Posts Tagged ‘Sarca’

Simply Fabulous: Damen + Division Turquoise Drop Earrings

Monday, July 26th, 2010

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Chicago jewelry line Damen + Division makes knock-out statement pieces rooted in artisanal glamour and vintage detail. We love these eye-catching “Suki” gold and turquoise drop earrings ($158; Sarca; 710 N Wabash Avenue).

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Chicago Fashion Weekend Roundup

Friday, July 23rd, 2010

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EVENTS

GAVIN Boutique and Lipstick Dinosaur Party at Vertigo Sky Lounge (2 W Erie Street)
On Friday from 6 to 9pm, GAVIN Boutique and Lipstick Dinosaur invite guests to an evening of cocktails and fashion presentations. RSVP to events@zapwater.com.

SALES

Summer Sizzle Sidewalk Sale (Between Armitage & Division and Western & Ashland)
The Wicker Park and Bucktown Sidewalk Sale is back, offering shoppers major discounts on Saturday (11am to 6pm) and Sunday (12 to 5pm). See our Mil/North/Damen and Division maps for reference.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (Michigan Avenue, Old Orchard and Oakbrook Center locations)
Nordstrom’s famous Anniversary Sale is underway through August 2. Don’t miss this opportunity to save big on the latest fall merchandise.

Lipstick Dinosaur Pop-up Accessories Shop at GAVIN Boutique (1939 Central Street – Evanston)
Lipstick Dinosaur continues its ongoing Pop-up Accessories Shop through the end of July at GAVIN in Evanston. Stop by to view the collection and take advantage of exclusive discounts.

Kate Boggiano Warehouse Sale (2150 S Canalport, 3rd floor)
On Saturday beginning at 8am, Kate Boggiano is having an early bird sale at her studio. Take 60% off at 8am, 50% off at 10am, 40% off at 11am and 30% off at noon.

Best Habit Sale Ever at Habit (1951 W Division Street)
Now through the end of July, swing by Habit for their summer sale, which offers 15-50% off everything in the store.

Sarca Summer Sale (710 N Wabash Street)
Now through the end of August, stop by Sarca and take advantage of the exclusive summer sale. The Gold Coast boutique offers all summer merchandise at discounted prices starting at 40% off.

Sunday Brunch, Sunday Best at Fix and the Publican (1101 and 837 W Fulton Market, respectively)
Now through August 8th, celebrate summer and Sundays with this special discount opportunity. Make a Sunday purchase at Fix Boutique and receive 15% off Sunday brunch at the Publican; grab Sunday brunch at the Publican and get 15% off your Sunday purchase at Fix.

Photography by Ace Ujimori

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Fashion Happenings this Weekend

Friday, July 16th, 2010

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SALES

Armitage/Halsted/Webster Sidewalk Sample Sale in Lincoln Park
Stop by the 14th Annual Sidewalk Sale in Lincoln Park on Saturday (10am to 5pm) and Sunday (11am to 5pm). Plenty of merchants will hold unbeatable summer sales. Be sure to print or pull up our Armitage + Halsted shopping map on your mobile device for reference!

Sarca Summer Sale at Sarca (710 N Wabash Street)
Now through the end of August, stop by Sarca and take advantage of the exclusive summer sale. The Gold Coast boutique offers all summer merchandise at discounted prices starting at 40% off.

Lipstick Dinosaur Pop-up Accessories Shop at GAVIN Boutique (1939 Central Street – Evanston)
Lipstick Dinosaur continues its ongoing Pop-up Accessories Shop through the end of July at GAVIN Boutique in Evanston. Stop by to view the collection and take advantage of exclusive discounts.

Best Habit Sale Ever at Habit (1951 W Division Street)
Now through the end of July, swing by Habit for their summer sale, which offers 15 to 50% off everything in the store.

Gem Summer Sale at Gem Jewelry Boutique (1710 N Damen Avenue)
Till Sunday, customers can take 10 to 40% off  Gem’s designer, estate and antique jewelry.

Indoor Sidewalk Sale at The Denim Lounge (43 E Oak Street)
Friday through Sunday, The Denim Lounge and Madison and Friends will hold an “Indoor Sidewalk Sale” at the Oak Street location. Most items will be 60 to 80% off. Enter discount code “sidewalk” online if you can’t make it in person.

