The Wardrobe Boutique

2011-10-25T10:48:00.000-07:00

The Modern Dame, an ode to classic, tailored fashion, but with a modern twang! There is no better place to marry classic style with modern notes than at The Wardrobe Boutique. Since we get new items in everyday, and from an array of time periods, we've been able to piece together looks that are timeless, fun, and most importantly affordable! Here are some looks that jump started our inspiration:

Julianne Moore's Little Black Dress in A Single Man by Tom Ford

This Dress can essentially be dressed for any occasion- which is why we started our looks with a size small, $9.99, J Crew LBD that we have here at the Wardrobe. The LBD is timeless, and can worn day or night.

The Belted Blazer

The next look that inspired us was the belted blazer. The blazer itself is a timeless piece that can be worn day or night, but that also creates a very tailored look. The belt over the blazer flatters any shape, and adds that extra sheen to the look. Creating a waist within the look is a great way to pay tribute to the dames of the 1940s and 1950s.

Selena Gomez in a Trim Blazer

The next item we found in our closet was the Trim Blazer. The trim blazer is slightly different from the belted blazer, in that the trim on the edges creates a tailored illusion. It looks like it was made just for you! The lines are flattering and classic, dating back to Coco Chanel's earlier fashionista days!

Coco Chanel wearing a Trim Blazer/Cardigan

Here are the looks we created based on these inspirations!

LBD: J Crew, size small, $9.99

Blazer: Guess, size small, $24.99

Blouse: Theory, size medium, $19.99

LBD: J Crew, size small, $9.99

Coat: Express, size 7/8, $29.99

Blouse: MWWTAS, size medium, $11.99

LBD: J Crew, size small, $9.99

Blazer: J Jill, size extra small, $14.99

Trim Belt: size small, $2.99

Classic Purse: $24.99

LBD: J Crew, size small, $9.99

Cardigan: H&M, size 8, $11.99

Jacket: Isabel & Nona, size 8, $24.99

LBD: J Crew, size small, $9.99

Trim Blazer: Anne Klein, size small, $14.99

LBD: J Crew, size small, $9.99

Blazer: United Colors of Benetton, size small, $24.99

Trim Belt: size small, $4.99

2011-10-05T13:14:00.001-07:00

Introducing the new season: Sautumn .

2011-07-28T14:19:00.000-07:00

Pre-fall approaches! Most fashionistas find it difficult to figure out what to wear during that limbo period between the end sizzle of summer and the fresh beginnings of fall. Here at the boutique instead of seeing it as a negative, we see it as a once a year opportunity to combine opposing seasonal pieces in your closet (or in the boutique's case, our inventory). Pull a soft, thicker sweater or furry vest over your summer maxi dresses on a gusty eve. Pair those bright-colored denim shorts with a long sleeve tee and a thicker blazer to stay the perfect temperature on those sunny, but breezy days. Rock ankle or over-the-knee socks with your gladiator platforms, cut-out wedges or boots. Pair velvet skirts with cotton floral tops -- lest not forget this is pretty much the small window of time where you can layer your thin with thick and light with heavy so go all sorts of crazy. In Sautum (summer + autumn) where you can go from sweating profusely to teeth chattering the possibilities are endless!

image source: lookbook.nu

Where did you get that?

2011-06-30T10:14:00.000-07:00

Putting together the right accessories for an outfit can be tough, but when done right, can boost the uniqueness of your look and have people asking you with envy, "where did you get that?". A long necklace, a dramatic ring or a wrist cuff can be the key to making an outfit especially great. We recently re-vamped some of our jewelry displays (top photo!) and have put out some hand-made and vintage pieces that will have you ooh-oing and aah-ing all over the place (we were). Actor and style icon Vanessa Hudgens knows her accessories and clearly comprehends the delicate balance all true fashionistas must strike between simplicity and drama. You can pile 'em on if you're feeling wild or pair a simple long necklace with a summer dress or swimsuit for sexy and simple. Stop in and get 'em while they're hot!

You can never have too many pairs of shoes .

2011-06-21T13:19:00.000-07:00

This just in! All of our shoes here at the boutique are 20% off for the next two weeks, including designer. With names from Salvatore Farragamo, Jessica Simpson, Two Lips, Rockport, Mossimo, Bebe, Colin Stuart, Marc Fisher & more! Stop in and browse our selection and if you want to fall in love with a shoe -- or two or three or four -- go ahead. And don’t worry about splurging because here at the boutique, our prices are so reasonable, you won’t have to.

Laundry = Lovely!

2011-04-23T14:38:00.000-07:00

Friday was a great day at the boutique. Two of our fashionista volunteers - Linda (see post from 3/16) and Denise were here! These two ladies make shopping fun! When they are out on the floor, be sure that you will leave the store with unique items that you may have looked over without those expert eyes. More importantly, you will leave with a renewed confidence and knowledge about your own unique and beautiful body. With their knowledge of fashion, vintage items, and the best ways to capitalize on our feminine assets, Linda and Denise are fashion inspirations!

I even got to benefit from their magical advice! They showed me how to wear a fabulous vintage dress for my close friend's upcoming Audrey-inspired wedding, and they taught me to lose the glasses, throw on the heels, and sprinkle in some super-glamorous sparkles to make everyone say, "Who's that lady?!" Today, I'm gratefully reflecting on their advice. The boutique is warm and cozy on this rainy afternoon, and I'm feeling soft and feminine in a favorite Luxe tunic. (Thanks, Boutique!!) As I tag new designer items (woo-hoo!!) I am particularly attracted to the unique items that bring out our best female assets - our beautiful curves, gorgeous legs, and our eyes for detail.


Inspired and feeling smart and sassy - just like Audrey!

