Joie xoxo

If you have discovered Joie, then you know what an obsession the clothing line can become. It has been one of the most sought after contemporary brands catering to the savvy, fashion minded, modern woman. Understatedly chic, Joie's designs are constantly inspired by the Southern California lifestyle and its casual, yet sophisticated way of life. Joie has emerged as a lifestyle brand including a complete collection of ready to wear and accessories. The Joie girl enjoys wearing casual, comfortable clothes accented by her travels throughout the world.

The entire collection features comfort, but also effortless style. Joie encompasses everything from your basic white tee to dresses covered in unique prints. Their sweaters are irresistible in the cooler months as they are cozy yet overly stylish. A popular item has been their silk blouses. You can find them in every color and they can be considered a wardrobe essential.

As they branch out into the shoe, handbag and accessory market, the chic trend continues. You've seen Joie boots all over fashion blogs as well as splashed throughout your favorite fashion magazines! They have been the rage of the season and their resort collections is equally as promising! You can see brightly colored loafers, strappy leather sandals and bold cross-body bags to come!

Joie holds a strong presence in prestigious department stores and specialty boutiques all over the world. Anna & Alice is excited to share the coveted brand with our Triangle fashionistas!

Be Bold

Shake off those winter blues as we prepare for spring attire. Any time I start to see the slightest hint of pastel or neon I get a little giddy. (Not to mention ready for warmer weather!) You can be sure that a 2013 spring trend is going to be prints! You have seen them in the past, but they are everywhere! Pants, tops, handbags, accessories! Prints are guaranteed to brighten any mood! No need to be daunted by the bold patterns, embrace it! With so many options to choose from, you are sure to find print perfection!

Anyone can wear prints! As always, remember your body type. If you are top-heavy, distract with a printed skirt or crop pants. To draw attention away from your hips choose a silk patterned blouse. For a sweet and feminine look, go floral. Though great for every day, florals are ideal for an afternoon brunch or bridal shower. For more of a bohemian look, try mixing prints. Don't be afraid of patterned jeans with an edgy printed top. Patterned pants are IN! Go for a busy crop cotton pant, a wax patterned jean, or denim with brocade. All great options as we transition into spring months.

If you aren't ready for such a bold move, get sassy with accessories. A bright bag with an animal print is always a conversation starter and easy to pair with most color pallets. Try a gingham or polka dot shoe with a solid color dress to make a statement. Have an eye for jewelry with exquisite details such as tortoise or a bright colored necklace with edgy prints. Bad hair day? Fold over a bright and bold silk scarf to double as a head-piece. (this Boho look is gaining more and more popularity!)

Perfectly Distressed

You don't have to be a rock star to rock the distressed denim look! I will admit, there is a fine line between looking like you took a time capsule back to the early 90's and coming off as urban chic. 

One of the things I love about the worn in jean look, is that it gives you the opportunity to play around with texture. In order to avoid the grunge look, remember that opposites attract. Pair feminine options with the casual denim. A delicate sweater, a ruffled blouse, or or a sequin tank all turn the look into something slightly sophisticated. Look polished by tucking in a structured blouse and adding a belt. Finish the look with a colored cross-body purse or bowling bag. Another way to dress up the look is with delicate jewelry. Think chunky layered pearls or bright gem stones. Lastly, I suggest adding the most womanly element of all...high heels! Whether you choose a classic black pump, your favorite peep toes, or something more strappy, you are sure to turn heads! 

If you roll out of bed on a Saturday and the last thing you feel like doing is getting snazzed up, pull the go-to Boho! Throw on  your favorite boyfriend distressed jeans and a slouchy sweater or dolman top. For chilly weather, an over-sized off the shoulder sweater assembles perfectly. An easy fix is also your favorite cotton tee. Go totally urban with a leather jacket over it. Top things off with an easy top knot and a slouchy over-the-shoulder bag.

Don't take the look too far. Stay away from overly masculine attire such as combat boots, baseball caps, or a long tunic that is going to make you look short and stubby in combination with the ripped jeans. The holes in the denim are enough, no rips or shreds in any other article you pair with the jeans.

Borrowed from the Boys

We are seeing more and more masculine clothes transition into a woman's wardrobe. You can't hide from camouflage this season. Look bold and beautiful in camo while still keeping it feminine. Get fatigue inspired! Historically intended for disguise, wearing it is sure to get your noticed! Here are some do's and don't of camo.

Don't go head to toe! Unless you are duck hunting at 5 am, there is simply no need for this! Pick one piece and stick with it. ie: jacket, shirt, boots or pants. Only one! Remember that camo on women is a statement piece, but don't make the wrong statement. Don't choose a garment that is unflattering or shapeless. Choose items that still have a feminine cut to them or use them as embellishment. (ruffles or ribbons)

Because of it's muted nature, this allows you to really accessorize. While a scarf or great pair of shoes can work wonders, bold jewelry mixes two ends of the spectrum. Shine in gold, gunmetal or silver! Don't be afraid to dazzle even in your incognito getup. Same goes for makeup, don't skimp! You still need to pull out your beauty tricks to avoid looking masculine. Though buns are in, when wearing camo, this is not the day for a tight bun. Wear your hair down. Lastly, (this goes for any attire in my opinion) own the look! Confidence radiates and will show!

There you have it, you can still look gorgeous in camouflage!