Boutique Profile: GAVIN

Given the impressive selection of boutiques and stores scattered throughout Chicago, it’s hard to fathom shopping outside the city limits. Unless we need glassware or end tables from Ikea, why visit the ‘burbs, right? Well, here’s why: GAVIN boutique (1939 Central Street). Though slightly off an urbanite’s beaten path, this Evanston shop competes with some of the city’s best boutiques, making the 30-minute commute more like a fleeting joy ride.

LEFT: LNA ripped leggings ($110); Elizabeth and James “James” jacket ($395); LNA strapless bralette ($50); House of Harlow pearl shoe ($225); Janis Savitt emerald cut earring ($127); Annie Costello beaded fringe necklace ($305); and a silver disc ring from Morocco ($142). RIGHT: Rory Beca shorts ($165); Heartfelt top ($184); Allison Schiller bracelets ($120- $125); Trina Turk jewel crusted ring ($88); and Allison Schiller necklace ($295). Top Image: LEFT: Lauren Cavallo Runzel, GAVIN’s owner, in a Gryphon silver sequin top ($310). RIGHT: Elizabeth and James “Jett” jacket ($595); Wilt cropped top ($126); and Elizabeth Cole lion head earring ($105)

Lauren Cavallo Runzel, GAVIN’s founder and an ex-runway model, opened the shop earlier this year. Since then, she’s played host to shoppers from all over Chicagoland. They come for the goods, atmosphere and welcoming staff. This trifecta tugs fashion-lovers heartstrings—a very debilitating weakness—who seek more than just an amazing selection. Upon encountering the charming storefront, a thoughtfully curated window display beacons shoppers’ entry. It opens to a sleek, cozy space that not only promises the thrill of shopping but also the calm respite of relaxation. The oversized couch, cushy throw pillows, black lacquered floors, sparkly chandelier, and antler wall fixtures create an atmosphere that’s traditional, rustic and comfortable, balanced with splashes of modern glamour.

LEFT: SASS & BIDE bones top ($100); Elizabeth and James blazer ($395); Vintage1 jeans ($207); Marc Bernstein Egyptian trip wrap bracelet ($92); and Erickson Beamon earrings ($298). RIGHT: Allison Schiller gold earrings ($135); Meg McGuinness leather fanny pack ($298); Elizabeth and James sleeveless boyfriend shirt ($245); Genetic Denim “Shane” cigarette jean ($180); Elizabeth Cole gold chain bracelet ($68); JADEtribe shell bracelet ($44); Celine set of four bangles ($188); and Elizabeth Cole Virgo necklace ($78)

Part of that glamour hails from the extensive selection of contemporary labels, both well-known and up-and-coming. For such items to make their way into boutique, they must fulfill three criteria: “chic, cool, and a bit badass,” as Lauren describes GAVIN’s aesthetic. “I try to buy some old favorites, like J Brand and Alice + Olivia, plus some new designers we discover, like Agent 001. Regardless, I avoid what other stores like Barneys and Neimans sell.” This rationale gives birth to a shop that has something for everyone. With designers like Elizabeth and James, Gryphon, House of Harlow, James Perse, and SASS & BIDE on the hangers, the selection is rooted in different design sensibilities. Some are rock ‘n roll, some are girly, some are ethnic, some are glamorous. It creates an interesting mix that makes roaming the racks an addicting adventure for women of different ages and styles. “I love the refreshing atmosphere of the young and old shopping here together,” she says.

