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
No matter what your style, there is always a way to incorporate a new piece into your closet. Rompers are super hot this season and there is a style for everyone: classic, military style, one shoulders and of course, the girly girliest of them all, a ruffle cami style.
Seen on celebrities (see Blake Lively and Nicole Richie left for serious inspiration) for a couple of seasons now, rompers began as a definite fashion forward piece, but have evolved into a very wearable piece that is essential for every wardrobe. The newer romper styles are much easier to wear and come in several styles.
A little bit goes a long way with some of the new fashionable hardware options on the Spring/Summer 2010 Collections.
Whether a designer opted for the almost basic exposed zipper to the more complicated intertwined chains or the forever adored studs and grommets - hardware has become very sought after as a way to express a bit of an edge to even the girliest of girls.
As one who has always loved the look of hardware on accessories (see GemmaRedux for some serious jewelry crushing), it took me no time to adapt to it on clothing - not because I was already a fan, but because it has become a very easy way to take an outfit to the next level.
We hand-picked some seasonal pieces we are loving from some of our favorite designers.
Pencey’s Cherry Blossom Mini Skirt Certainly not new to the tomboy chic style- in fact she may have invented the genre altogether (more research to come on this one), Pencey is forever pairing the beautiful feminine ruffles and floral prints with a touch of black, some exposed zippers and definitely some studs. Our fav is the new mini skirt paired with a simple tank and some ballet flats or, if you dare, some tough boots.
Graham & Spencer’s Nailhead Tank These two woman are experts at incorporating nailheads and metal into their extraordinary fits in both dresses and tanks. We adore their use of color too. This slub jersey nailhead long tank is a must have for anyone wanting not only a pop of color, but a statement piece sure to rival any tank in your closet.
Genetic Denim’s The Shane Skinny with Metal Mesh Quite possibly the easiest way to incorporate some hardware details is in your denim closet. The Shane Skinny from Genetic is one of our best sellers and of course, we couldn’t resist them doing our favorite style with metal mesh studding. Very quite and very cool is the only way to describe the genius behind adding some hardware to your wardrobe.
See our women’s trend section for more of the seasons top trends. And don’t forget that shoes, necklaces, bracelets and handbags are also a great way to incorporate the fashionable hardware style into your closet.
It’s been a ongoing project for us for months, but today is the day we officially launch our NEW LOOKBOOK design layout.
We felt that it would not only be easier to browse by specific trends such as the hottest new denim, by styles such as the season’s best boots and by designer through our recent homepage features, but the new lookbook design also gives us the opportunity to show you more styled ideas through a combination of all our collections.
You can also view are more product focused pages through our Trend section. Here you will see all the items for each trend grouped together in easy to access product pages.
Fall Focus: a place to show you various looks that may include multiple trends of the season or it just may be a focus on a designer that we love.
Denim Trends: with so many options out there, we wanted to highlight the newest, most popular ones so you can make an easier decision to add a new style or all the styles to your denim collection
Accessory Spotlight: a must have update for every season- handbags, shoes and jewelry are all shown here and the best part, we show each item with an outfit so you can see real ways to wear them and view their sizes.
Boot Styles: this is specific style trend that will change with the seasons. For Fall/Winter we are focusing on the the best boot options and show you some ideas on what to pair them with for a great look.
The Slouchy Pant: a very clear style trend that originated with the harem pant, but has progressed nicely to a more wearable fit for everyone. A real focus, this lookbook is intended to show you how easy it is to wear the styles we have available.
The New Legging: a must have for every wardrobe, we show a lot of different waysto please your personality through the legging styles and designers we offer. Choose by the designer or pick a look we styled.
2 Ways to Wear it: a feature we are known for, this lookbook shows you two very different ways to style one piece we’ve choosen to highlight. We all want our fashion to go far and this lookbook shows you how to do it.
Lookbook Archive: Looking for a way to wear a past season item? See how we styled it here.
We look forward to adding more lookbook pages to each of these sections are are already working on showing you “As Seen On. . .” a section showing celebrities and how they wore items we have available on shopchantal.com and in store at chantal.
Check our lookbook soon for our new “Holiday Style Story” where we will show you the best holiday fashions for all your events and some great holiday gift ideas.
We love it when this happens! We pair together some great designers for the website and then…. boom, the same look graces the cover of one of the hottest shopping magazines in the country.
We couldn’t have asked for a better “fashion nod”!
We have a fabulous new selection of Rebecca Taylor looks at shopchantal and in store at chantal. In addition to the tank worn by Carrie, we have a huge mix of Kain Label pocket tees, v-necks, Long sleeved tees and the most recent addition to their line, a racer back tank. The colors include heather grey, teal, black and white (of course) and the newest holiday color: Spicy Orange- trust us, it is super cool and really wearable.
