Thursday, December 1, 2022

Bikercore Is The Season’s Biggest Trend — Here’s How To Shop For A Biker-Approved Motorcycle Jacket

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 06: Kylie Jenner is seen on a night out at The Twenty Two in Mayfair on August 06, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Ricky Vigil M/GC Images)

If you have a sudden urge to join a motorcycle club right now, it’s not a coincidence. From the influence of Rosalía’s “Motomami” album to fashion trends on fall 2022 runways and a vintage shopping resurgence on TikTok, it’s clear that the adrenaline-infused, ultra-cool biker style is fast becoming a sought-after look. Vroom vroom!

It all started back in 2021, when Rosalía was seen donning a biking helmet as a handbag on the streets of SoHo, hinting that her then-anticipated album would be centered around this aesthetic. Later, designers jumped on the style too: Dior showed models in protective gear and bicep-grazing motocross gloves over flowy dresses; Balmain featured biker-style denim jackets, as well as vests and pants that looked more like safety gear than high fashion; and Junya Watanabe, Givenchy, and Alexander McQueen put heavy-zippered leather jackets and leather leggings on the runway.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 10: Bella Hadid is seen in Chelsea on May 10, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Gotham/GC Images)

While motocross has long been an influence in fashion, this season, the inspiration is more concrete, with celebrities like Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber, and Emily Ratajkowski dressing like they’re off to the races. And it’s all about the jackets: Back in May, Hadid stepped out in New York wearing a yellow racing jacket with the Yamaha logo, while Bieber sported a vintage red biking jacket paired with parachute pants. Kylie Jenner also endorsed the trend, wearing a vintage Thierry Mugler padded jacket with a denim mini skirt. Beyoncé also took on the style with her British Vogue spread, in which she posed on a motorcycle, wearing head-to-toe leather from Junya Watanabe and Commando.

It’s no coincidence celebs have relied on jackets to show off their moto style. According to real-life, Illinois-based biker Amelia Costello, it’s a must-have for any motorcycle outing. “You want something that’s going to possibly save your life if you are going down. So you want something that’s really durable,” Costello, who has been riding for three years, says.

Ahead, Costello dishes on what are the best qualities for a moto jacket, when you’re looking to match your on-the-street style to a biker’s on-the-run uniform this fall.

Go For Leather

Even if you’re not actually hopping on a bike on the weekends, a good quality material like leather will most likely be the best option to keep you warm and stylish. “Leather is durable and it’s stronger,” says Costello, who says that a high quality leather is less likely to rip open in an accident. So, if it withstands a motorcycle fall, it’ll last a lot longer in great condition. Take a cue from Kylie Jenner’s fit, going for a vintage jacket that will add a worn feel to your look.

MADRID, SPAIN – JULY 19: Rosalia performs on stage during the Motomami tour at Wizink Center on July 19, 2022 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Mariano Regidor/Redferns)

Fit Is Better Than Oversized

Oversized jackets may be a stylish (and comfy look), but when it comes to mimicking the style of a real-life biker, Costello says that a fitted jacket is better. “You don’t want it to be loose because it’ll be flapping in the wind and that gets annoying,” she says. Chances are your fitted biker jacket will also be a good choice when wind gusts ramp up during the fall.

Adhere To The Dress Code

If you were a biker, you’d likely join a motorcycling association, like the Latin American Motorcycling Association (LAMA), of which Costello is a part of. “Most biker crews have a dress code,” she says, adding that it usually consists of a black shirt, jeans, and a biker jacket or vest. While it’s tempting to pair a moto jacket with a skirt or dress, Costello says that real biker style sticks to a no-skirts policy. “I find myself not being able to dress up as often as they used to,” she says. “I’d rather be on my bike than wear a dress.”

If the trend intimidates you, Costello says it’s best to have a rider’s mindset, even if no bike is available: “Everyone drops their bike. Just get up and brush it off and keep going.” 

