J.Crew

Extended 30% off all sale items...in-store only. Check out the West Towne Mall location (I'd advise getting online, finding a sale item you think you need and then calling the store before braving the mall).

www.jcrew.com

Anthropologie and Accessories

It's no secret, I love Anthropologie; it's my happy place.  We all have one, and mine happens to be in the  sweet smelling, "enchanted forest" of clothing, accessories and housewares.  If you think I'm kidding, I'm not.  I am happy, giddy, and light on my feet as I flounce around, taking in all that is pretty.   OK, I don't actually "flounce", but that's what comes to mind when I think of myself shopping at Anthro.  
Although I usually focus on clothing, Anthro's accessories are not to be missed.  I am a big fan of not over-accessorizing, so when I do wear a piece of jewelry, I want it to make a statement...not one strand of pearls but ten, and then I usually leave the earrings and bracelets for another day.   
I tend to gravitate to necklaces because, well, I do.  I like em' big and chunky, and over-the-top (I was going to say like me, but I refuse to use "big and chunky" as self descriptors).   Right now, over-the-top necklaces are all the rage, but unfortunately, so are the prices.  At Anthro, you can most certainly spend hundreds on one necklace, but they also have pieces that are more than reasonably priced and super unique.   
Have a peek at the jewelry below.  If you are stressing about gift ideas, a beautiful necklace from Anthropologie would make a fantastic present ...or a purse, or a belt, or a blouse, or a skirt...

Love Me, Love Me Not Necklace, Retail $48

New Growth Bib Necklace, Retail $58

Beaded Swag Bib Necklace, Retail $68






www.anthropologie.com

Context Ultimate Coat

It's cold today!  And by cold, I mean .07 degrees.  I think a coat is in order.  When you live in a cold climate, investing in a good coat isn't just a luxury, it's a necessity.  

When storms hit, you need to be prepared, especially those commuting back and forth to work.  It's not unheard of to be trapped on the highway or skid off of the road, and well, let's face it, we don't want to find your frozen body a few days later and say, "Man.  I wish he would have had a better coat." 


Check out the winter-fest going on at Context...we're talking Mt. Everest warm (hence its name).


Nigel Cabourn Mt. Everest Parka

http://www.contextclothing.com/item.php?id=1772

Give!

Giving is never out of season, but during these cold months, it's especially appreciated.  Think of donating your gently used coats to charity centers to be distributed at no cost to people in need, or purchase a new coat and give it as a gift to someone in your own community who may be struggling this year.  Think about leaving a basket of food or a gift certificate to a grocer on a neighbor's doorstep as a "Kris Kringle" gift (oftentimes people are too proud to ask for help).


If you're short on time and find yourself out and about gathering holiday gifts, stop into the West Towne Mall, Madison and pull a name off of the "giving tree".  You can pick up the "wish list" while you're gathering your other gift items with no extra travel time involved.   

Think of charities like, "Coats for Kids" where you can get online at www.coats-for-kids.org and make a donation from the comfort of your home.

I am fortunate enough to have closets and drawers full of warm (and not-so-warm) garments.  I am blessed beyond words.  But I also know there are many who are not.  If you think buying yourself a new sweater or jacket feels good, try buying a garment for a person in need...giving feels amazing!

Ann Taylor

FREE shipping on everything.  Believe me, the shipping adds up, my friends.  

ALSO:  buy ONE full priced item and get the SECOND 50% off!  That's one for you, and one for me!!!  I love the holidays!


www.anntaylor.com

Macys

Just returned from Macys, Hilldale Mall.  They are having a "friends and family" 25% off sale.  I found quite a few nice things for a client, and I think it would be work braving a bit of snow.  Also, the store was EMPTY!!!