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!
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.
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’sZipper 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’sD’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.
Our summer sale starts today with 30% - 70% off all your favorite designers for Women and Men!
Here are some of our picks for easy summer style.
This Nanette Lepore yellow top is so perfect for the summer season. We love it paired back to cropped denim or a flirty mini skirt. Or dress it up with a belt and longer skirt for an evening event. The sleeveless cotton is a must have for those hot summer days.
Reg: $215.00 SALE: $150.50
Robert Rodriguez. This dress is the quintessential summer dress. The bold pink color paired with the floral appliques and soft pleats is a stunning combination. With a cute neutral clutch and some nude heels, you will definitely make a statement at any event in this dress.
Reg: $394.00 SALE: $275.80
Some must have TREND pieces of the summer come from a couple of our most popular designers.
The ruffle trend was not one to be missed this Spring and the Summer collections did not disappoint.
What better way to show your style than on the beach in a ruffle bikini. This Shoshanna bikini in a melon color is the perfect complement to a tan.
Reg: $174.00 (for top & bottom) SALE: $121.80
A favorite of ours and our customers is Ella Moss. Her Black Label has proved to be a wonderful addition to her already popular cult favorites in the better know cotton/modal blend. We love the use of the ruffle with a touch of lace on this top. It’s got a bit of an edge, but works so well because of its color.
We’ve always loved the Bohemian look, but not until recently have we all embraced it with such passion. I think it is because the “new” boho is a more sophisticated take on the boho looks of the past seasons.
Blake Lively
Blake Lively is a perfect example of the new take on chic, boho. She embodies the effortless style with a laid back vibe and she does it beautifully in all the designers she wears.
Of course, celebs and designers have dabbled with boho for many seasons. Joie has always designed collections with subtle boho looks such as their best seller cotton voile, embroidered tops. Everyone’s favorite, Rebecca Taylor plays with feminine boho touches in every collection with her use of beading and threading. Nanette Lepore has the ability to transend into a boho realm with her amazing use of pleating and fabric choices. Alex and Ani have even included boho inspired pieces such a their feather headband and groups of bangles using natural wood beads into their collections.
Our newest designer, Haute Hippie, has it played out in their name perfectly. Haute: meaning “high” in French and Hippie: described as an influentual movement that embraced spiritual and cultural diversity.
Haute Hippie really is just as you would think. It has boho influences in style and design and in company culture. They also have high standards in all those same areas creating a company and collections that intertwine Haute & Hippie aesthetics.
Most of my memories of Geranium include the potted plant versions that seemed to be around every corner at every house in my neighborhood growing up. I also happen to think my very own mother was the one who started the trend.
I love the bold color of the true Geranium red, but am finding easier to work with softer, more pink and more orange versions popping up this season.
Many of our designers did off color versions of Geranium including Rebecca Taylor, Shoshanna and Carolina Amato’s crocheted gloves for a touch of the trend. Nanette Lepore went literal with her piece and did a true Geranium red color combo.
I happen to really like the variations in everyone’s color selections- whether it is more pink, or more orange or more blue.
I look forward to seeing more of this color for Fall. I think it will work nicely back to black for an edgy, urban style as well as back to denim, of course.
There is just a simple, clean aethestic about our Nation’s colors and patriotic spirit. Not too bright, not drab, but the perfect combination of neutrals and brights. If you have been following our blog and our website then you know how fond we are about pairing a simple, neutral piece back to a bright, bold piece. For us, this combination just screams chic, polished, and effortlessly pulled together.
Just like all well-versed buyers we dedicate hours during the week reading up on our style “bibles” (Elle, Vogue, W, and Harper’s Bazaar), hunting out the latest trends, up and coming designers, and to check out who was seen in what. There is simply no denying that these publications are also very focused on writing about our new First Family.
No other President and his family have been photographed so heavily for fashion magazines, since the Kennedy’s, as the Obama family has been, and figuring out what Michelle Obama is wearing is just as important to America’s fashion followers as trying to figure out what Angelina Jolie
American Chic Goes Girly
is wearing. Therefore, it is no surprise to me that red, white, and blue are making such a huge comeback for Spring/Summer Fashion Trends of 2009. Our patriotic, fashion appeal is directly correlated with our new found obsession of following the new First Family’s life & style, especially our First Lady.
However, this new take on red, white, and blue is completely different than the days of sailor pants, denim skirts, and crisp, white polo’s. Michelle Obama’s fashion forward yet polished take on her own style is helping to mold and recreate the interpretation of putting our Nation’s colors together in a very chic, very polished, and non-folksy way. We have decided to compile our own take on this trend with a new look book titled “American Chic,” creating looks centered around incorporating red, white, and blue into other huge trends of the season (destroyed denim, colored denim, floral prints, and bright, bold dresses).