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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Fashion Collectors Are Trending — Here’s How To Become One On A Budget

Over the past few years, archival fashion has become the new mainstream. Thanks to TikTok and the rise of niche Internet-famous aficionados, a new generation has been introduced to the fascinating world of fashion collectors, who are known for amassing vintage and hard-to-find pieces from specific designers or brands. 

Take, for example, stylist Neelam Ahooja, whose TikTok account centers around her collection of The Row pieces, or creator Mandy Lee, who has showcased her years-long process of collecting Chopova Lowena skirts on the app. Thanks to the increased interest in fashion collecting, the search term “fashion collection” has grown over 400 million views on the app, while the hashtag #archivefashion has over 500 million views. Other collectors outside of TikTok have started generating some fame of their own: New York-based merchandiser Arianna Aviram, for example, has amassed an impressive assortment of Issey Miyake, Junya Watanabe and Undercover. 

While it may seem like just another hoarding practice in fashion, Julie Ann Clauss, the founder of The Wardrobe, a collectibles storage and archiving studio that has worked with clients like Chloë Sevigny and Tom Ford, says there are real benefits to amassing so much stuff — the right way. “My clients are able to monetize their archives in all kinds of unique ways,” she says. “Properly caring for and preserving your investment is key.” Yet, it’s not all about value, according to Clauss, who’s worked as a collector for more than a decade: “The ability to spot what will be a future collectible and a potential investment opportunity takes a nuanced eye, and that comes with time and experience.”

So, what does it actually take to become a fashion collector? Ahead, experts dish on the steps to take. 

Start with what you know

Clauss says it’s crucial to start your collecting journey with the designers you already know and love. “If you start where your current obsessions lie, the collecting will come easy,” she says. To start, she recommends asking yourself questions like, “Which designers are you loving at the moment?” or “Is there a collection that really sparked your interest recently?” Becoming a fashion collector takes hours of research, field work, and building relationships, according to Clauss. So starting with a designer or brand that’s already a favorite “makes doing the research a pleasure.”

Get on the hunt

Much like museum experts, fashion collectors need to be absolute nerds, and know the history of a house, its aesthetic and codes, and the collections that are worth investing in. That means that it’s also important to scout the best places to source items from your preferred designer or brand. Clauss recommends starting with resale stores and sites to “find rare and highly collectible pieces that you may not be able to get your hands on elsewhere,” as well as going to auctions, estate sales and even flea markets. “You never know what you’re going to come across,” she says, adding that researching other private collectors can also help your hunt. 

Think ahead of trends

Of course, collecting designer items that are hard to find takes a hefty investment. But Clauss says there are ways to get crafty. One insider tip she shares is to have patience. “A few seasons after something has been on the runway, you can usually find it for pennies on the dollar on a resale site,” she says. “It’s a great opportunity to hang onto it for the long haul and cash in when it’s ‘vintage.’” A clear example of this is the recent comeback of the Fendi Baguette bag, which was first released in the 1990s and recently re-issued by the brand, sparking both demand and a price increase in the luxury secondhand market. 

“Right now, Y2K and 90s pieces are in high demand, so it’s an opportunity to buy pieces from other eras that may have been much more expensive only a few years ago,” says Clauss. “Even if these pieces aren’t the most sought after of the moment, they will still grow in value, because there simply aren’t that many of them left in the market.”

Look for value

According to Clauss, some of her clients are able to monetize their collections along the way, which requires a hefty investment in brands that will not depreciate in value over the years. That’s why Elizabeth Layne, chief merchandising officer at Rebag, a luxury resale platform, recommends investing in “unicorn” brands, which, according to the company’s 2022 Clair Report, includes names like Chanel, Hermes, and Louis Vuitton. “All retained value and increased in price points year over year,” says Layne, adding that all three brands retained an average of 85% or more of their value on the secondary market.

Still, it doesn’t take a five-figure payment to secure a valuable collectible. Layne recommends going for other luxury brands like Prada or Fendi, which have seen a resurgence in some older models like the Prada Nylon bag and the Fendi Baguette bag, signaling that a similar phenomenon can occur with other items from these houses. If a thousand-dollar bag is out of reach, collecting hype-heavy brands like Telfar, which has kept prices under $300, is a good way to go with secondhand pieces selling for 145% over retail price. 

