Shopchantal Stylefile

It’s been some time since I’ve been able to get to updating the blog. My apologies to all.  The reason is that we’ve been working tirelessing for weeks on our new location at 229 Commercial Street in Portland Maine.

Our new space has wood floors, exposed brick walls and huge ceiling beams and has a bit more of a warehouse feel than our past location.  We are now completely open on Commercial Street (less a few unpacked boxes) and our selection of designers is as amazing as ever. 

We’ve added some great new designers to the new space including Treesje and Botkier handbags, now featured on our handbag wall. More styles are arriving daily and the wall should be filled with Fall 2010 bags in no time.

A try-on seating section is close by to our new shoe displays with shoe cabinets close at hand so we can check styles and sizes quickly and easily from Joie, Pour La Victoire and  Cynthia Vincent.

Next to the handbag wall is our set of jewely cases complete with a mirror and shelving making it super easy to try on necklaces, earrings and bracelets from Streets Ahead, Gorjana, GemmaRedux, Alex and Ani and our newest ring designer, Tre.

Floating shelving makes viewing our Splendid tees and Me & Kashmiere scarves a pleasure.  For Fall and Winter, you will find these shelves stocked with gorgeous Autumn Cashmere and sweater pieces from Joie, Edun and Rebecca Taylor.

Our new cable hanging rod system makes our collection of contemporary designers like Shoshanna, Elizabeth & James, Nanette Lepore, Son of John, Monrow and so many more really easy to see and pair up with our amazing pieces of denim.

Just beyond the beautiful hanging collections is our glass cube wall filled with your favorite denim designers including Genetic, [Blank], DL1961, Current/Elliott, Rock & Republic, PRVCY premium and more to come soon.

We hope you will come visit our new space and see what’s new for collections including our expanded shoe and handbag designers.

229 Commecial Street (former Decorum space) is next door to Barbour and McKenzieTribe and across the street from Sushi Sapporo.  207.347.4427 www.shopchantal.com

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We all love Shoshanna’s swim styles and wear them all summer long.  Our customers love them too! Every year we get so excited when we see the line-up of her swim collection at Coterie.  For the past three years, shopchantal.com & chantal. has carried her swim collection and every year the prints, selection of styles, and different ways to pair her separates gets better & better! 

As some of you may remember, Shoshanna teamed up with her bff, Charlotte Ronson, last year to bring us one of the best collaborations between two designers that we have ever seen–Made With Love.  Swim that stayed true to the Shoshanna fit we have all come to know in prints with fun, boho inspired details (rope ties & wooden beads) that the two designed together.  Needless to say, the addition of their collaboration both to the store & website was a huge hit, and we couldn’t be more excited to tell you that the duo was at it again for Spring 2010.

Made With Love

 Looking for something now:  Check out the amazing deals we have on our swim selection now.  Great styles, Great Prints and Great Fits - everything you’ve grown to love and expect from Shoshanna. 

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We couldn’t be more excited about our new find, MONROW, an LA based contemporary line of knits and t-shirts.  Known best for their original collection of graphic t-shirts that sported the images and names of supermodels:  Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, Kate Moss, Helena Christensen, and Naomi Campbell, MONROW’s prints and “fabric burn outs” have become cult favorites amongst celebrities like Halle Barry, Rachel Bilson, and Jessica Simpson.

Rachel Bilson in MONROW

Designers, Michelle Wenke and Megan George began the line from a sort of “grass roots” approach.  They met at OTIS College of Art & Design.  After graduating, George began her own line, ”George”, and Wenke became a stylist.  However, when their paths crossed again the two started MONROW out of Wenke’s kitchen and the two began promoting the line, themselves.  

Their first collection in 2007 gained them an abundant amount of press & exposure with the “Kate” tee, inspired by Kate Moss.  Currently, their collections are inspired by a palette of colors (7-9) that set the tone for the rest of the design process:  deciding on fabrics, what prints to use, and most importantly, the fit.

