Designer Spotlight: Mara Hoffman

New York-based designer Mara Hoffman has made a name for herself in the fashion world due to her unique, distinctive prints and incredible use of color.

vent-back dress (in store, sizes xs-m)

Her prints and silhouettes are inspired by mythology, nature, and her travels around the world.

Two maxis from Mara Hoffman's most recent collection (in store now)

Before her Spring 2014 runway show, Mara used phrases like "Rainbow warrior" to describe the vibrant prints of this season.

Bikinis by Mara Hoffman in store (sizes xs-m)

Mara Hoffman's spring 2014 line is comfortable, elegant, and like nothing else you'll see. Come see our wide selection of Mara Hoffman in stock now!

More Mara Hoffman looks from SS14

jersey poncho (in store; one size fits all!)

Two more of the latest maxi dresses (in store, sizes xs-m)

Photo credit:

http://glance.apps.zappos.com/collections/826-pattern-play-wallpaper-dresses?ref=product-headline

http://www.marahoffman.com/blog/2013/07/22/resort-swim-2014-runway-show-2/

http://www.marahoffman.com/beaded-neck-maxi-dress-4

http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306418067&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446664597&site_refer=AFF001&mid=13816&siteID=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-luNFvszu0KgNI5L3CZXKCw&LScreativeid=1&LSlinkid=10&LSoid=289813

http://www.marahoffman.com/poncho-3

http://www.revolveclothing.com/DisplayProduct.jsp?product=MARA-WD197&c=Dresses&s=C

http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?navAction=jump&id=29507357&cm_mmc=CJ-_-Affiliates-_-ShopStyle.com-_-11292623&utm_medium=ShopStyle.com&utm_source=AFFILIATES&utm_content=ShopStyle.com

Trend Report: Opposites Attract

Black and white has been a popular combination for a few years now. This spring, we’ve seen the combination take the form of stripes...everywhere! We saw it this week on the red carpet at the Golden Globes:

Allison Williams in Alexander McQueen

All over the runways:

                 Peter Som                                         Nicole Miller

                 Moschino                                            Marc Jacobs

Oscar de la Renta

And on celebrities and stylists:

Olivia Wilde, Chloe Moretz, and Nichole Richie wearing stripes 

                 Cara Delevingne                            blogger Tuula

                        Eva Mendes                             Olivia Wilde

 The good news is, we have several black-and-white options in stock right now!

This t-bags option can be worn as a dress or a skirt!

This beaded Madison Marcus tank can be worn perfectly with a blazer and jeans or tucked into a skirt.

This BB Dakota skirt is easy to wear to work or out at night.

These black-and-white BB Dakota cardigans are perfect for wearing now.

The best thing about the black-and-white combo is that it can be worn with so many things!  A patterned tank or cardigan can be worn with black wax denim right now or worn into spring with a brightly colored pair of jeans.  A striped skirt can be worn with a solid blouse or tee for spring but can also be paired with a textured sweater and tights to be worn now.  It’s an easy-to-wear, classic print that can be worn year round. What more could you ask for?

Photo sources:

http://www.pinterest.com/annaandalice09/trend-report-opposites-attract/

http://www.bbdakota.com

http://www.tbagslosangeles.com/ 

http://www.thegloss.com/2013/09/14/fashion/biggest-trend-nyfw-spring-2014/

http://www.hollywire.com/2013/03/gotta-have-it-5-must-have-fashion-trends-spring

http://apartment34.com/2013/08/trend-spotting-best-of-black-white-stripes/

http://blog.luxemi.com/2012/12/24/luxemis-top-10-new-years-resolutions-for-2013/oscar-de-la-renta-stripes-spring-rtw-2013-black-and-white-stripe-trend-fashion/

http://lottiebeth.wordpress.com/2013/01/12/tricky-trend-alert-black-white/

Trail Blazer

Blazers are the new tees! Blazers have joined the ranks of tees as style staples. Everywhere you turn, you see this stylish jackets.

We know that a perfectly structured blazer goes well with jeans (the skinnier the better), but how about stepping up the chic level an donning a distressed pair? The look has a casual chic air and is a great way to dress down the blazer for an everyday look.  

Pair your blazer with your trusty LBD. Take a sophisticated approach and rock the black blazer and step it up with a material such as velvet. This is also a great time to add color or pattern (loving jacquard) to the mix and you are ready to paint the town!

Take a light-weight dress from fall to winter with the simply addition of a blazer and layer up. You can do the same with your short sleeve graphic tees or cotton tees by layering the blazer over the top as well. The tee, blazer and a ponte pant or legging are style perfection!        

Getting dressed for work doesn't have to be a bore. A cool gray blazer is ideal for an everyday office look. Don't hesitate to pair it with a trendy top such as a peplum blouse or add a print such as polka dots.

Trust me, you NEED a blazer in your wardrobe. Dress it up or down, layer it or make a statement. No matter which style you choose, you are sure to be ultimately chic with the season hottest staple; the blazer!

