Shopchantal Stylefile

Relaxed Suiting Crop Pant from Elizabeth and James

Obsessed may be an under statement for the affinity we have for the new take on the “Harem Pant” or  “Slouchy Pant”.   It’s the new dress pant.  When worn in a material that is a bit more dressy it can work as an alternative to a dress, or can also work as a new option to denim when worn in a casual fabric.

Versatile and comfortable, and with offerings as abundant as the dropping leaves, this is one trend almost impossible to not wear no matter what your style preference.  Adored by celebrities and Stylists, this is tThe fit of this pant has been toned down to it’s “Harem Pant” counterpart making it more wearable than ever–narrow at the hip, not overly baggy through the thigh, and fitted just above or at the ankle. It is an easy fit for every body type and height.

We have a great selection at shopchantal.com & chantal., even including a jumpsuit from Twelfth Street that could be my replacement for a dress when choosing that perfect look for a Holiday party.  Offered in black, this piece couldn’t be easier to accessorize with a killer heel & an abundant amount of jewelry.  Slipping on a great blazer just amps up the sophistication of her S/S Jumpsuit.

Twelfth Street also shares our love for the “new baggy pant,” her Slouch Ankle Pant is a great neutral grey & can be dressed up or down.  For a cozy & comfortable look, we love it paired back to Walter’s Z Z Zig Zag Knit Cardigan and a simple rib tank.

Prefer a black pair?  Both Pencey & Joie have provided us with two completely different black options.  I’m loving Pencey’s Drop Pant –a little more fashion forward and has the option of being cuffed!

It could possibly be the most comfortable pair of pants you’ve ever slipped into!  Joie’s Sammi Pant is a bit more polished & dressy than Pencey’s version and is a great option when trying to pull of this trend at the office.

Getting dressed couldn’t be any easier with a style like this!  No zippers or buttons and the ways in which to wear this trend are endless!

Check out our Lookbook for a complete selection of the updated Harem Pant and get inspired to try something new this season.

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My absolute favorite accessory for the winter months is a great hat!  An easy, soft, and warm style that is super versatile and works back to all my coats & outfits for the season.  I couldn’t be more in luck, considering slouchy knit hats are a huge trend and with celebrities like Lindsey Lohan sporting the trend so early in the season you won’t want to miss the boat on this fashion craze.

Dream Muffin Hat

Chef's Hat

We just received our Carolina Amato shipment in and it was packed full with faithful styles we re-order ever year and some new fun styles (like the oh-so popular knit hat) you won’t want to miss out on! Shopchantal.com & chantal. received three great knit hat options making it easy to find one that fits your personal style best!

We love the slouchyness of the Dream Muffin Hat and the lighterweight cashmere of the Chef’s Hat - both have the “snood” quality that we crave.

Pop Top Cashmere Mitten

Personally, no one should be without her Pop Top Cashmere Mittens which are the epitome of functional, also available in an Angora option!  Some gloves make it not-so-easy to find those keys hiding in the bottom of that over-sized bag or when trying to re-touch make up or apply lip gloss.  However, Carolina Amato’s pop top mittens are great for the on-the-go girl who needs to multi-task throughout the day.  The pop top mitten allows the wearer to turn down & fasten the mitten so they become fingerless gloves.  Love the fingerless style?  Check out her other options: Snappy Driver Gloves (offered in Red Leather) and Shearling Fingerless Gloves (offered in Camel Leather & Black Leather)

Quilted Driving Glove

Craving more luxury than functionality?  Her Quilted Driver Glove incorporates both!  The cashmere is extra special making these a great gift-giving option, as well!  We love the quilted upper, black leather, and “cut out” detail.  The glove hits right at the wrist making these easy to pull off and on.  Another great option that hits at the wrist is her 60’s Shorty Glove, also lined in cashmere with hidden elastic at the opening ensuring a perfect fit!

Check out the styles I’ve mentioned along with other great Carolina Amato styles at shopchantal.com .

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Though this season couldn’t be more edgy & dramatic, feminine styles are still big and can be paired with other girly styles to create the timeless & romantic look that we have all come to know and love.

