Friday, January 31, 2014

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

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

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/





Tuesday, December 31, 2013

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!



Tuesday, December 17, 2013

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!


Friday, December 6, 2013

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!


Wednesday, November 27, 2013

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!


Tuesday, November 19, 2013

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!
















Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Put on Your Party Pants

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Present wrapping, festive cookies, holiday parties! Spread good cheer with holiday and party attire that is just right! Don't be fooled that pants aren't considered dressy when it comes to party attire. Put on your party pants and get noticed this season!

We are loving the emergence of the textured pant! Fall in love with jacquard prints that add pattern. Embrace the power of print such as a damask. Combine your printed pant or crop with a deep hued top or blouse. Go festive in a shimmer pant. Don't limit yourself to the generic metallics (though also a great option) stand out in royal blue shimmer or a jeweled tone emerald for the season! Go glam in a sequin legging. These scream festive, so keep it simple on top. Opt for a simple blouse or solid blazer such as black, navy or winter white.It's no secret that leather is a hot topic as we transition into winter. Pull your fun and sparkling top out of the closet and pair it with leather pants. Another great option with the leather is a silk blouse tucked in or your faithful peplum sweater. Wax denim has been the rage for fall and it will take us straight into holiday season as well. We don't always consider denim holiday appropriate, but with the right top, jewels and accessories you will be a party princess. Let the denim serve as the most casual part of your outfit. Dress it up with a lace top and large sparkling earrings. This is your chance to add color with a bold suede pump in a hue such as red or a sequin flat.  

If you fret that your party pant is too casual, always dress it up with accessories! A gemstone necklace or dazzling drop earrings can add the extra "umph" you are looking for. A crystal clutch will catch anyone's eye or a shimmery pump exudes festive style!

Happy party hopping!




Friday, November 1, 2013

Fabric Blocking

Forget color blocking for fall; it's the stark contrast of various fabrics that have caught our eye! Fall 2013 collections are showcasing multi-patterned patchwork and fabric blocking creations, half and half fabric swatches like abstract leather panels on wool or silk sleeves on suede and tufts of fur make mixed media dressing a game changer this season.

Different fabrics add texture and a fun element to any article of clothing. It is a way to switch up from your typical monotone sweater and add dimension. Leather is a huge addition to garments this fall. Leather panels on pants, leather sleeves on a top or a leather pocket on a dress. Dress up your attire with silk. A silk bell sleeve or silk hemline is perfect for an evening out! The use of lace is elegant! A lace overlay or panel is sure to draw eyes your way. Stay cozy by adding suede! Mix and match any of these desirable fabrics with your everyday cotton, wool, or cashmere.Blocking these together make for an irresistible ensemble, plus steps up your fashion game!

We are swarming with fabric blocked pieces. Lots of leather, denim, silk and more! Whatever the occasion, we have day to evening looks in store now!


Friday, October 25, 2013

Power of Ponte

My word of advice for winter...purchase the ponte! The Ponte pant is stylish, yet comfortable and easy to dress up or down. Did I mention COMFORTABLE? It is the legging's slightly more sophisticated cousin. They are your answer to an alternative for the skinny jean or wearing leggings as pants. Think of them as a cross between a legging and skinny jean. They are made of ponte, which is a thick, double-knit fabric with two way stretch. We love the two way stretch because it is able to mold to your body shape, while also acting as shapewear.  This also enables the comfort factor!

Since they are a thicker fabric than the legging, they become appropriate for work or a dressy occasion and the thickness offers a little more support due to the nature of the fabric. Wear them as you would a skinny jean. Keep in mind that it is all about balance. The ponte pant is still a fitted pant, so they look great with a loose or more voluminous top. Think over-sized sweater or cardigan or a blouse that offers a little more length. These pants are travel perfection, as they fold easily into a suitcase without wrinkling! They can be your lazy Saturday pant with a cozy sweater, or hit the town with a dressy top and heels. We are loving the BB Dakota ponte in store with exposed zippers. We are also slightly obsessed with the ponte the has leather panels or opt for a colored ponte pant if you are looking past classic black. Try on the ponte pant in store and let us pair them with one of our ponchos, studded blouse, or leather front top. Fall in love this winter with the comfiest pant yet!




