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I can’t begin to count the number of “reusable totes” I have bought over the past few years in hopes of breaking my plastic bag habit. Some are buried in my closet, some are in the trunk of my car, others have been dropped off at Goodwill full of my castoff garments. The one place these bags never seem to be are in my hand (or purse for that matter) when I make an impromptu grocery or shopping stop.
I blame it on the fact that I have too much of a big picture personality and can’t remember minute details such as packing extra eco-friendly shopping bags into my overstuffed work tote . . . just in case.
But now, my problem might just be solved thanks to Nordstrom. Tucked neatly inside sleek metallic casing, Nordstrom’s new eco-chic collapsible tote can fit easily inside my purse so that I always have it on hand. And although other companies have come up with similar products, Nordstrom’s version has the added bonus of actually looking chic (brushed metallic linen and drawings by artist Reuben Toledo).
I, of course, have already tucked mine neatly into my Marc by Marc Jacobs satchel (also a Nordstrom find) ready to use should a spontaneous shopping stop occur.
Available starting May 19, at Nordstrom, Mall of America, 952-883-2121
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One of downtown Stillwater's best-kept secrets is a charming storefront called Local Color on Main. Carrying an eclectic, ever-growing collection of accessories, apparel, home décor, gifts, stationery, and even baby items, it's a worthwhile stop on your next trip to the river city.
Founded in 2005, Local Color reopened earlier this year in a larger storefront (just down the street from its original) where owner Mary Kovar and daughter Bethany are slowly adding lines to the bohemian-chic mix. The most recent additions include London-based clothing label Mina, a favorite among British celebs, such as Sienna Miller, Kylie Minogue, and Kiera Knightly, but new to the U.S. market. Pretty tops (such as this Kimono-style chiffon blouse, left) and cute, colorful dresses are priced for less than $130.
Also new is the store's shipment of embroidered purses by Laga Designs.
Handmade by women survivors of the Tsunami, the bags provide income for
women and families who have lost their livelihood ($70–150). And behind each bag's name is a meaning: The bag at left is the Pulih (which means Recover) and at right is the Damai (which means peace).
Local Color, 312 S. Main St., Stillwater, 651-351-0558
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I am signing a lease today for a new apartment in downtown Minneapolis. Although I won't be moving until July, I have already started thinking about how I’ll switch up my décor.
I have a very schizophrenic design personality, which I haven’t yet completely honed in on. I am still trying to figure out the difference between styles I like in theory (American federal, English shabby chic, French country) and the style I want to live in (much more clean, calm, and reserved). I like things that look old but are actually new (lacquered neo-Rocco scroll work), mid-century style seating, art deco accents, and anything that looks a little unfinished and natural. I guess if I had to describe what my ideal place would look like, it would be a sort of glammed up, modern farm house—lots of natural, rough wood pieces; clean-lined furnishings; and flea market accents, with a few art deco flourishes to round it out.
Because I need to use most all of my furniture in my new apartment (Ikea Karlstad sofa, aspen wood coffee table, chrome side chairs, and countless lamps, accents, and mirrors), I’ve been scouring the Internet as of late trying to find some great pieces at reasonable prices to freshen up what I already have. Here are a few items that caught my eyes, some of which I hope to purchase in the next few months, some of which will stay on my wish list until I win the lottery.
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I’ve learned that I easily tire of color. The pattern of this rug gives it depth and texture, even in simple black and white. Morocco bikaner wool rug, five feet by eight feet (on sale for $249), from CB2 |
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If I could afford one thing right now, it would be a huge, worn-in
leather chair in which I could curl up get lost in with a good book. The buttery soft bourbon leather and mahogany finish is brawny without being overly
masculine. Cotswold Chair ($1,998) from Anthropologie, 4999 France Ave. S., Mpls., 612-285-9164; The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, Maple Grove, 763-416-1447
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This 1960’s-style sofa is clean-lined and sparse, but the tufting and button cushions give it character. Petrie Sofa, ($1,499) from Crate & Barrel, Galleria, 952-920-2300
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I’ve long admired the wire design of the Bertoia chair, but I enjoy
this one for its more organic feel (and lower price tag). I can see this
pulled up to my wooden desk. De La Tour Chair ($160) from Urban Outfitters, 3006 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-823-1000; Mall of America, 952-854-8448
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I love the graphic pattern on this rug, but I’d probably opt for it in its other color scheme, brown and ivory. I do get a little nervous about buying something such as a rug on the Internet, so I will probably wait until the West Elm store opens in Edina later this year. Yellow and ivory petal rug, five feet by eight feet ($199), West Elm |
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I am in pretty desperate need for a bed frame. I’ve been sleeping like
a college student with my box spring and mattress on the ground for
way too long. I like that this is a very streamlined version of a
canopy. Classic with no frill. Petite silhouette canopy bed in white ($499–$599), Brocade Home
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I have too many small bookcases. Before I move, I plan on taking them all to Goodwill and investing in one or two wall-length styles to store all of my books, magazines, and more. Expedit bookcase ($149) from Ikea, 8000 Ikea Way, Bloomington, 952-858-8088
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I have an Anthropologie shower curtain right now, but if I was in the market for the new one, a watercolor rendering of flowers would certainly cheer up my morning ritual on even the gloomiest of days. Sundew Shower Curtain ($88) from Anthropologie, 4999 France Ave. S. , Mpls., 612-285-9164; The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, Maple Grove, 763-416-1447 |
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I love anything with a little bit of wink. The daguerreotype photographs framed in cameo-like scrolling could make for an understated accent piece. Cameo chair ($680) from Anthropologie, 4999 France Ave. S., Mpls., 612-285-9164; The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, Maple Grove, 763-416-1447 |
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Again with the wink. I can’t stand a space that is overly precious, and
a funky owl lamp is certain to add a bit of humor to my living room.