We are loving the glamorous appeal of this look, along with the versatility of the pieces used to create it.  Elizabeth and James is a major player within this arena and has offered up some of our favorite flirty pieces that include jackets, skirts, & tee’s with just the perfect amount of high-style.  The best part about investing in pieces from their fall collection is they work beautifully paired back to all our other designer’s fall collections, and also so much you already have in your closet.

Shoshanna, another cult favorite when it comes to finding that girly & sophisticated look, has offered up some amazing styles that are not only warm, but feature some high style!  Her Shawl Collar Sweater Dress is a classic style that offers an abundant amount of versatility.  Wear it with leggings (or tights) & boots to create a cozy look or pair it with a blazer & scarf for a more polished appeal!

Or you may be looking for that perfect dress to wear to all your holiday parties that is going to give you longevity for the rest of the season?  Shoshanna’s Belted Peplum Dress is sure to impress even the girliest of girls!  We love the gold belt detail with the flirty ruffle at the hip, such a strong & feminine trend!  A statement necklace is all you’ll need to complete this look, and Pour La Victoire’s Blanche Heel wouldn’t hurt, either!

Shawl Collar Sweater Dress

Belted Peplum Dress

Other silhouettes & pieces we love for creating this look include:  Graham & Spencer’s Washed Silk Cami, Shoshanna’s Strapless Pleat Detail Dress, and Nanette Lepore’s Hollywood Dress.  All portray that true, lady-like persona with details and finishings that are timelessly stylish!

New styles for the season are pouring in everyday.  Pairing a classic style that makes you feel comfortable with an updated trend like a cropped blazer from Rebecca Taylor or moto jacket from Mike & Chris can make your look fresh and interesting. These styles just arrived this week at chantal. and will be on shopchantal.com next week.

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It’s no surprise that outwear is an important topic for us at shopchantal.com & chantal.  Since we are based in Portland, ME we have no other choice than to bundle up during the winter months, and style is a priority when choosing that essential coat for the season.  Since we are in a season where almost anything goes (high drama, girly details, and timeless sophistication), the hunt to find a jacket that meets your “keep warm” needs but portrays your individual style is super easy!

Rebecca Taylor’s Ruffle Me Up Coat is the go-to jacket for all the girly-girls at heart!  The tiered ruffle front detail and ruffled collar are super feminine, and the belted waist gives you shape even with all the layers you may be wearing under it.  The slight balloon sleeve adds that extra special detail without being over powering that all of us crave when looking for that special, unique piece that you will have forever!

More edgy, than girly, Shoshanna’s Zipper Front Coat is military-inspired and touches upon that boy meets girl edge that is so of the moment!  We love the off-center exposed zipper and banded detail at the waist.  The color combo of grey & black make this a super versatile coat that can easily be worn dressed up or down.  We love pairing it back to tough pieces to make the military-inspiration pop even more!  Or pair it back to a beautiful pink cashmere scarf and a chef’s beret for a fun, flirty look to an edgy style coat.  Add a touch of fringe with a bag from Twelfth Street or some boots from Joie.

Craving color when the weather can be somewhat dark & dreary?  Nanette Lepore’s D’Orsay Hoodie in Iris is a rich shade of purple in a slightly cropped style that allows you to show off the layers you wear underneath it.  The jacket features so many great details that makes the D’Orsay Hoodie super fun to wear–the exposed zippers at the wrist, polished slit int he back, worn bronze buttons, and the best part of this piece–the detachable hood.

Don’t wait until it’s too late.  The best styles and choices of sizes are here now - waiting for you to add a Carolina Amato snood and some driving gloves or a Me & Kashmiere animal print scarf and some cashmere mittens.  Whichever your style, we can help you complete the look.

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Heidi Montag in Genetic

Sienna Miller in Genetic

Let me start by saying, Ali Fatourechi & Shaun Hurley the masterminds behind Genetic Denim, are two of the nicest guys I’ve ever met, not to mention two of the best looking dudes I have ever met!  We love doing business with companies like Genetic:  good people, great styles, and an impressive amount of press that doesn’t hurt when trying to create a demand for a denim line.  I really can’t think of one “A-List” celebrity that I haven’t seen in these jeans at one time or another:  Jessica Simpson, Lindsey Lohan, Heidi Montag, Sienna Miller, Kate Beckinsale (also a fan of Current/Elliott), Kate Hudson, and you see what I’m saying?