That brings me to the brand I want to feature today: Laundry by Shelli Segal. Laundry is the new feminine brand. You can find timeless items to accessorize and personalize however you want to create your look. These looks are sexy but casual, simple but with an eye for colorful print, feminine but tough. Segal is able to capture the enigmatic woman in her designs. The art of the sophisticated lady is understated beauty and glamour. That could mean a sexy cut-out dress with chunky boots or neon pumps, an all over flower print skirt with a collared menswear-inspired top, or a black t-shirt with minimal, just-right accessories.

The first amazing item I came across today is a cut-out dress. This simple little number is easy to work with as you build your look. Its off the shoulder style is fun and edgy, and it also flatters one of my favorite female assets: the neck and collarbone. The really fun part is the cutout on the side. It gives you a bold, sexy feel, but it is not too over the top. You can pair this with minimal accessories and shoes to make a great nighttime look.


Check out those legs!

Emma Watson had a great take on the cutout dress at the 2011 Elle Style Awards. She commanded respect and attention with this simple and sophisticated look.

You can get Emma's look with just a few simple accessories. Go for a simple look with a black or tan shoe. Or, for even more fun, splash in some color with your shoes! Try colors totally in for this season like plum, lime green, or marigold. Throw on some bangles or a cool cuff, and you are red carpet-ready! See the accessories pictured with the dress above for some ideas - all available at the boutique.

The many identities of this dress!

For a totally different but equally fabulous look, go for this Laundry floral print jumper. It is simple, well structured for support, and soft to the touch. The pattern is filled with lots of fun colors to make accessorizing carefree and easy. There are even sparkles in the fabric that are lightly stated, but glitter in the sun! I imagine the woman in this dress romping through grass or running her fingers through the beautiful Philadelphia cherry blossoms on a warm spring day.


Feminine and edgy all at once!

The way to wear this dress is to make it your own. Make your own fashion rules! Wear it with some funky, well-worn boots, an over-sized collared shirt, or an edgy jacket. Some handpicked items are pictured with the dress above. I really like how Thandie Newton made her floral print dress her own with a cotton t-shirt, black pumps, and a chic clutch.

As usual, the donated items at The Wardrobe Boutique have inspired and excited me. Laundry by Shelli Segal is just one example of a fabulous brand that is created by a designer who really knows each woman's unique body. Here we have the ingredients to create your own unique style that sings your pride in your femaleness. Take that from one who embraces her inner fashionista somewhat tentatively at times. This weekend, I am fearlessly making my fashion my own with items like the ones I featured! I'll let you know it goes. With a handmade floral bow around my wrist (by the same woman who makes these amazing items: Splashwolf Designs,) I fist pump to fellow proud women not afraid to express themselves!

Volunteer Spotlight!

2011-03-16T11:13:00.000-07:00

For this blog post we wanted to do a “Volunteer Spotlight” to celebrate one of our amazing volunteers here at The Wardrobe Boutique and The Career Wardrobe. Organizations like ours absolutely cannot survive without volunteers, and we are incredibly grateful for the people that generously give us their time and energy! When you volunteer for The Career Wardrobe and The Wardrobe Boutique, there is always something new and interesting to do. Volunteers engage in a variety of activities including sorting and organizing donations, helping with merchandising by creating displays, and working with clients and customers. It is the people who work hard day in and day out that make it possible for us to serve the women of Philadelphia here at The Career Wardrobe.

Linda White, our featured volunteer, has been with The Career Wardrobe for about two years, and there is no stopping her! She splits her two days of service between The Career Wardrobe and The Wardrobe Boutique, therefore undertaking many different activities that help keep the organization running. She serves clients at The Career Wardrobe, combining her ardor for helping others with her passion for fashion to help every woman she comes in contact with feel confident and look fabulous! At the boutique, Linda tirelessly sorts through donations, helping us find the gems! No task is ever too small or too large for Linda, and she has a way of always bringing some sparkle into the room.

Linda first learned about The Career Wardrobe fifteen years ago when she donated a collection of suits at our monthly clothing drive held in East Falls. From the time Linda heard about our mission, she connected with it, and she therefore felt the desire to give her support by donating the clothing she no longer needed. She has always recognized the value of empowering other women by inspiring confidence from the outside in. When Linda had to deal with the disappointment of losing her job, she decided to invest her time in a productive way. She held a position on the board of The Valentine Foundation, which is another organization that empowers women through positive social change through grants. But that was not enough for Linda! She wanted to get valuable experiences by interacting with people and seeing the effects of her service. This desire for hands-on service ultimately led her to The Career Wardrobe and The Wardrobe Boutique.

Linda modeling one of her jackets from the boutique

with her familiar smile that lights up the room!

Linda is a bona-fide fashionista and has been the best-dressed girl in the room for many years! Once she learned the importance of a great outfit, her passion for looking terrific grew. She learned that a woman shows the world her power with a well-accessorized suit, her ability to create and leave her mark with beautifully paired separates and her confidence and beauty with that perfect dress. After she learned those crucial ideas, she did more than merely look fabulous; she shared her skills to help other women exhibit the same inner beauty and confidence. Combining those two passions made Linda and The Career Wardrobe a match made in fashion-heaven!

At The Career Wardrobe, Linda gets to work one-on-one with clients, using her fashion knowledge and warm personality to help inspire that previously mentioned confidence. Linda shared her love of making connections with the people she is able to help when she said, “I get hugs from people which I didn’t expect. They are so happy and sweet. I love that!”It is always rewarding to get positive feedback and make a warm, human connection with one another. When she works with donations at the boutique, she is also able to feed her inner fashionista, getting her hands on the terrific recycled clothing we receive each day.

Linda strikes a pose in a beautiful two-piece suit that says

"I'm a smart, powerful, modern woman!"

We at The Career Wardrobe are not the first to benefit from Linda's service, and we are certain we will not be the last! Linda can look back over her life all the way to her college days and name many organizations and foundations she has served. When asked what she liked most about her various experiences volunteering, Linda answered, “It’s important to do something to help people in a community other than the people you know because they are all in the same financial and social situation as you. You have to go beyond your circle and that is something everyone should do. ‘Get your hands dirty’ so to speak. Meet the faceless people you write a check for and learn from them.” She shared one of the most incredible benefits of volunteering: getting out of one's comfort zone and making connections with others reinforcing that all of us are involved in one big human community. When you expand your community, you see the effects of your work, and you learn new things about the world around you. Way to go, Linda!