Hoot lamp base ($36) from Urban Outfitters, 3006 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-823-1000; Mall of America, 952-854-8448
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Whenever I am bored or feeling a need to be inspired, I always head over to Anthropologie. And it’s for good reason. The luxe, eclectic, hippie way in which the store is merchandised and the always inventive and artistic clothing and housewares never disappoint and always enthuse a new way to put together disparate items—a geometric pillow on a floral couch, a polka dot skirt with a vintage print shirt.
However, I will admit that I haven’t always seen Anthropologie as a place for inspiration. The first few times I set foot in one of the stores, I always left confused and empty-handed because I couldn’t seem to wrap my head around the way things were laid out; it seemed to me more like a beautiful magazine spread than a traditional store. But after a few repeated attempts (I loved the look, so I knew there had to be something in there for me), I finally left with my first purchase—a sweet floral sundress and striped, cropped cardigan.
My initial trepidation toward Anthropologie would have been shorter lived had I seen an in-store fashion show like I did on Wednesday night. The managers and staff at the 50th & France location took time and care in editing down the store's selections, so customers could see the way the clothes looked on real-life women.
I, unfortunately, left the store without a purchase, but that was more due to the mass of people in line for the dressing rooms than for any lack of inspiration. Here are a few of my favorite looks from the show.
Lilium Hybrid Dress by Le Shack, $258.00.
Enija Lotus Dress by Moulinette Soeurs, $158.00.
Etched Ivory Mini by Weston Wear, $168.00.
Keyhole nape Windowpane Shift, $148.00.
All of these and more at Anthropologie, 4999 France Ave. S., Mpls., 612-285-9164; The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, 763-416-1447
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I think my biggest shopping weakness is a good dress, particularly a good dress on sale. I don't even have to love it—if it's marked down and it fits me, there's a good chance I'll buy it. The other day I was standing outside Nordstrom at MOA—new dress in hand—when my boyfriend called. The conversation went something like this:
Jack: What are you doing?
Me: I'm at the mall, shopping for my mom's birthday present.
Jack: Did you buy a dress?
Me: (pause, hold up black dress bag, contemplate lying—especially since I was just complaining about paying bills) Ummm . . . how'd you know?
Jack: Every time you go to the mall, you buy a dress.
So, either my boyfriend has really good ESP, or I'm just that predictable. I do have to defend myself by saying the dress was only $49 (regularly $128). Thank you very much, White House|Black Market. (The retailer is currently having a sale on dresses—lots of which are perfect for spring parties, weddings, and showers. Just be prepared to face your boyfriend/husband/significant other after your visit.)
If you're like me, you're of the mindset that there will always be an event that requires a dress, so why not buy one while its on sale—even if you don't know when you'll wear it? And as it turns out, I'll be donning my steal-of-a-dress (shown here) at a cocktail party this weekend. A good dress always comes in handy . . . even if it has to hang in your closet (with tags intact) for a few months first.
White House|Black Market, five metro locations, including a new store at Rosedale, Roseville, 651-636-4950
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If you lived in the Twin Cities in the '90s, you must remember Steve and Sharon, the infamous duo that hosted KSTP's Good Company. Our local ABC affiliate is hoping to hit gold again with Twin Cities Live, a mid-afternoon talk and news program hosted by Rebekah Wood and John Hanson. The search for the hosts took months and spanned the continent, and the show premiered yesterday. We nabbed a few minutes of the hosts' busy time and asked them a few harmless questions.
John Hanson:
Q. What is your favorite Twin Cities neighborhood and why?
A. The Warehouse District because it’s near some great lounges and close to the sports arenas
Q. Necessary extravagance?
A. Premium beer
Q. What can’t you leave home without?
A. Like everyone else on Earth, my cell phone
Q. Who inspires you?
A. People with muscular dystrophy who don’t let it stop them from constantly achieving
Q. Where can we find you on a Friday Night?
A. r.Norman’s
Q. Have Steve and Sharon given you any advice?
A. No, I haven’t had a chance to talk to them, but I would love to.
Q. Tell us something we don’t know
about your co-host, Rebekah?
A. She had to overcome some amazing
competition for the job and earned it.
