Fall Fashion: JEWELS

Not only will my daily go-to outfit consist of jeans & boots, it will most likely include several pieces from my favorite local jewelry designer, Jen Scheffler of realiabyjen.

Her work is AMAZING, and I just can't seem to stop adding her pieces to my collection! 

She just recently completed the creation of a GORGEOUS lookbook, in collaboration with many talented people, including myself, as the stylist.
Here are a few shots from the lookbook:

I can't seem to say enough great things about her work....she does everything from custom pieces for moms, brides & bridal parties to taking your vision & making it a reality: just tell her what you like & what you're looking for and she'll design & create it!

She of course has many collections...this lookbook presents her fall 2012 collection, but just click on any of the tabs at the top of her page to peruse what else she offers... from vintage refined to beautiful bling, you're bound to find a piece or two you have to have!

Here's my latest add:

...a FABULOUS statement piece- I can't wait to wear it!

She will also take pieces of your own jewelry collection that you aren't wearing and help you turn them into jewels that you love to wear. Whether it's a vintage family piece, or just items you are tired of as they are....you'd be amazed at what she can do with old clip on earrings and brooches! Send her an email with photos of what you have, what your ideas are, and a little about your sense of style....she'll work with you to create timeless, quality pieces you'll have & wear forever.

If you haven't yet....check out her fantastic website and start accessorizing your wardrobe for fall!

Spring Fashion: Made in the USA

The phrase "made in the USA" is something we sure don't see much of anymore, especially with regards to clothes!

My father used to own a high-end men's clothing store, and part of what he advertised was that all of the things he sold were made right here in the US. In the MEN's clothing business, that is quite a bit easier to do, as you have some fabulous clothing lines such as: Hickey Freeman (suits), Robert Talbot (ties), Bill's Khakis (casual/sportswear), Hart Schaffner Marx (suits), Allen Edmonds (shoes), and many others. Many of these brands can be found at Twill, a FABULOUS men's clothing store here in Edina, MN at the Galleria. I met Scott Dayton, the owner, at a few of the buying trips I made with my dad & he's a great guy!!
Unfortunately, it's much harder to find merchandise that is completely made in the USA in the women's clothing business. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not boycotting any retailer or brand, it's just something that got me thinking...

I completely LOVE many of our local designers here in the Twin Cities, and support them through their fashion shows, trunk shows, here on the blog, and of course own many of their pieces. Some of my favorites include: KJurek, realia by Jen, Sheer Addiction, and of course all of the fabulous artists/designers on Etsy-many of whom are from the US.

I was just curious to see who/what else out there is still made right here in the good ol' US of A. It was a tough search, but I found a few labels that I own and wear that are still made here in the US.

Denim seemed to be the easiest category to still find labels that are made here. Some of these locals are: AG Jeans (love), True Religion, only some of Levi's jeans are still made here, and William Rast jeans are assembled in the US with Mexican fabric. Several shoes are also made here: New Balance-the ONLY athletic shoe made here (Maine & Massachusetts), Red Wing Shoes (of course, right here in MN), and Eastland (Maine).


While searching for information on the products I buy and wear, as well as my typical perusal through other fashion blogs, I came across a FABULOUS new brand...and it's MADE IN THE USA!! LOVE! EmersonMade is the name, and it consists of a husband & wife team working together (of course) ...she designs/styles/creates and he is her business partner/photographer/right hand man.



I am LOVING so many items on their website....I wish I could just order one of everything!! My absolute favorite are the EM LowRiders, in the sunwashed color---FABULOUS, and so fitting with the 70s vibe of Spring fashion!! I'm just always nervous about ordering jeans online from a designer/brand I've never tried on!
I also LOVE LOVE LOVE the Trench dress---SO versatile--easy to dress up or down! (pictured right)

There are so many great pieces....from denim, to dresses, to fantastic skirts. Not only is this a great place for apparel, EmersonMade also makes wonderful accessories--beautiful clutches, great belts, and fabulous flower pins --perfect for a fun new spring addition to that favorite jacket or sweater, or something for a bride, your bridesmaids, or a fun gift for your girls! SO many great items to choose from! I definitely recommend checking out their website and/or "liking" them on Facebook!! It will be worth your time--I promise!

PS--Check out their "photos" tab at the top of the website--SO much fun!!!


So now that I've thrown out the "Made in the USA" topic....how many of you will go home and check the tags of your favorite pieces....how many items of yours are made right here in the US??

Local Accessories Designer we LOVE: NELLE

Finding that perfect handbag can often be a total challenge. Whether you know the exact price-point, style, color, and fabric you are hunting for, or you have no idea--it doesn't seem to matter, there are times when you just can't find the perfect one.

