Fall Maxi

Eureka! Finally a modest trend surfaces! The maxi dress is essential in warmer months, and now its effortless, comfortable style can continue into the cooler seasons as well. A plethora of floor-grazing skirts and dresses have emerged, and the new looks pack more versatility and variety than the average summer frock. The styles range from cotton tanks, stretch tees and long-sleeved jersey, and the options get more dynamic from there. Interesting prints or dressier fabrics, like silk and chiffon, are just as wearable. Regardless, the simple, forgiving silhouette is as flattering as a pair of jeans.

The maxi is an appropriate option for any occasion, be it a black tie affair or trip to the grocery store. Wear it like a blank canvas: Dress it up with statement jewelry and sky-high ankle boots for date night; add a cardigan, belt and flats for casual Friday; or mix in motorcycle boots and a slouchy knit hat for an afternoon shopping in Bucktown. Even summer styles can transition into fall and winter. Pair airy styles with heavier layers, such as a fur vest, tights and lace-up boots, for an on-trend approach. Or, throw a chunky sweater over a summer maxi dress for a completely new look.

No matter what maxi you choose–skirt or dress, new or old–this fall staple is a starting point for any style-worthy look.

From left to right:

1. Chiffon full-length skirt ($58; American Apparel)
2. Classic long-sleeve dress with pocket ($106; Alexander Wang)
3. Knitted long skirt with pleated waist ($80; Zara)
4. “Read Across” maxi dress ($198; Free People)
5. Ralph Lauren “Lenorah” dress ($12,000; Ralph Lauren)
6. A.L.C. long “Veronica” dress ($440; shopbop.com)

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of American Apparel, Alexander Wang, Zara, Free People, Ralph Lauren and shopbop.com

Wear Short Shorts

What do you wear when it heats up? Yes, cute frocks and skirts are the common choices, but they lack a little….je ne sais quoi. Enter: shorts. With so many styles, fabrics and patterns to choose from this season, they’re made to be worn in unexpected ways. Shorts have a new-found chameleon-like versatility that makes them a staple for day and night.

With the onslaught of choices, you can stretch your imagination far and wide when selecting your new shorts and creating outfits around them. Try a sweatpant version with funky heels or a short with an unconventional animal print and a contrasting patterned top. As always, there’s a plethora of denim to choose from, but update your jean shorts by opting for high-waisted short shorts or a looser boyfriend cut. Some unexpected styles, like biker shorts, pleated versions, and skorts, are reemerging on the scene as well. Don a lacey biker short with an oversized denim shirt, or channel Chloé with a leather pair and nude silk blouse. Drapey skorts and balloon shorts are comfy and romantic, and paper bag shapes balance body con tops. A silky, lingerie-inspired tap short can soften the masculinity of structural pairings, like a boyfriend blazer. For a bold, party-perfect short, rock a metallic style that screams individuality.

Regardless of your budget, body type or personal style, there’s shorts out there with your name all over them. Approach this season as an opportunity to reinvent how you wear this summer staple.

1. Elise Overland leather shorts ($736; forwardforward.com)
2. What Goes Around Comes Around boyfriend shorts ($183; piperlime.com)
3. Beholic bloomer bamboo shorts ($148; Free People)
4. Topshop lace cycling shorts ($20; Topshop)
5. Alexander Wang striped apron skort ($425; Barneys)
6. Kimchi silky lace tap shorts ($28; Urban Outfitters)
7. Rift Valley shorts with giraffe print ($98; Anthropologie)
8. Cheap Monday high-waisted shorts ($55; Penelope’s; 1913 W Division Street)
9. 3.1 Philip Lim lamé harem shorts ($380; net-a-porter.com)
10. Monrow vintage long shorts ($88; Intermix)
11. Thakoon sequin crepe shorts ($1,349; theoutnet.com)

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of forwardforward.com, piperlime.com, Free People, Topshop, Barneys, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Penelope’s, net-a-porter.com, Intermix, and theoutnet.com

Chicago Boutique Profile: Pump

Everyone has his/her favorite neighborhood joint. Maybe it’s the corner bar, the local deli or the coffee shop that has your latte ready before you order. Well, my favorite spot serves a different kind of deliciousness altogether. Pump Shoes and Accessories (1659 W Division Street) is a retail wonderland where I find respite in a tempting selection of footwear and the promise of unsurpassed customer service.

