2014 Could Be Your Greatest Mistake

With the new year just a few days away it's hard to avoid at least a bit of reflection.  

In review, this year was BANANAS.  So many of our amazing clients inspired me, cheered me up, made me laugh, shared personal stories with me and reminded me, again and again why I love what I do and why fashion is art and art is simply a tool for expression and life.  I would like to thank all of you who decided to shop with us and spend your hard earned dollars at local businesses and encouraged us that we are on the right track!  I am fully aware that without you, there would be no us. 

I remember when I was 6 years old and when my dad came home from work I told him that I had gone ice skating with my class.  I very proudly, with a toss of my head, declared that I had not fallen once!  He looked at me and said, "That means you didn't take any risks, and didn't try anything new.  Falling means you are learning." I was left speechless.  Sometimes, dads know what they are talking about.  

 As you think about the year ahead, think of this:

“I hope that in this year to come, you make mistakes.

Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world. You're doing things you've never done before, and more importantly, you're Doing Something.

Whatever it is you're scared of doing, Do it.

Make your mistakes, next year and forever.” 
― Neil Gaiman

So ladies,  cheers to making mistakes in fashion, love, friendship, hobbies, travel and more.  Cheers to being afraid but going for it anyway.  Cheers to US!

The Day I Met Sissy Spastik

So maybe some of you noticed that last Saturday I did not publish a blog post.  The truth is I was feeling rather uninspired and a bit down in general.  Perhaps it was a case of the early winter blues; change can sometimes be difficult.  That was, until Sunday night when someone showed me just how inspiring change and transformation can truly be. 

As I mentioned, it was a Sunday night and I just had to get out of the house so I ended up going to a dance party hosted by one of the most amazing drag queens in the city named, Sissy Spastik.  She said to me, "I love your leopard coat, is it vintage?" (I told you amazing things can happen when you wear leopard print!!!). From there we struck up a conversation and she showed me some truly beautiful and artistic photo-shoots she has been in and wonderfully innovative and expressive outfits she has created.  She personifies exactly what I love about fashion.  She pushes boundaries, has fun with it and uses it as a form of expression and art. We became Facebook friends and it was a smart move because all week long she has been inspiring me.  Here are a few of the golden nuggets I have picked up from her.

The first is this quote: "When it comes down to it, it really doesn't matter if someone doesn't like or approve of my aesthetic, or my style of drag, because I'm still going to do what I do and can't nobody tell me otherwise. Life is too short to be consumed by worrying about those that do not get you, accept you, approve of you. BE YOU, DO YOU & NEVER APOLOGIZE! I'm Sissy Spastik and I approve this message. #tellitlikeitis #beyoudoyou #loveyourself "

The second is this YouTube video: http://seniorplanet.org/dont-dress-your-age-six-inspiring-women-say-no-to-drab/.  As women, so much of our identity is intertwined with our appearance.  Getting older can be scary and there are not an expansive amount of public figures we can look to that are doing it with style, pizazz and sass.  These real life women are brave, beautiful and inspiring in the way they have lived and are living life.  They are defining their age not letting their age define them.  LOVE IT! 

Finally, is this article Sissy was featured in. http://columbiachronicle.com/sissy-spastik-untucks/  She is a true inspiration in the way she has found her voice, her personal style, and overcome adversity.  We can all take a cue from people around us who are breaking down barriers and being true to themselves and who they are.  Inspiration can come from anyone and anywhere we just have to get out there and be open to it.  Sissy reminded me that your life is your greatest work of art.  What masterpiece will you create?

Have you been inspired by something lately in fashion or otherwise?  I would love to hear about it!

Layered Lovelies

So the other day I stumbled upon one of the few French movies I have enjoyed, titled, Haute Cuisine, about a gorgeous French woman who gets asked to become the French President's personal chef.  I won't say much more than that in case you watch it but she essentially is cooking in heels, dresses, fabulous jewelry and generally looking quite fashionable yet, simple and classy, in a way I have seen many French women pull off impeccably.  One of her signature styles in the movie was layered necklaces.  She would tie knots in long strands of things to make them short, layer colors and textures together and use her necklaces to not only tie in her earrings but contrast and pop against her sweaters.  Below you can see some some shots of her from the movie wearing this layered necklace look.  In the second pic look closely, she is wearing her grey pearls with a gold chain.  LOVE IT!  It ties in gold and silver together while doing something unexpected texturally, giving the pearls a dash of modern while not taking away from their soft beauty because she kept the chain light and small.  I think my favorite part of this look is you can have fun with it and experiment.  What do you think?  Will you try this?  Maybe for one of the upcoming holidays?