Rebekah Wood:
Q. What is your favorite Twin Cities neighborhood and why?
A. Woodbury because it’s my neighborhood, and the people there have been unbelievably welcoming.
Q. Necessary extravagance?
A. Starbucks . . . two toddlers, need I say more?
Q. What can’t you leave home without?
A. Guilt—whenever I have to drop my girls off at preschool. Or, C.O. Bigelow mint lip gloss. Both are always with me.
Q. Who inspires you?
A. My husband who is winning a pretty tough fight against brain cancer
Q. Where can we find you on a Friday Night?
A. I’d like to say at a great happy hour, but usually it’s popcorn party night with my family.
Q. Have Steve and Sharon given you any advice?
A. Not yet, but I can’t wait until they do.
Q. Tell us something we don’t know about your co-host, John?
A. He’s got a great overbite when he dances.
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From romantic and billowy to sharp and tailored, see-through is a major trend of the season. The looks is part romantic, part futuristic but with a light and ethereal effect perfect for the warmer months. I report on the trend in the May issue of Mpls.St.Paul Magazine (on newsstands now), but as always, a few of my favorite items landed on the cutting room floor. So whether your look is unapologetically feminine or minimal and tailored, there's a fashion for you.
I love the slightly sheer and slouchy look of this Dries Van Noten sweater so much that I've pulled it for two different shoots. Unfortunately, it keeps landing on the cutting room floor. Navy cardigan ($615) by Dries Van Noten, from Intoto, 3105 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls., 612-822-2414
From his famous spring collection modeled after artist Richard Prince's Nurses paintings, Marc Jacobs presents a very wearable take on the trend. Wool, cashmere, and nylon shirt in chocolate and blush ($624), by Marc Jacobs, from Macy's, 700 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-375-2754
This Stella McCartney blouse has the tailored bohemian feel that I always fall for. Silk blouse ($965) by Stella McCartney, from Macy's, 700 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-375-2754
Although not sheer in the traditional sense, a layer of clear beading adds depth and interest to the vintage floral print. Vintage beaded clutch ($48), from Bluebird, 3909 W. 50th St., Edina, 952-746-8675
A great shell in a slightly sparkly fabric can easily go from day (underneath a summer-weight sport coat) to night (with heels and wide-leg linen pants). Tiered tank ($167), by 3.1 Phillip Lim, from Bumbershute, 683 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 952-475-2684
All photos courtesy of Michael Hendrickson
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I love the aluminum SIGG water bottle I received as a gift from my sister earlier this year. Not only is it eco-friendly (it's reusable and doesn't contribute to the more than 20 billion plastic water bottles that end up in landfills every year), it's also an ideal size, it keeps my water/Crystal Light/beverage-of-choice perfectly chilled, and the handy screw-off top seals in liquid as I carry it to and from the office and gym every day. Plus, the chic magenta, black, and white design has turned heads of many of my design-savvy coworkers. (I can't tell you how many people have commented on something as simple as a water bottle!)
And it looks like I'm not the only one who's loving this sporty green trend. Last night, I was flipping through the newest issue of Elle to find a whole page devoted to SIGG bottle designs. Elle joined forces with SIGG and a handful of top fashion designers to create fourteen one-of-a-kind bottle designs, customized by the likes of Michael Kors, Diane von Furstenburg, Zac Posen, Donna Karan, Phillip Lim, and other fashion elite.
Anyone can bid for the bottles on eBay (through April 24), and 100 percent of profits benefit the grassroots movement StopGlobalWarming.org. I've got my eye on Peter Som's 360-degree fashion sketch and Anna Sui's uber-colorful creation . . .
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Other SIGG designs are available locally at Twin Cities Green, REI, and Whole Foods Market.
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Minneapolis newcomer and co-designer of hot handbag line Alexis Hudson, Rachelle Copeland, stops by StyledLife today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the brand's first TC trunk show. Known for their timelessness, functionality, and high style, the handbags have decorated the arms of Cindy Crawford, Kate Hudson, the Olsen twins, and Keira Knightley.
Q. Why Handbags?
A. I’ve always been passionate about handbags. Before starting my company, I designed bags for other companies, and I felt there was a niche in the market for the “perfect handbag.” Something that is both beautiful and functional.
Q. While your bags are trend conscious, they’re not overtly reminiscent of a certain season.
A. I see handbags as more of a stylish staple than something that should be “it.” My goal was to create handbags that would help define a woman’s sense of style and can be worn year after year—sophisticated, luxurious, and of the moment but not captured solely on trends.
Q. Where does your inspiration come from?
A. Everything. Travel, architecture, vintage.
Q. What spring trends are you most excited for?
A. I am excited to be wearing dresses again (especially since moving to Minnesota); they are key for spring and so easy to wear. I am also excited that color is back and that it is available in so many wearable incarnations.
Q. How many handbags do you own?
A. Too many to count. My favorite right now is the “Eos” from the spring collection. It is the perfect day bag.
StyledLife, Gaviidae Common, Mpls., 612-746-5400 to schedule an appointment.
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Frank Gehry has just released a new assortment of his popular jewelry collection for Tiffany & Co. The renowned architect first introduced a collection for the jewelry box a few years ago, and architecture, design, and jewelry junkies quickly collected his sharp statement pieces.