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Wednesday, November 30, 2022

21 Black Engagement Rings For The Non-Traditional Bride

In the last few years, non-traditional engagement rings have risen in popularity. But while sapphire and emerald are currently topping the gemstone list thanks to their symbolism of hope and prosperity, black stones like onyx and diamonds are still a rare sighting. 

Data suggests that that’s starting to change: Searches for black-and-white diamond engagement rings doubled over the past month, according to Google, while queries for black wedding ring sets increased by 130% over the same period. What’s prompting this? While black has often been more associated with funeral ceremonies, it’s slowly become an accepted color for wedding dresses, with more brides choosing to sport the dark hue on their walk down the aisle, including celebrities like Christine Quinn and Chloe Sevigny. So, it’s only natural that the color is now appearing on the ring finger, with gemstones like onyx, as well as black diamonds, getting their own time in the spotlight. 

Ahead, take a look at some of the options that will make you reconsider the classic diamond ring. 

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Dangle Ring

When one black stone is not enough, go for dark maximalism instead.

Three-Stone Ring

Three-stone rings have become one of the most popular types of engagement rings in the past few years. Adding a single black stone is a surefire way to keep tradition.

Black Onyx Engagement Ring

Go for floral-shaped side stones for a non-traditional look.

Onyx & Moonstone Ring

Non-traditional rings may be trending, but this one’s sure to go beyond

Onyx Three-Stone Ring

Who said three-stone rings need to be uniform?

Emerald Cut & Pavé Ring

Let the black stone be the star (with an added shimmer, just in case!).

Reversible Onyx Ring

A ring made for those who get bored easily.

Single-Stone Onyx Ring

If black stones seem too out-of-the-box, keep things simple.

Golden Seal Ring

Chunky rings may be a fashion trend, but this one shows just how classic the style can be.

Pear-Shaped Three-Stone Ring

While oval and emerald cuts are more commonly used for three-stone rings, this pear-shaped version may be on to something.

Marquise Ring With Black Diamonds

Sometimes adding black details is all you need to forgo tradition.

Black Diamond Thorn Engagement Ring

A ring fit for a Game of Thrones fan.

Oval-Shaped Onyx Ring

Oval-shaped rings are a big trend right now, so switching a traditional diamond for a black stone is a good option to break from the pack.

Oval Black Diamond Engagement Ring

While black center stones may be considered non-traditional, adding diamonds on the halo and setting keeps the shimmer intact.

Solitaire Ring

Sometimes all you need is simplicity.

Inverted Princess Cut Ring

A vintage-looking ring will ensure it remains a generational heirloom.

Double Spiral Diamond Ring

Not into bridal-looking rings? Play with shape and color instead.

Pear-Shaped Onyx Ring

For fans of pear-shaped diamonds, just switch the center stone for a black onyx.

Three-Stone Black Pavé Ring

If black is your color, you can go for both center stones and pavé in the dark hue.

Super Nova Black Diamond Ring

Add an edge with a wavy gold setting.

Fusion Wave Large Black Diamond Ring

If you want to keep your diamond engagement ring, this one’s a good option to add as a wedding band.

Blackened White Gold Diamond Ring

For lovers of minimal jewelry, a black diamond band still adds some sparkle without looking bridal.

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The 25 Cozy & Cute Slippers We’re Wearing Right Now

If you’re looking for something with a little more oomph than a sock but don’t have any plans to hit the pavement in a pair of knee-high boots or chunky loafers anytime soon, we welcome you with open arms. There’s no time like the present to practice self-care, so why not start from the ground up with a fresh re-up on the coziest category in footwear? After taking a long, hard look at our very own feet, we’re sharing the cutest and comfiest slippers that we’ve been padding ’round the house in.