Winterize with Style

If you're like me, you hate looking like a walking marshmallow.  So unfortunately, I spend a good chunk of my time here in Wisconsin freezing my [bleep] off.  I have "puffy" coats, and I do wear them...to the grocers, to run errands, to stand at the bus stop.  However, I really don't want to wear this unflattering outerwear when I am all dressed up and about to head into the night for an evening of cocktails...ya feel me??  Nothing looks more "high school" than seeing a woman in stockings, heels, and a hint of a dress peaking out from under a waist-length ski coat with the ski lift tag still attached...ugh.  But I digress. 


This isn't about me, it's about finding a way to stay warm while still retaining a sense of style.  One thing is key:  a woman needs a mid-thigh or knee-length coat for a dressy occasion.  Here in Madison, it's currently 14 degrees, so it may be hard to avoid a little "puffiness", but the length will minimize the "snowball effect".  Here are some ideas:

The North Face "Caroline Coat"  (I really like the cinched waist)

The North Face "Triple C Down"

http://www.thenorthface.com/    (Or visit The North Face store at Hilldale Mall, Madison WI, off of University Avenue)

Patagonia "Downtown Loft Parka"

http://www.patagonia.com/us/shop/womens?k=1E

Teva and Stilletto in the same sentence?

This was sent to me by my sweet brother-in-law Brian...always an eye for fashion, that one!  For real.


http://www.signature9.com/shoes/teva-stilettos-if-everyone-jumped

Jazzman

Jazzman, State Street, Madison is owned by two of the nicest guys you'll ever meet.  Laid back atmosphere, helpful service, and reasonably priced men's clothing.  I recently pulled some denim for a photo shoot, and I feel compelled to say how much I liked the Penguin jeans (didn't hurt that my model looked amazing in them, either).  The denim has a glossy sheen and a lighter weight to it, and with the slim cut, the fit is ultra flattering.  The entire Penguin line of clothing is fantastic.  The cut in both shirts and trousers is slim, but if that's not your thing, you can size up.  


If you haven't checked out Jazzman in awhile, stop in and say "hi".  Right now they have a huge sale rack with buys on jeans.  The store it literally packed with merchandise, so if you know you need an update, pop in and browse around.

http://jazzmanclothing.com/

Citrine

If you've not been to Citrine on State Street, Madison recently, consider stopping in to take a look.  This dress boutique has some fantastic holiday styles, with new designers coming in every day.  I was just there, and I think I'll be stopping back soon to take a closer look. 

SHOO B-Day Sale!!!

Happy Birthday, Shoo!  From December 3rd-5th, everything is 30% off at Shoo on State Street, Madison (excludes Fiorentini and Baker Boots...sorry) .
Online shoppers use code:  BDAY5.

www.shoostore.com

Fa.la.la.la.la. and Fishnets

Fishnets.  So many people associate this type of nylon with hookers and Halloween, but fishnets (depending on the type) can be an elegant addition to your holiday attire.  

When purchasing fishnets, I prefer a tightly meshed nylon.  I am not a fan of thigh highs, diamond-net or wide mesh fishnets, as I think the smaller loop is a bit more classic.  Also, (and I feel I shouldn't have to say this),  I would not wear white or red fishnets unless I am attending a costume party as a "naughty nurse" or perhaps "naughty pirate"???    I don't know...nuff' said there.

I found a website that offers fishnets in 51 different colors, and I highly recommend you check it out.  I ordered them in pale gray and brown at $9 per pair.  I'll keep you posted as to the quality and comfort.  If I like them, I will probably order a few more shades (steering clear of yellow, orange, etc., and leaning more towards the neutrals...again, do I need to say that??).  


Sometimes, it's the accessory that makes the outfit.  You can choose a normal, run-of-the-mill pair of nude nylons, or you can accentuate your legs by adding a bit of texture and style to your hosiery.  You make the call.


www.welovecolors.com/Shop/Fishnets.htm   (I went for the "nylon/lycra" fishnets).

Ann Taylor

Take 40% off your entire in-store and on-line purchase!!  I took advantage of this yesterday.  This offer applies to sale items, too!


www.anntaylor.com

Context Clothing Flash Sale!!!

