Posts Tagged ‘dresses’

Cynthia Rowley Bridesmaids Launches

Wednesday, June 16th, 2010

Last night premiered the Cynthia Rowley Bridesmaid collection here in Chicago. We stopped by the Southport Cynthia Rowely boutique, where the event was held, for a first-hand peak at her eponymous line of dresses. Brides, bridesmaids and everyday shoppers perused the American designer’s (and SAIC alum!) latest collection. With a flute of champagne and an adorable macaroon in hand, we admired the designs that effortlessly synced with Cynthia’s ready-to-wear. Incorporating the rich textures and feminine silhouettes she’s known for, the dresses (ranging from $175-$220) are designed for day and night weddings and can be color coordinated to suit your wedding’s palette. More than that, though, they can be worn even after the reception commences. While most brides boast her bridesmaids can wear their dress “again-and-again,” the reality is very few actually will. These are different. With interesting design elements, like drop-waists and tulle skirts, and luxe fabrics, like duchess satin and cotton sateen, the line makes choosing a style difficult only because there’s so many fabulous ones to choose from.

By Meghan Turner

Images courtesy of Cynthia Rowley

**Stay tuned for more details about Style Admirer’s June 25 wine tasting party with Cynthia Rowley and Bin 36!

 

Tags: Chicago Fashion Events, Cynthia Rowley Boutiques, Cynthia Rowley Bridesmaids, dresses
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In Full Bloom: Floral Dresses

Wednesday, March 24th, 2010

After seeing the burst of floral prints on the Spring 2010 runways, my all-solids wardrobe seemed suddenly drab. These flirty, cheery patterns were popular on the 2009 runways, and that popularity has blossomed into a floral fashion obsession. After all, is there a better way to say hello to the warm weather and sunny days of spring than with a fresh crop of flowery prints?

Floral Dresses have been and will continue to be a universal favorite for spring. The difference, though, from season to season is how we wear it. Capable of being integrated into any personal style, such as hippie chic, bohemian, preppy, indie, or downright girly-girl, these dresses come in a vast assortment of cuts and patterns–from abstract to realistic. Regardless of the pattern, color, cut, et al, the way I’m wearing these ethereal frocks for an evening out is with opaque tights that match the dress’ dominate hue and a pair of caged stilettos (yes, open-toed with tights!). For day, I slip on oxfords and a cross-body bag. When summertime comes around, nix the tights and grab a pair of wedges–and the chunkier the better this season. When accessorizing, keep it simple. The patterns are busy and too many distracting add-ons make the look suddenly overwhelming and over-thought. Never try to hard for any ensemble, especially when workin’ a bold print. The season’s floral dresses are whimsical garments that are surprising versatile when played-up correctly. From a leather-studded belt to wrist-fulls of bangles to three dainty necklaces, there are as many styling options as there are flowers in a flowerbed. Just remember to use moderation so the floral frock pops. Here’s some of my favorite styles this season. Try working one into your look!

Clockwise from upper left:

1. “Floral Print Halter Dress” by Elizabeth and James ($395; Nordstrom)
2. Chicago designer Sophia Reyes’ “Teah” cotton dress ($215; Sophia Reyes)
3. “Neon Floral Dress” by Free People ($98; shopbop.com)
4. Eskell’s “Mia Mustard Floral Ruffle Dress” ($160; Eskell)
5. “Hope Dress” by Dolce Vita ($176; shopbop.com)
6. Stella McCartney’s linen floral Camellia dress ($1,195; Stella McCartney)

By Courtney of ModernJap

Images courtesy of Nordstrom, Sophia Reyes, Shopbop.com, Eskell, and Stella McCartney

Tags: dresses, Eskell, Nordstrom, shopbop.com, Sophia Reyes, Stella McCartney, Trends
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Finally! Jimmy Choo for H&M Hits Stores

Friday, November 13th, 2009

Gray suede dress, $249; zebra flats, $70; blue suede dress, $249, and studded belt, $60; bracelet, $40; black stiletto, $129; leopard print bag, $129; pink clutch, $60; black long-sleeve mini dress, $129; thigh-high boots, $299

H&M has thrown their Jimmy Choo collaboration in our faces for far too long, and tomorrow we finally get to raid the merchandise! Chicago is one of the select cities blessed with the Choo, but the Michigan Avenue location is the only store selling it. Shoppers will be lined up in hopes of adding the famous label to their wardrobes at a fraction of the cost for the real thing. Get there early, though, because the first 160 shoppers will be given bracelets with allotted time slots to shop the accessories, shoes and bags. After two hours, the store will open to all shoppers, allowing everyone else their grab the remaining goods. If you are shopper number 161 and up, one consolation is that everyone can purchase only one of each product. In other words, they can buy the entire collection, but no more than one of any given item. We have our eye on the black long-sleeve mini dress and thigh-high leather boots! Good luck, everyone!

By Meghan Turner

Images courtesy of H&M

Tags: Accessories, boots, Chicago Events, Chicago Shopping, dresses, H&M, Handbags, Jimmy Choo, Shoes
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