It’s no surprise to me that Hollywood is busy running around in Genetic due to the super soft denim (all of our customer always say, “It feels like I am wearing pajama’s!”), great fit, and a selection of different styles (skinny all the way to sailor pant) that will keep any personality happy.  One could say this is part of their design aesthetic and branding; their logo is a double helix (yes, the kind you see when you google the term “DNA”–hence, the brand’s name Genetic).

The Shane

We eagerly await our shipments from Genetic every month (both for men & women), and are super excited about their latest wash in, arguably, their most popular style–The Shane.  A great skinny in a medium blue wash that can be worn day or night, casual or dressy.  We love it back to Joie’s New Orleans boot–super comfortable denim only makes sense paired back to an edgy, yet comfortable shoe!

So whatever your individual genetic code possesses, Genetic will be able to fill your need for that perfect jean that represents your individuality.  After all, “It’s all in your genes.”

THIS JUST IN:

See Georgina in tonight’s episode of Gossip Girl wearing the popular Shane Skinny in a black lace. This is definitely gonna be a  ”tell God the Bitch is Back” moment!

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Kate Hudson sporting the Twelfth Street Boho Cardi

Lately, I’ve been seeing a lot of celebrities sporting more down-to-earth & casual looks that I now find myself dressing down more and buying pieces like chunky knits, super-soft fleece jackets, & lux cashmere.  I’m not sure if the economy has pushed us towards these more cozy, yet stylish looks or if dressing more casually has a more every-day appeal with an unbeatable cool, girl vibe?  Let’s face it–nothing is more easy than throwing on your favorite pair of jeans, a chunky sweater style, and flat boots, and the designers have made it easy to find all of these pieces in fabrics, styles, and colors to make each and all of us happy.

October deliveries are in and the majority of our new inventory focuses around one of the biggest trends this season:  chunky knits.  However, other luscious sweater-inspired styles include the update to one of our favorite fabrics–French Terry.  The carefully updated & polished styles are being offered up in so many different silhouttes & cozy fabrics that one will not be short on ideas on how to achieve this look.

Recently inspired by “The New Casual” an article in October’s People StyleWatch, I am offering up our favorite styles that can be found at shopchantal.com& chantal.

Tattered Elizabeth Blazer

Vintage Fleece Hoodie

STYLISH FLEECE:  The perfect compliment for your everyday look!  Splendid’s Vintage Fleece Hoodie shown here with a burnout from Sharon Segal & a distressed skinny style from [BLANK] is the perfect way to sport this not just for the gym style!

Juliette Vest

FURRY VESTS & JACKETS:  Joie’s Glimmer Faux Fur Vest is our pick for this trend!  However, due to it’s larger than life presence we recommend keeping the rest of your ensemble simple by pairing it back to skinny jeans and boots.  Another way to achieve a similar look without the “fur” is to pair your favorite leggings & boots back to Joie’s Juliette Sweater Vest.  Still very much so on trend due to it’s chunky quality!

CAT Cassidy Boot

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Mixing masculine and feminine pieces creates an unexpected, cool girl vibe that exudes through the confidence of the one sporting the look.  It’s a little bit world-traveler, definitely edgy, and incredibly appropriate for the type of girl who wants to look sexy, yet be comfortable.  Fall’s offerings are making it easy to create this coveted look with the  heavy presence of motorcross styles, girly silks, and a selection of boots that has my head spinning–WHICH TO CHOOSE!

shopchantal.com & chantal. has everything you need, even the advice on how to get the look all the way down to the small details–studded belts & printed cashmere scarves!

Store favorite, Pencey, has built an entire line around the notion of tough, girl chic and the Wool/Cashmere Peacoat is a great example of the talent, beauty, and toughness incorporated within the line!  The buckles, the belt, the collar–what’s not to love!!!  Shown here with Pencey’s Hobo Pant & Twelfth Street’s Reva Boot, one can see that pulling off this look is as easy as “1, 2, 3″–minimalism is the best approach!

