Posts Tagged ‘shopbop.com’
Trending: Rainbow Brights
Tuesday, March 8th, 2011
Spring always gives Chicago a positive, energy-infused attitude adjustment. What better way to commemorate this long-awaited mood swing than with a full spectrum of rainbow brights? This season, add life back into your wardrobe with playful hues, like tangerine, hot pink, electric blue, sunshine yellow and–my favorite–neon green.
There may be many bold colors to choose from, but there’s even more ways to incorporate them into your look. Instead of the predictable graphic prints of seasons past, try one of spring’s biggest trends: colorblocking. Mix high-impact separates in different hues to wow on the street. If that sounds too loud for your taste, just incorporate color with small accents like a skinny belt, cross-body bag and nail polish. Minimal classics and monochromatic whites are an immaculate backdrop for pops of color. Or, for the disco queens out there, embrace the 70’s revival with glittery, silky fabrics paired with gold accessories.
Whichever style resonates with you, don’t be intimated by vibrant hues. They have the innate power to bring excitement, life and playfulness into your look. To do just that, check out some of our favorite fashion pick-me-ups below (clockwise from left):
1. Lavin Summer 2011 satin gown in poppy
2. American Apparel “Manilla” nail polish ($6; American Apparel)
3. Nixon “Marmalade Marble Vega” watch ($60; Nixon)
4. Jil Sander long pleated skirt ($895; Neiman Marcus)
5. Rebecca Minkoff “Grape Studded Rockette” bag ($150; Gavin; 1939 Central Street, Evanston)
6. Issa halter gown ($714; shopbop.com)
7. Rag & Bone cobalt denim legging ($185; Intermix)
8. Logan blue metallic platform sandals ($160; Topshop)
9. Petit Bateau yellow raincoat ($144; Penelope’s, 1913 W Division Street)
10. Asos lime belt ($14, asos.com)
By Maia McGinley
Images courtesy of Lavin, American Apparel, Nixon, Neiman Marcus, Gavin, shopbop.com, Intermix, Topshop, Penelope’s and asos.com
Tags: American Apparel, asos.com, Chicago Boutiques, GAVIN, Intermix, Issa, Jil Sander, Lavin, Neiman Marcus, Nixon, Penelope's, Petit Bateau, Rag & Bone, Rebecca Minkoff, shopbop.com, Summer 2011 Trends, Topshop, Trends
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On Point
Tuesday, February 15th, 2011
I never thought I’d support a revival of the pointy-toe shoe, but after years of round shapes and months of clunky boots, this classic style couldn’t be more refreshing. Unlike most footwear trends that rotate out of the closet after a season or two, the right pair of pumps are an investment that will reemerge for decades. Why? They’re timeless, versatile and loved by woman of all ages.
Basically, pointy-toe pumps equip us shoe collectors with all the practical reasons to justify coming home with another box of Manolos. Pointy toes transition from season to season, and more importantly for modern ladies, from day to night. There’re an array of styles–from d’Orsay stilettos to unconventional straps to kitten heels–that suit every occasion and taste. Whether your style is classic, edgy, glam or preppy, and you’re headed to work, date or cocktail reception, you’ll delight in all the pointy styles available for spring.
Practicality aside, though, there’s another reason these shoes are a must have: attitude. Ladylike yet fierce, these heels have a way of saying, “I’m sweet and classy, but get the hell out of my way.” Ranging from conservative ‘50s styles to full-out mod, pointy toes can tone down or amp up a look with their leg-lengthening silhouette, eye-catching embellishments, austere cuts and slew of delicious colors.
Simply choose one (or two, or three…) of the hundreds styles and pair it with cocktail dresses, pencil skirts, tapered trousers, boyfriend jeans, miniskirts, et al. One can’t deny the resurgence of this timeless trend is one chic, fashionably versatile move that allows us to accent just about any outfit with pointy toes. This spring, I think you’ll all join me by saying, “Welcome back, pointy-toe pumps!”
Clockwise from upper left:
1. Schutz lavender suede pump ($214; shopbop.com). The chicest pump for spring. Understated enough for work, pretty enough for tea and fierce enough for drinks.