Upon entering, it’s apparent that though the shoes are perched like mini pieces of art, the boutique is unpretentious and cozy. A gigantic, plush ottoman sits beneath a twinkling chandelier, beaconing shoppers to plop down and try on a pair (or two or three…). The boutique carries styles ranging from casual to formal by labels including Dolce Vita, Hunter, Calvin Klein, Jeffrey Campbell (“a bestseller,” according to owner Maureen Longua Bueltmann) and many more. In addition to the impressive shoe collection, Pump sells accessories galore: handbags, jewelry and hats worthy of the Kentucky Derby.

Pump has provided fabulous accessories to Wicker Park’s shoe addicts since 2004. When asked why she only sells shoes and accessories Maureen replies, “You never have to suck in your gut to wear them.” Unlike trying on clothes, shoes come without consequence and the need to lose five pounds. Guaranteed happiness!

Besides the irresistible selection, much of the shop’s 6-year success is rooted in Maureen’s commitment to her clientele. “As cliché as it may sound, they come here for the experience, and we come to work for the same reason,” she says. “I love what I do because of the customers.” As a cult follower I agree, and weirdly enough, my boyfriend does too. While on an agonizing search for my birthday gift, he wandered into Pump. In 10 minutes, the staff helped him find the best present I’ve ever received. They knew my name, knew my wish list and, craziest of all, knew my shoe size. The result was a luscious pair of over-the-knee brown leather Jeffrey Campbell boots.

Maureen’s impeccable taste—as my birthday present proves—and enthusiasm for shoes is contagious. “The Pump customer agrees the process of trying on shoes is as much fun as wearing them for the first time,” she says. In a city as diverse as Chicago, it’s easy to find a store where you can enjoy trying on amazing shoes. But, few stores have Pump’s abundant selection, fair price tags and outstanding customer service—the service that builds relationships with shoppers. It’s hard to find a shop where you feel at home, not swindled into a sale or snubbed. Though you won’t be handed a non-fat vanilla latte when walking through the door, you’ll be greeted with something with far more lasting power: an exceptional experience while perusing delcious shoes and accessories.

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Pump

Local Designer Winifred Grace

Styled by Meghan and I, text by Meghan Turner

I first met Winifred Grace Gundeck a little more than two years ago. At the time, I was writing a feature on her jewelry line, Winifred Grace, for a local magazine. I arrived at her small, sunlit studio for the interview and was greeted by a petite and welcoming Winni, as she is commonly called. We chatted on the lone sofa in the box-shaped studio before she showed me the work station. The table was covered in bits and pieces of metal, rhinestones and chains soon to be transformed into accessories rooted in her distinct aesthetic. After learning how that aesthetic materializes and seeing the finished product, I realized what Winifred was fashioning was a sparkling future in jewelry design.

Fast forward to present day and the Winifred Grace line has continued to blossom. Though it seemed impossible back then, the Spring 2010 collection is even more spectacular than the one I fondled during the interview. The season’s introduction of graphic brass elements adds a complementary contrast to the oxidized silver and light-catching Swarovski crystals. “I was inspired by vintage textiles and ancient tribal jewelry,” Winifred says. “[The brass] gives a unique vintage quality to the modern designs.”

Top image from left to right: Rhinestone and oxidized silver necklace (shown in the model’s hair), $185, with the oxidized chain and rhinestone bracelet, $275. Brass and jet drop earring, $115. Above image from left to right: Tiered rhinestone and brass necklace, $345, with the oxidized chain and rhinestone bracelet, $275. Cut crystal and brass charms necklace, $195.

As with every season, the spring collection includes necklaces, bracelets and earrings that together feel well-edited and perfectly cohesive. Along with the craftsmanship, what distinguishes Winifred’s designs is how she harmonizes a raw edginess with feminine flare. The quality is obvious and exceptional, the vision unique and breathtaking. Each piece is made to order and handcrafted here in Chicago by the Winifred Grace team. This includes the oxidation of metals—one of her signature techniques.

By mixing and distressing various metals, chains and embellishments, each piece embodies a versatility that can be dressed up or down. They can also easily be layered with other Winifred Grace items or with your own jewelry. Whether your look is trendy, classic or understated, the line filters beautifully into any given wardrobe. “The collection is a mix of casual, sophisticated elegance,” she says. “I’m most happy in flip-flops and a tunic but welcome the chance to put on my party shoes! I think the collection speaks to both sides of my personality.”

Tiered rhinestone and brass necklace, $548, with the cut crystal and brass charms bracelet, $460.

Just as each Winifred Grace collection is a small treasure trove of gold, silver and crystal, the label’s future promises to be just as dazzling. Soon, Winifred will introduce one-of-a-kind couture pieces available only on her e-shop and a few stores. But that’s just the beginning. “I also have some top secret plans for expanding the Winifred Grace brand into the lifestyle arena,” she says. “Stay tuned!”