Sunday Brunch, Sunday Best at Fix and the Publican (1101 and 837 W Fulton Market, respectively)
Now through August 8th, celebrate summer and Sundays with this special discount opportunity. Make a Sunday purchase at Fix Boutique and receive 15% off Sunday brunch at the Publican; grab Sunday brunch at the Publican and get 15% off your Sunday purchase at Fix.

Image courtesy of Armitage Halsted Webster Association

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Weekend Fashion Events + Sales

Friday, July 9th, 2010

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EVENTS

Damen + Division Trunk Show at SARCA (710 N Wabash Street)
On Saturday from 10am to 6pm, Sarca will host a Damen + Division Trunk Show featuring the latest collection. Meet designer Sonia Barrett and get a personal style consultation. RSVP to rsvp@shopsarca.com.

Lipstick Dinosaur Pop-Up Accessories Shop at GAVIN Boutique (1939 Central Street – Evanston)
GAVIN partners with Lipstick Dinosaur for a Pop-up Accessories Shop from this Saturday through the 31st. Lipstick Dinosaur will make a personal appearance on Saturday from 12 to 3pm.

Beyond the Garden Gate (Damen Avenue, between North and Armitage Avenues)
On Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 5pm, stroll through 11 participating stores on Damen Avenue for the Beyond the Garden Gate. Enjoy discounts on floral patterned items, plants, jewelry and more.

SALES

Queen of Hearts Sale at Lara Miller (931 W Cornelia Avenue)
Check out the famous Queen of Hearts Sale this Sunday from 12 to 6pm. Either pull a card, roll the dice, or pick your poison for a chance to win an additional discount. All merchandise will be between 30-80% off.

Sunday Brunch, Sunday Best at Fix Boutique and the Publican (1101 and 837 W Fulton Market, respectively)
Starting this Sunday through August 8th, celebrate summer and Sundays with this special discount opportunity. Make a Sunday purchase at Fix Boutique and receive 15% off Sunday brunch at the Publican; grab Sunday brunch at the Publican and get 15% off your Sunday purchase at Fix.

Elda de la Rosa Summer Sample Sale and Party (5555 N Sheridan Road)
On Friday and Saturday, save 25-75% off merchandise during the Elda de la Rosa Summer Sample Sale and Party. Meet Elda while enjoying complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. RSVP to eldadelarosa@rcn.com or call 773.769.3128.

City Soles’ Nickel Sale (2001 W North Avenue)
City Soles’ famous Nickel Sale returns on Friday. Buy one pair at regular price, get one pair for only 5 cents.

Hubba-Hubba Michael Stars Sale (3309 N Clark Street)
From Thursday through Sunday, Hubba-Hubba is offering a buy 2 get 1 free sale on all Michael Stars items.

Image courtesy of Fix Boutique

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Trending: Fringe Detail

Sunday, June 27th, 2010

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Season after season, bohemian influence runs rampant through the fashion world. The hippie-inspired style gives birth to must-have trends almost as many times as Kate Moss and Nicole Richie step out their front door. In the ever-evolving world of boho chic, fringe details are having their moment. The decorative trimming lends attitude and interest to otherwise simple shapes, be it classic or of-the-moment. Though it might be a fleeting fashion sensation, it doesn’t hinder our desire for fringe-laden garments and accessories.  

Spring/Summer 2010 opened the door to a bevy of pieces covered in fringe, like vests, bags, shoes, and jewelry. Basically, anything and everything. Any such item is guaranteed to draw attention, so use fringe sparingly for a look that’s current, fresh and distinctly bohemian. Here’s some of our favorites to date:

Clockwise from upper left:

1. American Retro wool fringed dress ($124; theoutnet.com)
2. Oryany white fringe bag ($325 ; Sarca; 710 N Wabash Avenue)
3. Citrine by the Stones “Rio” earrings ($98; Fix Boutique; 1101 W Fulton Market)
4. Dip dye fringe top ($70; Topshop)
5. Fringe and beaded clutch ($169; asos.com)
6. Vanessa Bruno fringe mini skirt ($450; net-a-porter.com)
7. Alexander Wang “Dree” fringe stiletto ($650; shopzoeonline.com)

By Meghan Turner

Images courtesy of theoutnet.com, Oryany, Citrine by the Stones, Topshop, asos.com, net-a-porter.com, and shopzoeonline.com

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Boutique Spotlight: Sarca

Wednesday, May 5th, 2010

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Unlike most chain stores, boutiques offer an experience. The limited, handpicked selection and intimate, singularly decorated setting go beyond the mere exchange of money for goods. At a boutique, the anticipation of not knowing what you’ll find and how those items will be presented makes the excursion less predictable and far less drab. When I found Sarca, predictable and drab flew right out the storefront window.