No need for commentary, here's the site!




http://contextclothing.com/sale.php

Fontana online Thanksgiving sale!

If you're bored waiting for the turkey, and it's too early for a glass of wine, check out the online-only sales at Fontana Sports! 

Happy Thanksgiving!!

fontanasports.com

Lady Moxie Black Friday Sale

Lady Moxie on Odana Road is offering 30% off a single item per person on Black Friday!  Designer clothes, shoes, handbags, jewelry and more just waiting for you!

Context Exclusive

 Alden Shoe Company:  Alden + Context Tanker Boot Color 8 Shell Cordovan

http://www.contextclothing.com/item.php?id=1939

Let the Faux Fur Fly!

So I am in love with the faux fur craze.  A client of mine bought a faux fur vest from Ann Taylor yesterday, and she looked fantastic!  Talk about a way to add a bit of attitude to any outfit!  

The beautiful thing about this new craze is there are so many different varieties to choose from, and all cruelty-free.  Depending on where you go, you could be looking at anywhere from $50-$900+ for the accessory piece, so do your homework before buying the first one you see (or shoot for several in different textures and colors of fur).  
Also, don't worry about "owning this look", because you can.  Depending on the type and quality, this piece can be dressed up or down, and can look feminine and sophisticated, or rock-star chic. 


My only gripe is that I haven't seen any for men.  That's right, I think a rugged faux fur vest, fitted crew/turtleneck long-sleeve, jeans, maybe a scarf, and boots would be so freakin' sexy...caveman casual (I think I see a trend coming on).  

http://www.anntaylor.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=28901&N=0&Ntk=KeywordSearch&Ntt=fur+vest&Nty=1&Ntx=mode%2Bmatchallpartial&found=1&defaultSizeType=Regular

http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=513486&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results

http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=500064&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results

REI

REI Winter sale starts Nov. 19th (today) - Nov. 29th.  Save up to 30%!

http://www.rei.com

Karen & CO. Holiday Kickoff

Context Clothing: Outerwear

 

 

http://www.contextclothing.com/item.php?id=1931

http://www.contextclothing.com/item.php?id=1641

http://www.contextclothing.com/item.php?id=1643

Coats-in-a-bag

Yep. Apparently it's what's hot.  I think the concept is cool (although I'll say it right now, I do not, in any way, support fur).  Gerard Darel's new puffer coat-in-a-bag is kindda cool.  If you need to pack light, especially this Winter season, or know you'll be traveling where the temps fluxuate, being able to pack a down coat into a sac the size of a make-up bag is genius. 
I have fallen victim to the extra airline fees for heavy luggage, so I think this idea is practical and, well, I'll say it again, kindda cool (sans the fur).  If you're like me and won't buy a fur jacket, check out the DKNY at Bloomingdales. 

I know this isn't a local Madison thing, but it could be.


http://www.gerarddarel.com/en/product/L0597-L305-0073/Down-jacket-with-detachable-raccoon-trim

http://www1.bloomingdales.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=484714&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results

http://www1.bloomingdales.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=484715&CategoryID=

Shoo: Sneak peak at vintage!!

Just a few of the vintage styles in at Shoo.

Holiday attire making you nauseous??

If you are one of the many who have a multitude of holiday functions to attend, and the thought of shopping is making you a little panicked and sick?  Take a Tums and relax...that's what I'm here for.  

I don't work on commission, so you'll always know for certain if that dress, "makes you look hippy", or whether or not those trousers, "make you look poochy?" becasue I will tell you...in a nice and supportive way, of course.  

Check out my website for a list of services and schedule a free consult today. Don't wait until you're stuck wearing that bedazzled holiday sweatshirt...again.

www.bonnieraimy.com

Barefoot Runner?