The tone for their Fall 2009 collection is inspired by their own personal taste that just so happens to match up perfectly with the trends of the moment:  dark & vampy jewel tones with a mix of leopard that create an almost Gothic appeal.  We can’t wait to get share the items from the first box that arrives at chantal. & www.shopchantal.com:  tee’s with an impeccable fit that are also fashion forward and knits that can be worn in numerous ways in silhouettes that hit on the pulse of the moment:  blazers & edgy jackets.

If you have come to know us well, you know we are dreaming up looks for our next lookbook series that will showcase the ease and every day appeal of our newest addition, MONROW. 

Stop in the store to see this latest addition.  We think you will be inspired and refreshed by this new line.

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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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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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Cold weather favorites from Twelfth Street, Ella Moss, and Shoshanna are in at shopchantal.com, and we couldn’t be more excited about the offerings for the season.  The designers have refreshed some of our “old faithfuls”:  sweater coats, cardigans, and sweater vests, and we are so excited that it is officially time to stock up on these warm knits as the weather gets chillier every morning we wake up!

Though it may not be cold enough to pull out that down jacket yet, it is still too brisk to simply walk out the door without putting on some form of outerwear.  Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent has given us the perfect solution, her Shawl Collar Coat in Cream is easy & versatile.  When we say it goes with anything, we mean it.  The color works back to brights & neutrals, and the shape goes just as well with a dress as it does with a tee and jeans!

Tired of wearing that same button up or wrap style cardigan that you lived in last season?  We are too!  Thankfully, Ella Moss’s Cambridge Scarf Neck Sweater is an instant update on a favorite classic!  We promise there is nothing boring about this piece and it can be worn in so many different ways:  leave the scarf draped around the front of the cardigan or twist it in the front to create a fun & funky vibe.  The color works easily into your wardrobe, and the “scarf” on the Cambridge Scarf Neck Sweater is great for those who always feel a bit of a chill, even when indoors.

We are kind of obsessed with vests!  We lived in Splendid’s 1×1 Vest all summer long and plan on layering it up for the Fall/Winter months.  However, it doesn’t add all that much warmth.  Shoshanna’s Shawl Collar Cardigan is the answer for those who share our love for vests during these cooler months!  The purple’s in this piece are rich & sophisticated while the shape is modern and can be as funked up as you wish it to be.  It is a sweater that I won’t be without this season.

Check out our other cool weather favorites at shopchantal.com& chantal.; you won’t be left out in the cold with all the great styles from the hottest designers!

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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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Jean & Tee Girl: Drew Barrymore

Every year, there are a handful of customers who await for the arrival of certain designers, specific items, and share in our excitement to wear it all NOW.  These same customers also come to us every year looking for similar or the same items that are such staples to their wardrobes that they must “refresh” them every year or simply want more of what they already have.  These women are women after my own heart as I rely on the same basics every year, as well, but I also understand the importance of (this is one of my favorite quotes from one of my dearest friends) “freshin’ it up” - Chantal Young.  Simply put, that favorite t-shirt, pair of jeans, comfy sweater, or warm pair of tights may be a bit worn after living in it all winter long & pieces, such as these, can use a little replacement every now and again.  More importantly, we have picked up some great new designers since last fall (don’t worry we kept all the “old faithfuls,” as well) whose collections include some of the best every-day pieces (especially for the jean & tee girl) we have seen in the 4 years we have been open.

Sharon Segal has perfected the burn out tee in a silhouette that screams, “I am the perfect long sleeve basic!”  For all our customers who have loved Splendid’s Very Light Jersey Collection for tee’s, we are positive that you will fall in love with Sharon Segal’s Cloud Burnout Long Sleeve U Neck, offered in both charcoal and white–my opinion, you’ll need them both.

