Pretty Bras That’ll Give Even The Most Petite-Sized Gals A Push
We all know about the plight of the buxom when it comes to finding a bra that fits correctly, but what about our smaller-chested sisters? Turns…Read More
Shop It NowR29 Exclusive! First Look at BHLDN's Super-Flirty Fall Collection
The queens of boho-chic wedding style are at it again! BHLDN, the wedded cousin of Anthropologie, unveiled their fall collection to editors today and gave Refinery29 a sneak peek. (Danke!) The latest collection takes a detour from summer's bold statement pieces and returns to a quieter, ladylike approach with demure silhouettes, lace fabrics, and soft palettes of ice tints, muted pastels, and creamy neutrals. Obvious nods to Jackie Kennedy and Twiggy are present in the looks that feature column skirts, shift dresses, and boxy blouses. Plus, in the spirit of the season, painterly floral prints take center stage on social dresses and veils. Girly girl brides, take note! BHLDN newest collection, which averages under $3,000, will be available online and at BHLDN flagship locations in Houston and Chicago starting August 7.
Video: Madewell's Roadtrip Makes A Sweet Little Stop In Chicago
As we mentioned, Madewell made a stop through Chicago in their ridiculously sweet vintage airstream camper as part of their summer roadtrip. They're stopping in cities all over the US, but we're partial to one, obviously. The brand showed off plenty of denim, chambray shirts, and even had a braid bar for getting lovely locks. Watch the video below to see what Chicago gals thought of this shop on wheels, and see if you can spot a blogger we featured in a recent 1 Girl, 4 Looks story. Did you swing by? Tell us what you found!
Video: Via Youtube
Video: Via Youtube
Plan Your Wedding In One Day–This Event Will Help…
As a bride, you'll inveitably need something to make the joyous yet totally stressful process of planning the biggest day ever a little bit easier. It would be great to have a one-stop shop, a place to see and do everything you need for your wedding all at once. Ta-da! On Wednesday, May 9, Hotel 71 and CS Brides will host a bridal showcase that will allow you to check off at least a few bridal necessities from your to-do list. While enjoying food from the hotel's restaurant, Hoyt's Chicago, libations from Layer Cake. and custom cocktails from Femme Du Coupe, guests can view the gorgeous Amsale '13 collection from Belle Vie Bridal Couture, as well as bridesmaid dresses from Bella Bridesmaid and styling tips from Evolve. So maybe you've found your food, cocktails, and even the dresses, but still need a wedding planner to keep it all together? Michelle Dupretti Events will be showcasing all of its capabilities during the event, from photographers to invitation designers. And don't miss the rest of the fabulous vendors, including Pulp & Ink and Leap Weddings. Say "I do" and RSVP by May 7 for you and any other stressed-out brides you know.When: Wednesday, May 9 from 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: Hotel 71, 71 East Wacker Drive (just West of Michigan Avenue) 312-346-7100
6 Columbia College Students Show Off Their Senior Year Designs
It's graduation season, and in Chicago, that means Columbia College students in the university's fashion design program are finishing up their masterpieces. Waiting for you a click away are pieces from six graduating seniors we think deserve a little extra attention. We were impressed by their creativity, both in their designs and the aesthetic direction behind their lookbook images. We've got links to each student designer's webpage, too, so if you're ready to develop a sartorial relationship (why isn't that a status on Facebook?) with a new under-the-radar designer, you're all set.
Photo: Courtesy of Laundry Magazine
Photo: Courtesy of Laundry Magazine
CFI Designers Debut Designs Inspired By Hanae Mori
Last week, Hanae Mori President Thomas Saujet paid a visit to Chicago, and the Designers in Residence at the Chicago Fashion Incubator did their best to give him a warm welcome. Hanae Mori just released Eau De Collection No. 6 at Macy's and the CFI designers created stunning gowns inspired by the perfume’s scent, the colors of the French glass bottle, and the history of haute couture fashion designer Madame Hanae Mori. Click through to see designs from Sarah Church, Brooke Conrady, Britney Devaris, Rachel Frank, and LaTonya Williams, and the new Hanae Mori Eau De Collection No. 6, too.
Madewell Rolls Into Chicago With Their Party On Wheels
Madewell is taking their highly touted denim on the road, literally: They've tricked out a vintage Airstream, and started a cross-country trip to rival Jack Kerouac (acid-free, of course). This Saturday, they'll be setting up camp outside the Tribune Building to bring denim to the masses. In addition to hawking tons of skinnies and flares in all sorts of washes and colors, they'll be offering up their expert styling advice, hosting a hair braiding bar, and, natch, giving out super sweet deals. And, if that wasn't enough, denim enthusiasts will have a chance to win five years' worth of Madewell jeans (visit their Facebook page for details). Correct us if we're wrong, but that's pretty much the best prize ever.