Although I tend to like adornments that are a bit chunkier and more blinged out, I’ve always loved what Gehry has produced for Tiffany & Co. Back when I was a student in journalism at the University of Minnesota, the bold curves and soft metallic surfaces of the Weisman Art Museum always appeared as a little piece of jewelry compared to the roughness of its surroundings.
Cast from the finest diamonds and metals in Gehry’s signature clean-lined and straight-edged shapes, a piece from Gehry’s collection will lend an instant edge of modern glamour to any ensemble.
Weisman Art Museum; open torque necklace in sterling silver ($1,850); flux earrings in 18K gold ($725); circular fish earrings ($2,300) in pavé diamonds and 18K white gold; vircular fish pendant in pavé diamonds and 18K white gold ($1,300).
Photos courtesy Tiffany & Co.
Marti Markus, co-owner of Birch Clothing, recently e-mailed to tell me about the new Tinctoria scarves they'd received in store. Lightweight and organic cotton (ideal for a Minnesota spring), the sustainable accessories are hand-spun and handwoven by a women's cooperative in Thailand. Birch stocks a variety of vibrant hues, including pink, tan, blue, and green—all created with natural plant-based dyes ($36).
Sound familiar? You might have seen Tinctoria scarves featured in the latest issue of Lucky magazine:
Birch Clothing, 2309 W. 50th St., Mpls., 612-436-0776
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Monique Lhuillier's Fall 2008 collection (on runways this past February) is now on preview at her Edina boutique. The collection, which was inspired by smoking, flapper-populated lounges, is awash in peacock blue, olive green, and ombre grays with plenty of rich textiles and luxe embellishments—feathers, hand beading, fur, glossy paillettes.
Best way to channel Keira Knightley in Atonement:
Silk halter gown with draped Juliette sleeves in charmeuse ($3,900).
Best workday attire:
Left: wool kimono jacket in coffee and gray ombre with fox fur cuff ($3,500), wool high-waisted skirt in coffee and gray ombre ($1,100), and floral crystal belt ($385). Right: wool jersey dress in noir with embroidered sleeves and ruched waist ($2,400).
Best ways to cover up:
Day: Bouclé coat in metallic and noir with Bunka embroidery and fox fur ($8,500). Night: Chiffon-embroidered bolero in graphite with jeweled belt ($2,800).
Best red carpet gown:
Metallic jacquard one-shoulder dress in gold with exaggerated ruffle ($3,300).
Best fall colors: saturated citrine green and saffron yellow.
Left: Bahia krillo satin dress with pleated bodice and peacock collar ($2,900). Right: chiffon halter gown with ostrich paillette skirt ($9,800).
Best goddess gowns:
Left: silk jersey-draped gown in peacock blue with cabochon-embroidered collar ($5,200). Right: silk jersey Grecian gown in indigo with jeweled shoulder ($3,600).
The trunk show is at the Edina store through Saturday, April 5. All of these pieces and more are available by special order. Monique Lhuillier, 3928 W. 50th St. Mpls., 612-929-0747
A note to brides-to-be: The new bridal collection, which hits runways today, will be in the Edina salon for a trunk show April 24–26.
Sarah Jessica Parker’s third Bitten collection for Steve & Barry’s stores should be hitting the floor any day now. The spring/summer 2008 collection reflects a more casual version of Parker’s mix-and-match haute bohemian style—belted floral print dresses; a lightweight, two-button vest and seersucker jacket; wide-leg sailor pants; and slouchy Ts.
The collection is composed of more than 500 pieces and everything is $14.98 or less. Here are some of the highlights:
I am not going to pretend to know anything about sneakers or, for that matter, baseball. But I am not so in the dark that I am unaware of the fact that it is the Twins' home opener tonight (in six inches of snow, no less).
I’ve never been to a Twins game, so I am not sure what I would wear (maybe a slouchy American Apparel T, blue jeans, red patent leather heels, and a pendant necklace), but if I were an in-the-style-know guy, I would definitely be all over these new Home and Away Opening Day Air Jordan 1’s.
These limited edition sneaks were released at midnight Friday at Status in Calhoun Square, but there are still a few pairs left ($100 each), and according to Liz Doyle, our editorial stylist and resident men’s fashion expert, this new collector's edition of the Air Jordan is sleek and cool even if it is in White Sox colors.
Status, Calhoun Square, 612-824-3100
Make you mother (or other important female in your life) truly happy this Mother's Day with a gift set of Lovely by Sarah Jessica Parker. Go to the website on the sleeve of the gift set, which is available in department stores April 1, enter your package's code, and you'll get two tickets to see the Sex and the City movie at a theater of your choice and be entered for a chance to win two tickets to the NYC premiere.
View the Sex and the City Tailer.
Keep up on the latest SATC news.
 Environmentally friendly, stylish, and practical, Jeanne Beatrice European-inspired baskets are your must-have accessory for summer—or any time for that matter.