Sarca found a niche that separates it from other local boutiques. The shop’s highly edited selection is loaded with Chicago-exclusive labels that fill a breathtaking, rustic-glam space—complete with an antler chandelier and cowhide rug. Located in the Gold Coast, Sarca only opened in November of 2009 and has already found its client: a woman who wants impeccable clothing, shoes and accessories without worrying that she’ll see it on countless other women. “She’s someone who appreciates fashion and wants to stand out,” says Alexis Cozzini, the store’s owner. “She wants something different and wants to be styled.”

Alexis, 27, often styles shoppers herself: another perk that comes with visiting this boutique. She can usually be found in the store helping her customers find that perfect ensemble regardless of the occasion. From cocktail dresses to deconstructed jeans, Sarca has labels you know and many you probably don’t. Like a fashion awakening, the store serves as an introduction to international and up-and-coming designers—like Bourne, Jane Carr, Liza + Tara, and Generation Love—that can’t be found elsewhere in the city. Since Alexis only orders a small sampling of each piece, that designer selection also ensures exclusivity, thus a lack of disgruntling street repeats.

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Clockwise from upper left: Pink cage shoe by Leopoldo Giordano ($445); garments available at Sarca; lavender“ dress by Contrarian ($400); Alexis Cozzini, Sarca’s owner; “Deco” cuff by CC Skye ($245); and the “Odyssey” open-toe pump by Ruthie Davis ($1,095)

The pieces Alexis sells are statement makers. This isn’t the place to find your everyday basics. The selection fuses girly, sexy and edgy aesthetics without being overly trendy. The designs build on classic sensibilities to create fresh and interesting interpretations through dramatic cuts, luxe embellishments, and bold patterns. You can find a lavender cocktail dress by Contrarian (above) that’s perfectly sweet in the front, but a backless cut makes it a little naughty too. Or there’s a relaxed Jonathan Saunders tank that’s a little psychedelic and a lot rock ‘n roll. And the shoes? Oh, the shoes… The selection is incredibly vast for an independent clothing boutique, and the designs are beyond lust worthy. Sarca’s impressive shoe collection includes designs by Tania Spinelli, Leopoldo Giordano (both Chicago exclusives), and Ruthie Davis.

The label selection goes on and on with names like Camilla & Marc, Jen Kao, Markus Lupfer, Sass & Bide, CC Skye, and Damen+Division.  Whether seeking wardrobe additions that are understatedly cool or full-out glamour, Sarca will expand your label awareness and provide a unique fashion experience from the moment you walk through the door.

Sarca, 710 N Wabash Avenue, shopsarca.com

Written and produced by Meghan Turner
Photography by Ace Ujimori and Kaitlyn Groth

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Fashion Events This Weekend: Trunk Shows Galore

Friday, April 23rd, 2010

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FASHION EVENTS

Tania Spinelli Trunk Show and Personal Appearance at Sarca (710 N Wabash Street)
Meet iconic shoe designer Tania Spinelli at Sarca on Saturday (10am to 6pm) or Sunday (12 to 5pm). Preview the Fall 2010 Collection while enjoying a complimentary fit consultation. Space is limited, so RSVP to rsvp@shopsarca.com.

Nine West Fashion Presentation at Nordstrom (55 E Grand Avenue, at Michigan Avenue)
On Friday from 12 to 2pm, Nine West Creative Director Fred Allard and Gossip Girl Stylist Eric Daman will co-host a fashion presentation highlighting the Nine West products exclusive to Nordstrom. The fashion presentation will focus on trends, the diversity of the products, and transitioning the designs from day to night. Both Fred and Eric will participate in a Q&A with the customers.