See The Light (In the Darkest Denim)

In the past year I have pretty much abandoned my blue jeans and started to wear black jeans on a much more regular basis.  I have taken to wearing black jeans like a fish to water and I'm not looking back.

I think that black jeans look edgy, sophisticated and a little more polished than blue denim.  They are so easy to wear and obviously, being black, go with pretty much everything.  Pair it with a soft pastel sweater for an unexpected tough and feminine mix.  With a flannel shirt (big this season have you noticed?) blue jeans can end up making you look a bit like you stepped off a farm.  Black jeans with flannel have an urban cool feeling.  Dressing up?  Black jeans and a black, red, or sparkly top, with layered necklaces that pop, is perfect for a holiday party.  Traveling?  Black jeans don't show dirt easily.  Are you worried about wearing black with brown?  Don't be.  Black and brown together look timeless and chic.  Just be careful the brown is not a super dark brown.  Being able to see a distinction between top and bottom and or shoes, is a good thing.  I prefer chestnuts, tans and taupes with black as opposed to deep chocolate.

I love our black HUE jean leggings featured in the pic above.  They have back pockets to put your phone in and are so so comfortable (think Thanksgiving: no need to unbutton when they just stretch!).

So, in case you have not noticed I love black jeans and think everyone, man or woman, can greatly benefit from having a pair in their wardrobe.  What do you think?  Do you currently own a pair that you wear often?  If not have I helped you see the light found in the darkest denim?

Rock On Beautiful People!

Have you ever noticed how kids love to dress up in costumes and rock them everywhere whether it be hanging out at home, going to the grocery store or out to dinner?  I love this for its carefree and fun-loving spirit but I also identify with it.  Costumes can become like armor giving you super powers and protecting you from the mad world we live in.  Fashion can become your costume. As of late, I have been collecting a small yet powerful arsenal of fashionable items that make up my adult version of a costume, the rockstar, which whenever I put them on I feel like a true badass. When I find these items, I know immediately. And when I look in the mirror, I think to myself Rockstar Status.  While not everyone is going to want to wear edgy, crazy items, I do believe everyone should have some things in their wardrobe that makes them feel a little daring, a little crazy and a little beautiful.  Here are a few of my favorite ways to achieve this.

1. Shades.  A great pair like these ($15) we have at the store, can make you feel totally cognito and incognito at the same time.  Only a superhero rockstar could achieve such an amazing contradiction.  Sunglasses not only look great but protect your eyes from the sun. Clearly, a rockstar move.


2. Leather.  Everyone knows leather = rockstar.  Our faux leather leggings ($45) from Hue fit really well, look great with boots and sweaters and have back pockets.  They also add a really stylish texture element to any outfit. You can easily wear a black sweater with these pants with lots of layered necklaces and look instantly cool. 

3. Black jewelry.  I can never resist a good black and silver jewelry piece. It goes with everything and I can always layer it with other silver items I own and it definitely has an edge.  Chan Luu always has something with this combo and inevitably I always end up ordering one for myself and one for the store. 
The wrap to the left ($178) is a classic style of hers that we always keep in stock. 



4.  These Frye boots currently at Williams Shoes are the very definition of badass.  They look like you have been touring for the past year, gotten in a few bar fights and won.  The best thing about these boots is you don't actually have to do any of that that to get them to look like this.  These boots come ready to wear without the hangover and lack of sleep.

5.  A great nail color.  I was one of the last people to the manicure party but now that I've shown up I'm obsessed.  A great manicure is a real game-changer and an affordable luxury.  It's just the little oomph that can make you feel put together and edgy.  I love this color called "Go Overboard" by Essie.  Very apropos for a rock star don't you think?


