Winter 2011 Fashion Trend: Outstanding Outerwear

By Allison Mequel

If it hasn’t been clear the last few weeks, there’s certainly no question now that winter is officially here. That means it’s time to pull out your best outerwear and winter accessories. What’s hot this season in outerwear trends are subtle updates to classic styles and there’s no time like the present to go out and treat yourself or a friend to a great Holiday coat find.

As usual, Encore Boutique has a great selection of this season’s hottest trends and outerwear is no exception. Here are a few of my favorite picks for winter 2011 coat/jacket trends:

Cropped Leather

Just about every designer winter collection features a cute cropped leather jacket ranging in styles from military inspired to biker chic and delicate/feminine. For a new spin on your leather jacket, try styling it with a soft and ruffled dress. The contrasting soft and hard textures, coupled with a pair of tights and ankle booties is sure to make a fashionable statement this winter.


Quilted/Printed

 

Quilted and printed coats are great because they can easily upgrade your look. Their rich textures and eye-catching designs add an element of sophistication to your ensemble. What’s best about them, in my opinion, is that the chance of someone else having your same coat is highly unlikely. When wearing quilted or printed coats, keep in mind that less is more. The rest of your outfit doesn’t have to be a print; it should be simple yet stylish. Remember the coat is the head-turner, it needs no help.

Fur & Fur Trimmed

The greatest thing that could have ever happened to fur was the creation of faux fur. It was a much needed compromise, keeping existing fur connoisseurs happy and creating a peaceful and politically correct alternative for die-hard animal rights lovers who happen to love fashion. Fur is making cameo appearances on just about everything fashionable and has the ability to make a coat look fabulous and keep you warm at the same time. If you were ever thinking about adding a real or faux fur coat to your collection, this is undoubtedly the time to do so.

Trench and Pea Coats

What’s great about winter outerwear is that there are always going to be coat styles that remain fashionable year after year like trench and pea coats. These are your staple/investment pieces. They come in a number of colors; however, my personal favorites are solid black or charcoal grey. You can style them with printed scarves or wear accented jewels to make your look dressy or casual.

BONUS – Ski & Hiking Outerwear

With the emergence of December and Old Man Winter also comes holiday ski trips and winter hiking excursions. Even though both activities require physical contact, there’s no reason you can’t look cute while hitting the slopes and trails. Ski parkas and vests go great with a pair of knee high leather boots and a stylish scarf and glove set. What’s best about this look is that it’s also perfect for grabbing a quick cup of coffee or strolling along shopping at a strip mall. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or casually running errands around your home town, you’ll be as cute as a ski bunny.

Hot Styles to Wear With Leggings, Fashion's Trend We Hate to Love

By Allison Mequel

By now you probably realize leggings and their stretchy denim partner, jeggings, are here to stay. Many have fought the trend the past couple of seasons with much gusto, but it’s apparent they are not going away any time soon.

Designers have been incorporating some form of leggings into their collections and stylists have been illustrating different ways to wear them, so much so, that some of the most devout skeptics have been converted into believers.

What many have discovered is that they are quite comfortable, and when styled correctly can actually create great looks. So, those of us here at Encore Boutique thought we would highlight a few of our favorite pieces in stock we’re sure will look fantastic with a pair of leggings.

Tunics & Oversized Blouses

*Style with a pair of leggings, a belt and ankle boots or heels. Enhance this look with a jeweled collar or chunky necklace.

Sweaters/Sweater Dresses & Skirts

*Style your sweater with a pair of jeggings/leggings and knee boots or pumps. To boost your look, couple with an oversized bag and scarf.

 

Tanks, Jackets & Blazers

*To spice up your tank and jacket/blazer, opt for the wet look or decorative leggings with rhinestones/jewels down the seam or sides. Complete the look with a clutch, oversized cocktail ring and heels.

Wearable Art: For Jewelry Lovers

By Allison Mequel

Several weeks ago, I mentioned that accessories are an outfit’s equivalent to “icing on a cake,” because they have the ability to enhance your outfit and make you stand out. Purses, shoes, scarves, gloves and hats all add a little something extra to your look. Jewelry, however, has the ability to do this as well as assist in creating a unique aesthetic that tells a story about who you are. For example, women who are up on the latest fashion trends and have a very outgoing personality are generally prone to push the envelope a bit when it comes to jewelry. They will wear the bigger, gaudy bobbles and are not afraid to have on “too much” jewelry. On the other hand, women who are conservative and are a bit more practical will more than likely wear one statement piece of jewelry rather than several flashy pieces.