Linda shows us her ability to accessorize and pair separates to create an air of poise and power.

We should never underestimate the power of well-intended, smart fashion. Often, we dread the interview process and the nervousness and uncertainty we may feel while going through it. However, we here at The Career Wardrobe believe that it's all about confidence! Sometimes, it's that one suit that makes you feel great about yourself, and it chases away the nibbling bits of nervousness and doubt. Linda commented on that when she noted, "Every little bit helps. Especially at The Career Wardrobe where one suit can help someone get back on their feet.” When we asked what she had learned in her time of volunteering with the organization she said, “I am reminded there are a lot of people out there that we don’t know what their circumstances are.You learn more when you talk to them and meet them. It’s a very humbling experience.”Linda has the art of communicating and learning from one another down!

Linda is one of our resident fashion gurus, and there has been no stopping her expression through clothes since she graduated high school and wore her uniform for the last time. Even before she went to school, Linda was a mini-Fashionista! “In my baby pictures I’m always well-dressed. I was one of the few three-year-olds with a purse!” Oh, we want to see those pictures! Linda has her own blog where she shares her thoughts and observations about style and fashion. She loves shopping second-hand because it gives her the opportunity to create her own look. She also loves finding special vintage items and mixing them to create a unique style that can't be reproduced by anyone else. She uses clothes to exhibit her personality and strengths while looking great. She stated, “I’m not going to look like anyone else walking down the street or a mannequin in the window of a store. I am my own Barbie.” Visit her blog at lawhiteoncasualfriday.blogspot.com and see her take on all things fashion.

Thanks to Linda White who sat down to answer lots of questions to give others a chance to see how much volunteering not only affects the organization one chooses to serve but also the person volunteering as well. There are some things you just cannot learn by writing a check, but when you actually jump in and help people, you will learn a lot about yourself and the world around you. We could all learn a little bit from Linda about investing our time and opening ourselves up to new experiences.

~No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.

-Aesop

Self-Confidence Doesn't Come in a Trash Bag!

2011-01-13T12:21:00.000-08:00

Part of the work we do here at The Wardrobe Boutique and The Career Wardrobe is sorting through the many many donations we get every day to find what's best for our clients and for our customers. Here's a little more insight into how something as simple as donating your gently used items in anything BUT a trash bag can be super helpful for our staff, volunteers, clients, and customers!

Why No Bags?

This is probably the number 1 question I get asked (okay, behind the “why won’t you come to my home and pick up my donations?) by donors, board members and volunteers alike. You need clothing donated, they say to me… so the question naturally follows, why not accept items in plastic bags?

We ask everyone who wants to support us to remember that we are looking for professional clothing to help women feel more prepared and confident while on their job search. When was the last time YOU felt professional wearing something wrinkled because it spent the night (or week or month…) in a trash bag lying on the floor of your closet (or trunk of your car)?

Every week we see at least one woman who needs an outfit that she can wear immediately to an interview. Our clients can’t afford dry cleaning and neither can we! Therefore, we ask that all clothes be donated “ready to wear” – i.e. clean and on hangers or neatly folded in shopping bags.

The answers to “why not plastic trash bags” may surprise you because we both know that you would NEVER do any of the things I’m about to tell you. But the reality is, they have all happened…

1. Our philosophy is : Trash bags = Trash!

There is a psychological study to be done on the mindset of the average person cleaning out their closet and shoving clothes into a large, plastic trash bag. We start out with the best of intentions… I have held this job for over 10 years and even I do this! I start out with 2 separate bags – maybe even separate colors if I’m so organized! – one for the clothing bin/donation drop off of the organization that I know will take anything and one for The Career Wardrobe.

But somewhere along the way, I get over zealous. Suddenly my organized piles are just a sea of clothes I don’t want anymore and everything gets pushed into the bags until they are over-stuffed. No folding… just shoving so that they clothes are out of my life.

2. Trash Bags Can Be A Health Hazard

The majority of clothing items donated to us are sorted and prepared by our volunteers – from those working a clothing drive to the wonderful women who volunteer their time every week to help at The Career Wardrobe and Wardrobe Boutique. To keep them safe and healthy, we can’t ask them to untie and reach into trash bags because all of the following have happened:

Injured on a broken piece of glass hiding in the bag! Someone in their excitement of throwing things into the bag to donate to us thought we needed a glass picture frame and the frame broke in transit. When our volunteer reached into the bag… yeah, you know what happened. Ouch!

Allergy Attack! Has the bag only been in your trunk a week? Your garage for a few days? Did you clean out your mother, aunt, grandmother’s house for her? We all lose track of time and are busy. We understand that those “few days” might mean a month (it happens!). By the time some donations finally make it to us, the clothes inside are full of cat/dog hair, mold or mildew causing our volunteers with allergy issues to rush for their inhalers!

3. We Hate Bugs!

I hate to even write this for fear that it will happen. But we are all creeped out by bugs and we have all heard the horror stories! Truth is that clothes in bags can be a breeding ground for bugs of all kinds. We process thousands of pounds worth of clothing every month and just one unclean load can me we have a huge problem on our hands that we can't afford to risk.

We thank all of the thousands of women who clean out their closets and organize clothing drives for us every year. We are truly beholden to you! But at the same time, we need to make sure that we can process your generous donations in a timely, effective and safe manner for our clients and volunteers. By following this one simple rule – keep your clothes on hangers or fold into open shopping bags – you help us immensely!

xoxo,

The Career Wardrobe and The Wardrobe Boutique

Bringing Blazers Back!