We’re simply here to help you invest in the right pair of cushy house shoes that make you (and your tootsies) the happiest. From snuggly shearling styles to knit pairs you’ll never want to take off, these stay-at-home shoes put comfort before anything else. There are even designer slippers from Versace and Off-White, if you really want to treat yourself for the holidays. Everyone deserves cute slippers to style with their loungewear or matching sweatsuits. So before another day goes by, slip your tired feet into a pair of the pillow-y options ahead.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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Ugg Cozy Knit Genuine Shearling Slipper, $, available at Nordstrom


J.Crew Lodge Shoes, $, available at J.Crew


Quince Mongolian Cashmere Slippers, $, available at Quince


Versace Logo Cotton Slippers, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue


Sam Edelman Jeane Slipper, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


ASOS DESIGN Moccasin Slippers In Black Quilted Velvet With Gold Har, $, available at ASOS


L.L. Bean Women's Cozy Pile Fleece Slipper Booties, $, available at L.L. Bean


Atlar'd State Smiley Face Slippers, $, available at Altar'd State


By Anthropologie Teddy Slide Slippers, $, available at Anthropologie


Uniqlo Fleece Furry Slippers, $, available at Uniqlo


Uncommon Goods Pommed Rib Slippers, $, available at Uncommon Goods


Mou Bounce Slippers, $, available at Free People


Jenni Kayne Shearling Moroccan Slipper, $, available at Jenni Kayne


Madewell Quilted Scuff Slippers in Recycled Faux Fur, $, available at Madewell


Bombas Women's Cable Knit Gripper Slipper, $, available at Bombas


Off-White Extra Padded Slipper, $, available at Revolve


Calvin Klein Logo-Print Padded Slippers, $, available at Farfetch


H&M Soft Indoor Slippers, $, available at H&M


Holden Stretch-Knit Trimmed Camouflage-Print Quilted Shell Sli, $, available at Net-A-Porter


Skims Quilted Slipper, $, available at Skims


EMU Australia Manikin Slipper, $, available at Urban Outfitters


Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Slippers, $, available at Parachute


Minnetonka Chesney Slipper, $, available at Free People



The North Face ThermoBall™ Traction V Mules, $, available at The North Face


Ugg Fluff Yeah Slide, $, available at Zappos


BureBureSlippers Alpaca Felted Wool Slide Slippers, $, available at Etsy


Backcountry Nakiska II Slide Slipper, $, available at Backcountry


Fireside By Dearfoams Sydney Shearling Scuff Slipper, $, available at Nordstrom Rack


Jenni Kayne Shearling Moroccan Slipper, $, available at Jenni Kayne


Ugg Tasman Slipper, $, available at Nordstrom


Everlane The ReNew Fleece Slipper, $, available at Everlane


Teva | Free People Teva ReEmber Slip-Ons, $, available at Free People


Madewell The Allweek Slipper in Suede, $, available at Madewell


Fireside By Dearfoams Shelly Beach Slipper, $, available at DSW


Bombas Jacquard Grip Slippers, $, available at Anthropologie


Camper 'Wabi' Slipper, $, available at Nordstrom


Tempur-Pedic ACELYNN SLIPPER, $, available at DSW


H&M Warm-Lined Slippers, $, available at H&M


Parachute Classic Slippers, $, available at Parachute


TKEES Ines Shearling, $, available at Tkees


ASOS DESIGN Zena chunky slider slipper in spot, $, available at ASOS


Crocs Classic Lined Slipper, $, available at Nordstrom


AE Cozy Lounge Slipper, $, available at American Eagle


Old Friend Bella, $, available at Zappos


FitFlop Chrissie Pom-Pom Felt Slippers, $, available at FitFlop


Vonmay Fuzzy Memory Foam Booties, $, available at Walmart


Ariana Bohling Suri Alpaca Slipper Grey, $, available at Verishop


Hanes Soft Waffle Knit Clog Slippers, $, available at Amazon


Ofoot Organic Cotton Non Slip House Slippers, $, available at Amazon


Coyuchi Olema Organic Quilted Room Shoes, $, available at Coyuchi

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