Laura Benson of Minneapolis discovered market baskets during a trip to France in 2006 and realized the potential for use back home—as grocery bags (reusable in place of paper or plastic), picnic carriers, beach totes, travel bags, etc. She began importing the baskets from Morocco in 2007 and soon after founded the Jeanne Beatrice company.
The bags are hand-woven in Morocco using renewable resources, such as water reeds and palm leaves, which also means each basket is unique due to the natural variation in materials. Sturdy leather handles and a soft leather trim complete the look.
Find Jeanne Beatrice baskets in three sizes at Rick Rack (La Mer style shown at right.) Prices range from an affordable $50 to $70.
Rick Rack, 3413 W. 44th St., Mpls., 612-746-4160
Lifestyle designer Angela Adams has introduced a new rug to be sold at Design Within Reach. The traditional hand-tufted wool rug, named Ocean, is made with 100 percent
New Zealand wool and celebrates the designer's love of the sea (she's from Portland, Maine, after all). The rug comes in two sizes: five-by-eight ($899) and eight-by-ten ($1,499).
The collection is available online and at the Minneapolis outpost of Design Within Reach. 2939 Hennepin Ave., 612-827-0990
This month, J.R. Watkins, the 140-year-old Winona apothecary company, will launch two new all-natural and eco-friendly lines, J.R. Watkins Natural Apothecary and J.R. Watkins Natural Home Care. They will be available at mass retailers, including Target.
All of the items in the body collection (lotions, creams, foot salves, lip balms, and body oil) are 97.5–100 percent natural and free of parabens, sulfates, glycols, and phthalates; the home cleaning line (dish soap, window cleaner, and tub and tile cleaner) is free of harsh chemicals, such as ammonia and chlorine.
Best of all, prices range between $3.99 and $8.99, much less than many other supermarket natural cleaning and apothecary brands.
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 There's a direct correlation between what's "in" for adults and what's "in" for our littlest fashionistas this spring. We see bright hues, metallic accents, pretty prints, graphic T's, and preppy styles across the board, especially inside Mall of America's newest options for kids:
Crew Cuts (J.Crew's exclusive line of children's fashion, located inside the mall's second-floor J.Crew store) and Janie and Jack (an upscale offshoot of Gymboree, situated on the south wing's first floor).
I was impressed with the large store space devoted to J.Crew's new kids collection (shown at left). The back right corner in MOA's location swells with pops of sunny yellow cardigans, warm pink sweaters, crisp navy shorts, citrus-orange handbags, and other spring and summer accessories for boys and girls. I loved the preppy, country club-inspired looks—they are a perfect match to mom's and dad's warm-weather wear.
 Minnesota's only
Janie and Jack location (shown at right) caters to a slightly younger child but features everything from preemie onesies to kids size six. Parents will find high-quality clothing inside the boutique-style storefront, including handmade sweaters, detailed dresses, adorable baby attire, and one-of-a-kind accessories, such as shoes, purses, and hats. Although it's a fresh place to shop for stylish apparel, slightly steep prices might turn off some mall goers: Girls' dresses range from approximately $40 to $50 and boys' T's from $20 to $28.
Both collections are worth a look at MOA, especially if you're updating your family's closets for summer.
(The Crew Cuts line is also available inside Southdale's J.Crew location.)
If you're still searching for ways to fill up Easter baskets, stop in to upscale culinary storefront Sur La Table this weekend for unique ideas and great savings on everything Easter. All holiday merchandise is 40 percent off, including pretty pastel gardening pails; Easter Bunny-clad candle holders; egg-shaped cake pans; aprons for mom and child; and, my personal favorite, decorative dessert plates.
Sur La Table, 3901 W. 50th St., Edina, 952-656-0045
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In the category of "What Will Target Think of Next," the Twin Cities-based retailer is adding a layer to its GO International program with a GO International private label. The goal is to offer fast fashion basics that will fill in the lull between Target's designer collaborations.
Target's buyers and designers have worked to dissect high-fashion trends for the mass-market customer. The first collection hits stores on April 13 and includes updated wardrobe staples, such as boyfriend blazers, printed tunics, lightweight Ts, and wide-leg trousers as well as more on-trend pieces, such as a long linen vest, a painterly dress, and a satin romper. Prices range from $16.99 to $49.99, which will put this collection on par with H&M and the made over Old Navy as far as price and design goes, and it will hopefully be at least a step up in quality from Forever 21.
Here are my favorites:
Color-block T-back dress in gray and pink ($34.99)
Ruffled-front blouse in blue ($26.99) and high-waist trousers in black ($34.99)
One shoulder jersey dress in blue ($34.99)
Ruffle-neck tunic in red ($22.99) and paper-bag waist skirt ($34.99)
Color-block T-back patterned dress in black and white ($34.99)
Double layer tank dress in gray and peach ($39.99)
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If there is one take-home message from the fall 2008 fashion shows in New York, Paris, London, and Milan, it's that the accessory is becoming ever more important. It's the way that a woman, or man for that matter, can set themselves apart from the masses.