We are lucky to have SO many fabulous local designers here in the Twin Cities. From accessories, to handbags, to casual styles, and even wedding gowns--we have many talented people! NELLE is one of these amazing local brands. Laura Nelli is the brains behind this accessories line, and I can't say enough great things about her. She not only is talented, but also a wonderful and amazing woman. Here is a little bit about how she began her business taken right from her website:

In 2004, with no more sewing experience than a pillow she had constructed in home economics class, Laura Nelli, with a load of determination, a used sewing machine, and a library card, set out to learn the art of handbag design.

Her handbags, clutches, and accessories are available for purchase online and in several boutiques (30+) across the country. With price-points ranging from $60-$190, her products are well worth the investment, as they are hand-crafted and one-of-a-kind. I know that when I leave my house carrying one of my NELLE pieces no one will have the same one. Being unique is so much more fun than joining the crowd and carrying the same LV bag that your best friend has!! I ordered her HAROLD chevron bag (pictured above right) for "Christmas" and I totally and completely LOVE IT! It is a perfect size to hold everything I need and is easy and comfortable to carry. I have received TONS of compliments on it already.


And, because she was SO KIND, and I told her not to rush on getting it sent to me by Christmas, she sent one of her AMAZING clutches along with it!! It is perfect, as it is the colors for my wedding....ivory paired with black & brown! (pictured left) It couldn't be more perfect, and she couldn't have been a kinder soul to work with!


So....if you are searching for that "perfect" handbag, need a new clutch for the new year, or a gift for your sister, check out her website or find her at any of these MN locations:
Flutter Boutique-Minneapolis, Smart & Chic-Minneapolis, Picky Girl-St. Paul, Waters of Superior-Duluth.

You will not be disappointed!

SHEER ADDICTION - Giveaway

One of our FAVORITE FABULOUS local jewelry designers is hosting a facebook giveaway--just in time for the holidays!! Her jewelry is the PERFECT statement piece to complete your look for all of those holiday parties!! LOVE LOVE LOVE it!!
To ENTER: "LIKE" Sheer Addiction on facebook....then suggest the page to all your fabulous fashionista ladies and post how many you shared it with on Sheer Addiction's page. The winner receives $100 gift card for Sheer Addiction & will be announced on Friday, November 19th at noon!!

GOOD LUCK....and here's hoping!!

Boutique Critique: La Rue Marche

With the start of boutique week, and the 30% off all shoes & clothing, I decided to FINALLY make a trip to Hudson and check out La Rue Marche....it was SO worth the short drive over the river!

What an AMAZING store....i was IN LOVE with the decor--completely vintage with every inch covered with something....from plenty of old high back chairs for the guys to sit and wait in (mine was playing his nintendo on his phone)....to the many beautiful vintage dresses--not for sale, but for eyes to lust after....which fits, as the store's tagline or moto is: A store that speaks of lust, life, and shopping.


This couldn't be more true...it was a store that you could spend hours in, and I almost did....trying on everything from their premium denim, mostly Miss Me and 1921, to their FABULOUS shoes...totally in LOVE with the collection they carry!! From my favorite Seychelles to the fabulous, vintage style of Poetic License. (I left with this fabulous pair!)

As it is boutique week, they are also doing a drawing for a FREE pair of Poetic License shoes! They will draw the winner on Friday, September 17th, and that lucky lady gets to CHOOSE the pair she would like to own! FANTASTIC....here's hoping!


Along with the fabulous shoes, denim, and clothing by BB Dakota, Jack, hype, and so many more... the beautiful, and personally coveted, jewelry by Tamara of Sheer Addiction is carried here! Her studio is just above the store, and over the weekend--with the kick-off of boutique week, she was down in the store working and selling along with the ladies of La Rue Marche. I was so excited to meet her, and she truly is amazing (just like her jewelry)! It was great to chat with her about her jewelry and see many of her pieces in person....and of course, I couldn't leave without one... it was so difficult to choose, but I am loving my choice (pictured here).


If you are looking for fabulous shoes for that fall wedding, a unique necklace to add to your fall wardrobe, a new pair of jeans, or a great fall coat this is the store for you! The drive to Hudson is no more than 45 minutes from the Twin Cities, and you won't be disappointed! I guarantee you will leave with something you are dying to wear!! I know I did!

Today is the final day of the 30% off, but the Poetic License shoe drawing goes all week, and they are always getting in new merchandise. Check it out, and I'm sure you will become a regular visitor... I know I will definitely be going back!!
La Rue Marche, 513 Second Street, Hudson, WI 54016 hours: Mon-Thurs 10-6, Friday 10-8, Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5
You can also check them out online here! (although they don't have nearly the inventory online as they carry in the store!!)

Etsy...

...a website for unique and fabulous finds!!