2011-01-12T11:15:00.000-08:00

Until recently when you heard the word "blazer" your mind would automatically think of an upcoming interview or work-appropriate attire. One of the hottest trends we've seen this season is the "boyfriend-fit" everything - from boyfriend-fit jeans, boyfriend-fit sweaters to the boyfriend-fit blazer. Many women may be skeptical of the recent wave of "boyfriend-fit" items and feel unsure how to pull it off (hey, let's be real - not everyone is comfortable in more roomy, boxy styles). However, the boyfriend blazer is the one item that every women should have in her closet, right along with your little black dress, of course.

The blazer is a very versatile wardrobe staple that can be worn over just about anything you've got in your closet to effortlessly put together whole new look! Blazers in a variety of styles, fabrics, and cuts are popping up every where. From ultra-chic blazers on the runway to everyday (but still stylish) blazers that can be worn anywhere from work to a lunch date to a night out, always looking chic and classic with a modern edge.

As shown above, the blazer can be paired with jeans, skirts, and even dresses. Vanessa and Nicky chose to roll up the sleeves on their blazers to give the outfit a different, more edgy feel than the classic business-chic look of a blazer. Audrina’s blazer is more timeless with her sleeves rolled down and pointed flats to complete the casual, everyday look. The boyfriend blazer isn’t the only style of blazer out there, so if you’re still not feeling the boyfriend fit then there are other styles to choose from, of course!

A belted blazer on the former Victoria Secret model Selita Ebanks

Leighton Meester wearing a fitted blazer over a dress at a red carpet event

Cameron Diaz in a black blazer - Perfect for adding a little edge to an otherwise classic blue jeans-and-white tshirt combo!

Each blazer out there looks best with certain pieces than others do. Belted blazers can be worn with a different belt, pencil or tight skirts, fitted jeans or pants, and short sleeves or blouses. Fitted blazers look best over dresses, skirts, jeans or skinny jeans and pants. The boyfriend blazer is recommended with leggings or jeggings, skinny jeans, and shorts. This website gives more suggestions of different ways to pair your blazer with pieces from your wardrobe. http://bit.ly/cLB9Ju

Ultra- Chic Blazers on the 2010/2011 Runway

At The Wardrobe Boutique we have a great selection of blazers ranging from everyday brands to high-end designer designs. We've got a variety of styles to meet the needs for every different type of person that wants to jump on the blazer bandwagon! We have blazers for every size and a great range of colors, cuts, and styles. Separate the blazer from a suit you love and pair it with a skirt, jeans, or dress to create a whole new outfit for without breaking your budget!

Nanette Lepore purple blazer with contrast stitching - Size 6, $44.99

BCBG MAXAZRIA black pinkstripe blazer - Size 4, $24.99

Michael Kors grey striped jacket - Size 10, $24.99

Christian Dior Blazer with metallic gold buttons - Size 8, $24.99

Michael Kors white striped pants suit - Size 8, $59.99

Look like your favorite celeb or get designer looks for less! No where can you find an Armani blazer for under $30.00. We give you quality for unbeatable prices. To keep your closet updated and have a piece that is timeless and helpful for so many occasions come and get a blazer at The Wardrobe Boutique. We love to see new faces!

Bon Chic, Bon Genre

2010-12-27T10:12:00.000-08:00

Everyone has their favorite designer that they never fail to look for in a store or drool over from afar. For myself, and many others that designer is Max Azria, who started the popular label BCBG and is chairman of the BCBGMAXAZRIA Group. This fashion house has over 20 brands under it and has a huge following ranging from celebrities to businesswomen to teens. Azria, a world-famous designer, didn’t stop at clothes - he has his name on every market; jewelry, shoes, fragrances, menswear, plus sizes, kids wear, couture, accessories and ready-to-wear. BCBG first debuted in 1996 at New York Fashion week and since its debut has only gained popularity and prestige in the fashion world.

Angelina Jolie in BCBGMAXAZRIA at the Screen Actors Guild Awards

Max Azria's Couture line

BCBG is named after the French phrase “bon chic, bon genre” which translates to “good style, good attitude” -- which fits this label perfectly. Max Azria may not be the most outrageous designer out there but his designs’ are always creative and make anyone who wears them stylish, classy and edgy at the same time. Azria is not only a great businessman but also a powerhouse of unique business instincts and one of a kind creativity that leaves him a force to be reckoned with in the fashion world.

Marisa Miller and Emmanuelle Chriqui in BCBG at the ESPY Awards

From the BCBGMAXAZRIA Collection

There are currently 550 BCBGMAXAZRIA boutiques around the world, no including the lines that are carried in Saks, Nordstrom, and other high-end department stores. Max Azria acquired the French fashion house Herve Leger in 1998 making him the first American designer to do this. Azria’s bold move gained him popularity and another label to put his name on. In 2008 at New York Fashion Week, Azria broke another record by having three major shows during one fashion week, BCBGMAXAZRIA, Max Azria, and Herve Leger by Max Azria.

From the BCBGeneration Collection

Herve Ledger by Max Azria

Max Azria recently teamed up with Wal-Mart and Miley Cyrus to create an affordable and stylish line for the everyday person who can’t afford his designer name. For celebrities with an unlimited budget he has a couture line that we have seen numerous times on the red carpet, with celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Jessica Simpson, and Angelina Jolie. However, if you are a BCBG fan on a budget be sure to browse the racks of The Wardrobe Boutique where we usually carry at least a handful of BCBG item in our Designer Room.

BCBGMAXARIA Purple cotton top with embroidered detail ~ size XL ~ $24.99

BCBG Paris heather gray pencil skirt ~ size 4 ~ $24.99

BCBGMAXAZRIA Ivory pants ~ size 2 ~ $24.99

BCBGMAXAZRIA Grey dress pants ~ size 2 ~ $24.99

BCBGMAXAZRIA Black evening gown ~ Size XS ~ $39.99

Whether you're looking for classic business-chic trousers or something with a little flash for a night out, check out the designer room at The Wardrobe Boutique and see what BCBG gems we have in stock. Put together a sophisticated yet stylish work-ready outfit with the gray trousers or pencil skirt shown above, paired with a simple black button down and topped off with a cardigan or blazer. The cream pants are a luxe, thick material that is perfect for the winter when paired with a cozy cowl-neck sweater - and winter white is always effortlessly chic and classy! And don't forget holiday party wear - which BCBG does painfully well!! Party dresses embellished with rhinestone detailing, shimmer, and sparkle are sure to be a hit for any New Year's celebration.

