& Other Stories

Do you have something that is your own best kept secret? It could be that cute coffee spot just around the corner, or a small boutique that carries the most pretty handmade jewelries. These are the things that sometimes you really want to keep to yourself, while other times you cannot help the urge to share them to everyone around you – & Other Stories is just like that to me.

I am surprised how understated this Swedish brand is in the U.S.. As a more polished, exquisite sibling of H&M (yes, they are from the same company), & Other Stories is set at a higher price point but still attainable and reasonable if you take the quality of the clothes into account. What I love about the brand is, it never shies away from pops of color, trendy and even bold designs, while it flawlessly maintains a balance between having fun and ensuring wearability.

Over the past couple years, I have inevitably become a loyal fan of their retro-inspired and fashion-forward clothing. If you follow me for a while on Instagram, there’s a high chance that you saw me posting this metallic pleated skirt (featured here) once or twice.

Then don’t even get me started with these heels (featured here and here). For a while I almost lived in them – not joking, both flattering and comfy, I wore them to work, to shopping, even to an interview! All that said, you can imagine how excited I was when & Other Stories sent me the pieces I’m playing with in this post to review.

This look I’m showing you today, features a cropped bomber jacket (here) and an ivory top with frilly collar and cuffs (here), both from & Other Stories.

The top is yet another perfect example of the “not-so-basic basics” that I have been going on and on about (here, and here).  You can categorize it as a white blouse, but the frills and the gold threads details bring so much more and make it nothing bland.

I’m styling the top with lace shorts and the glossy bomber, simply to create a casual and feel-good outfit for a brunch/dinner date in Spring. The extra layer of bomber jacket gives the feminine ensemble a sleek and slightly luxurious finish. Thinking about rocking the shirt to work? Switch up with a pair of long pants, toss on a blazer and you’re all set.

Most of the time I shop on the website of & Other Stories. A couple weeks ago, during a brief trip to New York, I squeezed in a zippy stop at their brick and mortar store in SOHO and I couldn’t be happier that I did. It is such a beautifully decorated shop nestled in the hustle and bustle of busy SOHO streets. Be sure to check it out if you are in the area!