6. Leopard print.  Evanston has greatly resisted all leopard print items I have ever had at the store but I encourage you all to find one thing you love in this print and give it a go. Nothing says confidence like wearing leopard and owning it!




What items do you have that make you feel like you can take on the world?
I would love to know!

Granny Chic

They say age brings wisdom.  Well, it can also bring great fashion!  "Granny chic" is a current trend that has been around for a bit now and I love it!  This trend is not about looking old but more about looking like you raided your grandmother's closet and hit the jackpot because she was a stylish biddy.   You took those things and added them to some more updated pieces so you don't look like you time warped straight from the 20's.  Below are a few items you can put together to look Granny Chic.

1. Lace up boots or booties.  My two favorites at Williams shoes right now are this little Burgandy Rieker that laces up and the black lace up boot from Steven Madden                                             

2.  Next it's all about layering.  Our 7 yr skirt at Williams Next Door is perfect paired with shoes like the above mentioned and a great pair of tights.  To really wear this trend through winter come in and grab a pair of our cashmere tights or get a little funky with our black patterned HUE tights.















3. Throw on a sweater with a vintage looking print or one like our cotton shawl sweater out of Italy











4. Layer on the long necklaces from our local jewelry section and you are good to go!


Not only is this style easy to execute, it's warm, which is all I can think about as the temp drops.  Will you be rocking the granny chic trend?  I know I will. I just bought the black lace up booties pictured above and I'm obsessed! Cheers to being stylish despite the weather and cheers to all the Grannies out there who have given us this inspiration!

chilly confusion

So, generally I try to focus on the positives of fashion and how to put things together.  As many of you who follow my blog know, I often say if you feel good in it forget the rules and express yourself that is the most important thing.  I feel obliged however, to discuss a fashion "no-no" that plagues the Midwest annually.  Just in the past few weeks as the temperature is cold in the morning and warmer once the sun heats things up and drops again at night.  I have seen these fashion offenders cropping up just as they do every year.  Yes, you know what I am talking about.  It's when someone is wearing some clothes appropriate for a hot summer day and other items appropriate for a cold fall/winter day.  I'm not totally heartless.  I know even the most fashion saavy get confused and end up under dressed or over dressed .  The weather report gets it wrong a good portion of the time and Chicago is a temperamental lady to say the least.  This can easily be forgiven for to err is human as they say.  However, illogical dressing is a crime of a different nature.  It's just not logical!  If you have bare legs you should not be wearing a big wool scarf or a heavy sheerling coat.  Wearing fur lined boots a tank top as your upper half is ill-advised.  So, in conclusion, pick a season and stick with it.  What are your thoughts on this?  Is this a fashion "Do" or a fashion "Don't"?

Give 'em some lip!

So often I am inspired (fashion and otherwise) by the amazing and beautiful women I meet from working here at Next Door.  A few women in particular come to mind for a very specific reason which I will now share with you.  These women walk into the store with a smile, confidence and LIPSTICK.  When I see these women I instantly am either glad I have on a great color lipstick or if I forgot to put some on I wish I had remembered.  Lipstick can really complete any look and with such a simple detail bump up your style factor several notches.  On days when you had a cocktail too many the night before some stylish (dark) shades and lipstick can fool the masses.   When it comes to figuring out make-up as well as clothes I generally go by if I like what I see in the mirror than it's good.  I don't think you need to read a ton about what color works for your skin tone just try them and see what you like.  Below are 3 general colors/moods that I think universally work on everyone.

This color is "Slopes" by Bobbi Brown.  A little pricier lipstick but it goes on really smoothly and the color is perfect for all day every day.  All the women in my family have this and it works on various skin tones with all outfits.

*helpful tip:  If you color in your entire lips with a lip liner prior to applying lipstick, it lasts longer!






The next color is a bright red for when you feel like being bold and sassy.  This is also a color that looks great on everyone. When wearing neutral colored clothing this can be just the finishing touch to add class and confidence. Covergirl lipstick is smooth and easy to apply and inexpensive.  If you don't like the color you can easily return it no problems.  CVS and Walgreens are great about this.