I can't say enough great things about this website, I have signed up to receive multiple daily emails, and I always seem to see at least one great item in each email that I have to check out. Set up your own account--so you can "heart" items...then, etsy "suggests" other shops for you-based on your "hearted" items and sellers--how much better can it get??! I have found some items this summer that I love...including a great gift for another firey fashionista herself!













The shop, White Owl, out of Detroit, has fabulous, vintage-style jewelry for very reasonable prices....and you know that no one will have the same item on wherever you go!

I love the vintage lace used in these necklaces...definitely unique and wearable pieces!




Another fabulous seller is GraceyBags...she makes fantastic clutches for any occasion, including bridal parties, and she will even monogram the inside for you! She has a wide array of fabrics, and even let me choose what inside fabric I wanted in mine....I purchased the orange flowers Kelsey clutch(above), & I completely LOVE it!!




Yet another recently found fabulous seller is Saylor Rose...out of California = unique, quality, up-cycled and ecofriendly jewelry! I am totally in love with this vintage peacock locket necklace, and this unique Victorian key necklace can be worn with a v-neck pocket tee or dressed up with your favorite little black dress!




A find just this week, is a LOCAL seller, ekate. She is from MINNEAPOLIS and makes wonderful, artistic jewelry and apparel. I LOVE her local maps resin necklaces--she takes old, vintage maps and turns them into unique and original jewelry....and she will gladly customize it for you--you can pick the location the map is from!! FABULOUS!!! I just ordered one for myself and my sisters!


I could go on and on about the fun and fabulous items on Etsy.....but now it's your turn--go to the site, create an account, and start shopping!!

*It's also a perfect site for brides-to-be....so many handmade and unique items that are AFFORDABLE and sellers that are willing to do custom work!

Boutique Critique: Cliche

We had a chance to visit the boutique Cliche in Uptown recently and wanted to share our experience! We were surprised at how small it appeared from the outside, but were happy to realize that good things do come in small packages! Here is a short write up from the store's website:

Cliché is a young hip clothing boutique for women located in Uptown Minneapolis. Cliché carries new and locally designed clothes that encourages a slight edge to your wardrobe. Cliché tries to stay forward on trend while maintaining a classic presence. Also, once a month there is a featured local artist's work on the walls. Cliché loves to offer unique or one of kind items and are therefore always looking for new artists and designers.

From the moment we stepped in the door, we were all over the jewelry and accessories - which we found out is all 100% local designers. The jewelry line, Cocoquette, was amazing - I happened to fall in love with a necklace that had miniature binoculars - for only $25! We also loved the cute and reasonably priced clutches by NikiCouture!

The clothing assortment was also great & quite unique. There is a mix between local designers and non-local designers: approximately 30% local, including our favorite kjurek couture. It is a great place to find a fun dress that you can be assured won't be duplicated at the party!

Overall, the experience was very positive & we recommend taking a visit!

Please visit Cliche's website for more detailed information on designers they feature, current events & other information: http://www.clichempls.com/

Cliche is located at: 2403 Lyndale Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55405. Business Hours are Monday-Saturday 11AM-7PM & Sunday 1-6PM.

Fall Fashion: Kjurek Couture

Saturday's Arctic Studios was alive with the Puerto Rican-based Bomba drums & dancing. The dancers moved their bodies to every beat of the drum, making it a very wild and rich dance. It was the perfect way to start the evening, as you could see the inspiration from Bomba throughout Kimberly Jurek's fall 2010 collection.

It was a BEAUTIFUL show!

The collection consisted of fun, bright prints, in dresses, skirts, tops, and jackets, as well as the debut of a new handbag line--a collaboration of two local talents: Kimberly Jurek & Amanda Christine.

The styling, by Andrea Oseland, was fantastic as well--as she assembled together each piece, often multiple times, showing the various ways to style Kimberly's designs.

We love the print of this skirt paired with the sheer knee high socks-a great look for fall!

Almost every model was wearing a beautiful scarf in teal & magenta prints, draped luxuriously with the clothes. The color palette consisted of strong jewel tones that were complimented by graphic, ethnic-inspired prints that left us feeling inspired and excited about fall fashion!

The handbags are a combination of leather and suede, with lots of fringe and fantastic hardware. A unique yet functional addition to anyone's wardrobe. (I would LOVE to own one myself!!) These will not be available in the typical boutiques where you would find the designs of both Kimberly & Amanda, but instead will be sold independently by the ladies themselves-most likely through a website at some point. (We will keep you updated as to when that happens!)

Her fall collection should be in boutiques next month. A few select pieces have already arrived at some locations. Check out Cliche, Drama, Parc Boutique, or Karma to start adding to your fall wardrobe!

For more details on Kim's collection & take on fashion, check out her interview with l'etoile magazine on the l'etoile magazine blog.

We love the ease of this flowing skirt

and great vest, not to mention the

handbag that we are obsessed with!!