2. Kate Spade “Licorice” pump ($285; Shirise; 341 Park Avenue, Glencoe, IL). Basic, black and just plain sexy.
3. Valentino studded lace ankle wrap pump ($995; Neiman Marcus). Edgy and fearless. This shoe is not what you would expect from a comfortable and surprisingly versatile shoe.
4. Blue pointed pump ($90; Zara). There’s a reason Elvis wrote a song about blue suede shoes. Colorful, fun and a perfect pick-me-up to cure the winter doldrums.
5. Giuseppe Zanotti red patent leather “V” strap pump ($550; Saks Fifth Avenue). Va-va-voom! Femme fatale at its best.
6. Christian Louboutin “Pigalili 120 mm” ($3,545; Christian Louboutin). The power to stop ‘em dead in their tracks. Literally.
7. Messeca “Jesenia” pump ($110; Pump Shoes and Accessories; 1659 W Division Street). Add some swing to your swagger with these show-stoppers.
8. Topshop “Glitz Bow Point Court Shoe” ($125; Topshop). Conservative for the office, but fashion-forward for the weekend.
By Maia McGinley
Images courtesy of shopbop.com, Kate Spade, Neiman Marcus, Zara, Saks Fifth Avenue, Christian Louboutin, Pump Shoes and Accessories, and Topshop
Tags: Accessories, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Fashion, Christian Louboutin, Giuseppe Zanotti, Heels, Kate Spade, Messeca, Neiman Marcus, Pump Shoes and Accessories, Saks Fifth Avenue, Schultz, Shoes, shopbop.com, Topshop, Trends, Valentino, Zara
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Simply Fabulous: 3.1 Phillip Lim’s Rope Necklace
Sunday, January 9th, 2011
With the passing of holiday festivities, focus turns to a holiday of different sorts: vacations spent lounging on the beach. Resort wear is a cure for the winter blues, and this rope necklace by 3.1 Phillip Lim ($225; shopbop.com) does just that.
Tags: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Accessories, Necklace, shopbop.com
Posted in Simply Fabulous | No Comments »
Where the Wild Things Are
Thursday, January 6th, 2011
There’s a “certain something” about animal prints. They’re sexy, statement-making and maintain their place on today’s fiercest catwalks. Designers like Dolce & Gabbana and Roberto Cavalli, both of whom are notorious for their use of animal-inspired collections, never disappoint when it comes to using these feminine, exotic prints in their collections. Such options include leopard, cheetah, reptile and even birds of paradise–all symbolizing the timelessness fashion can possess. From Grace Kelly to Kate Moss, the animal trend is a favorite of style icons who embrace their wilder side. Despite the pattern, these classic prints add a retro yet playful approach to any outfit.
Leopard and snake prints are fan favorites for their chameleon-like wearability. For those who prefer a pop of color, peacock prints create an energetic, flirty look. Regardless, pair your animal print with a neutral, solid counterpart, or take a walk on the wild side and pair it with a tamed, contrasting print. Additionally, printed accessories are a subtle way to add flare to your outfit while still being refined and chic.
Not only are the animal-inspired fashions endless for Winter 2010 and Spring 2011, they’re so much fun to wear. And isn’t that the ultimate fashion bonus?
Clockwise from left:
1. Runway look from Dolce & Gabbana’s Spring ’11 collection
2. Akira Black Label zebra-print dress ($77; Akira)
3. Zebra tights ($18; Topshop)
4. Patterson J. Kincaid “African Cheetah Salvador” tank dress ($76; Bloomingdales)
5. Foley+Corrina bag is snake-embossed leather bag ($495; SHE Boutique)
6. Chelsea Flower leopard blouse ($190; Tula; 3738 N Southport Avenue)
7. Ash Impuls leopard-print flats ($150; shopbop.com)
By Courtney Cunniff
Images courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana, Akira, Topshop, Bloomingdales, SHE Boutique, Tula and shopbop.com
Tags: Akira, Ash Impulse, Bloomingdales, Chelsea Flower, Chicago Shopping, Dolce & Gabbana, Foley + Corinna, Patterson J. Kincaid, She Boutique, shopbop.com, Topshop, Tula
Posted in StyleBlog | 2 Comments »
The Fall Maxi
Thursday, November 18th, 2010
Eureka! Finally a modest trend surfaces! The maxi dress is essential in warmer months, and now its effortless, comfortable style can continue into the cooler seasons as well. A plethora of floor-grazing skirts and dresses have emerged, and the new looks pack more versatility and variety than the average summer frock. The styles range from cotton tanks, stretch tees and long-sleeved jersey, and the options get more dynamic from there. Interesting prints or dressier fabrics, like silk and chiffon, are just as wearable. Regardless, the simple, forgiving silhouette is as flattering as a pair of jeans.