Don’t stretch your budget this holiday season looking for slightly discounted designer items at department stores when you can get them for one-of-a-kind prices at The Wardrobe Boutique! And remember, 100% of the proceeds benefit The Career Wardrobe, a non-profit that's been empowering women in transition for over 15 years.

Happy Holidays,
Alexandra & Melanie

The Little Black Dress: A Classic That's Always In Style!!

2010-12-01T14:10:00.000-08:00

Dress pants, a trench coat, a classic skirt, jeans and the little black dress. These are just a few of the items every woman should have in their closet according to Project Runway's style-god Tim Gunn. While some of these items might change depending on which fashion guru you ask, the one that will always be consistent is the little black dress. Also known as the LBD, it's one of the few things that woman can splurge on because no matter what occasion you find yourself in or even if you don’t wear it for a few years the LBD will always in style. Be it runways, red carpets, the office or a restaurant, you can find at least one LBD; and no dress will ever look the same.

Francia Raisa, Bar Rafaeli, Jessica Szohr

Kirrily Johnston at the Diet Coca-Cola Little Black Dress Show

BCBG Max Azaria runway

Add or take away different accessories to change your look. Depending on what you wear with the LBD, you can add a cardigan and flats to keep in casual for work and then throw on some heels and a shrug to make it happy-hour or dinner-date ready. The link below shows you seven different ways to wear your little black dress, brought to you by Cosmopolitan magazine.

http://www.cosmopolitan.com/celebrity/fashion/new-ways-to-wear-little-black-dress

The Little Black dress was introduced by Coco Chanel in 1926 and it has continued to transcend fashion for decades. The LBD was first seen in Vogue, it was calf length, straight, and had a few simple lines. Called the “Chanel’s Ford”, it was simple, and available to all social classes. Ever since its introduction by Chanel it has continued to rise in popularity and other designers have taken this simple design and made it their own.

Coco Chanel's little black dress

There have been a few iconic and irrevocably famous little black dresses throughout the decades. The most well-known LBD was worn by Audrey Heburn as Holly Golightly in the 1961 classic film Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Her dress was designed by Givenchy and was accessorized with a multi-strand necklace of oversized pearls and an ever-elegant long cigarette holder. This look was frequently seen throughout 1960’s pop culture and remains an image found on merchandise ranging from posters to t-shirts even today. Another LBD fun fact: You might know Betty Boop as wearing a red dress, but in her first movies she was drawn with a little black dress. Only when technicolor movies became available did they change her dress to red.

Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's

Early Betty Boop

If your closet is missing a little black dress or you just want to add another to your wardrobe, we have a good selection of dresses for you to choose from at The Wardrobe Boutique. From long to short, small to extra-large, we've got elegant formal wear that won't bust your holiday budget. We even have accessories ranging from rhinestones to pearls to add flair to your LBD to make it right for any occasion. It’s even great for the holiday season! Wear it to your office holiday party or to your family celebrations!

Jessica McClintock size 4 $39.99

Jones New York Dress size 14 petite $9.99

Nicole Miller size 6 $39.99

Shelli Segal size 2 $24.99

Rampage size medium $9.99

Above are our five favorite little black dresses in stock right now! Designer duds by Nicole Miller and Shelli Segal are perfect for any holiday party where you want to show off your sass and style. Casual every-day little black dresses such as the Rampage sweater dress are extremely affordable and super cute when paired with leggings and boots. Don’t wait to snatch up these great deals on the most classic and important garment in a woman’s wardrobe! We have dresses for every style and taste - casual to formal. Don't wait to take advantage of these great deals, they won't be there for long!

Proceeds benefit The Career Wardrobe, a non-profit organization that's been empowering women in transition for over 15 years.

Cowl-Neck Chic

2010-11-18T12:40:00.000-08:00

Do you know that one sweater or dress that we hold on to from ten or twenty years ago that is no longer fashionable, but looked so good on us that we keep it anyway hoping for a come back? Well for those of you that held onto the Cowl-necked sweater then you are in luck! The over-sized, cropped and cowl-necked sweaters are making a comeback. Such sweaters were seen all over the runway this year at fashion week from designers such as Yigal Azrouel, Michael Kors, and A.F. Vandevorst. Fashion icons such as Heidi Klum and Jennifer Aniston are jumping on the bandwagon and have been photographed wearing some of this season's hottest cowl-necked sweaters.

Yigal Azrouel, Michael Kors, A.F. Vandevost

Cowl-necked sweaters can be worn many different ways. The versatility of cowl-necked sweaters is a major factor in their recent popularity without a doubt! You can wear them with a belt to dress it up or dress it down. Wear a cowl-necked sweater over leggings, another fashion trend that has made a huge comeback, or depending on its length, as a dress with the ever popular knee-high boots as seen by A.F. Vandervorst and Michael Kors.

Heidi Klum looking fabulous in a cowl-necked sweater and a skirt

Kim Kardashian looking sophisticated in a cowl-neck cape

Jennifer Aniston looking casual and stylish in a cowl-neck long sleeve shirt

Look like you stepped off the runway or like your favorite celebrity with cowl-neck sweaters found in The Wardrobe Boutique! We have many different types of sweaters to choose from. From a small cowl-neck to larger ones. We have an array of choices for everyones personal style and taste. We even have the accessories to make any boring sweater look runway acceptable! Choose from our large selection of belts or even boots. You can wear the cowl-neck sweater as an everyday outfit or out to dinner. The best part is our prices. Look fabulous without the designer price!