I'd love to know your thoughts.

http://www.rei.com/gearmail/gm111210_7/cm?cm_mmc=Email_com_gm-_-HolidayGiftGiving-_-111210-_-img_vibram

Context: Plaid

When isn't plaid in style?  That's right, never.  Plaid is classic, creative, diverse, and sexy (don't forget sexy). 

Engineered Garments:  http://www.contextclothing.com/item.php?id=1696

Sunny Sports:  http://www.contextclothing.com/item.php?id=1911

Sunny Sports:  http://www.contextclothing.com/item.php?id=1912

Engineered Garments:  http://www.contextclothing.com/item.php?id=1648

ULLA Eyewear

Ulla is having a Lafont frame show Saturday, November 13th from 12-5pm.  GO!!

www.lafont.com


www.ullaeyewear.com

Title Nine

 This is a great deal!!!  Check it out!

http://www.titlenine.com/product/wow/460923.do

SHOO

Just a quick FYI that Shoo received a recent shipment of vintage clothing just waiting to find a new home!  I know that oftentimes when we hear the word "vintage", we automatically assume it has a hefty price tag.  Not always so.  The vintage garments at Shoo are reasonably priced and so, so fun and funky.  Stop in if you're downtown.

109 State Street, Downtown Madison, WI
608.467.6325

Context #3 on GQs 2010, 10 Best Independent Men's Stores in U.S.

West Coast? East Coast?  uh uh...midwest, baby!

http://www.gq.com/style/best-stores-in-america/201011/gq-shops-best-independent-mens-stores-in-america#slide=4

Folk from London at Context Clothing

Damn, I love the English.

http://www.contextclothing.com/item.php?id=1847

Have you looked in your closet lately??

This weekend I had a client take advantage of my "closet coordinating" service.  Since this is a new service, I was anxious to see how valuable it actually was (or wasn't) to a client. 
I discovered a few things:

1.  My client is steadily building a very comprehensive and high-end wardrobe, but putting all the pieces together is not always an easy task.   I forget that once I drop my clients off,  they are on their own.  Although many remember that this shirt goes with those pants and belt, they may not realize that the shirt also goes with another pair of pants and blazer already in the wardrobe.  

2.  I see the value of encouraging clients to take a tour through their closets, revisit the items they purchased, and spend some time trying on clothing, checking the fit, style, and brand to make sure money isn't wasted on repeats (which I keep a pretty close eye on as well).

3.  Experiment.  Play dress-up.  No one can see you, so try different trousers with different shirts and blazers, or check to see if that patterned skirt also goes with another blouse tucked away in the back of your closet (that you purchased but never removed the tags).

When I was with my client, we took digital pics of every new outfit I pieced together, so now he can refer to those photos when he feels he's getting himself into a "wardrobe rut". 

As the Winter season approaches, take some time to "shop" your own closets.  Make a list of where you see "holes" on your wardrobe, and concentrate on filling the holes before you add yet another pair of black dress pants to your repertoire.  In the long run, this will save you money, and it will also help you add variety and spice to your day to day ensembles.

Fontana-Winter Adventure Sale!!

Fontana Sports is having a Winter sale from November 4th-November 14th, both downtown Madison and west side locations.  If today is any indication, Winter is arriving with a vengeance here in Madison, and you do not want to be left out in the cold! 


www.FontanaSports.com

J. Jill

Free shipping on orders of $150 and up from now until November 8th.  Enter code:  HBMK689

Banana Republic Sale Tonight

Banana Republic is offering 25% off purchases of $100 or more (30% if you use your Banana Card) for online and in-store purchases tonight after 5pm.  Use promo code: BR25AFTER5 (or BR30AFTER5 if you use their credit card).

BananaRepublic.com

Context Clothing-Stay Warm.

 Wings + Horns Wool Fleece Collar Cardigan

 Wings + Horns Handknit Sweater

 A.P.C. Merino Wool Pea Coat

Engineered Garments Cable Knit


contextclothing.com 

Karen & Co.

karencomadison.com

Madison loses a great boutique.