Friday, October 18, 2013

Leather Lust

The further into cooler months we get, the more lackadaisical we get with our wardrobe choices. It becomes simple to throw on jeans or leggings and run out the door. Looking for a way to dress things up? Look beyond the LBD! Love your leather this fall and embrace this edgy trend! Though it has become increasingly trendy over the past year, you might not realize that it has always been a key part to any stylish woman's closet: from shoes to bags to jackets, consider leather the pre-requisite to chic!

Look past your traditional leather pieces and incorporate this versatile material into your fall wardrobe. It's highly versatile and can be done in so many color and silhouettes, and it looks great paired with nearly every other fabric. If you dare to take on the leather trend in full force, opt for pieces such as a leather pencil skirt, pants, a cropped moto jacket, or the sultry leather dress! If you choose one of these major pieces, let that be all the statement leather within the ensemble. No need to pair leather boots or or a stack leather on leather. The exception is with smaller accessories such as a leather clutch or gloves. Don't let the material become overwhelming.

If you are hesitant to wear full-on leather, remember that it's all in the details. You can wear a piece that simply has leather detailing, such as a top with leather sleeves or a jacket piped in leather. We are seeing many combination pieces that incorporate your wearable cotton with leather accents. If you are worried that the leather is too edgy, soften it with light-weight fabrics such as a silk blouse. As always, you can accessorize in leather with a leather wrap bracelet, leather gloves, or even a leather headband to keep up with the trend. Love your leather this season and learn to rock it for fall and into winter!








Thursday, October 10, 2013

Green with Envy

It's always fashion talk of what will be the IT color for the new season. Unlike texture or shape, there is a shade of every color for every person. Color is a surefire way to adopt relevant style with each and every change of the fashion guard. Green is officially a thing for fall 2013. From emerald to army, there's a shade for every skin tone, hair color, and personal style. Leading the pack is the deep lichen green. (think between army and khaki). This hue topped the women's list and finished third on the men's side for fall color trends. It's not exactly a shocker of a fall color, it turned up in the more unusual hues of emerald and linden. Green is a big one for Fall, 2013 in a variety of ways, in a variety of hues. From dresses, outwear and tops to pantsuits and gloves, you can't go wrong picking something up in the color infamously associated with envy.

Choose emerald, or go for a deeper hue, but it pairs well with many skin and hair colors. Opt for a green dress, paired with black tights and booties. Saunter into the office in deep green pants, paired with a simple white blouse or lighter color. Black and green are always a trusty combination. When in doubt, pair black or white. Use the black articles in your closet to pair with the newest tone for fall. A green pencil skirt or even dark green denim are all options. Fall style doesn't have to be dark and dreary. Add color with a cobalt blue necklace or earring. Another piece we are swooning over is the green blazer. Easily thrown on over jeans and a blouse or over your LBD for evening. Polish the look by adding a bold red lip! You are sure to turn heads in fall's latest and greatest color!



Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Hail the Logo Tee

Designers are taking notice of cheeky sayings and putting them directly onto one of our ultimate casual wardrobe staples; the tee shirt. The logo tee is an easy to wear article that has become a favorite among fashion bloggers, models, and celebrities. The key is turning the simple logo tee into a statement piece.

Play with this vintage look and pair it with distressed denim and complete the ensemble with a pair of rocker heels. Opposites attract and this combination is edgy, yet essentially effortless. For even more juxtaposition, throw on your tee with a leather skirt and flats. As fall draws near, opt for a logo sweatshirt over a pair of cotton or leather leggings. As always, a slogan tee is perfection when paired with jeans. As mentioned earlier, the distressed look is the ultimate for urban chic or sloppily tuck in your tee to a pair of rolled denim and pointed flats.

Take a dressier approach by adding jewels or glam things up with a black blazer or shine in a metallic crop blazer and complete the look with booties. Throw in color by strapping up in a pair of colored pumps. Another effortless option is to combine the tee with an A-line solid skirt. It will flatter your figure while still appearing cool and casual. Lastly, stand up for what you believe in! Everyone loves a tee for a cause! Mix and match your logo or printed tee with almost anything in your closet and you are sure to make low key look lovely!


Monday, September 16, 2013

Smitten with Shawlsmith London

It's that time of the year where the weather is a juxtaposition and one day you are in a mini skirt and the next you are wrapped in cashmere. One way to avoid the wardrobe chaos is to layer. An accessory of choice is the light-weight scarf. Not only does it keep you cozy, but can add color or print to your fall favorites. These oversized scarves can also double as a wrap or a shaw to create different fall looks. Oh, and did we mention the brand is now headed by Katie Banner who majored in fashion merchandising and design at NCSU?