J.Crew must have received the memo—if you landed on the new J.Crew hompage during the last few days, you'd notice that accessories are at the forefront with an online accessories catalog (a physical catalog should also be dropping in mailboxes soon). The homepage collage will lead you back to J.Crew's new online accessories shop, which includes costume and fine jewelry, handbags, and shoes at prices that seem a bit steeper than the regular Crew wear but much less than designer accessories of (probably) equal quality.
I haven't purchased an accessory item from J.Crew since I bought a brown leather belt in high school, but if the quality is good (the shoes are made in Italy) and the styles are on trend, the J.Crew website might become one of my must-stop accessories shops.
J.Crew, four locations, including Mall of America, Bloomington, 952-814-7419
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You know that scene in Sex and the City when Carrie's laptop is on the fritz and she takes it to the service center wrapped in her finest cashmere pashmina? Well, my laptop toting has always been just about as careless yet not quite as stylish. I've mimicked her by wrapping mine in a pashmina, I've stuffed it into vintage bags, and I've tossed it into an old leather briefcase I snagged from my mother.
While in NYC for fashion week, I actually had to force myself to buy a canvas tote (with an Andy Warhol print, no less) because the idea of walking around with it under my arm for fourteen hours a day in five inch heels was a bit ridiculous.
Though I've been consciously searching for a few years, I've had the most difficult time stumbling upon a laptop bag that even teeters on acceptable, let alone stylish. That is until I pranced into Lori Cheadle's Clutch Boutique this weekend and stumbled across these laptop bags by Violet May London. In delicious colors and with sturdy silk scarves attached as straps, these laptop bags ($885 each) are the absolute most divine I've ever seen.
Now, if only Bush would mail out that rebate check tout suite!
Clutch Boutique, 5005 France Ave. S., Mpls., 612-455-0606
Rick Rack co-owners Ann McCabe and Cheri Toftey scour the globe to fill their charming south Minneapolis storefront with a bevy of vintage home furnishings, one-of-a-kind antiques, handmade jewelry, fashion accessories, retro pieces, and other knickknacks. Step inside, and you're sure to find something that tickles your fancy, especially this month when Rick Rack hosts a European Flea Market. The market began Thursday and runs through Saturday, March 22, featuring fresh discoveries from the duo's latest travels, plus many French-inspired pieces.
Rick Rack, 3413 W. 44th St., Mpls., 612-746-4160
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Perhaps one of the most important (and expensive) purchases you or your future husband/wife/partner will ever make for each other is the engagement ring or wedding band. It has to be timeless but also in the style of the giftee; it has to fit the lifestyle; it has to fit the budget. Ideally, it’s on that finger forever. So when do you know you’ve found the right thing?
For me, it took nearly a year and a half. William, my fiancé, proposed to me last December, and our wedding is now a mere seventy-seven days away. I had my stone re-set just last week. Initially, William had chosen a very, very nice white gold band, fairly wide, with a classic Tiffany setting for me. I was actually very happy with it right off the bat. But when I started looking for bands, I had trouble finding anything that looked just right with it. (I’m hardly a high-maintenance bride, but some things have to be Cinderella!) Enter a whole new search for an engagement ring and wedding band.
Several weekends, many stores, conversations, try-ons, and agonizing later, I had my aha moment. I walked into Gold’n Treasures on Grand Avenue, and it was like a tractor beam pulled me to a set of stackable rings in the case. I knew it from the second I laid eyes on it. Certainly I’d seen others that were perfectly lovely but weren’t quite right. Mine is delicate and looks vintage, although it’s not. A little sparkle but nothing I’d call blingy. Best of all, it had both a matching band, or just one that coordinated nicely (I chose the coordinating, rather than the matching, band).
I tried on others, in a show of keeping my mind open (and loving to try on jewelry), but my heart was set the instant the first ring went on my finger. The next week—I decided I’d better sleep on it—, I returned to put my diamond in the new ring. We also bought the coordinating band.
When I went to pick up my ring, it was even more beautiful than I had imagined it would be. That sounds ridiculous coming from me. I never thought I’d say those words. But—it’s true. I’m so happy with it.
But what helped the whole big purchase—in a very important way—was the service we received each time we visited. No pressure. No sales pitches. Just knowledgeable staff that was truly interested in helping us find the right rings. The first time I went in, they took photos for me of the rings I'd tried on. Then I could take them home to stare at or take them with me shopping to compare. It sure didn't hurt that they offered me a glass of wine every time I came in or that they treated us like friends.
Ask all the questions you can think up. Try on everything that looks appealing. Listen to some expert advice. Hell, gemologist and owner Todd Gimble allowed William to try his own wedding band on and walk around the store with it—and it sold William on a very similar band. Stop back often—stock shifts around frequently.
I know others who have had similar experiences, and we all recommend them wholeheartedly. The staff is wonderfully friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. Most importantly, in my book, they didn’t pressure us, so we could make a reasonable decision, whatever our price point, and come away happy. Consider me ecstatic.
Gold’n Treasures, 805 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, 651-227-2711, goldn-treasures.com
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Last Saturday, I was out and about on Selby and Snelling, doing a little shopping to pass the time, and I stopped in Lula. I immediately spotted a fuchsia dress with a standup collar, elbow sleeves, and a train—and I fell head over heels. Tried it on. Didn’t fit. Wanted to cry. You know the feeling, when you find the perfect thing and then it’s not right on you? Pure agony.