Craving more options?  Here is a look at my top 5 picks for pulling off the “it” girl style of the moment:

1.  A great pair of Motocross/Biker inspired jeans will take you a long way as you can pair them back to so many different tops, jackets, and accessories!  I recommend Current/Elliott’s The Moto Skinny, which is done in a thicker, washed black denim (perfect for the upcoming weather).  Call to order: 877.347.5527

New Orleans Boot

2.  A tough boot creates a juxtaposition between girly & masculine when paired with a silky top or dress.  We are loving Joie’s New Orleans Boot.  Hitting on other important trends, buckles & straps, this boot has longevity and unbeatable comfort.

3.  The perfect top that tones down the masculine vibe of the other pieces worn while creating this look; Joie’s February Top features great detail in a neutral print that works well back to all of our favorite denim trends of the season.

4.  Studded belts are always a favorite amongst all of us at shopchantal.com, and Street’s Ahead is never short on ideas when trying to find that perfect studded number.  We recommend their Brass Studded Belt that wraps around the hip twice, for an extra bit of edge!

5.  Finally, a printed scarf in a rich textile creates polish & texture for the tough, girl chic look.  Me & Kashmiere has numerous styles to choose from.  One of our favorites is the Anaconda Printed Scarf in a neutral animal print.

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Even Appropriate for Play

Not a new idea, but one that has been finely tuned and edited for the season–the sheath dress is always in style and classically timeless.  It is simply one of those pieces that saves the day when you are unsure about what to wear to the office, out for cocktails, or when you feel like wearing something different than jeans and a tee.

Lucky for us (and for you), Shoshanna is always updating her take on this shape, and this season her offerings are sure to impress even those who feel a bit too “young” to wear a sheath dress.  Her attention to details are never short on impressiveness from pleated fronts, to belted waists, and our new favorite (which pays homage to the 80’s) the Peplum Dress.

Shoshanna Peplum Dress

Shoshanna S/S Belted A-Line Dress

All of her styles are easy to transition from warm weather to chilly days.  They can also be very girly or can take on the appearance of tough-girl chic.  It is all in how you choose to accessorize her designs, which are somewhat of a blank canvas left to the creative influences that make up your own personal style.

We recommend pairing either piece with Twelfth Street’s Boho Cardigan as the weather gets colder as the bright blue’s and blacks against the cream colored background create a rich appeal.  For a more polished finish, Elizabeth and James has created a sophisticated Boyfriend Blazer that works back to just about anything.  Finally, a legging or opaque tight will work perfectly with a tall boot to create a cool-edge that looks effortlessly pulled together!

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Mercedes Benz Fashion Week

Simply put, I love September!  The weather isn’t hot, muggy, and unbearable, and I can finally wear some of my favorite Fall pieces (blazers, sweaters, and boots).  However, what is most exciting about September is Fashion Week and the abundant amount of media coverage about the runway shows, future trends, and celebrity sightings.  It’s a bit crazy to think that all of us within the retail world are now becoming obsessed with Spring 2010’s hottest designers, best trends, and key pieces while Fall & Winter collections are still being delivered!

Let’s just say, most of us who are fashion manic have a little bit of A.D.D. when something new & fresh and not even available to wear is being shoved in our faces–it’s true, “you always want what you can’t have!”  and isn’t this the truth after seeing both BCBG’s and Rebecca Taylor’s runway shows on style.com.

BCBG

Rebecca Taylor

So what’s in store for Spring?  One dominant trend still focuses around body conscious silhouettes that display the female form in a toned down 80’s inspired way.  This fall the 80’s have been popping up all around us in the way of strong shoulders, form fitting dresses, and sheer cutouts; some of the looks have been a little extreme and leave some wondering, “Who is wearing that where?”.  Don’t get me wrong, I am loving the sheer cut-outs throughout the BCBG collection and am salivating over a pair of Rebecca Taylor’s slouchy, cropped pants that remind me a bit of MC Hammer, but believe these silhouettes are a bit more youthful than dramatic, a breath of fresh air.