Founded by British entrepreneur Rehman Chaudry, Shawlsmith London is a modern women's accessory brand, specializing in contemporary scarves and premium wraps and shawls. Since the company's inception in 2005, Shawlsmith's collections have furnished full range of design, embodying the free-spirited, yet confident and accomplished woman. The brand seeks to celebrate women's personal style by providing unmatched quality and innovation of design at an attainable price point. Throughout each season, our broad collection offer versatility of sizes, styles and patterns to indulge women of many lifestyles. Unique prints, intricate detail and quality of fabrics are collective signatures of the brand.

The team at Shawlsmith strive to provide flexibility and un-yielding customer service, while also concentrating on building relationships and finding nice pieces that are the right fit for each customer. Shawlsmith London's office and distribution center are located right here in Raleigh! This brand is an eclectic mix of British sophistication and southern charm!




Friday, September 6, 2013

Fall's Peplum Party

It's a trend that has been dominating the runways and seems to be one that is sticking. The peplum has taken over and simply can't be ignored for fall. Not only is this a chic twist on your every-day blouse or top, but it is ridiculously flattering! With so many options and ways to style the peplum top; you can instantly transition from work to play!

A tailored top will be ultimate for your work week. Pair them with a sleek trousers for fall. Wide or skinny pants work with this as well. Go with what feels most comfortable and flatters your shape. Brighten up your otherwise lackluster work attire with a bright pop of color over those black pants. If your office is a little on the conservative side, try a muted patterned peplum top with neutral colors. This exaggerated top is also perfection paired with a pencil skirt. It creates sleek lines and classic style, perfect for the work world.

Distressed denim is another trend that we can't seem to get enough of. Put a peplum top over the relaxed look for a combination of chic and grunge. The combination is amazing and fresh for fall! Add a pointy heel for an effortless but dazzling combination.

Don't hesitate to venture outside of the peplum top trend and opt for a peplum skirt or dress. These pieces are statement pieces and can be as structured or as boho as you would like. Style a skirt with a fitted, sleeveless blouse or plain white tee for warmer temperatures and wear it with a chunky sweater and booties for fall. A figure flattering sheath dress with the addition of a peplum is perfection! Add a chunky necklace or or large earrings.

Add umph to any outfit this fall and get peplum crazed!



Friday, August 30, 2013

Lovers + Friends

Lovers + Friends is for the girl who is a go-getter and fun-seeker. She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it. She is in the know and on the scene, an early morning riser and late night explorer. She works hard and plays harder. She is a lover and a friend.
Constantly inspired by the laid back Los Angeles lifestyle in which the brand was founded, Lovers + Friend exudes ease and wearability, creating an effortlessly chic look that is California cool. Although our roots are on the west coast our designs grab the attention of fashionista’s worldwide. From Venice beach to the streets of Manhattan, our clothes allow you to go from boho-chic to city sleek in seconds. Whether sporting her flawless blazer look to the office or a flowly floral dress while digging her toes in the sand, she always radiates confidence and grace with a side of sexy.
Some of our favorite celebrities are fans of the brand as well. You can catch Katy Perry, Hilary Duff, and Rihanna rocking Lovers + Friends. We have new fall arrivals coming in and Lovers + Friends articles are going fast. We are loving the simplicity of cotton dresses all the way to the vibrant, fun tops! Stop by to pick up fall essentials! 


Thursday, August 22, 2013

Summer to Fall

As August days fly by, we are finding that September is creeping up on us! Fall catalogs are arriving at our doorsteps and store windows fill with vests, sweaters and boots! While NC boasts sweltering summer days well into fall months, we find ourselves asking the question on how to transition? It can be tricky, but you can combine fall and summer pieces for the ideal balance.

Certain colors are acceptable year-round. When in doubt, certain color palettes can work for humid August afternoons or crisp September mornings. Nude tones work well no matter what the season. Try a nude dress with a pop of color cardigan and gold or silver jewelry. A nude pump may become your best friend for the next few months. They are acceptable with most any attire. Black and white a great transitional color combo. It has been hot all season and the trend will continue into autumn months.

Denim is perhaps the easiest to transition. Break out your favorite jeans and throw on a light-knit top or even a summer sweater that is still full of color! A light scarf is the ultimate accessory. Pile it on over any top to update any outfit!