The maxi is an appropriate option for any occasion, be it a black tie affair or trip to the grocery store. Wear it like a blank canvas: Dress it up with statement jewelry and sky-high ankle boots for date night; add a cardigan, belt and flats for casual Friday; or mix in motorcycle boots and a slouchy knit hat for an afternoon shopping in Bucktown. Even summer styles can transition into fall and winter. Pair airy styles with heavier layers, such as a fur vest, tights and lace-up boots, for an on-trend approach. Or, throw a chunky sweater over a summer maxi dress for a completely new look.
No matter what maxi you choose–skirt or dress, new or old–this fall staple is a starting point for any style-worthy look.
From left to right:
1. Chiffon full-length skirt ($58; American Apparel)
2. Classic long-sleeve dress with pocket ($106; Alexander Wang)
3. Knitted long skirt with pleated waist ($80; Zara)
4. “Read Across” maxi dress ($198; Free People)
5. Ralph Lauren “Lenorah” dress ($12,000; Ralph Lauren)
6. A.L.C. long “Veronica” dress ($440; shopbop.com)
Images courtesy of American Apparel, Alexander Wang, Zara, Free People, Ralph Lauren and shopbop.com
Tags: Alexander Wang, American Apparel, Free People, Ralph Lauren, shopbop.com, Zara
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Naughty Meets Nice
Monday, October 11th, 2010
I must admit that with the arrival of fall, my inner vixen comes out. I trade in my innocent floral frocks for a decidedly darker look. In past seasons, I’ve craved tough leather jackets and motorcycle boots, and that’s still the case for Fall 2010. However, I decided to take a softer, yet still sexy approach. Enter my new favorite fabric pairing: leather and lace.
The coupling of these two unlikely fabrics creates a fashion juxtaposition that’s hard to resist. Soft, supple leathers meet delicate lace for a combination that makes a downtown ensemble that’s distinctly ladylike too. To keep the look current, stick with black leather and white or cream laces. Looking to sharpen your edge? Pair with a strong red lip and layered silver chains, nothing is chicer.
Channel your inner vamp with the below items (clockwise from upper left):
1. CCSkye “Nika Lace Leather Pouchette” ($308; shopbop.com). From the shape to the print, this on-trend bag is perfectly girly.
2. Lace tee ($110; J. Crew). A dressed up fabric in a laid-back cut.
3. Christian Louboutin “Lace Crepe-de-Chine” pump ($725; Bergdorf Goodman). The ultimate feminine pump: sexy and ladylike.
4. Diane von Furstenberg tiered leather skirt ($625; Cusp). Flirty and romantic with an edge.
5. Dolce Vita leather lace-up boots ($212; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). This boot’s laces give it a throwback vibe, but the buckle and shape make it au courant.
6. Leather biker jacket ($310; Topshop) A tough jacket to contrast delicate laces.
By Leslie Garry
Images courtesy of shopbop.com, J.Crew, Bergdorf Goodman, Cusp, Lori’s Shoes and Topshop
Tags: Bergdorf Goodman, CCSkye, Christian Loutboutin, Cusp, Diane Von Furstenberg, Dolce Vita, J.Crew, Lace, Leather, Lori's Shoes, shopbop.com, Topshop, Trends
Posted in StyleBlog | 2 Comments »
Trending: Medallian Necklaces
Wednesday, September 29th, 2010
I may not be drawn to jewelry like most women, but I still feel the need to invest in at least one accessory that carries me through the season. With fall comes the desire to tweak one’s wardrobe, and since I have worn my chunky statement rings to the bone, I’m taking a new appraoch to accessorizing. Enter: the long-chain, medallion necklace.