Rebecca Taylor

BCBG

Polka dots are popping up throughout the shows, and Rebecca Taylor was right on board!  Pairing her signature florals and ruffles back to a subdued polka-dot blazer was unexpected, yet extremely flirty & fun!  And for those that must know what colors to expect–think Americana!  Known for their preppy vibe–Navy & White were a huge rage even throughout the more edgier collections.  Also, good news for those who love stripes–your in luck, rugby stripes made their fair share of appearances down the runway.

To sum it all up, I can’t say it better than Rebecca Taylor, herself, “I want to see shoulders, waists, and legs this (Spring 2010) season.”  Shoulders, waists, and legs we will see as the dominant silhouettes were dresses, shorts, and rompers!

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Yes, Sharon Segal is the daughter of the infamous Fred Segal, but that is not why she is coveted or beloved.  She is admired because she designs the most amazing tees and lttle dresses that make you want to go back to jeans and tees — everyday. We swear.

Segal has taken her years of retail experience and created a niche market for tees that have impeccable quality with a design aesthetic only reached by those who have spent years listening to what the customer wants.  With a super-soft hand and silhouettes that are slightly longer, this line of tees and dresses and other pieces will become a new basic in your closet.

Segal’s burnouts are fast becoming a chantal. / shopchantal.com favorite.  We are so delighted to have this wonderful, new line amongst our other great collections.

You’ll see us mixing in Sharon’s lower price tees with lots of pieces from our contemporary collections to show you a style mix of high and low.  Already, the pieces work with one another through her color palette choices, but we love to shake it up a bit and plan to layer these tees under our Elizabeth & James Blazers, our Pencey dresses and, of course, with our Joie Glimmer Vest and Malibu Denim Alexis Straight Leg — talk about a mix of luxury and everyday style.

See our selection (and love) of Sharon Segal continue to grow each month as we get in new styles and colors from her ever expanding collection.

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Due to my obsession with fashion, trends, and celebrity gossip, I tend to buy a lot of different types of magazines relating to the topics mentioned above:  People, People StyleWatch, Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, Lucky Magazine and the list goes on and on.  One thing all of these magazines had in common in the month of August, and even into September, is their obsession with over-the-knee boots.  Not one color (though it’s best to stick to blacks, greys, and neutral tones) reigned, not one heel height sored above the others, and there isn’t one person that couldn’t pull of this look with sticking to a few, simple guidelines.

Reva Boot

So I’ve done the homework for you, read up on all the ways to wear it and all the ways to NOT wear it and believe me, I think once you slip into a pair like Twelfth Street’s Reva Boot or Pour La Victoire’s version (expected soon at shopchantal & chantal.), it will be love at first sight.  As I know was the case for my father’s good friend who can’t stop ranting and raving about her most recent purchase of Twelfth Street’s version at the store (chantal. & www.shopchantal.com), and if she, at over 60 years old, can pull of the look with confidence, sex appeal, and sophistication then I know you can, as well.

Remember, this boot makes a statement all by itself, so keeping everything else pretty minimal will guarantee a flawless approach to wearing this trend.  I recommend wearing the boot with a matching colored tight (hence, black boots are a very sound investment) or tucking a skinny pant into them that will complement the color of the boot.  Keep the top a little longer as it will help to create a long silhouette between the height of the boot and the length of the shirt, Boyfriend Blazers & Tunic-style shirts work best for this.  Remember to add texture, not necessarily color to your look.  Too many bold things at once can turn into a big, loud mess, but pairing the boot back to a lush-textured piece makes the statement even more fabulous.

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Just like the Burger King Whopper - the new Fall Style for Leggings is “wear it your way”.  Wear it rocker style, biker style, feminine, chic or just for a casual look - you can wear your look and should.

With styles including full length and cropped and details such as zippers and seaming in fabrics that include spandex, leather and ponte, there really is no end to what you can do with leggings this Fall.

We love the look of the new Rock & Republic Melissa Legging.  It has a bit of sheen and an amazing bottom zipper feature.  The wide waist band and pull on style make it super slimming and easy to layer over just about everything.