Zac Posen for Target
This Sunday, the highly anticipated Zac Posen for Target collection hits stores. The wait is finally over!

Veruca Salt Cocktail Party (520 N Kingsbury Avenue)
Starting this Friday from 5 to 7pm, Veruca Salt in River North will host a cocktail party every Friday night this spring and summer. Drinks and snacks will be provided, along with 15% off any regularly priced merchandise.

“Dangerous Curves Ahead” Charity Fashion Show at Zhou B. Art Center (1029 W 35th Street)
On Saturday, join Project Runway’s Ra’Mon Lawrence and other Chicago designers at this charity fashion show. Walk the purple carpet and shop more than 25 vendors. Tickets are still available for purchase.

Jodi Arnold Sample Sale Hosted by Beta Boutique (1725 N Damen Avenue)
On Saturday (10am to 6pm) and Sunday (12 to 5pm), the Jodi Arnold Spring 2010 Sample Sale, hosted by Beta Boutique, will offer more than 700 pieces for up to 80% off. Receive a $50 gift certificate with every purchase while supplies last.

Spring Fever Trunk Show at Michelle Tan (1872 N Damen Avenue)
On Saturday from 11am to 6pm, Michelle Tan hosts a Spring Fever Trunk Show, which will feature jewelry from Treasure Gypsy and fugudesigns. Complimentary wine will be provided.

MMX: The Common Era (659 W Diversey Avenue)
On Sunday beginning at 6:30pm, beam into the future as Akira, Steve Madden & Belvedere Vodka presents the most enterprising and anticipated fashion presentation of the year. Admission is free, but space is limited. RSVP to events@shopakira.com or call 312.324.0348.

Sway Jewelry Trunk Show at Krista K (3458 N Southport Avenue)
View the entire Sway Collection on Friday (10am to 7pm) or Saturday (10am to 6pm). Meet designer Vicki Stauber, and enjoy 20% off the purchase of any two or more pieces.

More Chicago fashion events

Image courtesy of Tania Spinelli

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Trending: Stripes

Tuesday, April 20th, 2010

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Spring 2010 is about making the old new again by taking a timeless look and giving it a fresh spin. As one of the season’s biggest trends, striped garments are one such look. This classic pattern has the surprising ability to take on many personalities: Parisian chic, sporty, nautical, and even bohemian. There are so many striped options out there this season, it seems we can wear the print in any way imaginable.

For a classic approach, go with stripes that are clean and simplistic. There’s the standard black and white stripe, a tried and true staple. The BDG tunic is a perfect basic that can be given a Parisian spin by wearing it with wide-leg trousers and a long, gold chain necklace. Nautical is another trend that’s always big for spring, so head for the high seas in navy and blue stripes with gold accents, like this Markus Lupfer “Allegra” dress.

If you go for a look that’s more edgy, urban and tough, designers have taken a bold approach by stepping alway from the classic stripes. For a look that’s less predictable and structured, wear a graphic stripe with haphazard lines à la Givenchy. For a completely fresh approach, mix a striped tank with contrasting prints, such as paisley short or polka dot cardi. To push the sartorial envelope even further, combine two striped garments of contrasting colors. Finally, if you’re anything like me, spring brings out your inner hippie. I’m following Isabel Marant’s lead and wearing bright, textured stripes on looser fabrics for a look that has globetrotter written all over it.

Here’s some other striped garments that will allow you to wear stripes however you want this season.

Clockwise from upper left:
1. Givenchy striped shoulder pad jacket ($1,275; Givenchy)
2. Juicy Couture striped military cardigan ($248; piperline.com)
3. Isabel Marant “Alamo” silk-chiffon pants ($850; net-a-porter.com)
4. Markus Lupfer striped “Allegra” dress ($350; Intermix or Sarca; 710 N Wabash)
5. Marano clutch by Anya Hindmarch ($161; vivre.com)
6. Paul Smith stripped dress (Paul Smith)
7. Alexander McQueen geometric strip pump ($810; Alexander McQueen)
8. BDG 3/4 sleeve striped tunic ($48; Urban Outfitters)
9. Balenciaga stripped mini dress ($1,641; farfetch.com)

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Givenchy, piperline.com, net-a-porter.com, Intermix, Vivre, Paul Smith, Alexander McQueen, Urban Outfitters, and farfetch.com

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Weekend Fashion Events and Sales

Friday, March 12th, 2010

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Looks from sass & bide’s “Tomorrow the Great” spring/summer 2010 collection

EVENTS

Designer Spring Trunk Show at Macy’s on State Street (111 N State Street)
Today from from 10am-6pm, Macy’s continues to support Chicago designers with the Grand Designer Spring 2010 Trunk Shows.