I usually tend to fall into the first category, however, there are times when a statement piece is all I need to feel elegant and fashionable which is why I like artisan jewelry. It has the ability to satisfy both types of women because it is typically one-of-a-kind and is custom, handmade. Artisan jewelry really became popular in the 1950’s and has carried its popularity into present day because it is seen as “wearable art.”

Encore Boutique carries the designs of several artisan jewelers and is sure to have the perfect set of jewels to make you stand out in a big (or modest) way. Here are a few of my personal favorites:

Handmade South African Jewelry: Horn



These truly beautiful necklaces and earrings are so distinct, they can be worn with jeans or with an evening dress.

One-of-a-Kind Custom, Crafted Jewelry

You are sure to be the only one wearing one of these beautifully crafted pieces.

Artisan Jewelry with Antique/Vintage Flair

These beautiful necklaces and matching earrings are one of many designs by local Atlanta jewelry artisan, Susan Woodbridge.

Note: Come to our reception and artisan showcase on Sunday November 14, 2010, view our collection of Susan Woodbridge jewelry and meet the artisan jeweler in person.

Danyael Jewelry has a modern take on vintage, bohemian style. The designer, Milka Miller, has a innate gift for creating one-of-a-kind pieces for any occiasion. Stop by Encore Boutique to view designs by Danyael Jewelry and other great artisans.
















Whether you fall under the trendsetter, flashy jewelry personality or the conservative, statement piece personality, Encore Boutique is sure to have the perfect set of jewels for you.

Designers that Suit You

By Allison Mequel


One of the things I look forward to the most in the colder months is being able to wear suits. There’s something about putting on a new suit with stockings and either sky-high heels or killer boots that ups the “sophistication” factor for me. Recently, I looked in my wardrobe and took inventory of all of my suits, and I realized some have been there close to a decade. They are classic pieces that can be matched with a number of different blouses and accessories and have been impeccably tailored.


While I like what I have (Ralph Lauren, Jones New York and Banana Republic to name a few) I decided I wanted to invest in a great designer suit, one that has been flawlessly executed and one that fits some of this fall’s suit trends: feminine and flirty silhouettes, jeweled closures and textured fabric. So, imagine my excitement when I saw some of the suits that recently came in at Encore Boutique; Several St. John and Chanel suits in shades of black and cream. It was like a designer Christmas! I couldn’t resist sharing the information. Check out these great photos:


Chanel

This Chanel suit has been made with immaculate fabric that provides a bit of texture. It's lining carries the label's signature chain along the hem and comes complete with button closures carrying the interlocking C's the label is known for.

 

This Chanel two-piece knit set has a very relaxed and feminine structure. It comes with pockets on the cardigan and has a clear button closure at the nape of the neck carrying gold interlocking C's.

This beautiful Chanel suit is truly unique, with it's intricate fabric weaving and quilted feel. It noticeably has no button closures along the front breast of the suit jacket, and comes complete with the inside chained hem.

This georgeous Chanel garment is a modern take on the classic "Chanel Suit," introduced in 1920. Its relaxed silhouette is adorned with oversized pockets and is lined with a shiny, metalic fabric that adds a great contrast to it's outer knit shell. The button closures on the sleeves and down the of the front jacket carry the signature interlocking C's. (My personal favorite)

St. John

St. John is known for their unparalleled ability to create glamorous knit garments using Swiss-made knitting machines and twisting and dying the yarn in-house in their paint lab. The beautiful St. John jacket pictured above has gold and jeweled frog closures and is embellished with gold sequin on the lapel and cuffs.

This black knit St. John beauty is truly a unique find. It's actually a two piece set where the jacket and sweetheart-shaped vest are attached. The cuffs of the sleeves and vest are adorned with matching sequin detail.

 

These black and white St. John knit garments are both distinct in their own way. The sheath dress (pictured left) is perfect for the fall and is begging to be styled with a pair of knee-high boots. The suit (pictured right) has beautiful fringe detail along the sleeve and pockets and has stunning jeweled button closures.


Bonus Fall Designer Finds

Check out these bonus Chanel and St. John finds, perfect for fall.