Generra’s Skinny Knit legging has a great stitch detail that makes for a more flattering look.  This one is a must for everyone.  This one is a bit more of a trouser with it’s zipper and button closure waist.

The Splendid Legging is a mainstay at shopchantal.com.  We get it almost every delivery in either a full length or a crop.  This season they, and us, have added styles with ruched ankle details, ponte fabrics and even a denim legging.

Ella Moss’ new Ponte style has an insert of ribbing for extra comfort and a cool moto girl vibe.

Elizabeth and James were so on target in their design of a Spiral Seam Legging with it’s hook and eye ankle closures and wide waistband, we couldn’t resist getting them.  They are so wearable and flattering.

Graham & Spencer is always one of the coolest collections available.  They were the chosen ones for the coveted leather legging- see that soon at shopchantal.com

So, you really can “wear it your way”.  The designers know you want what you want and they have stepped up and delivered. See our legging choices at shopchantal.com and just try and pick one- we bet you can’t.

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Check out our newest press in Life & Style featuring Shoshanna’s Shawl Collar Cardigan.

Shopchantal.com is listed as the source for this amazing Sweater Cardi.  Available now at shopchantal.com

Look for more posts on our press this month including Lucky Magazine for Elizabeth and James‘ Flat Front Peg Pant and People Stylewatch for Shoshanna’s amazing Military-style coat.

We hope you share in our excitement and pick up all these great reads.

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Blake Lively fulfilling her cravings

I’m the type of girl that will try just about any color (except green), but I always seem to find myself gravitating towards neutral tones that lend themselves to be versatile when paired back to an accessory that adds a punch of color.  So when I picked up the September issue of Harper’s Bazaar, I was thrilled to turn to page 224 to find a dedication to two of my favorite neutrals out there:  Grey & Camel.  Some may call me boring, but truth be told when these two shades meet it creates a level of sophistication and class that I am calling unbeatable.  The staying power of items in neutral tones is strong and here at shopchantal.com we have an endless amount of offerings from denim to accessories that are sure to fulfill my tonal cravings.

Celia Dolman Sleeve Sweater

Joie’s Celia Dolman Sleeve Sweater is a favorite of mine from last year, and this year they have made it in a rich shade of camel.  The cut alone is timelessly classic, but when paired with [BLANK]’s Denim Destoryed Skinny in Sextin, Joie’s Rockafella Fringe Boot, and topped off with Twelfth Street’s “Couture” Smith Bag it takes on an edgy, tough girl chic look that is also a craving of mine, at the moment.

A few of my other favorite neutral-defined pieces include:  Graham & Spencer’s Washed Silk Dress which would create a fun, flirty look when paired with Foley & Corinna’s Arm Candy Clutch.

Graham & Spencer Washed Silk Dress

Also an option, a jean that fills my need both for tonal desire and motocross edge, Unknown Factory’s Skinny Biker Jean paired with KAIN Label’s V-Neck in Walnut for a weekend look that is comfortable, yet stylish.

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Fall Trend: Slouchy, Cropped Pants

Voluminous, slouchy, and incredibly flattering (when worn the right way)–the new & cropped take on menswear inspired fashion should come with a buyer’s manual.  Worn with the wrong pieces, this high-fashion item can turn into a not so graceful ensemble.  Thankfully, we have taken the time to create a sort of “how to” guide to creating looks that won’t leave you looking like a fashion disaster, but will make you feel cool, confident, and timelessly classic when putting this trend back to all the RIGHT items.

First things first, if you haven’t snatched up a pair, you will need to do so.  Elizabeth and James, becoming a cult favorite amongst all of us at shopchantal.com, has created our “it” slouchy version.  The Suiting Flat Front Peg Pant is the perfect shade of charcoal making it a versatile choice! 

Shown here with Walter’s Chestnut Multi Plaid Tunic, a studded belt, and Pour La Victoire’s Blanche Heel, The Suiting Flat Front Peg Pant is worn both effortlessly & edgy.

The secret to pulling off this look is to balance the proportions of a relaxed, slouchy pant with a slim-fitting top that should be worn tucked in, if the top doesn’t fit snug right at the waist.  Some other important factors to keep in mind include:

1.  Best worn with heels, the slouchy pant can look a bit messy when worn with a flat shoe.  The heel brings a sort of “heightened” illusion to the silhouette that gives your body a longer and leaner look. 