The sass & bide Event at Sarca (710 N Wabash Street)
On Saturday from 12-6pm, Sarca presents The sass & bide Event, a trunk show featuring “Tomorrow The Great.” Preview the Fall 2010 collection and experience the Spring 2010 collection. RSVP to rsvp@shopsarca.com.

Liberty of London for Target Launches
The beloved British label lands in Target stores this weekend. The cheery collection includes clothing and home goods.

SALES

Beta Boutique’s Store Closing Sale (2016 W Concord Place)
Beta Boutique is closing its Bucktown storefront. Through Sunday, take advantage of huge discounts on top of their low prices on designer clothing and accessories.

Samantha Winter Sale (64 E Walton Street)
Through March 20, save 50% on winter fashions at Samantha. Designer pieces such as Splendid tees, Catherine Malandrino dresses, and Genetic Denim are included!

RE.STOCK Shop Pop-up (3221 N Broadway Street)
RE.STOCK Shop is at its new location this weekend. Stop by for up to 80% off designer labels.

More upcoming Chicago fashion events and sales

Image courtesy of sass & bide

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Slam Dunk

Thursday, March 11th, 2010

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Layup? Point guard? Bank shot? I don’t speak basketball, so March Madness is one of the last things on my radar. This month, though, March Madness is taking on a new meaning. The very posh Tocco (1266 N Milwaukee Avenue) is hosting March Madness for the Fashionista, a month-long series that features four Chicago boutiques: Koros, Sarca, Veruca Salt, and Havilah. Tocco emptied its in-house window display so each boutique can present a weeklong fashion installation of their favorite spring items. Presented in the aforementioned order, each boutique’s designated week will feature a special event in its honor. In addition, when shopping at these stores this month, you will receive a 10% discount to Tocco. If you’ve never been to the chic Italian eatery, you’ll immediately see why the venue is a complementary setting for such an event, and these boutiques—some of my favorite in Chicago—are sure to present some impressive garments. Eating while you window shop. That’s a winning concept in my book.

Here’s a look at each boutique’s event being held at Tocco this month:

KOROS

Koros (1039 W Lake Street) is currently on display at Tocco and features its sensational spring collection (shown above). The reception will be on Thursday, March 11 from 7 to 9:30 pm. Koros radiates the joy of style and offers must-have basics and to-die-for collections, all hand picked by owner Kristen Skordilis. With an innate sense of style, Kristen’s selection includes designers from across the world and close to home.

SARCA

Sarca (710 N Wabash Avenue) will make its Tocco debut the week of March 15, 2010. The reception will be on Thursday, March 18 from 7 to 9:30 pm and will feature internationally acclaimed fashion label Sass and Bide. This new Gold Coast boutique founded by Alexis Cozzini is packed with exclusive lines from all over the world,  catering to women who appreciate exquisite and unrivaled clothing and accessories.

VERUCA SALT

Veruca Salt (1921 N Damen Avenue, 520 N Kingsbury Street) will show off its latest fashions at Tocco the week of March 22, 2010. The reception will be on Thursday, March 25 from 6 to 9 pm, with a trunk show featuring owner Amber Warren’s signature English Muffin line that combines high fashion and everyday wear. Veruca Salt thrives on carrying items customers truly love to wear, including emerging and established designers.

HAVILAH

Havilah (869 N Larrabee Streeet) will be showcasing its finest spring fashions at Tocco the week of March 29, 2010. The reception will be on Thursday, April 1 from 7:30 to 9:30 pm. Havilah’s selection is as unique and fresh as the boutique’s name, which is a biblical reference meaning abundance of blessings and precious jewels. Shoppers find comfort in Havilah’s selection and welcoming atmosphere.

By Meghan Turner

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