Black cowl-neck $9.99 Large, Express $11.99 Medium

Mossimo $9.99 Medium, Liz Claiborne $11.99 Medium

New York & Company $9.99 Small

Brown belt $5.99 Small

These are just a few of our selection of cowl-neck sweaters. You can't beat what you can find at The Wardrobe Boutique. Getting a cowl-neck sweater anywhere else could set you back at least $80.00! At the Wardrobe Boutique you can put together an entire outfit for much less than that but still look fabulous. Don't miss this opportunity and come on down to the boutique! We hope to see you there and have you walk out happy with your new purchases!

Suited for Style - Fall 2010 Business Chic

2010-10-18T16:02:00.000-07:00

One of the most surprisingly hot trends for Fall 2010 and Spring 2011 is the popularity of skirt suits, pants suits, and other business-chic wear. The runways for Fall 2010 and Spring 2011 showed off gorgeous, expertly tailored suits by Max Mara, Chanel, Armani, and more. The structure of the blazers and clean tailoring of the trousers and skirts creates a silhouette that just can't be beat. A well-made suit can be classy, chic, and even edgy with all the modern embellishments and details that have made their way onto so many high-end designer suits.

Fall 2010 all-black Max Mara skirt suit.

Spring 2011 metallic gunmetal gray Emporio Armani skirt suit paired with a cream jacket.

Spring 2011 beige Chanel skirt suit with three-quarter sleeved blazer.

Spring 2011 cream Gucci skirt suit with cropped bolero-style blazer.

Spring 2011 red and white patterned Oscar de la Renta skirt suit with red criss-cross belt.

Suits can evoke more than the usual images of stuffy, frumpy, boring-but-professional ensembles. Contemporary designers are adding color, unique cuts, ruffles, and other detailing to breathe some new life and modernity into a classic. At The Wardrobe Boutique, suits are extremely important to our store and organization. The Career Wardrobe was founded by a small group of women who wanted their gently-used good-condition suits to go to women who couldn't afford the high cost of a new suit. Almost 16 years later, our organization provides women in transition with beautiful, brand-name suits and professional clothing. It is important that our clients go on to their interviews and jobs not only with new suits but with confidence and a sense of self-esteem that will enable them to succeed.

We've got so many suits at The Career Wardrobe, that some spill over to The Wardrobe Boutique. At The Wardrobe Boutique, you can find many designer and brand-name suits at amazing prices! There are classic 1980's Christian Dior suits and blazers that can be turned into sexy party outfits when paired with contemporary short-shorts or skinny jeans and heels. We've got gorgeously made suits by Burberry, Brooks Brothers, Max Mara, Tahari, and more. Our designer suits are priced at $59.99 - an outrageously great deal! We've got brand-name suits by Ann Taylor, Jones New York, Zara, H&M, Banana Republic, and much much more. Our brand-name suits are just $29.99, with many on clearance for up to 50% off!

Burgundy and mustard Zara skirt suit. Check out the mustard chiffon piping, belt, and pleats! $29.99 @ The Wardrobe Boutique

Gray, black, and silver floral brocade Ann Taylor skirt suit. I love the vintage-inspired jacket! $29.99 @ The Wardrobe Boutique

Pink, white, and multi-color Zara skirt suit. The ruffle collar and raw edges are so unique! $29.99 @ The Wardrobe Boutique

Gray double-breasted Max Mara skirt suit. I love the wide pleats of the skirt! $59.99@ The Wardrobe Boutique!

Teal and black horizontal stripe Christian Dior skirt suit. This looks great split into separates! Pair the skirt with a black top, thick black belt, and black pumps. Pair the blazer with black skinny jeans or hot pants for a chic, modern look. $59.99 @ The Wardrobe Boutique!

Get creative with a suit and wear the top and bottom pieces as separates for a more casual look. Blazers are great for the fall and winter cool weather. The structure of a blazer adds sophistication but can still be fun and casual when paired with jeans and boots. A well-tailored skirt suit can look sexy and chic when paired with a silky blouse or ruffle-front button-up. Suits are one of the hottest trends for the Fall 2010 and Spring 2011, so don't miss out on all the great finds at The Wardrobe Boutique!

Sassy in Snake-Print!

2010-09-24T09:06:00.000-07:00

Animal prints can be found season after season in the hottest new fashions from designers ranging from Gucci to Prada to Versace. Animal prints are timeless but always being slightly re-envisioned to stay fresh and stylish. With animal prints, you want to be sure to find that balance between tasteful and tacky. You want to avoid covering yourself head-to-toe in numerous clashing animal prints. Instead, use them to embellish and add to a more classic ensemble. Animal prints are a great way to add some edge and pizzazz to a simple black dress, a neutral-tone casual outfit, or even your favorite suit. Snake-print is one of my favorite animal-prints because of the rich colors, interesting textures, and variety of prints to choose from.

Snake-print was all over the Fall 2010 Runway, looking as sexy and sassy as ever! Prada and Dolce & Gabbana both had bold dresses featuring sassy snake prints. Gucci has countless bags featuring snake-print detailing in a variety of colors. Snake-print has an edge that shows your unique style but is still sophisticated and high-end.

This is a display of some of the hottest snake-print items on sale right now at The Wardrobe Boutique! Snake-print pumps in bright colors can bring some pop to skinny jeans and slinky solid-color top, and at $9.99 each, you can't go wrong! You could also pair brightly colored snake-print pumps with a sexy black dress for a night out with friends or date night. A snake-print clutch or bag adds that flair that you've been looking for in your everyday wear. While the Gucci bag will be sure to wipe our your bank account, you can get the same looks for less at The Wardrobe Boutique. Our snake print bags shown above are $9.99 each and the snake-print wallet is $4.99.

This fall stock up on sassy snake-print items at The Wardrobe Boutique! Pumps in red, purple, and teal, bags in beige, brown, and black, wallets, belts, and more!!!