STYLED BY MEGHAN AND I 🙂

LEFT: Torn by Ronny Kobo Paris tee ($75); Gryphon gray cardigan ($310); Mima earrings ($148); mother of pearl ring from Morocco ($172); Allison Schiller pyrite memory bracelets ($125); and Goldsign white cutoff shorts ($150). RIGHT: Elizabeth and James sequin Tokyo top ($365); Lauren’s belt from Morocco; Goldsign “Bon Bon” pleated shorts ($180); Kain Label pocket tank ($78); silver stone ring from Morocco ($292); Allison Schiller pyrite memory bracelets ($125); JADEtribe small prayer bead bracelet ($32); and Elizabeth and James cross earrings ($105)

This atmosphere may have something to do with Lauren’s shopping excursions with her six children (the store’s actually named after her second-born daughter). She understands the importance of addressing different styles, without letting the selection or experience suffer. By using her role as a mother and background as a fashion model, she tantalizes customers with must-have fashion, an inviting space, and staff that’s more like girlfriends than sales people. It’s quite the dynamic trio even if it is outside the city. As Lauren says, “Everyone finds something they love at GAVIN.”

Written and produced by Meghan Turner
Photography by Ace Ujimori
Model: Lauren Conrades
Special thanks to Maia McGinley

Trending: Slouchy Pants

From left to right: American Apparel “Micro-mesh Jumper Pant” ($40); H&M paisley harem trouser ($30); Topshop “Draped Pocket Hareem Trousers” ($80); Rachel Comey Rust Pants ($340; P. 45; 1643 N Damen Avenue); Tsumori Chisato printed trousers ($1,010; Opening Ceremony); and Lia Kes pant ($270; Tangerine,1719 N Damen Avenue)

Move over skinny jeans. There’s a new silhouette in town: the slouchy pant. I first discovered the relaxed, voluminous fit on my last trip to Europe and felt like I unearthed a buried treasure. The liberating trend proves that bold femininity doesn’t always translate into curve-revealing garments. What makes a look truly alluring, after all, is confidence, not over-the-top sex appeal. This season’s slouchy pant conveys just that in a way that’s undeniably cool and perfectly disheveled—never stuffy.

Circa 1985, MC Hammer brought the baggy harem pant to the masses. Flash forward to 2010, there’s an abundance of slouchy styles to explore once again. Solid colors and moderate cuts are the more conservative way to wear this daring trouser. Topshop and Lia Kes have super wearable neutrals, while Rachel Comey’s vibrant burnt orange pant bridges the gap between an everyday style and a strategically worn statement-maker. For a dramatic approach, try a printed fabric, or a fearless mesh à la American Apparel. For those stand out summer events, push the envelope even further with Tsumori Chisato’s psychedelic print or H&M’s paisley.

When rockin’ these styles, keep your waistband visible and your ensemble balanced. Do this by pairing them with tucked-in slim tops that show off your waistline and avoid an overly baggy look. A silk blouse works for the office and a basic tee will get you through any occasion. For more street credibility, attempt a cutting-edge lace bodysuit or cotton crop top. Though this pant can be an intimidating look to pull off, trust me, it’s never been so easy to look cool and chic at the same time.

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of American Apparel, H&M, Topshop, Rachel Comey, Opening Ceremony, and Lia Kes

Style Before Design

On Earth Day this year, the Chicago’s fashionable swarmed Crimson Lounge for a runway show with a twist. Instead of showcasing individual designers, it focused on the stylists. Hosted by Vyne, a Chicago-based events organization and publication, and the Chicago Fashion Foundation, Style Wars was no predictable walk down the runway but rather a showcase of avant-garde fashion through the minds of Chicago’s top stylists. Each stylist was responsible for creating five high fashion looks. The first personally represented the stylist. The second piece was only black and white. The third communicated a global issue (the winning look from this category will be featured in Vyne’s May issue). The fourth was inspired by Stephen Meisel’s editorial “Make Love Not War” in Italian Vogue, and the final concept was derived from the color crimson in honor of the event sponsor.