We certainly will!

Written and produced by Meghan Turner
Photography by Ace Ujimori
Model: Brittney Jo
Makeup: Jennifer Hanwright
Hair: Kelly Tracy
Special thanks to Kaitlyn Groth and Maia McGinley

STRIPES!

Spring 2010 is about making the old new again by taking a timeless look and giving it a fresh spin. As one of the season’s biggest trends, striped garments are one such look. This classic pattern has the surprising ability to take on many personalities: Parisian chic, sporty, nautical, and even bohemian. There are so many striped options out there this season, it seems we can wear the print in any way imaginable.

For a classic approach, go with stripes that are clean and simplistic. There’s the standard black and white stripe, a tried and true staple. The BDG tunic is a perfect basic that can be given a Parisian spin by wearing it with wide-leg trousers and a long, gold chain necklace. Nautical is another trend that’s always big for spring, so head for the high seas in navy and blue stripes with gold accents, like this Markus Lupfer “Allegra” dress.

If you go for a look that’s more edgy, urban and tough, designers have taken a bold approach by stepping alway from the classic stripes. For a look that’s less predictable and structured, wear a graphic stripe with haphazard lines à la Givenchy. For a completely fresh approach, mix a striped tank with contrasting prints, such as paisley short or polka dot cardi. To push the sartorial envelope even further, combine two striped garments of contrasting colors. Finally, if you’re anything like me, spring brings out your inner hippie. I’m following Isabel Marant’s lead and wearing bright, textured stripes on looser fabrics for a look that has globetrotter written all over it.

Here’s some other striped garments that will allow you to wear stripes however you want this season.

Clockwise from upper left:
1. Givenchy striped shoulder pad jacket ($1,275; Givenchy)
2. Juicy Couture striped military cardigan ($248; piperline.com)
3. Isabel Marant “Alamo” silk-chiffon pants ($850; net-a-porter.com)
4. Markus Lupfer striped “Allegra” dress ($350; Intermix or Sarca; 710 N Wabash)
5. Marano clutch by Anya Hindmarch ($161; vivre.com)
6. Paul Smith stripped dress (Paul Smith)
7. Alexander McQueen geometric strip pump ($810; Alexander McQueen)
8. BDG 3/4 sleeve striped tunic ($48; Urban Outfitters)
9. Balenciaga stripped mini dress ($1,641; farfetch.com)

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Givenchy, piperline.com, net-a-porter.com, Intermix, Vivre, Paul Smith, Alexander McQueen, Urban Outfitters, and farfetch.com

What to wear to Lollapalooza: Music Inspiration

There’s no better place than Chicago during the first weekend in August. Since I missed Coachella earlier this summer, I’ll definitely be at Lollapalooza—blanket and camera in tow. The three-day festival melds my passions for music and style, and because one often inspires the other, my Lolla looks nod to the musicians I can’t wait to see. While I want my get-ups to seem effortlessly superb, there’s still a decent amount of planning to stylishly battle the heat and humidity.

Though I’m not a die-hard fan of her music, I do admire Gaga’s humor and artistry. The lady sure knows how to fly her freak flag, so I’ll honor her opening day performance with skin-tight Lycra and quirky pieces.

1. Quontom cutout dress ($90; Topshop). Edgy cut outs are cool and hot.
2. Dolce Vita “Indy” shoes ($36; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). While sky-high heels are more Gaga’s style, they just aren’t practical for Lolla.
3. “Chain Mail Perfection” body jewelry ($300; Litter San Francisco). Fashion-forward enough to make Gaga herself jealous, this embellishment is bound to be a conversation piece.
4. Paloma vintage sunglasses ($173; Akira; 1849 W North Avenue). An interesting, modern approach that rivals Gaga’s standout eyewear collection.

I’ll revisit my youth Saturday night. Memories of pre-mainstream Green Day and Social Distortion have inspired me to rock elements of punk and alternative from the early 90’s. Who knew I’d regret dumping my old Doc Martens?

1.  Urban renewal cutoff shorts ($28; Urban Outfitters). Denim shorts are a festival must-have—hands down.
2.  Vintage Doc Martens ($128; Free People). Comfortable boots to trek Grant Park.
3.  Plaid “Dakota Gilet” ($68; AllSaints). The cut-off sleeves are edgy and airy.
4.  “Yes please” cutoff  tank ($64; The Trend Boutique). Nothing says “punk” like pairing stripes with plaid.
5.  “Diego” bucket bag ($825; Alexander Wang). This gorgeous cross-body bag keeps hands free and luggage minimal.
6.  Ray Ban wayfarer sunglasses ($170; Sunglass Hut). You can’t go wrong with this classic.
7.  Low Luv knuckle ring ($80; Saks Fifth Avenue). Positively badass.

