Posts Tagged ‘Jeffrey Campbell’
Transitioning Into Fall
Sunday, August 29th, 2010
With sunny skies and temperatures in the high 80’s, it’s hard to believe fall is upon us. The evidence is in every store and boutique I set foot in, each one packed with a new season of fashion I can’t wait to wear. Neutral palettes, utilitarian garb, bold patterns and statement accessories are here to stay even as the weather changes. While I break out my leather jacket and knee-high boots at fall’s first chill, there are trends from Spring/Summer 2010 I am holding onto for as long as possible. Cut-out wedges, Lucite accessories and short shorts are a few that make the cut, as they transition so effortlessly into fall.
These pieces are on my fall “keep list” because they take just a little adjusting to make them fit for next season. After all, isn’t summer worth holding onto as long as possible here in Chicago?
1. Theory “Iselin” leather shorts ($315; Bloomingdales). Leather shorts were big for summer, and lucky for us the heavy fabric can be easily paired with colored and textured tights for crisp nights.
2. Plastic Island tunic ($127; plasticisland.com). What I paired with denim cutoffs and flip flops for summer is now the ideal knit with leggings and combat boots.
3. Jeffrey Campbell “Mary Roks” ($120; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). Open-toed wedges aren’t just for warm weather. Rock these with tights to keep them relevant.
4. Solid ripstop field jacket ($98; J.Crew). Use this lightweight jacket as a layering piece over a chunky sweater.
5. Frozen Flash necklace ($58; Anthropologie). Lucite accessories aren’t only summer staples; extend your purchase by incorporating them into fall’s day and night looks.
6. Alice + Olivia painted floral print top ($187; Cusp). A lightweight floral tank with a vibrant fall palette—a feminine accompaniment with a leather bomber.
By Leslie Garry
Images courtesy of Bloomingdales, plasticisland.com, Lori’s Shoes, J.Crew, Anthropologie and Cusp
Tags: Alice + Olivia, Anthropologie, Bloomingdales, Cusp, Fall 2010 Trends, J.Crew, Jeffrey Campbell, Lori's Shoes, plasticisland.com, Theory
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Chicago Boutique Profile: Pump
Wednesday, August 11th, 2010
Everyone has his/her favorite neighborhood joint. Maybe it’s the corner bar, the local deli or the coffee shop that has your latte ready before you order. Well, my favorite spot serves a different kind of deliciousness altogether. Pump Shoes and Accessories (1659 W Division Street) is a retail wonderland where I find respite in a tempting selection of footwear and the promise of unsurpassed customer service.
Upon entering, it’s apparent that though the shoes are perched like mini pieces of art, the boutique is unpretentious and cozy. A gigantic, plush ottoman sits beneath a twinkling chandelier, beaconing shoppers to plop down and try on a pair (or two or three…). The boutique carries styles ranging from casual to formal by labels including Dolce Vita, Hunter, Calvin Klein, Jeffrey Campbell (“a bestseller,” according to owner Maureen Longua Bueltmann) and many more. In addition to the impressive shoe collection, Pump sells accessories galore: handbags, jewelry and hats worthy of the Kentucky Derby.
Pump has provided fabulous accessories to Wicker Park’s shoe addicts since 2004. When asked why she only sells shoes and accessories Maureen replies, “You never have to suck in your gut to wear them.” Unlike trying on clothes, shoes come without consequence and the need to lose five pounds. Guaranteed happiness!
Besides the irresistible selection, much of the shop’s 6-year success is rooted in Maureen’s commitment to her clientele. “As cliché as it may sound, they come here for the experience, and we come to work for the same reason,” she says. “I love what I do because of the customers.” As a cult follower I agree, and weirdly enough, my boyfriend does too. While on an agonizing search for my birthday gift, he wandered into Pump. In 10 minutes, the staff helped him find the best present I’ve ever received. They knew my name, knew my wish list and, craziest of all, knew my shoe size. The result was a luscious pair of over-the-knee brown leather Jeffrey Campbell boots.
Maureen’s impeccable taste—as my birthday present proves—and enthusiasm for shoes is contagious. “The Pump customer agrees the process of trying on shoes is as much fun as wearing them for the first time,” she says. In a city as diverse as Chicago, it’s easy to find a store where you can enjoy trying on amazing shoes. But, few stores have Pump’s abundant selection, fair price tags and outstanding customer service—the service that builds relationships with shoppers. It’s hard to find a shop where you feel at home, not swindled into a sale or snubbed. Though you won’t be handed a non-fat vanilla latte when walking through the door, you’ll be greeted with something with far more lasting power: an exceptional experience while perusing delcious shoes and accessories.
Images courtesy of Pump
Tags: Calvin Klein, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Shopping, Jeffrey Campbell, Maureen Longua Bueltmann, Pump Boutique, Pump Shoes and Accessories Boutique, Shoes
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Lolla Style #2: Stand-out Style
Monday, August 2nd, 2010
Oh Lolla, how I love you so. For three blissful days, I get to jam out with my favorite bands alongside other sweaty concert-goers. We party through rain or shine against Chicago’s gleaming skyline, yet the weekend isn’t all glow sticks and draft beers. With last year’s temperatures topping 90 degrees and a city-wide influx of urban hipsters, we prepare ourselves to battle the summer heat and crowds vying for the fashion spotlight. Think boho chic meets urban cool to guide this weekend’s wardrobe selections. I know such fashion pressure can be a bit looming, but never fear. My below day-by-day guide to Lolla style can help equip you for what’s always a weekend to remember.