As the show began, I was in awe of the stylists’ originality and creativity. Models with big hair and black lips presented what was more like walking art than functional fashion. Two of my favorite looks were from the winner, Christina Demos. Her on-trend mix of black and white, including an American Apparel piano scarf, piano tights, Chanel wedge boots, and twirling striped umbrella, was circus-like and mesmerizing. The other favorite was her global issue composition. She dressed her model in a tutu of Red Eye newspapers, a Wet Seal “will work for shoes” t-shirt, Balmain booties, a Marlboro cigarette necklace, and soup can bangles. In case you didn’t get the homeless reference, a mini shopping cart dangled ridiculously from her hand. Ruben Lopez and CT Hedden were both named a runner-up. Ruben’s formal approach included feather laden wedding gowns, ballroom gloves and opulent millinery. CT’s outfits, like the Alexander McQueen dress and Chanel clogs, were simple but wearable.

Although the event was under organized and unpolished (no appetizers as promised and ill-informed presenters) the stylist’s creations stole the show. Too often Chicago gets overlooked as a worthy player in the fashion industry because it’s play-it-safe, conservative rep. The stylists’ creations proved Midwesterners can go well beyond the stereotypical spoon-fed fashion.

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Vyne

Trending: Stripes

Chicago Fashion Forum

via Trending: Stripes.

Wedgie

As Chicago finally heats up, I can’t wait to show off a fresh pedicure in spring’s biggest footwear trend: wedges. Though the wedge has cycled on and off the “must have” list for decades, it got its start in 1935 when Salvatore Ferragamo created the first pair. Since then, these chunky shoes have resurfaced in the ‘70s, the early ‘90s, and are now making another appearance for spring ‘10.

The wedge has an undeniable ability to lengthen and slim bare legs, and offer a relaxed alternative to heels. After all, sometimes in the laid-back days of spring and summer, heels can feel a bit too contrived. With the wedge, you can have height, comfort, and an attitude that won’t scream, “I’m trying too hard.” This season, choose a pair (or two!) that is daring and versatile.

As if it isn’t hard enough to make that choice, a wedge can range in height from one to five inches and are found in a multitude of materials (cork, leather, rope, wood) and forms (boot, strappy, mule, clog). The options really go on and on. Alexander Wang supplies his “it girl” cult following with the coveted animal print wedge. For a casual but über sexy style, Cynthia Vincent’s zip-up gladiator is made for day-to-night wear. Boho chic? Joie’s unique fringe version will look amazing with a tunic and cut-off shorts. This season, welcome the wedge back into your wardrobe with one of these styles:

1. Giuseppe Zanotti black suede star wedges ($639; Bluefly.com)
2. Cynthia Vincent “Luella” wedge ($355; Niche; 1566 N Damen Avenue)
3. MIA “Maiden” in “Sand” ($68; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue)
4. Alexander Wang “Alla” wedge mule in leopard ($650; Alexander Wang)
5. Miu Miu leather espadrilles ($585; net-a-porter.com)
6. Guess “Kinai” wedge ($99; Guess)
7. Joie “Rock Steady Fringe Wedge” ($345; Cusp)

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Bluefly.com, Niche, Lori’s Shoes, Alexander Wang, Net-a-Porter, Guess, and Cusp

Style Admirer Spring Picks: Cali Style

There’s something so enchanting about California. I don’t know if it’s the salty air, dry heat, or balmy winds, but a recent trip gave birth to my new look for spring. From the surfers in Malibu to the hippies in Topanga canyon, fashion inspirations ran rampant. Driving up the Pacific Coast Highway—the top down and Jimi Hendrix streaming out the speakers—I daydreamed about a fresh spring and summer wardrobe. When I got back to Chicago, I went hunting for my new must-have items, all reminiscent of SoCal ‘70s boho/surf culture. Though I can’t bring Cali home with me, I can steal its carefree style. Spring and summer in Chicago are all about relaxing and having fun while looking effortlessly cool. With these items, that couldn’t be easier.