If I survive this music marathon, the carefree, barefoot hippie within will shine through on Sunday. What better way to come off an intense weekend than to lounge in the grass swaying to tunes? Wolfmother (hauntingly reminiscent of Led Zeppelin) evokes a laid-back vibe that carries me back in time when peace, love and music ruled the earth.

1. Shady Brady hat ($70; Alcala’s; 1733 W Chicago Avenue). Be weary of UV rays by shading your face from the summer sun.
2. Nightcap Clothing “Penelope” dress ($275; Shopbop). Beat the heat with an airy white dress.
3. Vintage bottle necklace ($578; Free People). A perfect addition to the part boho, part rock ensemble.
4. Zara Terez holster bag ($125; p.45; 1643 N Damen Avenue). The most practical festival bag yet; it’s just big enough for all your necessities.
5. Hudson buckle boot ($345; Niche; 1566 N Damen Avenue). Add a masculine touch to an otherwise feminine outfit.

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Topshop, Lori’s Shoes, Litter San Francisco, Akira, Urban Outfitters, Free People, AllSaints, The Trend Boutique, Alexander Wang, Sunglasses Hut, Saks Fifth Avenue, Alcala’s, shopbop.com, P.45, and Niche

A Vest-ed Interest

While I can forgo most of the wardrobe memories that come with it, I’m thrilled I re-discovered my treasured denim vest in an old box marked “Junior High.” Luckily, I learned one of the golden rules of fashion: never discard denim. Eventually, once dormant jean styles pop back on the scene, much like the recent resurgence of the work shirt, the wide leg pant, and the vest.

Denim vests are both a layering piece and a jolt of excitement to a mundane outfit. Taking inspiration from motorcycle gangs, 80’s rock bands, and New Kids On The Block, this season’s denim vests toughen up girly dresses and add dimension to basic tanks and tees. Much like the leather jacket, this topper complements almost any outfit and looks especially fresh when paired with stripes, flowered prints and high-waisted pants. Boxy cuts with cut-off sleeves exude a badass vibe, but lighter, fitted vests are more feminine and conservative when buttoned, or, in some cases, worn solo.

Though my treasured acid-washed vest remained intact after all these years (minus the N.K.O.T.B buttons, of course), there are hundreds of new styles to choose from this season in case you mistakenly discarded yours.

Clockwise from upper left:

1. Studded Denim Vest ($248; Juicy Couture). Both chic and tough to contrast a feminine dress.
2. Denim “Waterfall Waistcoat” ($80; Topshop). A modern cut in a light fabric is summer-ready.
3. “Leah” Vest ($180; True Religion). White and ragged feels fresh but edgy.
4. Colcci denim vest ($53; New’d, 1917 W Division Street). For a less boxy look, this preppy style offsets a loose or wide leg pant.
5. Distressed vest ($40; American Eagle Outfitters). A fitted, medium-hued style is figure-flattering and timeless.
6. Denim vest ($88; J.Crew). With a light wash and a classic cut, you can’t go wrong.

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Juicy Couture, Topshop, True Religion, J.Crew, American Eagle Outfitters, and New’d

Jodi Arnold

Left: “O’Keeffe” floral dress with belt (retail: $394; Beta Boutique: $125). Right: pocket tee (retail: $90; Beta Boutique: $40) and the “Charming” floral shorts (retail: $196; Beta Boutique: $50)

This Saturday and Sunday, Beta Boutique will present the Jodi Arnold Spring 2010 sample sale. The weekend-only pop-up shop will offer up to 80% off retail prices in the heart of Bucktown, across the street from Marc by Marc Jacobs. Jodi Arnold, whom you may remember from MINT and her recent collection for The Limited, is a New York-based designer known for her ability to create fresh, fashion-forward clothes without pretension. Her spring collection, titled “Mash-Up,” is no different. Constructed from quality fabrics like silk crepe and satin georgette, the line offers a variety of sensible prints, clean cuts, and summer-ready hues. Stripes, abstract florals (inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe), realistic florals, and neutrals are the mainstays. Created for the “multi-layered” woman, it’s moderately priced ($100-$500) and blends seamlessly with any wardrobe. This is one sample sale not to be missed.

The Jodi Arnold sample sale is located at 1725 N Damen Avenue. Doors are open Saturday from 10am to 6pm and on Sunday from 12pm to 5pm.