*helpful hint:  Put on some chapstick first for extra moisture and easy application.

Lastly, the Sugar sheer tinted lip moisturizer is for days when you want to feel less done up and more incognito.  A simple boost to your natural beauty.  This moisturizes, protects from the sun and adds a shine and sheer color.

*helpful hint: Trying putting this as a top layer for your lipsticks to add shine. 

Infinity InDemand

Infinities are in demand ladies.  This scarf style has been around for a few seasons now and it doesn't seem to be going anywhere.  This style is pretty much impossible to screw up even for the scarfing impaired.  It's a big loop that you double and wear as a functional fashion accessory.  It can't fall off and there are no ends to figure out what to do with or what height to let them fall to.  This scarf which comes in multiply colors is only $34 and is super soft.  Come in soon to see how infinitely fashionable this scarf as well as all our other infinities can make your fall wardrobe!

Sometimes Outerwear Is The Only Wear

As Chicago women we all know we need pretty much every weight and layer of pretty much everything.  I have not one but several drawers devoted to socks and tights from the lightest cotten to the thickest wool in almost every color and variation possible.  There is no exception when it comes to coats.  When the weather goes from 90 to mid 60's in less than 24 hours you know you live in a place where various coats of different lengths, materials and weights are needed.  Sometimes your outerwear is the only wear the majority of people will see you in so it is not a wardrobe item to be overlooked or not given its proper dues.  This year we have several super cute, comfortable yet stylish jackets.  The 3 below are made right here in the U.S.A and the black and red one are machine washable (jackpot!).  With more coats on the way as well stop in soon and see for yourself!

Fashion and Politics

Sometimes people think that fashion is shallow or unimportant or something that only pertains to famous people or people with lots of money to spare.  Au contraire mon cherie.  Fashion is art and art so often reflects politics and politics mean nothing without the people. 

Not too long ago a plump figure was a sign of wealth as it implied a leisure lifestyle and ample food.  Now popular notion has shifted towards a thin physique connotative of lots of free time to work out and have meals delivered with the perfect calorie count.  Various trends have reflected how people were feeling from the flapper era in speak easy's to the rise of the bikini in the 50's and 60's to dashikis and afros representing hard fought freedom and pride in a culture historically oppressed.  Hippies didn't just throw on bell bottoms and embroidered tops simply because they were comfortable and stylish but also because they were tired of the system saying what was right.  They wanted a culture of peace without having to watch their friends shipped off to war and their clothes represented an entire collective culture of music, political beliefs and art.  What you put on ends up going with you wherever you go.  What you choose does in fact reflect you!  In the past 5-10 years I have seen lots of military and camouflage and I actually love this look because I think the colors are easy to wear and the pattern makes for something a little interesting.  However I have never bought anything in camouflage personally or for the store because I think on some level no matter how subconscious it may be its equating war with something cool (disclaimer: if you own anything in camoflouge I do not judge you and don't be afraid to wear it into the store, I was a sociology minor and think way more about this kind of thing than most people). 

 One of our jewelry designers a few seasons back had pendants in the shape of bullets and we decided to pass on this also.  Gold (or metal with a gold color) has made a big resurgance in the past 4 years which I think is indicative of people feeling the effects of the economy and wanting to project luxury even if it is just brass or gold vermeil.  On trend seasonal colors make sense and go with most neutrals. These have been popular the last few years because the make sense in a recovering economy.  Many people are not in the mood to buy something they may only wear once in a season.

What we choose as well as what we pass up are small stitches in the quilt of our lives.  Each day the images we project, words we speak, art we like and politics we agree and disagree with is our individual vote on the human race.  While the clothes we wear should not dictate our life and fashion can sometimes be simply fun; it also can be art and politics and a sign of the times.  

Eggplant and Forst Green: You heard it here first!

The September issue of Vogue just came out and I have not even looked at it yet however, I am willing to bet that at least a portion of it is going to be devoted to these two colors:  Eggplant and Forest Green.  At every buying show I have been to from shoes, to clothes, to accessories these two colors are dominant and I love it!