It’s true, nothing is more transitional than a throw-on cardi. They work over tees, camis and even dresses. And, they give us that extra statement, as well as that little touch of warmth we seek during these cool, Spring days.
Rachel Bilson in Grandpa Cardi & Shorts
It is no secret that shopchantal.com is a huge fan of the Splendid Flare Cardi (and the greatly missed grandpa cardi from last season), but we have also grown to love the longer, button up versions so sweetly referred to as the Grandpa Cardi. I say - sweetly- because of my fond memories of my grandpa who, in fact, wore a cardigan. It hangs ever present in my siblings home- cherished, but not worn. I say, let’s break it out and embrace the memories while enjoying the trend.
Well, until I can convince my sibling to give up this treasured item, I am happy to wear the new, more girl friendly versions: fitted, longer and with great buttons. Rebecca Taylor did a wonderful, tie dye version we love throwing on with denim, Rozae by Rozae Nicols threw in a splash of orange to her neutral design and Joie did an easy, relaxed, SoCal style that we love in white - perfect over a colorful summer dress. Of course, as Summer nears, we will be taking our new favorite trend into the new season with the Splendid Sleeveless Grandpa Cardi. Don’t like the button up cardi version, check this out.
Ashley Tisdale in Twelfth Street Cardi
If you think this trend is short lived, you are mistaken. Not only has it been around since last fall (See Ashley Tisdale - left ), but it will be back again this fall. Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent is actually producing this same sweater again this Fall in a White multi combination- very chic. Shopchantal.com will have this item just in time for 4th of July!
So, not only is a Grandpa Cardi a fashionable piece for now, but it is also an investment in your fall 2009 wardrobe as well. Don’t you just love when that happens!
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.
The men are sticking with the classic styles: button up shirts, shorts and jackets from Penguin are tops on the list. Subtle plaids with a bright, bold color thrown in for some style.
This season we are seeing some really “fierce” animal prints from some unlikely sources. We expect it from Rebecca Taylor who always has a leopard cardi in one collection or another, but to see it from Edun and Nanette Lepore is surprising. And we love the Me & Kashmiere threw in several animal prints this season - some of which we already sold out of!
When we first saw the runway show of Spring 2009 from Nanette Lepore, we were so excited. The collection was so fresh and inspiring and we loved the combination of pieces. It was a no-brainer which pieces we would bring to shopchantal.com.
literally, we have jumped on the summer boot bandwagon and we are not looking back. Of course, we worship our Twelfth Street Gladiator Flats and will be rockin those all summer too, but we were smitten by the “boots of summer”.
Last year, Rebecca Taylor threw us a loop at her Spring runway show that made us leap out of our seats - a pair of slouchy, laser cut, leather open-toe boots!! OMG! is all that came to mind at the time, followed by “I am going to wear those with my Current/Elliott boyfriend jeans” and then “And with all my dresses, shorts and whatever else I can find”. This was all followed by a moment of reflection in silence as we planned and plotted all the things to buy for shopchantal.com that would revolve around those boots. Of course, not everything has to be or can be worn with this boot, but it is fun to think about.
Well, the boot is here and we are not disappointed. They are beautiful and we are, in fact, wearing them with our Current/Elliott jeans in just about every style- the boyfriend, the skinny slouch and even the rolled shorts.
Check out the new Rebecca Taylor Collection and Celia Boot at shopchantal.com and join us in planning a summer full of outfits.
This has been the best season to pick up accessories. I am so in love with all the great accessories to pick from that we did a “accessory spotlight” in our lookbook just to show you how many we have to choose from this season.
Pour La Victoire Bianca Bootie
Fabulous scarves, hats and gloves, booties, handbags and jewelry have all taken it up a notch with the addition of great fabrics, colors and textures. And, of course, as many of you know I can never have too many belts. I am obsessed and always have been. This is my year. Belts are hot and we have the best selection from waist belts to skinny trouser belts to studded jean belts.
Do I need to really write something about these boots? Don’t they speak for themselves?
Well, I should at least tell you that they are Rebecca Taylor Spring 09 boots. They are a gorgeous, soft leather in camel color. The laser cutouts, open toe and 4″ heel are so fabulous.
We can’t possibly be more excited about Rebecca Taylor launching her fabulous style back into accessories. The Spring 09 Runway Show was ripe with gold, silver and rose gold multi strand necklaces that we had to bring to www.shopchantal.com .
And, what can I say about the booties! We practically fell over ourselves to get to the booth to order the most amazing laser cut leather booties in the most gorgeous, soft shade of camel. Check them out in the first scene of the video. Check back with us soon to order these shoes at www.shopchantal.com
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.
This Nanette Lepore 
Most of my memories of 
