Going to the Pros: Style Advice From Lissa on Maxwell
Women often take an introverted approach to shopping. We keep to ourselves, rarely asking for help unless we can’t find our size or need a fitting room. But storeowners, managers and associates are often an untapped style resource that can create inspired outfits shoppers may not have otherwise considered. After all, a fresh perspective can go a long way, and who better to give that perspective than those working in your favorite stores?
For Style Admirer’s first photo shoot, we did just that. We asked Lissa Shipley, owner of Lissa on Maxwell in the South Loop, to pull together some impossibly chic outfits just for us. Lissa’s highly edited selection oozes urban sophistication, understated luxury and forward-thinking style with its distinct mix of classic and mod. We fell in love with each sartorial creation from her collection of lesser-known, up-and-coming designers from around the world.
Above and below: Diagonal zip jacket with sculpted shoulder, $516; wool pencil skirt with ruffle and zip back, $395. Both by Willow.
The looks Lissa concocted have us covered for work, weekend, evening and beyond. For the office, what woman doesn’t love an immaculately tailored suit? This wool two-piece has clean lines, structured shoulders, and zipper and ruffle detail that totally trump traditional workwear. Separate the suit, and the jacket could easily become your go-to garment this fall and winter. Wear it unzipped with a soft tee and a wide-leg or cropped jean for an effortlessly chic look. Pair the skirt with a ladylike white button-down shirt or a body con black top for a makeshift LBD.
For a look that goes from work to weekend faster than you can say TGIF, Lissa mixed formalwear and streetwear in an unexpected way. The uniform-like formality of the suiting jacket and the printed navy silk top has a youthful spin when paired with the gray twill hotpant. From the top’s accordion fringe tie to the matching silk scarf to the seams on the pant, this outfit pays particular attention to detail.
Above (clockwise from upper left): Lissa Shipley, owner of Lissa on Maxwell. Model in the printed silk blouse with fringe tie, $321, and matching scarf, $233; three-quarter sleeve wool suiting jacket, $396; gray twill stretch hotpant with seam detail, $198. All by Robebjer. Crinkled leather jacket with barbel “spine” back by Grai, $1,395. Multi-strand bracelets, both $345, and multi-strand braided bracelet, $220. All by Winifred Grace.
We couldn’t get enough of the dramatic skirt and leggings combo. With its feminine shapes, rich textures and humble sexiness, this gorgeous look is girly-girl meets rocker chic. The metallic sheen of the skirt, drapery of the top, and the leather-like luster of the leggings hit the season’s biggest trends square on the head. Since savvy shopping is always on our mind, we saw a world of possibilities when mixing-and-matching these pieces with items already in our closet.
Above: Draped viscose top in charcoal by Jarbo, $154; coated basket weave skirt by Lerario Beatriz, $340; pearlized Lycra stirrup leggings by Lerario Beatriz, $270; chain and rhinestone bracelet by Winifred Grace, $220.
Menswear was all over the fall runways, so we were delighted when Lissa threw this green wool boyfriend coat into the mix. The garment’s strong shape and oversized lapels have a raw masculinity that’s softened by the lacey mock turtleneck bodysuit and rhinestone and chain necklace. The black harem pant is a gutsy yet fashion-forward addition to this bold look.
Above: Green double-breasted wool boyfriend coat by Robebjer Spencer, $506; short sleeve, mock turtleneck bodysuit in a lace pattern by Coven, $235; wool crepe harem pant by Lerario Beatriz, $327; chain and rhinestone necklace by Winifred Grace, $327.
These outfits are a mere glimpse at the power of Lissa on Maxwell. You can walk out of the store with a new season favorite or a new wardrobe, but either way, Lissa makes sure her clients’ purchases are practical ones. “We discuss every which way they could style [purchases] to achieve different looks,” says Lissa. “We talk about what they already have at home because, especially during these economic times, it’s important to edit wisely.” And since Lissa is in the boutique nearly every day, she’ll be around to help you with your wardrobe additions as well.
Lissa on Maxwell, 729 W Maxwell Street, lissaonmaxwell.com.
Photographer: Chelcie S. Porter
Model: Nicky Androes
Stylist: Lissa Shipley
Creative Director: Meghan Turner
Makeup: Jennifer Schulze
Tags: Boutiques, Chicago Fashion, Lissa on Maxwell, Trends
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October 17, 2009 | 1 Comment