Who could resist this amazing dress?? The fabric was draped amazingly - it has a casual, yet very elegant feel to it, which makes it perfect to wear everywhere!!

*All pictures in this post taken by Shawn Brown.

Local Jewelry Lines we LOVE:
Sheer Addiction
& Realia by Jen

SHEER ADDICTION
I just can't say enough great things about her jewelry....it's all unique, one-of-a kind pieces handmade by Tamara right here in the midwest: Hudson, Wisconsin.



She incorporates mixed metals, beads, pearls, and other unique elements such as pieces from old doors & mirrors, metals from across the globe (most often Paris), vintage ribbons, and more!

Check out her blog or her website to purchase a piece you will love and wear forever!!! You can also find Sheer Addiction on Facebook!

realia by Jen

Jen is another local girl, working out of New Prague, MN. She sells her goods in a few places around the Twin Cities, but has most of it on her website.

Realia byJen is also on Facebook.

Her website is fantastic! She has something for every style, perfect for your wedding or just to add to your collection. She is very willing to work with you to create exactly what you need or want.

She often uses beads from the Czech Republic in most of her jewelry, along with other found objects such as crystals from old chandeliers.


I LOVE LOVE this necklace I bought from her and have gotten many compliments on it!!

Kjurek Couture Fashion Show--Tonight!

We are headed to the kjurek couture 5 year/fall fashion show tonight!
Read a FABULOUS write up on Kimberly's success in the star tribune, and check back here next week for details from the show including pictures of her new fall collection!

FABULOUS new FIND:
a guide to local shops, restaurants, spas and more
all owned or run by Twin Cities WOMEN

CRAVE
The Urban Girl's Manifesto

I have LOVED reading through this since the minute I purchased it! It has a little bit of everything--all about places here in the Twin Cities. It describes and gives contact information, addresses, and websites of boutiques, services, cafes, and restaurants owned by women in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. It even contained two of my very favorite shops in St. Paul: Picky Girl & Karma. I've also read and learned about boutiques I had never heard of and even started a list of all the places I want to check out!
Here's a description, directly from the CRAVE website:

CRAVE Minneapolis is the most unique and stylish guidebook for Minneapolis living. It is a celebration of women entreprenesses that showcases some of the most creative, interesting, and gutsy proprietors throughout our city.

You need this book because:

• You love quality goods
• You expect exceptional service
• You want to be pampered
• You appreciate attention to detail
• You enjoy supporting local, female proprietors
• You have absolutely no time to waste
• You long to get out and explore the city

Let us introduce you to a fabulous new designer, to a miracle-worker masseuse, to a confectionery queen, to the amazing women around town who will help satisfy your next craving.

WHAT DO YOU CRAVE?

Check out CRAVE's website here, the specific Mpls/St. Paul site here, and the blog here.
You can purchase the Minneapolis/St. Paul book in any of the places listed in the book--check out the website for the list!
(It's only $19.95)


There are several other cities that have CRAVE books, so if you have girlfriends in other places-get them one!!

It would make a FABULOUS gift for anyone!

*It was hard to figure out how to purchase a book for another city to give as a gift, BUT I did! Go to the main CRAVE website and click on "CONTACT" at the top of the screen. This then gives you a page to fill out and a CRAVE location to choose. I explained that I was looking to purchase the Boston book, but couldn't find it online. I received an email within 2 days with a link to a site that sold the book, and even at a "special price!" It never hurts to ask, and I can't wait to send this to my sister in Boston!!

Local Fashion Designer we LOVE:
kjurek couture

Kimberly Jurek is the woman behind this FABULOUS label! She is a fantastic person, and her clothes are beautiful.

From her website:
The result is a fashion forward clothing line that offers a sense of romanticism with a modern spark; creating pieces that are decidedly forward thinking and fresh and also reminiscent of the past. Voted top local designer in Mpls-St.Paul Magazine in 2007, Kimberly Jurek creates unique collections for her boutique clientele. Inspired by her travels and experience, Kimberly produces her clothing in Minneapolis with great attention to quality and originality. In addition, each piece is “locally and greenly” produced, and Kjurek Couture is dedicated to the support and promotion of free trade.

I couldn't say it better!

She works right here in Minneapolis and sells her clothes at several small boutiques around the Twin Cities, such as: Drama, Cliche, Karma, and Parc Boutique.




Boutiques in California, Michigan, South Carolina, Washington DC and Chicago also sell her designs.

I was fortunate enough to visit her in her studio/home, and I wanted to buy everything she had!


Her 5th anniversary/Fall Runway show is coming up this month, July 24th-don't miss it! You can purchase tickets at any of the following boutiques: Cliche, Drama, Karma, Parc Boutique, and Gallery 360. For more details, click on "upcoming events" on her website.