Patrica Shoppe on Johnson Street, Madison, has closed its doors.  I wish the former owner the best of luck with her future plans, and I hope she knows how saddened I am for the loss of such a unique boutique.    
Let's not keep losing these little gems, Madison.  More and more frequently I see vacant store fronts that once housed a locally owned retailer.  We can't let what makes Madison, Madison, slip through our fingers.

Keep it to a dull roar, please.

Many of you may have noticed the current animal print trend for both men and women.   Fine.  If you like that stuff.  I, personally, can't quite wrap my head around wearing zebra, leopard, or cougar (ok, maybe cougar :) print clothing, but that doesn't mean you can't.  I think I have some leopard print heels somewhere; I'm pretty sure I have a clutch in giraffe, but know that with wearing these patterns comes a certain amount of  responsibility. 
Do not strut your stuff in head to toe zebra...please.  With this trend, less is more, so if you like animal prints, wear them sparingly, perhaps as an accessory (scarf, purse, shoe), and stick to neutrals for your garments...you'll get that "wild" vibe you were searching for without looking like big game.  Just sayin'.

Have a GRRRRRRRRReat day!

J. CREW -CHIC WEEK

J. Crew is offering 25% off all orders of $150 or more (on-line only), today through Saturday.  You must use the code:  FALLSALE to take advantage of the discount.

Context Clothing-Find what suits you

Be ready for the coming holidays with these suit separates at Context Clothing.  Shake things up a bit by adding a pair of SeaVees Desert boots in black..what a sexy, sexy look.

www.contextclothing.com

La Lingerie...ooooolala...and then some!

OK ladies, apparently a good chunk of us Midwestern women are all wearing the wrong bra, and I'm not surprised.  I take for granted that my little gals just fit into any ol' sport-esque bra and off I go...wrong.  Even the wee ones need the proper fit, so Katherine Bice, owner of La Lingerie has a few things to say to us:

Lingerie is the hardest piece of clothing to fit correctly. "I am 34 what?" "This C cup doesn’t fit like the other bra. What do I do now?" According to Tracy M. Pfeifer, M.D., a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City, 80% of women wear the wrong bra. From my experience in working with thousands of women in my six years in Big Box Retail and Specialty lingerie shops, that statistic seems low. Most women in the Midwest are wearing the wrong bra, and it affects their self-image, how their clothes fit, and it affects how they are viewed by the world around them. La lingerie welcomes women, of all shapes and sizes, to find beautiful lingerie that fits.  Carrying sizes 30A - 40H and 44F. 

 

Appointment-only

Private fittings Tues - Sat. Shop open only for appointments.

 

www.lalingerieshop.com 

 

Title Nine 25% off sale!

I love Title Nine for their comfortable, casual clothes and workout gear,  as well as their fantastic, easy-to-jazz-up summer dresses (the built in shelf bra is ideal for someone like me who wears a bra as a formality). 
So when Title Nine has a sale, I take notice, because their garments are not cheap (nor are they cheaply made), but if you don't have $60 to spend on a graphic tee, then now would be the time to shop the sale.  Here are some favorites:

 
Check out Title Nine for more great deals, or stop in to the Hilldale Mall location just off of University Avenue in Madison:
www.titlenine.com 

Context Clothing-New Arrivals!!

Context Clothing on King Street has "just in" garments that warrant a look.  Many items are in limited quantity (and by limited, I mean, like, 25 produced...period).   

One of the "just in" brands is Sunny Sports, a Japanese based company producing some of the finest quality garments out there (I am partial to the "Hunter Jacket"...very partial).  Here's a quick look at what Sunny Sports has to offer:

Other brand favorites:

Haversack Pullover:

Wings + Horns Wool Fleece Cardigan:

 I could go on and on, but go and have a look for yourself

www.contextclothing.com 


Remember, these clothes aren't going to wear themselves, so get online or take a walk and add a new item to your Fall wardrobe.