FRIDAY
Shown above
Friday music picks: Strokes, Chromeo and Hot Chip.
Fashion picks: Channeling my inner flower child by rocking a boho maxi with some awesomely retro accessories.
1. What Goes Around Comes Around “Paloma” maxi dress ($278; ASOS). A maxi reminiscent of decades past.
2. House of Harlow “Carnelian” dome ring in Tiger’s Eye ($70; singer22.com). A festival-worthy bauble.
3. Tom Ford “Nicole” sunglasses ($390; Barneys). Rose tinted shades with a retro-glam feel.
4. Jeffrey Campbell “Snick” wedges in olive ($138; Lori’s Shoes). A clog meets a wedge for a modern interpretation of this throwback trend.
SATURDAY

Saturday music picks: Phoenix, Cut Copy, Empire of the Sun.
Fashion picks: Mixing girlie and grunge with the perfect denim cutoffs, wrap strap booties and a ruffled floral tank.
1. Jeffrey Campbell wrap strap booties ($230; shopbop.com). Rugged boots to protect your feet while treking from stage to stage.
2. Blank Denim patchwork cutoff shorts ($79; Saks Fifth Avenue). Bleached and ripped, just how jean shorts were meant to be.
3. Madewell floral tiered tank ($88; shopbop.com). A flirty, sheer tank to stay cool.
4. Rebecca Minkoff boyfriend crossbody bag ($295; Intermix). A rocker-chic messenger makes it easier to get through the crowds.
SUNDAY

Sunday music picks: Yeasayer, Arcade Fire, Temper Trap.
Fashion picks: Ending the weekend on a high note by standing out in a neon tribal romper.
1. Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent cami romper ($275; revolveclothing.com). A lightweight silk romper with a festive print.
2. Ray-Ban wayfarer ($145; Ray-Ban). Classic shades with an edgy vibe.
3. Dolce Vita sandal ($78; Urban Outfitters). Metal accents with a twist – literally.
4. Alexander Wang “Brenda Camera Bag” ($425; Saks Fifth Avenue). A bag to fit only your most precious essentials.
By Leslie Garry
Images courtesy of shopbop.com, Saks Fifth Avenue, Intermix, ASOS, singer22.com, Barneys, Lori’s Shoes, revolveclothing.com, Ray-Ban and Urban Outfitters
Tags: Accessories, Alexander Wang, ASOS, Barneys, Blank Denim, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Chicago Shopping, Chicago Style, Dolce Vita, House of Harlow, Intermix, Jeffrey Campbell, Lori's Shoes, Madewell, Ray Ban, Rebecca Minkoff, revolveclothing.com, Saks Fifth Avenue, shopbop.com, Singer22.com, Tom Ford, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent, Urban Outfitters, What Goes Around Comes Around
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Simply Fabulous: Jeffrey Campbell “Mary Rocks” Wedge
Thursday, January 28th, 2010
Jeffrey Campbell’s new “Mary Rocks” perforated suede wedge ($118; needsupply.com) is quite the sight! The neutral hue and interesting cut-outs make this lace-up heel perfect for spring.
Image courtesy of Need Supply Co.
Tags: Accessories, Heels, Jeffrey Campbell, Mary Rocks, Need Supply Co, Shoes, Wedge
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Trending: Combat Boots
Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009
From left to right: “Studded Vintage Combat Boot” by Free People; “All Combat Boot” by Jeffrey Campbell; “Triumph 1914 Boots” by Dr. Marten’s; and “Refugee Combat Boot” by Joie
It’s coming. It always does. No matter how hard you wish it away, winter is around the corner. To help you brave the icy temps, step out in a pair of fierce combat boots. Even though they may seem a bit too tough for everyday wear, they can actually suit many a styles. These boots will keep you warm while adding a stylish edge to your winter outfits.
The knee-length Joie “Refugee Combat Boot” ($535; Cusp) is made from a distressed leather that gives a flirty sweater or floral dress a rustic spin. For a touch of bling, try the handmade “Studded Vintage Combat Boot” ($388; Free People) with a skinny jean and a chunky knit cardigan. The Jeffrey Campbell “All Combat Boot” ($285; Singer22) looks playful and polished paired with black leggings and a red and black plaid shirt dress. Try lacing this boot halfway for a more relaxed look. Finally, Dr. Marten’s “Triumph 1914 Boots” ($150; Macy’s) with plaid lining has an authentic, down-and-dirty look that adds an unexpected twist to a wool mini skirt, fitted turtleneck and textured tights.
Sometimes grunge can be chic.
By Danielle Parker
Images courtesy of Cusp, Free People, Singer22 and Macy’s
Tags: Accessories, Chicago Shopping, Combat Boots, Dr. Marten’s, Free People, Jeffrey Campbell, Joie, Macy's, Shoes, Trends
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