All proceeds benefit The Career Wardrobe, a non-profit that empowers women in transition.

NYC Fashion Week - Spring/Summer 2011

2010-09-20T07:45:00.000-07:00

Just last week, NYC was flooded with people from all over the world to partake in this year's Spring/Summer 2011 Fashion Week. After 15 years of NY Fashion Week being held in the world-famous white tents at Bryant Park, this year things were shaken up a bit and the event was held in Damrosch Park at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. I had never been to NY Fashion Week at Bryant Park, so I can't make the comparison as to which space is better. However, I have to say the grandeur and beauty and of Lincoln Center provided the perfect setting and I was not disappointed in the least.

I had the privilege of experiencing a little bit of this invitation-only world for one day - last Wednesday, September 15th. I had a ticket to the Nanette Lepore show, which was absolutely lovely! As I was locating my seat, this warm, cheerful music started up. I looked around and noticed it was not coming from some un-seen DJ, but a live band situated on the right side of the beginning of the catwalk. The artist is John Forte, and a sample CD of his songs was included with the Nanette Lepore program waiting for us at our seats. His music continued on for a few minutes, creating an atmosphere of sunny, hopeful vibes - as we often feel when Spring and Summer are really getting into full swing.

Soon the models began coming down the catwalk, showcasing Nanette Lepore's signature style of femininity and modernity that I love and respect. Her feminine cuts do not conjure images of weakness or passivity; there is always a modern edginess to balance her classic femininity. Her Spring/Summer 2011 Collection included vintage-inspired floral print bathing suits, a shimmering gold mini-dress, a peach chiffon beaded evening gown, and more. There were multiple pieces is sherbet-inspired shades of citrus yellow, creamy peach, tan, purple, etc. The models wore simple, sleek ponytails pulled into casual little loops at their necks.

The crisp whites, classic tans, and cheerful sherbet colors were perfect for any spring/summer wardrobe. Some of the deep plums and purples could even be worn now in the early fall or in the late winter. We all know that in this recession, versatility is important, especially in clothing and fashion! Every piece I saw was at first glance classic and simple, but as I looked closer I saw totally contemporary details that really showed the skill, beauty, and creativity of the designer. It was all about the details- ruffles, wrap dresses, structured retro-inspired pieces, beading, unique hemlines, etc.

This Spring, be sure to keep an eye out at The Wardrobe Boutique for those classic feminine-but-modern spring and summer colors and looks. Right now, we have gorgeous items in the very same plums, burgundies, purples, and peaches that I just saw on the runway in New York. Also, check the designer room frequently, because we've had half a dozen Nanette Lepore pieces this year, and always at affordable prices!

Designer Finds @ The Wardrobe Boutique

2010-09-09T10:47:00.000-07:00

One of the most exhilarating things about shopping in upscale recycled clothing shops is the feeling of a treasure hunt. Searching through racks just to find that one gem - that dress, top, or pair of jeans that fits you perfectly, makes you feel great, and turns out to be something made by a high-end designer. I've scored an authentic Hermes scarf for under $3 at second-hand shop in West Philly, only to later learn that it's worth hundreds of dollars!

At the The Wardrobe Boutique, you can find gorgeous items from popular designers such as Kate Spade, Coach, and Calvin Klein. But that's the easy part - everyone knows those brands and they are priced appropriately. What I find to be the most challenging and exciting is discovering we have items from exclusive designers from all over the world, most of whom the majority of the American public aren't very familiar with. I love finding an item and knowing it's well-made just by the structure, the quality of the fabrics, and the details. The thrill comes when I'm doing research and I find out more about a particular item is made by a world-reknown designer I'd never heard of because it's not someone like Chanel or Gucci, but just as expensive and exclusive.

I want to highlight finds by one of customers, Kiara, who recently bought a dress by Eve Gravel for only $19.99 here at The Wardrobe Boutique. Eve Gravel is a young high-end designer based in Montreal, Canada whose designs are becoming more popular and have gained a lot of positive reviews worldwide. At only 31 years old, she has begun to make a name for herself in the global fashion community for her unique cuts and styles. Check out http://www.evegraveldesign.com/ for more info.

The top photo shows one of our gorgeous customers, Kiara, wearing her Eve Gravel "Raphael" Dress, which originally cost $158, but was purchased at The Wardrobe Boutique for $19.99. She's paired it with a vintage Dooney&Bourke bag, purchased from The Wardrobe Boutique for $29.99, and green Aerosole wedges, purchased from The Wardrobe Boutique for $9.99.
The bottom photo shows the model from Eve Gravel showing off this gorgeous Montreal-made dress!

Second-hand shopping is a great way to expand your knowledge about fashion and designers to more than just the most popular names out there. There are exclusive high-end pieces from designers located all over the world to be found at The Wardrobe Boutique, and always at accessible, great prices!

Va-Va-Va Voom Vintage!!!

2010-09-02T09:07:00.000-07:00

For me, one of the greatest joys in working in a recycled clothing shop is finding the hidden vintage gems. While most of our items at The Wardrobe Boutique are contemporary brand names and designers, we do get the occasional vintage pieces that really spark my passion for fashion. Vintage isn't just about the retro look of something, it's about the fabrics, the structure, where and how it was made, and what time period it came from.

This white leather purse with gold chain detail and handle is most likely from the late 1960's or early 1970's. It's only $9.99 at The Wardrobe Boutique!

Knowing that something has been around for 50 years and is still in great shape is exciting to me, call me a nerd if you will, but I think it says something about the craftsmanship and quality. To wear vintage you have to get creative and flexible. Mixing vintage and modern is one of the most exciting ways to have a style that will stop people on the street and really show off your individuality.

Many vintage items are imperfect, with slight signs of wear from decades of use. However, these pieces are truly unique, even though there are attempts to be copied by the likes of everyone from Urban Outfitters to Betsey Johnson. Designers today can replicate the aesthetics of the past, but they can't replicate the quality (in most cases, anyway.) Appreciating vintage pieces takes a little patience and willingness to work with flaws, but the end result is totally worth it!

