Meet Kelly: Written by Lauren Svatos

Meet Kelly Rotbart- the voice behind "Fashion with Kelly".



Kelly  is one of two summer interns (ahem, the 2nd being myself) who has signed on as an official guest blogger in addition to the normal intern duties. Between juggling her busy schedule, she will be posting weekly fashion advice to give you the inside scoop on what’s hot and what’s not. You can also keep an eye out for behind the scenes photos she takes while on set with Lavenda.
Kelly has completely immersed herself in the fashion world, breathing it in round the clock. Part of the daily grind includes working at Betsy & Iya, an independent jewelry boutique and taking classes at PSU to pursue a career in fashion.
When she finally does get some down time, Kelly enjoys thrift shopping with her boyfriend, exploring the coast, and hanging out at the local teahouse whilst overdosing on fashion magazines.

We're excited to see where life takes this whip-smart beauty. Oh! And don't forget to keep an eye out for more of her "Fashion with Kelly" posts (found here) every Wednesday this summer!

xxx
Lauren Svatos

Fashion with Kelly: Mixing Prints & Taking Names

In true Oregonian fashion, the seasons of autumn and winter are where the contents of my closet shine the most -- a knit scarf here, a flannel there, and top it off with skinny jeans and ankle boots for an effortless look. But what about summer? When it comes to shedding layers while still making an impact, every piece counts. 

Today I decided to go for a look that every lady can pull off: stripes and floral. It's honestly the most approachable way to mix prints and with a couple of tips you'll be on your way to mastering this look! To keep it all cohesive, I went for the very lady-like color palette of pastels and blues (this way the prints can do the talking!). The textures of this outfit play a big part too; silk short, suede ankle boots & a python clutch feel luxe, while keeping you cool. All this outfit needs to finish it off is some delicate statement jewelry in the bronze family. Easy, right? 

Shop the Look:

Sailor Stripe Scoop Tank by Edith A. Miller

Silk Floral Shorts by Topshop

Python Invitation Clutch in Mint by J. Crew

Mars Ankle Boot in Lavender by Rachel Comey

Triangular Hoops by Takara

Tempus Necklace by Stone & Honey

Surya Cuff by Palomarie 

xoxo,

Kelly

Behind the Scenes: Unallied Magazine Cover Shoot

Lavenda's latest adventure in shooting was a cover & spread for Unallied Magazine. On location at a modern flat just outside of Portland, I was able to snap some pictures of our amazing team at work.

This shoot's vibe was sassy, playing with all the season's hottest hues. Working with daring lips, a dewy complexion and carefree summer looks, the results will undoubtedly leave all of us craving a tropical getaway & a piña colada (or two). 

xoxo,

Kelly

Fashion with Kelly: All Black Everything

I have come across a serious style quandary as we enter the hottest months of the year. My no fail look, the head-to-toe  black outfit, has become seriously sloppy and uncomfortable when I walk out the door into the summer heat. Let me tell you, skinny black jeans & black ankle boots can be downright painful when the sun is pounding down.

Is there a cure? I had almost convinced myself "no," until a moment of fashion brilliance came to me today. The only way to remedy this dilemma is to take this look to the night. 

I decided to forgo the classic LBD for a more daring look, pairing this sleek black romper with patent heels -- even though you will be showing off miles of leg, the high neckline keeps this look demure. With just the right accessories, any lady can go forth feeling bold & sexy, conquering any moonlit occasion.

Shop the Look:

High Neck Playsuit by Topshop

Black Patent Pointed Sandals at Pixie Market

Bao Bao clutch by Issey Miyake

Crystal Spike Earrings by Corrine Anestopoulos

Black Onyx and Aquamarine Rings by AESA

xoxo,

Kelly

Teen Vogue: Beauty Look of the Day

I just realized that I forgot to share some recent (and fabulous) news:

I was featured in Teen VOGUE as a "beauty look of the day" blogger!

As you may know, I try and blog my personal fashion frequently through Lavenda's Closet and have been keeping it up for a couple years... I never expected to find my face on the TeenVOGUE blog and feel so thankful for the mini-team who made that happen!

Unfortunately, the post was really short and they did not credit the talented, Janelle Hayden who did my hair and makeup for my bio image and Travis Geny, who snapped this shot during a shoot session.




They asked me how I had styled my hair the morning of the interview, but in the photo featured it was the fabulous, Janelle who did her magic! 

Behind the Scenes: Men's Editorial with Aaron

This past week we hopped over to Lavenda's studio in Southeast to take photos of Aaron, a handsome Portland model. The look was sexy/sporty, with the inspiration for the wardrobe drawing from bright pops of color with a European flair.

Despite it being extremely hot, we maintained a fresh & cool demeanor on set by blasting the A.C. along with the jams of Kendrick Lamar. Stay tuned for the final results!

xoxo,

Kelly

Fashion with Kelly: Fly Your Flag

Before we dive into what might be the quintessential outfit for a Fourth of July bash, allow me to introduce myself: I'm Kelly, Lavenda's new fashion photography intern -- lovely to meet you all! 

Over these next few months, I look forward to curating sartorial eye-candy & showing you behind the scenes on Lavenda's photo shoots (more on that later this week). 

Today's outfit is inspired by the "all-American darling". Hints of red, white, and blue make this ensemble fitting for any festivities that tomorrow may bring, but each element itself should feel right at home mixing & matching with your summer wardrobe. Something tells me it is going to be a scorching season, so we might as well enjoy it basking in the sun -- fashionably, of course. 

Shop the Look: 

Retro Red Knit Bikini at Bona Drag

Levi Cut Off Shorts at Free People (or a quick DIY project, too!)

Woven Dip-Dyed Tote at Need Supply Co.

Jeffrey Campbell Huarache Sandals at Urban Outfitters

Italian Vintage-Inspired Sunglasses by Madewell

Cathedral Park Hoop earrings by betsy & iya

Bronze & Turquoise Inlay Cuff by Pamela Love

xoxo,

Kelly