Black and White floral Chanel blouse and olive green and gold St. John sweater.


Come to Encore Boutique and check out our designer section full of designer names you love like Diane von Furstenberg - Catherine Malandrino - Trina Turk - Chanel - Nicole Miller - Rebecca Taylor - Chaiken - St. John – Burberry - Escada - Armani - Misook - Marc Jacobs - Vivienne Tam, and many more.

Fall 2010 Fashion Trend: Hot Handbags

By Allison Mequel

A woman’s accessories tell a lot about her personality. They are what I like to call an outfit’s equivalent to “icing on the cake,” and if worn properly can really turn heads. When it comes to accessories, most women suffer from either a shoe or handbag addiction. I personally am a sucker for a great bag and fall is usually the time my habit kicks into overdrive.

This fall we are seeing less of the oversized handbag that has dominated the fashion scene for the last year and are witnessing designers making major nods towards some new silhouettes. Box and U-shaped handbags that fall in the small to midsized range are stepping into the forefront as well as embellished and vintage style clutches. We are also seeing great textures being created with weaving and embroidery as well as the use of heavier fabrics like suede.

Encore Boutique has great handbags that come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. There is definitely something for everyone. Take a peek at what currently available:

Box and U-shaped Beauties

These great handbags are spot on this season’s hottest trends, sporting animal prints and boasting with texture and personality from designers like Francesco Biasa and Michael Kohrs (both pictured in the center).

These U-shaped handbags have the best of both worlds: texture and shape. Choose from designers like Eric Javits, Coach, Brighton and Longchamp (pictured left to right).

Embellished/Vintage Clutches

Style Tip: Vintage clutches are great accessories for formal affairs, but they can also add a special touch to a casual look. Carry one of these with a pair of jeans, knee boots, white blouse and black blazer. Add some fun costume jewelry and you are sure to make a fabulous, fall fashion statement!

Textured Handbags

Style Tip: These textured Eric Javits woven-style handbags are sure to make a statement. Try pairing them with your favorite sweater or turtle neck, pencil skirt and brown boots. Throw on a scarf for added flair and you are ready to hit the town.

Sleek & Sophisticated Styles

We are currently carrying the Beijo handbag line. What’s great about these unique bags is that they come in a variety of styles, colors and sizes. Also, their sleek look adds a level of sophistication to any outfit. Stop in and see what we have in stock! (Beijo handbags are pictured top and bottom)

Fall 2010 Fashion Trend: Autumn Chic Boots

By Allison Mequel

One of my favorite things about fall fashion is wearing boots, and now that the weather is turning to cooler climates and stores are starting to carry autumn inventory, it’s officially time to up the boot ante. This fall’s boot trends are similar to last year’s where ankle and knee high boots are very much in style, however, three “oldies but goodies” are making a major impact this fall: the cowboy boot, riding boot and vintage-style ankle boots.

What’s unique about each is not so much in how they are designed, but in how they can be styled with just about anything. From a dress to leggings, from jeans and a blazer to a skirt and a scarf, there are so many ways to upgrade your fall look.

Check out a few boots from Encore Boutique’s selection:

Cowboy Boots

Jessica Simpson is notorious for coupling a pair of cowboy boots with her wardrobe.

Rainboots

Wear your rainboots like Rachel Bilson this fall with a sweater, a scarf and a great pair of jeans.

Vintage & Ankle Boots

Be Posh like Victoria Becham in vinatge boots.
Try wearing these ankle boots with leggings, a pair of wool shorts,
a long sleeve blouse and a fabulous bag.

Knee High Boots

Get Jessica Alba's autumn chic look with a pair of knee high boots and a striped sweater.

*All the boots pictured are available at Encore Boutique. Designers pictured include Juicy Couture, Celine, Miu Miu, Steve by Steven Madden, Cole Haan, Nomad, Sperry, Preview International, Sabotage, Donald J. Pilner and No.704b.

Fall 2010 Trend: Tailored Jackets

By Allison Mequel

Tailored jackets are all the rage for the fall 2010 fashion season. Just about every designer’s fall collection consists of some type of jacket, from the staple jean, leather and tweed jackets to bold-colored velvet creations.

What’s really exciting about this trend is the use of playful silhouettes consisting of bold shoulder pads, military cuts and classic tailored lines. Great patterns like houndstooth and animal prints, layered with lush knit sweaters and smooth lines create the perfect mix of textures and comfort.