Here's one of our fashionable customers, Candy, accessorizing a thoroughly modern outfit (American Apparel skirt, Urban Outfitters top) with one of adorable vintage purses! It's a teal oval bag with wooden handles and hand-embroidered initials. Totally unique with personal touches from the past owner that give the bag some warmth and depth; it's more than just any new factory-produced bag!

This yellow and white lace and chiffon dress is a sugary confection that is sure to brighten up anyone's day! It's dated most likely from the late 1960's to early 1970's and would look adorable with brown or tan modern MaryJanes. The rhinestone brooch and long scarf in the font show the attention to detail that was so important during that time period. It's only $14.99 at The Wardrobe Boutique! Below the dress we have a tan vintage clutch, most likely from the 1970's, that would be a great addition to a contemporary casual outfit of skinny jeans, sexy top, and pumps. Only $9.99!!

And where would be without the 80's gaudiness that just doesn't seem to ever go out of style! This is a size large black sweater dress with gorgeous sequin and rhinestone detail. The cowl neck collar folds to expose even more glitz and glamour! This would look fabulous with black leggings or tight jeans, silver shimmery heels or flats, and some glimmering silver and black bangles. Only $9.99!

Vintage gems are everywhere, just take the time to find them. Keep an eye out and you're sure to find amazing vintage clothes with fabrics, details, and cuts you may have never even seen before. Don't let a few little flaws scare you away, because the unique creativity of vintage style shines through!

At The Wardrobe Boutique we are always in stock of vintage casual wear, formal wear, and accessories, all priced extremely reasonably.

Sparkle, Shimmer, and Shine! Crystal Bibs Takeover!

2010-08-26T08:48:00.000-07:00

I've noticed lately a lot of accessories out there are getting more and more over-the-top. Everywhere I look I see necklaces with multiple strands, oversized pearls, charms, giant glittering rhinestones, and other baubles. I've seen headbands with feathers, netting, and huge bows in everywhere from Forever 21 to Banana Republic. As someone who loves anything glittery and scoffs at subtlety, I am really excited about this trend!

I attribute this venturing into more explicit, over-the-top flashy fashion partially to the style risks and successes taken by stars such as Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Rihanna, and Pink. The ante has really been upped of what's acceptable for everyday fashions worn by your average woman, and I love it! I've seen a greater range of creativity and an empowered sense of taking risks and not being afraid to express one's own style, no matter how gaudy or unusual it may be.

At The Wardrobe Boutique, we've got some amazing accessories that hit the hottest trends right on the nose. Baubles, gems, pearls, and more, all for $10 and under! One of my favorite items we have is our Crystal Bib Necklaces, for just $9.99. I've seen them everywhere from InStyle magazine to ads for the fall collection at Bebe. At stores in Soho NY they sell for $30, and in the mall I've seen them for $25- $45! $9.99 is a great deal, and all of our crystal bib necklaces come with an elegant black velvet pouch for safekeeping.

Our crystal bib necklaces are available in 2 options: purple and green and feature gems in mulitple shapes and coordinating satin ribbon with a silver lobster claw closure. They look stunning paired up with a casual tee or tank and are a fabulous way to dress up a more simple outfit. They're also an over-the-top accessory for formal events with enough shimmer and sparkle that will be sure to catch everyone's eye!

Here's a crystal bib necklace similar to the ones we carry being worn by McKaela on The Hills! Take a risk, don't be afraid to be a little over-the-top, and let your personal style shine through with our fabulous crystal bib necklaces ($9.99)!!!

Vintage, Desinger, and Gently Used Eyewear Galore!

2010-08-16T11:47:00.000-07:00

Stop by The Wardrobe Boutique to check out our new eyewear collection! We've gotten some great frames in in a range of styles from modern to vintage.

Most trips to the eye doctor for a new pair of glasses end up costing upwards of $300.00 if you want a quality, brand-name frames. At The Wardrobe Boutique we have modern frames in good condition - starting at $1.99, up to $5.99 for Vintage frames, and $19.99 for Designer frames! All you have to do is take the frames to your eye doctor and pay to have new lenses cut specifically for the frames you bring in. Lenses generally cost $50.00 - $100.00 - putting your total cost of a new pair of glasses at as little as $51.99 or as high as $119.99 for a pair of designer frames!

Buying a pair of gently used frames leaves a lot of freedom to express your personal style and try out a more unique look than you might be used to. There are no limits - you could try out anything from vintage frames in bright colors or sophisticated sleek frames by high-end designers.

As someone who has been wearing glasses for almost 25 years, I know how important it is to have something that's on your face all day every day look exactly the way you want. I purchased a pair of vintage frames a few years ago for only $35 : cat-eye shaped with little rhinestones in the corner. I brought them to my eye doctor and got lenses put in for $70 - putting my total at just over $100, way better than the $300 I used to spend for a pair of ordinary glasses that I saw on people all the time.

I love having a pair of vintage frames that are totally unique, and the whole process helped me realize that I had so many more options for eyewear other than what's at the doctor's office. At The Wardrobe Boutique, we have multi-color plastic Vintage frames from the 1980's, big metal Vintage frames from the 1970's, modern designer frames by Gucci and Fendi, and more!!

Don't let your eyewear hide who you are, express your style without breaking your budget!

Welcome to The Wardrobe Boutique!

2010-08-12T14:34:00.000-07:00

Just over one year old , all the proceeds made at The Wardrobe Boutique are used to fund The Career Wardrobe, a non-profit organization that has been providing women in transition with free professional clothing for over 15 years.

Be sure to check the blog for daily updates including "Item of the Day", "Look of the Week", and much more! Interested in volunteer opportunities? Check The Wardrobe Boutique's Website (click) for more details.

By shopping at The Wardrobe Boutique,

you not only help to sustain the environment

by recycling clothing but you are also helping women

in our community succeed!