 Don't hesitate to layer! As with the scarf, try an open cardigan or sheer cotton sweatshirt as a casual day look. Structure the outfit with the addition of a blazer. Another hot garment for the season; it can be neutral with a camel or navy color or a vibrant hot pink or red! We are seeing  a rise in the denim jacket trend! Layer it over a silk blouse and shorts or over your maxi.

Don't be afraid to dabble in fall hues with your current closet favorites. Mix in fall signatures such as red, orange, rust or mustard.

Not sure if you are ready to pull out the black or deep chocolate colored bag? Stick to neutral during the transitional months. A nude, taupe or gray will work well against any hue, summer of fall.

We have pre-fall goodies in the store with your fall faves arriving all the time!


Thursday, August 15, 2013

The Addison Story

With each and every fall arrival, we can't wait for cooler temperatures and pumpkin latte's to come back! We are receiving cozy sweaters, wax denim, and unique tops that we mix and match for fall fashion perfection. Each week we open new boxes of a brand we love, ADDISON. Don't miss out on these fall favorites in store now! 

ADDISON is a New York City-based label that beckons to a breed of city girls who understand the art and attitude behind creative street-style fashion. Guided by a pretty-meets-gritty aesthetic, their look is always pulled together, yet exudes a distinct edge. From season to season, ADDISON draws inspiration from the lives of these imaginative tastemakers, as well as unique art, music, cinema and design.

Founder and Head Designer Amy Hsiung is Brooklyn-born and currently calls the West Village home. From an early age, she was transfixed by fashion, often altering her own clothes and developed a keen eye for proportion and a renegade sense of personal style. Hsiung attended Parson’s School of Design beforerefining her craft in creative roles at DVF, DKNY, Proenza Schouler and Calvin Klein.

ADDISON creates layerable, refined pieces that artfully fuse together feminine with borrowed-from-boys aesthetics. The goal is to dress ADDISON girls with a polished and casual cool sense of purpose and style.


Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Pre-Fall Arrivals

We can all agree that we aren't quite ready to hang up our tanks and replaces them with a chunky pull-over. But, the reality is that Anna & Alice is receiving shipments of pre-fall wardrobe options in! We must admit, we love what we see. One garment that is filling our shelves is the light-weight sweater. Turning heads are colorful knits, and wool-blends. The beginning of fall brings light layers and mixing and matching seasonal pieces.

Denim will be your best friend moving forward. Transition with a mid summer top over your denim when a chilly morning won't allow for shorts. If you are adamant on showing off what is left of your summer tan; keep rocking your printed shorts, but add a crocheted sweater for laid back style or dress up the look with a colored blazer. Learn to love your leather! It will surly be a fall favorite and this is another piece that is easily layered for conundrum fall temps. Throw on the rocker-chic jacket for a breezy outside brunch or date-night once the sun has gone down. Sticking with our leather trend; be a style icon in a pair of leather pants (real or faux). These can take the place of your four season old leggings! They are perfect to pair with a comfy tank or bedazzled tunic.

Looking for the ultimate in transitional for a fall bag? Choose a lighter leather such as camel or caramel. They easily blend with many color palettes and are a great seasonal item that can take you through many months at a time. We love a great cross-body or an edgy suede hobo bag with tassels.

Layer it on! We have new all items arriving almost daily! Enjoy our sweaters, denim, scarves and jacket collection for the autumn months ahead!




Tuesday, July 30, 2013

The Glam Kaftan

This summer take a break from your good ol' maxi dress and set your sights on something with a little more glam to it. The caftan is a magical, elegant, flowing garment made of luscious printed cotton or silk which instantly transforms the wearer into a truly ethereal creature. The Middle Eastern inspired garment is oh-so versatile and makes for a way to beat the heat in style. The kaftan looks great when dressed up for an evening or as a beach cover-up. The breezy summer piece can be worn almost any time or anywhere. Think beach, spa, night on the town, or mid-summer getaway.

A summer kaftan is the way to be ready for all eventualities from morning to late evening. It works perfectly for the beach matched with a bikini and a maxi bag, but can also be used as a stylish outfit for a party during the evening, worn with wedges and finished off with a clutch.

For day, wear a kaftan around town with a thick leather belt of skinny jeans. If you are petite, you will be able to pull off the kaftan dress look. Just make sure the garment is not too short to avoid showing a little too much. Depending on the length, you can wear wedges or flats.

Kaftans are pretty and exotic and can take you from the beach to an elegant summer dinner. Experiment with different materials such cotton, silk or linen. Each fabric holds a different style and look.