1. Free People “Vintage Empress Headpiece” ($118; Free People). A bold statement piece with a gypsy vibe.
2. Topshop “Nibbled Tee” ($32; Topshop). I wanted an edgy crop top, so I went with this distressed, bleached style.
3. Oliver Peoples “Josselyn” sunglasses ($400; Oliver Peoples). What’s not to love about these oversized shades?
4. Gara Danielle turquoise ring ($225; Intermix). The way this ring blends glamour and boho is stunning.
5. Miss Robertson “Saber-Jute” sandal ($110; Lori’s Shoes; 824 West Armitage Avenue). Edgy neutral sandals are a perfect summer staple that can dress down otherwise fancy frocks.
6. Carolyn Hedaya lace romper ($229; Mulberry & Me; 2019 W Division Street). I thought crochet lace on a romper would scream hippie, but it actually feels quite modern.
7. Current/Elliot hi-waisted denim shorts ($185; Saks Fifth Avenue). For pairing with my new crop top!
8. Essie nail polish in Turquoise and Caicos ($8; Essie). This soft green hue takes a refreshing step away from pink and nude shades.
9. Antik Batik “Bongo Bag” ($320; shopbop.com). This looks like a vintage find. It’s practical yet adds an instant cool factor.
10. Nightcap lace bell bottoms ($197; shopthetrendboutique.com). These invoke images of Jane Birkin, and they’re perfect for a summer festival.
11. American Apparel wool floppy hat ($40; American Apparel). A chic alternative to the fedora that’ll protect me from the summer sun.
12. Jeffrey Campell “Charli-C” clog ($125; Nordstrom). A great neutral throwback from the ‘70s boho culture, and being a Chanel S/S 2010 replica doesn’t hurt either.

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Lori’s Shoes, Free People, shopthetrendboutique.com, shopbop.com, American Apparel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Topshop, Carolyn Hedaya, Nordstrom, Essie, Oliver Peoples, and Intermix

trend prediction fall 2010

Trend prediction for fall 2010: white tights.  I know some of you may cringe and think of the Sunday school days where mom would dress you up in tights with shiny black shoes, or perhaps the idea conjures up visions of Alice from wonderland.  But I assure you this trend is far from innocent, I think you’ll come across more sexy, confident, cozy and edgy…check it out.

Thakoon fall 2010 courtesy of fashiongirl

RVCA by Erin Wasson fall 2010

Givenchy fall 2010

I know, you’re thinking fall?,  but it’s not even spring yet! Just saying, can’t hurt to think ahead right?

Effortless Cool

I’m a personal trainer…for now anyway, and I’m sick to death of having to wear workout clothes all day, especially because I love fashion so much.  I have a closet full of amazing clothes and I don’t get to wear real clothes half the time.  This look has me second guessing my hatred for workout clothing.  By wearing this trend you’re saying a lot of things; you’re saying your confident, you don’t give a shit what other people think, and you’re sexy as hell no matter what you have on.  You’re relaxed, you don’t try too hard, you like to have fun and you’re cool as shit.  Love it!

Christine Centenera

If you guys don’t know who Christine Centenera is yet, you should keep your peepers peeled for more style inspiration to come.  She’s the Fashion editor of Vogue Australia and she knows how to put a kick ass look together.

Alexander Wang Spring 2010 courtesy of style.com

L.A.M.B Spring 2010 courtesy of style.com

Unknown from Jak and jil (one of the best style blogs out there)

The fur evokes  images of Isabel Marant’s fall 09 line, or is from it.  There are so many more images I want to post, but I’m sure those of you who are like me already consider this sweat thing to be old news. I just can’t get enough of it, I love inspiration.

Caroline from Caroline's Mode blog

Alex Wang SP2010 courtesy of style.com

Elie Thari SP2010 (style.com)

So, if you haven’t tried it out yet you should.  Not only is it cool but it’s super comfy. One thing’s for sure though, I think a heel is a must. Flats change the look completely- don’t go there.

help me lord accept the things I can not change.

I have not written a post since, well too long.  Mainly it’s because I’m working on a new blog, I’m not feeling “fashionsick” anymore and need a new title so any suggestion would be helpful….but thats not why I’m blogging today.  If you haven’t figured out who Isabel Marant is yet you’re way behind.  The studded Otway boot from 09,

Isabel Marant Otway boot

or the chain wrapped Sonoo boot from spring 09? Ring any bells.