2.  Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize:  Due to it’s menswear-inspired nature, the pant should be paired with bold jewelry, studded accessories, and always a statement belt to create a polished, feminine look that doesn’t skip a beat.

3.  When layering on top with a slouchy pant,  keep in mind to not add too much bulk on top!  Graham and Spencer’s Modal Slub L/S Tee under their Washed Silk Cami creates a group of thin layers that won’t overpower the slouchy fit on the bottom.

When keeping these simple “rules” in mind, the slouchy pant is extremely flattering by disguising not so flattering areas of the hip, thigh, and butt while being super comfortable due to the level of freedom and movement the relaxed shape gives to the wearer.

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The mini-skirt has been around forever, but the new and polished take on this piece is no longer just for those with model thin silhouettes or for those with legs that are miles long.  The key to wearing this trend is balancing the short hemline with more covering proportions either on the top or the bottom.  Paired back to many of our other favorite fall trends (The Boyfriend Blazer, Leggings, and Chunky Knit Cardigans), the micro mini is turning into a daily essential just like your favorite pair of jeans.

Some of our favorite offerings of the micro-mini include styles from Joie, Elizabeth and James, and Nanette Lepore–each one is so different from the other and can be worn is so many different ways that we are having a hard time deciding which is our favorite! 

Joie’s Darcy Skirt gives off the “boho cool” vibe when paired back to a printed blouse, over-sized shaggy vest, and tall boots creating a look that is both luxe, yet exotically edgy. 

For those who prefer a more polished, girly version on this trend, Nanette Lepore’s Too Hot Skirt & Elizabeth and James’ Noguchi Skirt are offered in black which work well paired back to a bright tee and some sky-high heels for a fresh, clean look that is both stream-lined and sexy. 

Transitioning these mini’s into cooler weather is effortless when worn with many of the legging options we have at shopchantal.com.  Adding a legging is also a flattering way to get the look of the moment for those who feel a bit self-conscious baring too much leg.  Another figure-flattering option, pair with a tall boot to create a balancing act as to not bare too much leg.

Appropriate for both office and play, the trend is being seen in many different textures, colors, and fabrications making it easy to find “the one” that fits your personal style and lifestyle best!  Just remember, rock it with confidence–the most important accessory to this look! 

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Everything in moderation is something my father always told us.  Of course, he wasn’t talking fashion, but it is a good motto to live by and apply to many facets of life - including fashion.

I love mixing trends and styles: slouchy pants with a girly top, tough boots with a flowey dress and my favorite trend of all time- studs.  I will buy and wear just about anything with studs and love to pair it with sweet tops.

Fringe is not a new trend, especially with handbags and shoes, but it is a trend that is worthy of mentioning again because it has longevity.  Really.  Last year we saw fringe details from the top designers and again they did it this year. 

Joie is a perfect example of the fringe trend transcending from last year to now.  The did a cute flat fringe boot and reinvented the style in a heel for fall. The Rockefella is gorgeous and the perfect heel.  We love the Mushroom color- so neutral.

Twelfth Street handbags have a subtle use of fringe making the Smith Couture Bucket Bag a must have for anyone wanting to wear the trend, but wants it in moderation.

Ella Moss Black Label is all about ruffles and fringe and tiers.  That’s why we love it so. The Ella Moss Black Label Coco Cami is a fantastic fit and has the softest fringe.  It moves beautifully with the body.  We love it back to colored denim, distressed shorts from Current/Elliott and even back to white linen pants for a night out.

Looking for an easy way to transition into this trend for fall in a subtle way?

Look at scarves for inspiration.  We love the scarves from Shawlsmith London for the fringe detail and for seasonal colors.

So, wear fringe in moderation with accessories or wear it all out in a top or dress, but whatever way you decide, Factor Fringe into your Fall wardrobe.

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It’s official. We have a sibling.  A baby sister site, if  you will.  And, she is not wearing our hand me downs. She is wearing new items from the best designers and with a mantra of “STILL IN STYLE. NOW ON SALE.”, she is gearing up to be a well dressed, financial guru as well.