I have seen a shift in more pragmatic trends in recent years.  This does not mean less stylish or edgy just realistic things that will work for more than one season and most likely blend with items you own from previous seasons (as a side note I think this reflects the current economic climate,  and those who think fashion is frivolous; I dare to disagree, which I will elaborate on in my next post).  So anyway, back to eggplant and forest green, these two colors are just dark enough to easily go with your neutrals (and each other) without necessarily becoming the glaring focal point of the outfit.  If you are sick of another black shoe or another black bag these are perfect items to get in these colors and inject 


For more bags like these ($65) each made from a vegan leather, clothing and fabulous new accessories come to Williams Next Door!

The Power of a Print!

With the latest arrivals of our Orla Kiely bags  I have been reminded once again that while a good print can be very alluring and far more interesting than a solid it can also be at times intimidating.  Prints in general have moved to the forefront of fashion in clothing, handbags and shoes!  Below are a few pics and different ways to mix and match patterns.

Ok so pic 1 may be a little not in season but I think it's a perfect example of mixing patterns but keeping the tone the same.  This makes it super easy and fail safe.  Ie: top and bottom are both grey but completely different patterns.

                      In Pic 2, Beyonce introduces a funky factor that picture one definitely does not have.  She does two completely different prints both with very different colors but it is tied together by both having some oranges and burgandies.  The top still introduces a lot more into the outfit but it doesn't forget to bring the bottom along with it.

           And the best for last, pic number 3.  I love this one most because this person just did whatever they felt like.  There does not seem to be a lot of reason to it or anything that particularly pulls it together but it somehow works.  When I am at the store I always tell my customers, It's great to get a second opinion on how something looks but ultimately what matters is how you feel.  If you like it and feel good in it than wear it/buy it!  When mixing prints have fun and if you like what you see when you look in the mirror than go for it. 

So when buying your new Orla Kiely and figuring out which pattern to pick or contemplating if those printed shoes or pants are practical, don't be afraid!  Do it and trust yourself!

Artist Spotlight : Ivy Lenore

For about the past 8 months we have had a section of jewelry in the store that is handmade by local artists.  What has quickly become a favorite part of the store is largely in part to the amazing and talented artist : Ivy Lenore Herman.  Read her bio below and come check out her pieces at the store.  She is constantly creating and making new things so any time you are in there could be something new and beautiful!



Ivy Herman : I have lived 29 of my 30 years here in Evanston, but my constant wanderlust has led me to an array of places that have influenced both my use of color and materials. I appreciate all forms of art, but jewelry design is where I find my own creative voice to be the most strong. My palette tends to lean towards the neutrals, with the occasional splash of color. I like mixing the very old with new, and the juxtaposition of opposite textures. I like jewelry that is both subtle in hue, but powerful in effect. Just as much as clothing, or maybe even more so, jewelry is wearable art. It should make the wearer feel unique and special. That is my goal with any piece I create. 

My 3 Fave Spring/Summer Shoes and Why

Growing up with a father in the shoe business since I was little, I have always heard my dad say, "Take care of your feet.  Buy shoes that fit well and are comfortable. You haven't seen what years of bad shoes can do to you and trust me you don't want to."  With those words ringing in my ears as well as long hours on my feet working and walking, I am here to tell you that while yes, not all fashionable shoes are comfortable there ARE comfortable shoes that are fashionable.  I have 3 pairs this season that I think are amazing and want to share with you why I decided to take the plunge and make them mine.  Even if these exact styles are not for you I think the reasons I got them will be good for any woman's wardrobe.  

Shoe 1: The Deborah by Korkease  

 

I opted for these black sandals from Korkease for a few reasons.  The first one being they are black with studs.  Black is obviously a very easy color to wear and the studs make them a bit edgy and interesting.  I still think they are casual enough to wear to during the day but still sassy enough to take into the night.  Lastly these shoes are so freaking comfortable.  I have walked very far in these shoes and these have withstood the test.  They are cushioned and platformed to perfection.  The heel width is enough for stable support and the platform allows for even weight distribution throughout the foot so there is not pressure on my knees or balls of the feet that makes heels so uncomfortable. 

The Lesson: A great pair of black sandals that can be taken from day to night and have a bit of pizazz are essential!