This belly-grazing accessory claims the spotlight for fall. The abundance of styles can cause one’s indecisiveness to surface, but whether you choose a vintage medallion, whimsical charm or a bold pendant, you can literally do no wrong in the selection and styling. Use it to dress up a t-shirt and jeans, update a little black dress or add some glam to a chunky fall knit.
Go for a sophisticated, 70′s look by combining a vintage-inspired necklace with wide-leg jeans and a silk blouse; or try piling on multiple chains for a gypsy feel. If you’re an 80’s gal, mimic Madonna with the comeback of Rosary-inspired cross. Get adventurous and even try wearing the strand backwards with a backless top or dress.
Accessories complete a look—they’re the icing on the cake, and these long-chain, medallion necklaces make it easy to add interest to both statement-making and simplistic ensembles. This versatile piece has maintained its staying power by resurfacing for decades. Though these trinkets are housed in nearly every closet, there’s always room for expansion. Here’s some of our favorite medallion necklaces for Fall 2010.
From left to right:
1. Jennifer Tuton gold rings necklace ($196; Perchance Boutique; 3512 N Southport Avenue)
2. Whistle necklace ($140; Cynthia Rowley; 1653 N Damen Avenue)
3. Jules “Bijoux Pegasus Ox” layer necklace ($175; shopjules.com)
4. Alexis Bittar starburst pendant necklace ($295; shopbop.com)
5. AK Vintage “Isle of Earth Necklace” ($104; tobi.com)
6. Guitar necklace ($5; Forever 21)
Images courtesy of Perchance, Cynthia Rowley, Jules, shopbop.com, tobi.com and Forever 21
Tags: Accessories, AK Vintage, Alexis Bittar, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion, Cynthia Rowley, Fall 2010, Forever 21, Jennifer Tuton, Jules, Necklaces, Perchance Boutique, shopbop.com, Tobi.com
Posted in Features | 1 Comment »
Trending: Camel Garments
Sunday, September 19th, 2010
While Chloé has been sending camel-laden garments down the runway for several seasons now, the fashion world finally named camel one of the hottest shades for Fall/Winter 2010. You can’t pick up a September issue without seeing this neutral hue dominate spread after spread. A far cry from last year’s jewel tones, it’s classic, warm and buttery. The pieces that incorporate this shade are undeniably elegant and timeless, including menswear, knits, skinny jeans and handbags.
Camel is a chameleon of a color that can create looks that range from military to office-chic. One of my favorite ways to wear this trend is to pair it with crisp whites or by opting for a monochromatic, head-to-toe camel-hued ensemble. Now, if you want a burst of color to jazz up such a neutral outfit, add one of the season’s beauty trends: Bordeaux nails and lips.
Indulge in the below luxurious neutral items on your next fall shopping binge.
Clockwise from upper left:
1. APC corduroy blazer ($400; Net-a-Porter). A luxe velvet blazer to dress up your slim cargos.
2. Chloé ribbed wool skirt ($490; Nordstrom). A form fitting skirt to offset a billowy silk blouse.
3. J Brand skinny twill jeans ($111; shopbop.com). A sleek pant to go with everything.
4. Romygold biker slash tote ($585; Intermix). An edgy handbag sporting this season’s hottest hue.
5. Mackage “Bessie” hand-woven cape ($495; Perchance; 3512 N Southport Avenue). A cozy knit in a fashion-forward shape.
6. Smythe cadet coat ($995; Nordstrom). The quintessential fall coat with impeccable tailoring.
By Leslie Garry
Images courtesy of net-a-porter.com, Nordstrom, shopbop.com, Perchance boutique and Intermix
Tags: Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Shopping, Fall 2010, Intermix, net-a-porter.com, Nordstrom, Perchance Boutique, shopbop.com, Trends
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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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Lolla Style #1: Music Inspiration
Tuesday, July 20th, 2010
There’s no better place than Chicago during the first weekend in August. Since I missed Coachella earlier this summer, I’ll definitely be at Lollapalooza—blanket and camera in tow. The three-day festival melds my passions for music and style, and because one often inspires the other, my Lolla looks nod to the musicians I can’t wait to see. While I want my get-ups to seem effortlessly superb, there’s still a decent amount of planning to stylishly battle the heat and humidity.