With a great write up from Grechenscloset.com, this new site is well on it’s way to some fun blogging and shopping.

With a  list including top contemporary designers such as Nanette Lepore, Shoshanna, Rebecca Taylor, Genetic Denim, Trina Turk and a handful of others, www.designersalerack.com is the little sister site of www.shopchantal.com, a website dedicated to offering the hottest selection of contemporary collections for Women & Men.  Designersalerack.com also offers great sale items for men too including selections from VelvetMens, Original Penguin, Earnest Sewn and more.

You can also visit designersalerack.com from shopchantal.com sale for women and sale for men pages. It is a link at the bottom of the page.

In addition to shopping for your favorite designer, you can also shop by category for both women and for men.  Women’s categories include all your favorites: denim, dresses, tops, pants, jackets and others. One amazing piece we love is the Walter Sexy Combo Dress - perfect for the upcoming fall season with a pair of tall black boots.  Men’s categories include denim, shirts, hoodies, jackets, sweaters and more.  Our fav for men is the Edun Shawlneck Sweater.

We also offer a great search feature so you can search for a specific item or designer.

www.designersalerack.com has the same great customer service as shopchantal.com including email (our iphones are ready) sales@designersalerack.com and we are always on twitter @dsignersalerack (follow us for up to the minute sale items).  If you want to chat by phone, we have an 800# available during normal business hours (Monday - Saturday 10 am - 6pm EST and Sunday Noon - 5pm) 1.877.347.5527.

www.designersalerack.com has launched this week and has a great selection of items that are STILL IN STYLE. NOW ON SALE.  And the best part is,  the items are offered at discounted prices starting at 75% off retail.

With a flat rate UPS shipping of $7.00 you can order as many items as you want and only pay shipping once.  With prices this low you will want to have us pack you up a large box full of great designer styles.  Please also note that all items are Final Sale - not returnable or exchangeable.

Visit www.designersalerack.com often or sign up for our email list that will send you the latest posts on added item. You will only receive emails if an item has been added to the site.  You can also keep in the know with RSS Feed.

We hope you enjoy the new site offering items “STILL IN STYLE. NOW ON SALE.”

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We have grown to love Fall here in the Northeast- mostly because it is an extension of Summer for us! Some of our hottest days are during transition into fall. That’s why we really love to make our summer pieces last longer while getting in on the amazing first fall deliveries (I think they are always the best!).

Here are some ideas to help you style your Summer pieces with New Fall items.

1. Boots, boots, boots.  Tall, short or in between.  Boots are a great way to show your fashion forward sense.

2. Layering. Definitely plan to layer jackets and vests over your strapless or cami style pieces - including dresses.

3. Add a scarf.  A scarf can truely give you a style lift as well as some extra warmth on a cool fall day.

4. New Handbag.  It really is best to switch up your bag for fall.  Nothing looks sillier than a floral cotton bag paired with a fall outerwear.

Our favorite look for fall.  A strapless dress by Shoshanna, layered with the hottest trend of the season: a boyfriend blazer by Elizabeth and James, a pair of tall boots from Twelfth Street and a beautiful winter white handbag.

Another great look: Beau Soleil’s Black Beau Slouch dress paired with a pair of Joie Fringe Boots and a Nanette Lepore cropped coat in Iris and a Graham & Spencer Scarf.

Both outfits are a great mix of the best trends of the seasons and are all available now at shopchantal.com.

See our What’s New for new fall items and see our great selection of new sale items too.

Need some inspiration?  See our Lookbook features and our Trend page ideas.

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The Fall collections are arriving daily and the designers are true to form in shipping amazing pieces for their first deliveries.

Nanette Lepore, Shoshanna, Haute Hippie and newcomer Elizabeth and James are all showing gorgeous dresses with a bit of extra detailing.  We have a selection that includes beading, attached necklaces, extreme pleating, faux wraps and wraps and one shoulder styles.

A little bit of something for everyone- if you will.

All these styles and more can be seen at chantal. and shopchantal.com.  See our new LOOKBOOK for some inspiration too.

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