Well, Hayley, proprietress of Lula, saw the long face and immediately began bustling about, pulling dresses and hanging them outside my fitting room. In a normal store, this kind of thing drives me crazy—I know what I want, and I don’t want to be bothered. But in a vintage shop, I definitely need help. Sizes can be wonky, for one thing, and sometimes it’s hard for me to figure out what’s great and what’s junk. And sometimes I just plain don't have the patience to sort through everything.
Everything Hayley pulled was great. She nailed my style from just my first fashion choice and helped to zip me in and out of several dresses. (She even got my fiancé to try on a pair of red-and-white checkered golf pants, which I honestly thought he could have rocked if they would have fit.) There were a few others I wanted to buy, too.
It was truly outstanding service, and I can say, without a doubt, that it’s going to be my new favorite haunt. Here’s what I walked away with on Saturday (you’ll note I’m a huge fan of the shift and also pink). Sorry for the photo quality—the colors are actually quite consistent in real life (no fading or stains).
I am planning on wearing this with hot pink espadrilles and red patent peep-toe pumps. Also, this dress is brown and white, not black and white.
Here's the front of the dress Hayley found for me to replace the fuchsia one (and yes, I'm still thinking about how I could make myself fit in it, and it's probably gone.) Here is the back:
It actually has a little peekaboo back, not a zipper all the way up. Great detail! And the obi-style sash. Lovin' it.
This shift is a little less vibrant than it comes across—on the tag it says "pale tangerine," which is pretty accurate although I'd maybe call it salmon. And in keeping with my train-like, here's the back:
You can sort of see the two extra panels that hang out on the back. So wearable. It hangs much better on a person than on a hanger. Dress it up or down.
And because I really can never have enough pink, here's a great herringbone-patterned pencil skirt. It's longer than it looks in this photo—past the knee, not above.
PS: All of this cost approximately $130 total. Everything is in gorgeous shape and freshly cleaned. Just watch me indulge in my 1960s obsession! (I'm sure my mom is probably shaking her head as she looks at these.)
Lula, 1587 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-644-4110
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 Pacifier has been a favorite spot among hip Twin Cities parents since opening on East Hennepin in March 2004. Its well-edited selection of trendy baby and toddler apparel (including this cheeky onesie by St.Paul-based company Rebel Ink, $20), high-quality diaper bags (that don't actually look like diaper bags), strollers, nursery accessories, and unique gifts is unmatched. The Nordeast storefront has been a regular stop of mine since my sister announced her pregnancy last summer.
Now, four years after its debut, Pacifier owners Jon Wittuhn and Quyen Tran are riding the store's success by opening a second location in downtown this spring. Stocked with a slightly smaller selection than its flagship locale, the new store will be situated on the first level of the Saks Off 5th wing of Gaviidae Common. An exact opening date has yet to be set, but I'll be sure to keep you skyway shoppers informed!
Until then, stop by the original location, or visit Pacifier's website to check out clearance prices on select furniture and boys' and girls' winter apparel.
Pacifier, 310 E. Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-623-8123
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For thirty-seven years, Brazilian-born Carlos Falchi’s rule-breaking talent for designing luxury handbags has influenced the fashion and design industries. Falchi counts style mavens Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Sharon Stone, Nancy Reagan, Ann Bancroft, Tina Turner, and Cate Blanchett as customers. He has been recognized by the industry with multiple awards, and Women’s Wear Daily anointed his unconstructed, unlined buffalo satchel "the most copied bag in the industry.” I was able to nab a few minutes from the busy NYC-based designer to ask him about trends as he prepares to come to the Twin Cities for a trunk show at Pumpz & Co.
Q. You got your start as a designer in the film and music industry designing for stars, such as Miles Davis and Tina Turner, and movies, such as The Way We Were and Honeymoon in Vegas. How did you make the transition to a handbag designer?
A. When I was a costume designer, I used to make little handbags for friends and for myself. Everyone always encouraged me to sell them, but it was Herbie Hancock’s wife who encouraged me to go to Henri Bendel’s to show them my collection. She set up a meeting for me with Bendel’s, and they loved my collection—they bought everything on the spot. But it was the handbags that really flew off the shelf, and over time, that became my main focus.
Q. Do you have a muse?
A. Because I am a watercolor painter, art is my muse. Art encourages me to experiment with colors, textures, and mediums.
Q. For a lady with a limited budget, what are the three handbags she needs in her wardrobe?
A. All a woman really needs is a great clutch and a great tote, a combination that will allow any stylish woman to easily go from workday appointments to evening cocktails.
Q. Where do you go for inspiration?
A. I love nature and traveling, and both, along with art, are essential to my design process. From the beach in Greece to a market in Turkey, I love to be any place where you can see and feel colors.
