the world while enjoying live music, shopping deals at participating retailers, and other cool fun.

Saddle Creek Pour + Explore

Saddle Creek Pour + Explore

Saddle Creek Pour + Explore

This year it benefited the Streetdog Foundation, and they had the cutest little pups up there that were open for fostering and adoption.

Saddle Creek Pour + Explore

Saddle Creek Pour + ExploreLook at those expressive eyes!!

The temps have finally warmed up so it was nice out; I ran into a few of my blogger friends while there, and I had a chance top pop into the new Brahmin store that just opened. Did you know that there’s a collection there that’s exclusive to Memphis?

Saddle Creek Pour + ExploreAlways a good time when I see Desiree and Belinda!

Saddle Creek Pour + Explore

Saddle Creek Pour + Explore

Saddle Creek Pour + Explore

Saddle Creek Pour + Explore

I got there a little late because of the project that I’m working on so I wasn’t able to make it to all of the stores that were participating, but I was still able to sample some delicious wine and do a little shopping. I love events like this because it’s a simple, easy way to enjoy the weather while also giving back to an organization in need. Plus, who doesn’t love to shop? Ha!

Saddle Creek Pour + Explore

So happy I got to see my friend Kristina at Madewell!

Saddle Creek Pour + Explore

Q and her boo. They are always so fun to be around. The sign she’s holding says it all, lol

Thanks for another fun event Saddle Creek!

On Thursday we hosted our 2nd Saddle Creek’s Blogger Meetup so that some of our local faves could meet a few of our newly opened tenants. First we headed over to Southern Avenue Company, a new interior goods and gift shop.

We were treated to yummy bites by Rise Saddle Creek, a new donuts + biscuits cafe. We had chicken and lamb sliders, creme brule donuts, and maple bacon donuts paired with wine and champagne. I cannot explain to you how delicious everything was!

After that, we hopped over to The Paper Source for a little DIY Crafting; the bloggers all made super cute banners to take with them.

Thanks to all of the bloggers that were able to come out and hang with us!