At Encore Boutique we get new merchandise every week and we currently have three racks of jackets of all colors, shapes, sizes and textures. There’s too many to highlight them all, but here are a few of my personal favorites, with a preview of fabulous coats for this winter:

Bold Prints: Inspired by Houndstooth

STYLE TIP: These jackets are classic pieces and are must-haves for your wardrobe. Wear them with your favorite pair of jeans and a crisp collar shirt/sweater and ankle boots. Add a scarf and a great belt to enhance your look.




Ellen Tracy, Jill Michelle and Tulle Jackets - Available at Encore Boutique

 

Textured & Tailored

STYLE TIP: My favorite part about any outfit is adding the accessories, and this fall it’s all about the oversized jewelry. Adding a bold piece of jewelry to a simple tailored jacket and coupling that with leather boots and an oversized handbag is sure to score you major fashion points this season.




Laundry (Velvet), Peck & Peck (Animal Print) & L.K. Collection (Draped Silhouette)
Available at Encore Boutique

 

Winter Coat Preview

Pick out your head-turning winter coat now! Warning: these fabulous coats are not for the timid. Be a trendsetter in a printed, fur or tweed trench coat.




Coach, Arden B (100% Fur) and Beth Bowley Coats
Available at Encore Boutique



From Casually Cute to Formally Fabulous: Party Dresses For Any Occasion

By Allison Mequel

The beginning of each season is usually accompanied by the excuse to throw a party and contrary to popular belief, strapless and sleeveless dresses are perfect for fall events. These types of dresses are very feminine and give you the opportunity to wear your most fabulous cocktail jewelry and accessories. They also give you the option to wear them year-round because you can pair them with a wrap or shawl for the colder months, which ultimately means they are a better investment.

We’ve recently had a lot of customers come into Encore Boutique asking for cocktail dresses for fall weddings and special events so we thought we’d feature a few of our newest and cutest dresses as well as give you a few of this weekend’s most anticipated events.

Casually Cute



Wine tastings, gallery hops and light dinner dates
are perfect venues for these casually cute dresses.

  

Creatively Cocktail



Dinner parties, musicals, plays and dances are great events for after five dresses.



Formally Fabulous

Gucci and Calvin Klein Formal Gowns - Available at Encore Boutique
These designer dresses are ideal for the opera, charity benefits and weddings.





 

Fall Into Fashion With Multi-Prints

By Allison Mequel

As I’ve mentioned before, prints of all types have been making a big statement on the runways for the last few seasons. I’ve already told you about the animal and botanical/floral themes and now the multi-print theme will conclude the series on prints. What’s great about the multi-print theme is that it encompasses many different types of prints and allows you to create unique styles and looks. Many designers used a combination of prints in their 2010 shows including Gucci, Balenciaga and Just Cavalli, each adding their own interpretation of how prints can spice up one’s wardrobe.

I share the view of many fashionistas who feel fall is one of the best times of the year to show off your prints. It’s all about the layering- adding sweaters, boots, gloves, belts and hats to a printed piece can give it an extra boost of flare and really create some fantastic styles. My picks for this fall’s multi-print theme are Mosaic, Safari and Hippie/Hobo. They’re oldies but goodies and can be found in a lot of stores, including Encore Boutique.

Check out these prints in action!

Mosaic Prints

Style Tip: Pair a print dress with solid tights and peep toe ankle boots. Couple it with a long shell/wooden necklace and a bag and you’re set!



 

Mosiac Print Inspiration: Gucci Resort 2010

Kelly Clark Print Dresses - Available at Encore Boutique

Safari Prints

Style Tip: Choose a safari print top or bottom and combine it with a solid piece for a simple and elegant look. Go light on the accessories, the print speaks for itself!



Safari Print Inspiration: Just Cavalli 2010
St. John Sleeveless Blouse - Available at Encore Boutique



Hippie & Hobo Prints

Style Tip: Take an intricate print dress and add a braided belt. Integrate a fabulous pair of high boots and a hobo bag and if you’re really feeling adventurous, throw on a slouchy crochet hat to complete your hobo chic look!



Hippie/Hobo Print Inspiration: Balenciaga 2010
Kelly Clark Print Dress - Available at Encore Boutique