When: Saturday, April 28, from noon to 5 p.m.
Where: 435 North Michigan Avenue (at East Illinois Street).
Behind-The-Scenes Pics From Refinery29's Windy City Live Appearance!
This morning marked Refinery29's first appearance on Chicago's own Windy City Live! We were thrilled to be a part of our city's favorite morning show, and we don't want you to miss a minute of it. Your Chicago editor Shani Silver and five amazing real-girl models showed off some of our favorite spring denim trends with Windy City Live host Val Warner. You can catch a video of the segment online to stay up-to-date on denim we're loving for spring (and some great ideas on how to wear it!), but first click through to check out behind the scenes photos from our morning at WCL. (Windy City Live)
Local Design Students Battle It Out Where It Matters: On The Runway
The Driehaus Design Initiative is a local nonprofit committed to local emerging design talent. This Friday, April 27, Driehaus will host its annual fashion show and competition, and the good news for you is that it's open to the public. The event will include a pre-party with cocktails and yummy bites, a silent auction, a runway show (naturally), and a VIP after-party for the designers and special guests. Taking to the runway are designs from a select group of local fashion design students. All looks will be judged by the Driehaus panel, and top honors of the night will earn students a mentorship with Jon Cotay, owner of AKIRA, and the opportunity to attend a workshop on the business of retail and fashion. AKIRA has also donated a pop-up shop to display winning looks at a Chicago store. Grab your tickets and prepare to meet your new favorite local designer (or two). When: Friday, April 27 at 6 p.m.
Where: 700 South Des Plaines, (just South of Harrison Street); no phone
Tickets: Contact Driehaus Design Initiative via email or phone, details online
Photo: Courtesy of Molise PR
Like Free Balenciaga? Us Too. Enter This Contest To Win A Clutch!
If you love street style photos, but don't really have the time to commit to your own blog, we found a way for you to show off your styling skills and possibly win a free Balenciaga bag at the same time. eDrop-Off, the luxury designer consignment store that lets you buy or sell designer clothing and accessories, wants you to show off something you've bought on their site. The store's appropriately titled Show Us What You Bought contest is on now, so dive into your closet for all the cool finds that came your way because of eDrop Off. Get a trusted pal to snap a pic of you wearing the item and making it your own. For your efforts, you'll be entered to win the adorbs Balenciaga clutch bag shown below. Take a look at the recent entries for inspiration (they're really good!), then snap a pic and send it in. You're going to have to beat us for that clutch, but good luck! (Facebook)
Photo: Courtesy of eDrop Off
Photo: Courtesy of eDrop Off
Anna Wintour Is Coming To Chicago–Guess Who Invited Her…
Isn't it neat when the POTUS is from your home town? As part of President Barack Obama's re-election campaign, the Commander-In-Chief is throwing a huge fashion-focused party, with some celebrity hosts we think you'll like. Anna Wintour and Iman will host a fashion star-studded event as part of the President's Runway To Win effort, featuring looks from Prabal Gurung, Marc Jacobs, Jason Wu, Derek Lam, and more. On June 12, celebs and fashion icons will descend on Chicago for the unveiling of the Runway To Win pop-up shop in the Harpo Studios space. Funds raised from the pop-up will help secure four more years!
(HuffPo)
Photo: Via HuffPo
Photo: Via HuffPo
These Sexy New Swarovski Windows Were Designed By Local Students!
Who could resist a night of thousand-megawatt sparkles in celebration of new work by Chicago students? This week, Swarovski and Nick Cave joined up to unveil a stunning window display constructed by the SAIC’s graduate students. Kicking off the their Fashion 2012 events, the event had more than enough shine to draw a crowd. If the brightness of the window display is any indication of what’s to come in during The Walk 2012, then the Swarovski sponsored event will surely be a delight. Don’t forget to snag your tickets ASAP because Thursday’s show will feature more gorgeous Swarovski pieces and student work as well as hometown hero Cynthia Rowley with her guests Bill Powers, Jerry Saltz and Mickey Boardman. Check out our instagram gallery of these glittery windows below, then stop by the Swarovski store on Michigan Avenue to get an eye-full for yourself.
Watch What Happens When Your Favorite Dance Floor Turns Into A Runway
We bet you've never seen The Underground like this. This Thursday from 9 to 11 p.m., The Underground is hosting Hyper-Local, a fashion show featuring Chicago designers’ trendsetting new looks as modeled by some of Chicago's most beautiful citizens. The event is part of The Underground’s Second Annual Style Series, a program presented by Rockit Ranch Productions and Garmental.com that features the most dashing spring styles every Thursday in April. Hyper-Local is free and open to the public, but be sure to RSVP to ensure your entrance! This event is too hyper-chic to miss!The Underground Chicago, 56 West Illinois Street (between North Clark Street and North Dearborn Street); 312-943-7600.
Photo: Courtesy of Garmental
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