Q. What are the big handbag trends that will surface over the next few seasons?
A. Trends always take a little while to settle, and although it has been around for a few seasons, the oversized handbag will continue to be important. Women are on the move now more than ever, and a large handbag is an extension of her home, a transportable vessel of her property. Also, mixed media bags that are collages of colors and textures will be important. The mixed media is more economical because its multiple leathers, skins, or colors allows for more use of a handbag.
All the girls at the Carlos Falchi headquarters carry the black shrunken lambskin hobo-style bag ($795).
Falchi's most popular clutch is the standard flat crocodile clutch ($1,445). In yellow, it is a perfect complement to spring's bright fashions.
The price and size are right on Carlos Falchi's 597 MicroFibre tote ($255). The shiny, faux-skin exterior and large size make it great for toting around all of your day's needs.
Carlos Falchi trunk show, Friday, March 7, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Pumpz & Co., Galleria, 952-926-2252, RSVP to 612-333-1723
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No one can argue that Target has not made serious strides in the past few years to appeal to the fast-fashion, designer-hungry crowd. We all know about Tar-jay’s partnership with Isaac Mizrahi as well as designers such as Proenza Schouler, Behnaz Sarafpour, and Erin Fetherston with GO International.
Yet although Target has made headway in the accessories department during the past year—through collaborations with Rafe (handbags), Devi Kroell (handbags), and Loeffler Randall (shoes and handbags)—the one place it has always lagged behind is the jewelry area. But now Target is partnering with designer Joy Gryson of Gryson for a line of practical, luxury handbags and with Subversive’s Justin Giunta (a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist, an artist, and a jewelry, interior, and industrial designer) for a collection of jewelry.
Gryson’s collection will further what Target started to establish with Randall, Kroell, and Rafe—handbags with all of the embellishments and some of the finery of the higher-end styles with a much lower price tag.
Gryson’s handbags are pretty and practical in patent faux leather and on-trend colors, but I am much more excited to see what Target’s first foray into a jewelry partnership will produce.
Subversive for Target is based on Giunta's ethos of more is more.
A turquoise-inspired cameo necklace is given chunky wooden beads and a gold leaf interlude, a gold charm bracelet is abuzz with killer bees and red and gold beads, a five-strand necklace has clusters of faux pearls in a range of subdued colors, an antique-looking locket is opened and overflowing with cascading fringe, and resin bracelets are given antique-inspired appliqués.
As a girl who lives by the more is more ethos, the Subversive for Target collaboration means I will no longer have to run out to MOA’s For Love 21 for a quick accessories fix.
Gryson for Target will be available April 6–June 21.
Subversive for Target will be available March 23–July 20.
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Thursday afternoon, I was speed-reading through my ELLE.com e-newsletter (the subject line read "We know what you'll be wearing next fall," so I was intrigued), when I stumbled across a fashion term I had yet to discover. Carol Han, ELLE.com's market editor, was sharing her thoughts on Paris fashion week. She wrote:
We're only halfway through Paris fashion week and already I'm craving September and the kind of fashion satisfaction that only the Frenchies can give me. I can't wait to get my hands on one of Balenciaga's futuristic, hand-painted structured jackets, or Dries Van Noten's bright blue fox chubby.
A chubby? It was such a funny word to appear in the same sentence as "Dries Van Noten" and "Balenciaga." So, I did what I usually do when I have a fashion question: I e-mailed my friend and colleague Melissa Colgan . . .
On 2/28/08 1:09 PM, "Abby Van Ness" <avanness@mspmag.com> wrote:
What's a chubby? In the fashion sense.
On 2/28/08 1:17 PM, "Melissa Colgan" <mcolgan@mspmag.com> wrote:
A short, overweight man. What is the context?
On 2/28/08 1:19 PM, "Abby Van Ness" <avanness@mspmag.com> wrote:
"I can’t wait to get my hands on one of Balenciaga’s futuristic,
hand-painted structured jackets, or Dries Van Noten’s bright blue fox
chubby."
On 2/28/08 1:22 PM, "Melissa Colgan" <mcolgan@mspmag.com> wrote:
My guess would be that it is some oversized sweater, big chunky neck. Let
me see if I can find out.
On 2/28/08 1:25 PM, "Melissa Colgan" <mcolgan@mspmag.com> wrote:
Okay. Here we go.
Good terminology find.
Actually, now I kind of want a Chubby. Funny because it is a totally derogatory term in typical usage. Only fashion editors would turn it into something chic and cool.
P.S. Erin [associate editor at Mpls.St.Paul] would never let me use that term.
So there you have it. A "chubby" is a short, chunky, fur (or faux fur) jacket, shown here at Dries Van Noten's show. We'd been seeing them on the runways but didn't know a term had been coined.
More proof? When Cathy Horyn of The New York Times uses the word in her On the Runway blog, you know it's official. Something tells me the term might be sneaking into Mpls.St.Paul's fashion coverage . . .
One of the many perks of our jobs here as lifestyle editors is being able to put our thumbs on new trends before they actually become trends. About this time last year, my editor Jayne mentioned to me that she kept seeing these clover-like symbols all over the place in design magazines—rugs, a bed frame, a lamp—as |
