Shopping Women-Owned Businesses

Shirt || Pants || Heels ($50 off with SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE) || Handbag || Earrings

Women supporting women. It’s such a simple concept, but is sadly much rarer than it needs to be. We’ve all witnessed it… Women getting jealous of someone else’s success, for no reason. It doesn’t have to be that way and is such an ugly stereotype, to boot. That’s why, when I’m shopping, I make an active decision to support women-owned businesses. Honestly, the more female centric it is, the more inclined I am to make a purchase. Here are some of my favorites that I am proud to support!

Grayson

One of the hardest things for me to shop for are any kind of button-down shirt. If it’s not too tight in the shoulders, thank you 15 years of swimming, than I’m self-conscious about button gaps. On the other hand of the spectrum, I don’t want them to be too oversized. The Grayson team completely understand. The signature style, the Hero, was engineered by women and for women to create an extremely comfy top. I simply love their linen pieces!

Sarah Flint

I’ve gotten to know Sarah so well since I began working with her about a year ago. She designs each shoe specifically with great woman in mind. Her motto is ‘style without sacrifice.’ That’s certainly true with any pair of her shoes. The artisan craftsmanship comes straight out of Italy with the most expert of manufacturing. To try for yourself, be sure to use the code SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE for $50 off of your first pair.

St. Armands Designs

This local, Gulf Coast Florida, brand has made their mark on the statement earring world! In recent months, I’ve created quite a little collection and each pair is lightweight and versatile! My current favorite is this wooden seashell pair. They make for a whimsical touch, but still go with nearly everything in my wardrobe. Kristina, the owner, is coming out with new styles often. Just wait until you see her holiday pieces!

The Daily Edited

This Australian company first came onto my radar while window shopping in the West Village. They specialize in personalized leather goods and the possibilities are seemingly endless! Because the pricing is very budget friendly, their pieces make for a great gift idea. I have their circle bag and it’s one of my go-to handbags whenever I head out. My KCK monogram has never looked so good!

Weezie

I had the pleasure of working with this Savannah based company, and my outlook on towels has never been the same! They have perfected the bath time experience by designing high quality and extremely absorbent towels. I’m also a huge fan of their robes, which has become my wardrobe whenever I spend weekends at home.

Camilyn Beth

In a word, these dresses and gowns are simply gorgeous! Cami, the owner, knows the fashion industry frontwards and backwards. The result is a perfect collection of dresses for nearly any occasion. For an event that calls for more fanfare, her gowns are made to order, just for you. Next month, I have a wedding to attend in Sea Island and this particular dress has been calling my name!

Lingua Franca

I have long been a fan of this NYC based company, but the timing couldn’t be more crucial! I truly admire what Rachelle has created… a line of sustainably sourced, fair-trade cashmere sweaters that help inspire change. In her own words, “We care a lot.” She supports various organizations that work for a better world, the ACLU, the Alliance for Quality Education, I am a Voter to name a few. Are her sweaters political? You bet, and I’m so proud to be a customer because of it.

Neely and Chloe

Proof that impeccable style runs in the family. This sister duo is responsible for a fabulous line of affordable accessories. Their pieces are classic, ladylike, with just a touch of vintage inspiration. From the smallest clutch to the roomy weekender, they have you covered for what you’re looking for. You may have noticed my brown croc Lady Bag. I jokingly designate it my ‘Fall’ bag, but it’s still one of my favorites.

Supporting female-owned businesses is such a tiny step to help reinvent gender stereotypes. I invite you to get to know some of these brands and trust that you are buying a product that deeply understands what you’re looking for. Happy shopping!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Let’s Get Ready to Vote!

Tee || Similar Skirt || Wedges || Handbag || Earrings

If I can be perfectly candid for a moment… This weekend was one of the most emotionally exhausting I’ve had in a while. Like for so many others, the passing of Ruth Bader Ginsburg left a crater-sized hole. It’s impossible to imagine a Supreme Court without her. With her gone, there are a lot of questions on what’s next. One thing that must not be questioned is your participation in this year’s election, it’s simply too important! As American citizens, we have an obligation to let our voices be heard and make our vote count.