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Jodi Arnold

Fashion Salvation

Last Wednesday night, I attended Fashion Salvation, a runway show at Salvage One. I always wanted an excuse to lounge in the unconventionally stylish space—a graveyard of architectural relics—and this show provided the opportunity to do so. Surrounded by larger than life Grecian columns, carousel horses, and monstrous neon signs, the evening immediately took an enchanting tone. Produced by Y.E.S. (Young Executives for Success) to raise money for Dress for Success, a program dedicated to supplying professional attire to disadvantaged woman, the event was impressive from beginning to end. Juggling a cilantro-spiked cocktail and tasty canapé, I took my seat in one of the mismatched antique chairs surrounding a runway draped in Persian rugs. Shortly afterward, fashions from Bonnie & Clyde’s boutique, Marisa Swystun and Agga B took the stage.

A grayscale collection from Bonnie and Clyde’s was edgy, futuristic and grungy (look shown above center). Zombie-like models showcased men’s and women’s separates with modern cuts of leather, jersey and denim that lay somewhere between street urchin, avant-garde and Edward Scissorhands. The gauzy tanks, long tube skirts, fitted jackets and thin sweaters were both practical and appealing. With the addition of clunky combat boots, bug-ish magnifying eyewear, and gothic makeup, the show’s aesthetic was reminiscent of one Mr. Rick Owens.

Marisa Swystun’s collection had more movement and shape (above left). Silky, feminine dresses, skirts and hand-printed kimono tops are clearly her specialty. It was as if she created each colorful, airy piece specifically for a hot summer evening. The collection covered a wide range of styles, from floor-length, bohemian frocks to shorter, more conservative cocktail attire. While soft and sweet was the overall theme, the element of surprise was still there. One-shoulder numbers and zipper detailing showed some attitude.

Like a harmonious fusion of Bonnie and Clyde’s edginess and Marisa’s glamour, Agga B’s looks (above right) fell somewhere between feminine and dangerous. Her perfectly executed designs came in sultry neutrals, but with a pinch of glitz. Hot pants, sequined bodysuits, and silk capes were the central theme for her cohesive collection. The combination of sporty and glam, incredible use of material, and fresh silhouettes brought to mind what gripped me about Prada’s spring runway. Agga’s professional styling skills were evident throughout: pant-less models armed with red lipstick and dark sunnies helped create a femme-fatale-meets-bathing-beauty vibe. Very sexy and very chic.

Though all entirely different, each featured collection was dense with creativity and artistry. While the spirit Salvage One added its own energy to the event, it was the show-stopping designs that really made magic that night.

By Maia McGinley

Photography by Landtex Graphics

I heart a one piece

No longer just for the flower child, the jumpsuit again made its way onto the must-have list. The all-in-one outfit appeared on the fashion scene during the ‘60s and became a staple for women taking on male dominated trades, Studio 54 and Woodstock. With a little help from designers like Halson, the jumpsuit quickly grew into a sartorial symbol of the empowered woman—much like the ‘80s power suit that followed. The jumpsuit adapted over time, but this time around, it’s more fluid, versatile and feminine to allow different style interpretations.

Starting last year, this onsie’s comeback gives younger generations the opportunity to experience the liberating, fashion-forward trend. Options range from utilitarian to ladylike and are found in a multitude of fabrics (jersey, silk, cotton, et al), lengths (shorts vs pants) and cuts (sleeves vs sleeveless vs strapless). Regardless of the style, the playsuit—as they’re appropriately called overseas—is whimsical, confident, ageless and practical. It’s a wearable look that requires little styling and minimal fuss. Whether you wear it to work or on the dance floor (disco ball optional!) you’ll feel as empowered as those before you.

1. Floral jumpsuit ($148; Free People). Completely fitting for the farmers’ market, or a night on the town.
2. Crinkle drawstring romper ($49; Arden B.). Kill two trends with one piece neon pink shorts style.
3. Dolce Vita “Berkley” Romper ($235; Urban Outfitters). An elegant silk jumpsuit is an unexpected choice for a casual summer wedding.
4. Jully Kang ruched tube jumpsuit ($120; Veruca Salt; 521 N Kingsbury Street). The print is incredibly bold, and the style is more current than a maxi dress.
5. Marc by Marc Jacobs “Wythe” sateen jumpsuit ($248; Bloomingdale’s). The classic-shaped top and modern harem bottom makes this style an interesting mix of feminine and masculine.

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Free People, Arden B., Urban Outfitters, Veruca Salt, and Bloomingdale’s