Posts Tagged ‘Tania Spinelli’

Boutique Spotlight: Sarca

Wednesday, May 5th, 2010

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.

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

Tags: Alexis Cozzini, Bourne, Camilla & Marc, CC Skye, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Shopping, Contrarian, Damen+Division, Generation Love, Jane Carr, Jen Kao, Jonathan Saunders, Leopoldo Giordano, Liza + Tara, Markus Lupfer, Ruthie Davis, Sarca, Sass & Bide, Tania Spinelli
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Fashion Events This Weekend: Trunk Shows Galore

Friday, April 23rd, 2010

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 35^th 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

Tags: Akira, Beta Boutique, Chicago Events, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Shopping, Dangerous Curves Ahead, fugudesigns, Jodi Arnold, Krista K, Michelle Tan, Nine West, Nordstrom, Sarca, Sway Jewelry, Tania Spinelli, Treasure Gypsy, Veruca Salt, Zac Posen for Target
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