Tomorrow, September 22nd, is National Voter Registration Day. With only 43 days until Election Day, there is no better time to get yourself ready to cast your ballot. National Voter Registration Day is a nonpartisan holiday and their website is full of information in how to register in your state. Since this is a nonpartisan movement, I’m speaking to you regardless of what party you identify with.

If you think your vote doesn’t matter, let’s take a quick look at past elections. In 2016, 42 percent of eligible voters stayed home on Election Day. That’s over 95 million people! Why did they opt out of voting? It’s hard to say for everyone. Maybe they didn’t like either candidate, maybe they didn’t know the importance. Whatever the reason, if even a fraction of those 95 million voted, we could have had some very different results. I don’t think it’s particularly healthy to play the “could have-would have-should have” game, but why would you want to leave any room for doubt?

If you’re already registered to vote. I’m so proud of you! I hope you continue to educate yourself about both candidates and make the most informed decision you can on November 3rd. Help spread the word! You may even want to consider sporting some Voting swag to celebrate. I love supporting local women-run businesses and this VOTE tee is two for the price of one. Local illustrator, Shannon Kirsten, and designer, Camilyn Beth, have teamed up to create the cutest Voting tee on the market. Wear it often and wear it proud all the way to Election Day.

At the end of the day, this vote isn’t about me, you, or even Ruth Bader Ginsburg. This vote is about ensuring that we are protecting a country with the purest of ideals, that all are created equal. This moment in history is too important to sit on the sidelines. Make your vote count!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

6 Years of the Natalie Flat

Sweater || Jeans || Flats ($50 off with code SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE) || Similar Handbag

It’s not everyday that you celebrate a shoe style’s birthday, but when you find the most perfect pair, you make an exception! About a year ago, I began working with Sarah Flint and have gotten to know her team and brand on a whole different level. Once you invest in a pair of her flats or heels, you just won’t look at footwear the same. Let’s take a second to get to know her most popular pair!

The Shoes

The number one name you need to know in her collection is Natalie, as in the Natalie Flat. It has been wowing the fashion world for the past 6 years. A favorite of Megan Markle and Cindy Crawford, these flats have been featured in over 85 major publications. With 7 plus color options available, this little shoe can be a workhorse no matter how you describe your personal style. My latest pair is the simply beautiful Saddle Vanchetta leather.

The Details

Now, let’s talk about what makes these flats truly special. First off, you know you’re investing in a truly high quality pair with Sarah Flint. Handcrafted in Italy, often times in the same shops as major fashion houses, the Natalie is made from vegetable tanned leather. An extra layer of padding makes them a pair you can wear all day, even if you’re constantly on your feet. A classic pointed toe design becomes instantly distinguishable with the fun, asymmetrical bow detail. If nothing else, you can take comfort in knowing you’re supporting a woman founded business.

The Delivery

Each pair of Sarah Flint shoes, including the Natalie Flat, is delivered (very quickly I might add) in an eye-catching navy box. So much attention to detail is given to every aspect of packaging, including the dust bags and tied ribbon. There’s even a card to let you know who expertly crafted your shoes. On a separate note, Grazie Mille to Fortunato for my latest pair of heels. That’s such an expected and personal touch that I still can’t get over.

The Style

The best thing about the Natalie Flat, especially in Saddle Vanchetta, is that they can literally be worn everyday, regardless of the season. While it’s still feeling hot hot in Florida, I’m hoping to daydream of cooler fall weather. My flats perfectly round out my casual chic outfit with an ivory linen sweater and dark wash jeans. They even look right at home with midi sundresses or a crisp pair of chino shorts.

The Discount

If you’ve yet to invest in a pair of Sarah Flint, I can’t recommend them enough! From block heel pumps, sky high stilettos, and strappy sandals, I wear and love the full spectrum of what she has to offer. To try a pair for yourself, be sure to use the code SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE to receive $50 off your first pair. Don’t forget to let me know what you think!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.