Long Sleeve t-shirts are always sought after by our customers every year around this time, but it’s also the season for denim!  Basically, it’s a no brainer–what two pieces work more organically together than a tee and jeans?  As most of you know, we are always picking up new denim lines to keep things interesting, and our newest line, [BLANK], has everyone talking.  Not only do their skinny jeans fit perfectly & flatter endlessly, but the price point is very appropriate considering the economy, at the moment.  [BLANK] has offered up two basic washes along with some fun, trend-worthy washes and fabrics, as well.  We are loving their Denim Skinnie Classique in Creamy Asian.  Yes, a basic blue jean in a basic style, but also with just a hint of trends we are loving at the moment (Distressing & Studs–featured, just slightly, on the back pocket).

Important to note, these basics are extremely appropriate for every day and do not have a shelf-life, but they also look best when accessorized just a bit to create a “look” or “style” that is still comfortable, but not boring.  Simply throw on a Me & Kashmiere Scarf, tuck those skinny jeans into a great pair of boots, and find a lush jacket that can be worn with so many different things…and don’t forget the bag!

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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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We are never at loss when it comes to pairing certain items together to create looks that are both inspirational & practical.  It is something all of us at www.shopchantal.com& chantal. live for, and every day inspiration comes through our doors in the form of new deliveries that keep the creative juices pumping.  We are a little obsessed when it comes to creating looks, and we get super excited when we see a great shot from a recent photo shoot that captures that perfect “style” or “edge” that we are constantly craving.  Our lookbook has become somewhat of a “fashion diary”.  We even archive looks from previous years to help inspire us for looks of the present.

Our latest mini-series focuses around a staple piece that no woman’s closet is without:  the dress.  We have taken 3 different dresses, each style completely different than the other, and put them in 3 different “scenarios”:  drinks and dinner, perfect for the office, and a day of shopping.  The best part about these dresses is the versatility each one offers when accessorized in different ways to become appropriate for just about any occasion or situation you may find yourself at or in.  There is no need to keep a dressy dress in the back of your closet until that next cocktail party or wedding, layer it with Plush’s Fleece Lined Footless Tights or their Footed Tights and Twelfth Street’s Finley Sweater to create a look full of downtown edge that is great for both day or night.

Or how about that strapless number that bares a bit too much alone to be “appropriate” for the office?  When paired over Pencey’s Plaid Tux Blouse, also amazing tucked into a skirt or casually paired back to your favorite pair of jeans, and accessorized with Twelfth Street’s structured “Couture” Smith Bag & Reva Boot the look becomes instantly smart and perfect for the office.

And let’s not forget how we are going to acquire a dress that fits our need or the accessories to take it from a dress you may have only worn once to one that is glued to your body–a day of shopping!  A look that should exude confidence & should represent your style!  Taking a dress that has an easy, comfortable shapethat can be tweaked just so to create the look your after:  cinch in the waist with the Street’s Ahead Stitched Belt, carry a bag large enough to hold items needed for a full days work of shopping like Twelfth Street’s “Atlas” Berkley Bag and most importantly, a comfortable, yet stylish shoe is critical.

Both our website and store have wide offerings of dresses in different styles, colors, and fabrics along with all the accessories you may need to complete the part you are dressing for.

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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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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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chantal. store front window shows support for The Salvation Army

We are really excited to be a part of the newest local campaign “This Campaign costs ALMOST nothing” to help The Salvation Army gain more revenue to support their efforts in providing the best services possible for the people of New England.

If you can’t read the window (sorry for the glare) it reads:

This ad costs nothing.

The less we spend on advertising

The more people we can reach

Doing the most good with your donations

www.salvationarmydonate.org

VIA, a locally based advertising agency is heading up the creative campaign aimed at raising awareness and increasing donations for the Salvation Army.   Their creative geniuses have developed a wonderful way to accomplish their goals with little expense: ads painted on store front windows!  They are affectionately referring to the campaign as “Guerrilla marketing supported by print, online and television”.  

See VIA’s blog for the many tv and radio stations, blogs, newspapers and other publications that are following the campaign and it’s unique way of using local businesses to reach local people for a local organization.

And, if you are in the Portland area, stop in and let us know you support for The Salvation Army and we’ll pass it along to them.  To donate yourself, visit The Salvation Army.  