Loving Local - Lori Snyder

Fresh off of our successful jewelry trunk show this weekend, we were excited to debut our latest jewelry line, Lori Snyder. Lori entered the industry in 2000 when she opened her first store, Charlotte's Beads and Gifts in Winston Salem, NC. The store was set in an old southern style home and featured "make your own jewelry and gifts" which became known as funky and eclectic. A wonderful idea, but it did not fulfill her dream. Her true passion was designing and creating beautiful pieces of art work, which was not fulfilled with her store alone. She felt that she could not fully express herself as an artist. In 2004, she decided to launch her own hand-made jewelry line and Lori Snyder jewelry was born.

Her designs are eclectic and fun, but also great for every day. She uses semi-precious stones, freshwater pearls, and vintage inspired gems.  Her use of color and vibrant hues is sure to make a statement. Her pieces feel one of a kind with combinations of gold, silver and colored beads.Stack then with an every day tee or add elegance to any attire for your holiday party. Mix and match, but these are sure to dazzle this holiday season. Grab a piece for you and put one under the tree! They make great gifts!

Radiant Orchid

Pantone has released their 2014 color of the year. While emerald still seems to be all the rage, it’s time to welcome in the new Pantone Color of The Year — radiant orchid! The soft, muted hue is a noticeable change of pace compared to it’s predecessors, but we’re excited to welcome the pretty purple! Every December, Pantone ushers in the new color — and that means you can expect to see it on practically every item on store racks and shelves. From nail polishes to purses, the color is definitely going to have a major moment — but you don’t have to wait for 2014 to try it out!

While at first glance the hue screams bridesmaid dress, it actually is all the rage for spring, with so many designers incorporating it into their collections — but that doesn’t mean you can’t rock it in the winter and fall! With fuschia, purple, and pink undertones there’s so many ways to sport the shade. For fall or winter, a muted version on a tote, coat, or dress is the way to go. If you aren’t a fan of the hue we recommend easing into the look with accessories that can dress up your basic staples and add a pop of color to your look. You also can rely on a pretty tint for your lips and cheeks to showcase the shade — and that you can wear all year long!

Poncho Perfect

Chilly days (and nights) are among us. Say goodbye to our southern warmth and welcome winter with open arms. This season, the addition of a poncho (or 2, or 3) into your collection is a must! Originally a Native American outer garment, the poncho has evolved into a style essential. It protects for from fall's chill and keeps you cozy in winter.

When the chill of fall is not overwhelming, wear a tiny or thin poncho over your tank or light sweater paired with jeans and riding boots for additional warmth. Because the poncho is formfitting, keep the bottom portion of your attire more structured and fitted. A skinny jean, legging or ponte pant will work well.

When transitioning from fall to winter, you need outfits that are not too warm, yet are enough to keep you comfortable when the wind turns chilly. A longer poncho can achieve this! Choose a poncho that can be worn as a coat or heavy wrap-around dress. A belted poncho can quickly be worn open when it's mild or wrapped tightly around you when the wind requires. A longer poncho allows you to transition from pants to tights. This can create a dressier look. Pair with booties or keep with the higher boot.

As temperatures drop and winter months set in, make sure the fabric of your poncho is sufficiently warm. Go for thick wool and cashmere blends. Add a turtleneck sweater teamed with a fitted pant and over-the-knee boots.  Have fun with your poncho and mix materials. Leather or fur trim looks classy, yet fun for cool temperatures. The addition of fur is also sure to keep you cozy.

We are loving our selection of ponchos for every-day or happy hour!

LBD with a Twist

It has been a fashion staple and go-to for centuries. We think it's safe to say the LBD is put on heavy rotation. For brunch, with friends, office meetings, girls' nights out, or your hot date, the LBD can be transformed time and time again. While you can always play it safe in this "can't go wrong" look; why not amp up your typical LBD? It's true the frock is timeless, but step up your style and opt for a twist on  a classic.

A casual day of holiday shopping can call for a black shirtdress. Simply pair it with boot or tights and flats for a cool and preppy look. Add a shape by belting the dress and don't hesitate to add a bold earring or necklace if you feel the need for bling.

A black leather dress is the ultimate in sexy. Pair it with tights and a crystal or jeweled collar necklace for date night or an evening out on the town. Because the leather is dramatic, keep the rest of the attire low key. Keep with the black theme and go with your simple black pump.

A black sheath dress is always a favorite, but pick up a little bit of attitude by choosing a sheath with embellishments or texture. We are loving the use of tweed and a tweed sleeve is all you need for a modest, yet upscale look. If you crave sparkle, look for a sheath with the embellishment on the sleeve or around the neckline. Embellishments are festive without seeming overboard.

Metallics have been a trend for not only jewelry, but garments as well. Choose a LBD with a touch of metallic. This can be shimmery thread woven into the dress or a panel of silver. The use of a silver, gold or pewter will give the attire a dressier flare without having to go full on cocktail.

Play around with texture and fabrics. Incorporate lace, fringe, feathers or tulle. It doesn't have to be as dramatic as a feather skirt, but can be subtle such as a panel or cutout lined with tulle.

It's true that there is something to be said for a classic, but a little fashion update never hurt anyone. Play with fabrics, bring on the glitz and glam it up for the season in your remixed LBD!