Shoe 2: The Netty by Eric Michael   

These shoes by Eric Michael have the softest leather and hold the foot securely.  I think that a metallic shoe can pretty much go with anything and also looks great with a tan.  It can take the place of black or brown or a color and add warmth with neutrals.  Metallics are a must for everyone!

The Lesson:  Metallics are very versatile and everyone should have something in a metallic.  Easily worn with neutrals or colors these will become a go-to.  

Shoe 3: Flower Keds by Keds

The flower Keds are my final summer essential because everyone should have a cute sneaker.  Sometimes a girl just wants to put on a sneaker and lace it up and feel like she can make a quick getaway if need be. These can be worn with or without socks with shorts, pants or dresses.  A cute sneaker can be great for bike-rides, walking a fair or an after dinner stroll.  Pretty much every comfort brand is making a stylish sneaker from Merrell to Clarks so in this case you really can have it all! 

The Lesson: A cute sneaker can offer true support for casual summer athletics and still keep you stylish!

The 1/2 Tuck

The half tuck is the new shabby chic way to wear looser fitting shirts.  I personally think it's fabulous.  You get the best of both worlds because you can wear slouchier tops but not have them be just totally floating on bottom which can sometimes make hips looks wide.  This looks good with pretty much anything a bit more figure hugging on the bottom (another good reason to do this trend: you don't have to try to tuck all the material into a fitted waistband, just tuck in a bit in the front) from shorts, to dressy black cigarette pants, to jeans.  I do encourage accessorizing (when don't I?) just to make sure the look appears more casually on purpose than just rolled out of bed.  What do you think?  Will you do the half-tuck this summer?

*all images from google images

Met Gala 2013

So the Met Gala was a few days ago and this annual party is one of my favorite red carpet events to see what the stars wore.  This event is known as being more artsy, creative and avant garde than many other red carpet events and this year's theme "PUNK: From Chaos to Couture" proved to be no different.  Below are some of my favorites from the night and the reasons why.  While most of us will not be attending events such as this one or wearing dresses such as these, the reasons they were my favorite are things we can all apply to our fashion lives!  

Accessories, accessories, accessories!  I always say jewelry, scarves, handbags, and accessories in general can transform any outfit and Nicole Richie proves this point perfectly.  Her gorgeous white dress would be, sans the white hair, otherwise just another pretty dress.  She transformed this outfit by accessorizing with a bold statement piece in this case, her hair!

Know your body!  Jennifer Lopez is a perfect example of someone who knows her body and stays true to that.  She may edge it up or soften things depending on the event but she is true to her style and what looks good on her body regardless of the current trend.  I LOVED her look at the Met Gala. Brava Jennifer, Brava!

Know where you are going and commit!  Sarah Jessica Parker committed to the event and went for it.  She wore plaid velvet knee high boots, a printed gown and a mohawk headpiece.  She clearly paid attention to the theme and boldly went there.  I remember a time when I showed up at a dressier cocktail event wearing jeans and I deeply regretted that choice the whole night.  I did not enjoy myself and felt ill prepared for the evening.  Knowing where you are going and dressing for the event can give you confidence and make you feel good.  You have to just love SJP for having the guts to rock this with a smile and like it was not a thing at all that she a giant gold mohawk thing on her head.

Embrace your sexy!  While we all (read no one) may not look like Giselle we do all have our inner sexy which we should not be afraid to embrace.  Giselle knows she's hot and is not afraid to let it shine.  This confidence is the best accessory to any outfit any woman can have.  Put on something that makes you feel great and let the world hear you roar!

Our Northlight Benefit Party!

 For those of you who don't know we recently had a benefit party for Northlight Theatre, a local theatre  which does amazing works.  We partnered up with other local businesses and had an amazing time.  Oceanique provided the appetizers, Vinic wine provided delicious wine and live fiddle and guitar players provided amazing tunes to set the mood (think: party).  It was such a treat for us to be able to work with other local, independent businesses and show what we are made of and support the community.  Here are a few pics of the event.  Enjoy!

*To see more detailed descriptions of the pictures please go to facebook by clicking HERE