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Refreshing, new merchandise keeps arriving at chantal. and shopchantal.com, but we know nothing is more exciting than finding a killer deal on something you can wear now!  We have recently marked some full priced styles down, reduced prices more on merchandise already on sale, and are continously marking down merchandise to make room for the new!  We have picked out some of our favorite styles, but you should take a look for yourself.  Afterall, style & taste are subjective; we are just here to point you in the right direction!

Rebecca Taylor Cami Dress

Rebecca Taylor’s Cami Dress is seasonless!  The light weight silk makes it appropriate for a hot, summer evening wedding, and it is also easy to layer with tights and booties once the fall hits!  The lace & ruffle detail are so sweet and feminine.  50% off it’s original price, this LBD is a no brainer!

Taverniti So Sasha 14

Twelfth Street Oriana Flat

Metallic’s dominate this season, and at an incredible buy at only $90. these Twelfth Street by Cynthia VIncent Oriana Ballet Flats are an easy and affordable way to wear the metallic trend!  Beautiful design and great contrast leather detail make these easy to dress both up and down! 

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We love combining a dressy top with a pair of distressed jeans to create a look that is both uber chic with a tiny touch of edge.  With distressed denim making such a huge presence this season, it is super easy to find that perfect pair of jeans to mix back to the most feminine of tops, and celebrities are coveting this “girly chic” style, as well. 

Current/Elliott Bootcut

Flutter Sleeve Top

Miley Cyrus is ever-evolving as she grows up under the spotlight and her personal choice of style just keeps getting better as she out grows her Hannah Montana days and defines her own, personal image as a striking young woman.  Of course it helps when designers are banging down your door to be caught wearing their newest designs, however Miley’s interpretation (along with a team of stylists) is on trend, mature, and always accessorized appropriately. 

Recently, she was photographed in Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent’s Flutter Sleeve Top and a great pair of distressed jeans.  This super girly top is toned down by accessorizing it to lend itself to be a little more bohemian, relaxed, and effortlessly chic.  Her long necklace layered with some shorter pieces from Alex Woo create a fun, young, and modern interpretation of boho style along with her layered bracelets. 

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Shop the newest arrivals of Joie @ shopchantal.com

Joie’s attention to detail through the use of ruched banded bottoms, natural rope details, and feminine, floral patterns create looks that are not only bohemian, but can be paired back to more edgy pieces to create the coveted girly chic look all of us at shopchantal.com continually crave. 

One of our favorite celebrities has this mix of edge and bohoperfected down to a “T”.  Nicole Richie serves as an inspiration when putting together our own looks, and Joie’s selection of drapey tees, flowy linen pants, and floral prints are all musts when re-creating Richie’s signature look.

Style Icon: Nicole Richie

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Easy, versatile styles that won’t break the bank is one of the many reason’s that Splendid is always in such high demand.  Especially now!  A best-seller for shopchantal.com and chantal., Splendid’s take on current trends allow you to get the look of the moment without having feelings of post-purchase anxiety.  However, Splendid’s best attribute is found in their use of soft textiles that lend themselves to be super comfortable, amazingly soft, and easy to wash and care for.

Their offerings include some of best layering pieces we have ever seen, long maxi dresses, fun tops, and an extensive offering of lounge wear.  We love mixing a piece of Splendid into any and all of our looks. 

A crisp, white Shoshanna Dress with a bright Splendid scarf create a bright and pulled together look:

Shoshanna & Splendid

Our #1 Splendid style is their open Flare Cardi which could just possibly be the ultimate transition piece, an essential no girl should be without.

Splendid & Edun

Splendid’s 1×1 basics are always available at shopchantal.com, as well, in a plethora of colors sure to get you in the mood for summer:  1×1 3/4 Sleeve V-Neck, 1×1 Scoop Neck, 1×1 Crew Neck.

Splendid & Rebecca Taylor

Tie Back Tube Top

1x1 3/4 Sleeve V-Neck

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