Isabel Marant spring 2009 sonoo boot

Well, doesn’t matter you wouldn’t get either of those anyway, they sold out in days.  But this year I may have a chance to buy the dana boot. I literally can not stop drooling and salivating over them.  They boot is produced in various colors and heights… but I don’t care about any of them except the camouflage print ones. Camo: check, fringe: check, chains: check! I’m dying!

I wish I could change the fact that I don’t have 1,160 dollars to spend on whatever I want, and I guess if I did it would be excessive to spend it on one pair of boots right? Lord help me! My boyfriend says whatever you do don’t put it on your credit card, but that’s actually exactly what I was thinking.

Last year many good “replica’s”, shall we say, were made of the famous Otway boot, one pair which I must admit I had to buy from Rosegold.  I missed the boat on the Otways, a girls still gotta have what she’s gotta have.  So I spent I think close to 300 ( a steal in comparison) to get the look.  I wonder if anyone’s going to have the balls to do the dana boot. Maybe in black, but I have a feeling no one could be daring enough to venture down the camouflage road.

I think I need them. Isn’t this what credit cards are for? To buy things we can’t afford.  I know it sounds horrible, but that’s why I got one in the first place.  I bought a pair of 400$ dolce vita boots, the pant leg zippered ones, this fall on a whim, and I also bought the Zoe boot (Sam Edelman’s) for close to 4 as well…adding up the shoes I bought for fall, I probably spent close to 1000$, maybe this could just be my only spring shoe purchase?

So the boots; that’s just one thing to talk about.  Isabel’s spring 2010 line is a whole other blog.  She is by far my favorite designer at the moment.  Check out the article on her in this month’s American Vogue.  Her aesthetic is perfection, and so is her attitude.  She is getting a lot of press this month, more so than usual so I have to admit I’m a bit worried she’s going to leave insider fashion cult status and end up mainstream.  Good for her, but I’d hate to see every lincoln parker wearing her things.  One thing I like about fashion, its a chance to express your individuality.  There’s nothing I hate more when I see someone wearing the same thing… More on Isabel later….for now; what do I do about the boots!!!!

Winter White Out

Wearing white after Labor Day is an unnecessary fashion faux pas, and the season’s winter whites is living proof of that. When winter strikes and sunlit afternoons fade into four o’clock sunsets, this trend brings light back into our lives. We all know black is the typical city garb, but it can also translate to bleak and predictable. White throws a fashion curve ball at that predictability! Bundle up in some alternatives by opting for a piece like a faux fur white shearling coat instead of a somber North Face puffy coat. Or, try monochromatic layers in a mish-mosh of textures such as a white fur vest, white cotton tank, white shorts and white tights like we saw at Erin Wasson X RVCA. Be the center of attention at your holiday party and replace your LBD with the LWD–a fashion-forward substitute. If any look ever feels too overly white, tone it down with black tights or ground the look with gray or brown accents. By embracing the season’s winter whites, your winter doesn’t have to be so dreary after all.

Clockwise from left:

1. A look from the Fall 2010 Erin Wasson X RVCA collection
2. “Nathalie” silk pant ($139; Club Monaco)
3. Talula cashmere blend sweater dress ($80; Aritzia, 835 N Michigan Avenue)
4. J Brand vintage white skinny cord ($160; Intermix)
5. La Rock “Joplin” Rabbit Vest ($378; Neiman Marcus)
6. 3-D Flower Mesh Jumper ($84; American Apparel)
7. Mackage “Macy” Coat with shearling sleeves ($895; Perchance, 3512 N Southport Avenue)
8. Haute Hippie sequined silk-chiffon wrap mini skirt ($395; net-a-porter.com)

By Maia McGinley

Images courtesy of Erin Wasson X RVCA, Perchance, Intermix, Club Monaco, Neiman Marcus, net-a-porter.com, Aritzia and American Apparel