FRIDAY
Shown above
Though I’m not a die-hard fan of her music, I do admire Gaga’s humor and artistry. The lady sure knows how to fly her freak flag, so I’ll honor her opening day performance with skin-tight Lycra and quirky pieces.
1. Quontom cutout dress ($90; Topshop). Edgy cut outs are cool and hot.
2. Dolce Vita “Indy” shoes ($36; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). While sky-high heels are more Gaga’s style, they just aren’t practical for Lolla.
3. “Chain Mail Perfection” body jewelry ($300; Litter San Francisco). Fashion-forward enough to make Gaga herself jealous, this embellishment is bound to be a conversation piece.
4. Paloma vintage sunglasses ($173; Akira; 1849 W North Avenue). An interesting, modern approach that rivals Gaga’s standout eyewear collection.
SATURDAY

I’ll revisit my youth Saturday night. Memories of pre-mainstream Green Day and Social Distortion have inspired me to rock elements of punk and alternative from the early 90’s. Who knew I’d regret dumping my old Doc Martens?
1. Urban renewal cutoff shorts ($28; Urban Outfitters). Denim shorts are a festival must-have—hands down.
2. Vintage Doc Martens ($128; Free People). Comfortable boots to trek Grant Park.
3. Plaid “Dakota Gilet” ($68; AllSaints). The cut-off sleeves are edgy and airy.
4. “Yes please” cutoff tank ($64; The Trend Boutique). Nothing says “punk” like pairing stripes with plaid.
5. “Diego” bucket bag ($825; Alexander Wang). This gorgeous cross-body bag keeps hands free and luggage minimal.
6. Ray Ban wayfarer sunglasses ($170; Sunglass Hut). You can’t go wrong with this classic.
7. Low Luv knuckle ring ($80; Saks Fifth Avenue). Positively badass.
SUNDAY

If I survive this music marathon, the carefree, barefoot hippie within will shine through on Sunday. What better way to come off an intense weekend than to lounge in the grass swaying to tunes? Wolfmother (hauntingly reminiscent of Led Zeppelin) evokes a laid-back vibe that carries me back in time when peace, love and music ruled the earth.
1. Shady Brady hat ($70; Alcala’s; 1733 W Chicago Avenue). Be weary of UV rays by shading your face from the summer sun.
2. Nightcap Clothing “Penelope” dress ($275; Shopbop). Beat the heat with an airy white dress.
3. Vintage bottle necklace ($578; Free People). A perfect addition to the part boho, part rock ensemble.
4. Zara Terez holster bag ($125; p.45; 1643 N Damen Avenue). The most practical festival bag yet; it’s just big enough for all your necessities.
5. Hudson buckle boot ($345; Niche; 1566 N Damen Avenue). Add a masculine touch to an otherwise feminine outfit.
Images courtesy of Topshop, Lori’s Shoes, Litter San Francisco, Akira, Urban Outfitters, Free People, AllSaints, The Trend Boutique, Alexander Wang, Sunglasses Hut, Saks Fifth Avenue, Alcala’s, shopbop.com, P.45, and Niche
Tags: Akira, Alcala's, Alexander Wang, AllSaints, Chicago Festival Style, Chicago Shopping, Doc Martens, Dolce Vita, Free People, Litter San Francisco, Lollapalooza Style, Lori's Shoes, Low Luv, Niche, Nightcap Clothing, P.45, Paloma, Quontom, Ray Ban, Saks Fifth Avenue, Shady Brady, shopbop.com, Street Style, Sunglasses Hut, The Trend Boutique, Topshop, Urban Outfitters, Zara Terez
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