Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

When packing for that quick getaway, the less you bring the easier it is, but picking the right pieces is essential.  As promised, here are two brand spanking new looks created from the pieces that are already in your beach ready arsenal.

Simply by switching the tops and accessories you have two new and totally different looks to get you through your vacay.  Now no beach vacation would be complete without a great bikini and coverup.  The key here is to make your clothes do the work for you.

The Cure: Double Duty

Find a swimsuit with great color and print, it can stand alone or accent whatever else you're wearing.  When choosing a cover-up, consider a strapless, lightweight maxi dress in a color that complements your suit.  It's easy to throw on over your bikini, but accessorize it with that scarf you've already packed and you're ready to go out for the night!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

I think my heart is beating to a new rhythm, it's saying "Marc, Marc...Marc, Marc....Marc, Marc,  Marc as in  Jacobs.  It was love at first sight when I laid eyes on these Patent Wedge sandals!  The sleek patent leather crossover with the soft silhouette is a beautiful building block basic and the rimmed wedge with strips adds just the right accent.  With a price tag of $450 I'm afraid this love affair will be short lived.

Marc by Marc Jacobs

My heart however beats again for a similarly constructed espadrille wedge by Klub Nico.  The covered leather peep toe upper is similar to the Marc Jacobs crossover design, allowing for that basic look while the woven striped espadrille gives it that little something extra that sets it apart from rest.  At half the cost of its counterpart, my heart is a flutter again!

Klub Nico

East Meets West

If you're looking for something a little hip and eclectic, vibrant colors and vivid patterns set this style apart. Consider all things Moroccan when you want to be a bit adventurous.

Flowy fits, mosaics, ikat, and bright colors distinguish this mostly ancient style.  Shapes echo architectural arches and windows and patterns demonstrate the delicate and intricate design familiar to this part of the world. Make it modern by mixing in metallics and geometric accessories.  You are sure to rock the casbah when you rock this look.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Still planning for that beach getaway?  Well you've got a casual day outfit, how about something casual for evening?  You know that slow saunter down the boardwalk right before the sun sets? We want to make sure you strut your stuff. We'll start with all new pieces, and then you will be able to see that by mixing and matching pieces from both looks, the possibilities are endless!

The Cure: Twilight Traipse

Feel confident walking down the boardwalk at dusk in a pair of white skinny jeans and a blousey tank.  Choose a soft solid color for the tank, maybe with some crocheted details. Amp it up with a patterned scarf, perfect for wrapping up in after the sun sets.  Then vamp up your look with a great pair of espadrille wedges.  Can pieces from this week work with pieces from last week? Absolutely! Check out next week to see how!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

My, my Miu Miu, how you catch my attention.  These gorgeous stud-encrusted platform pumps are designer drool worthy! With your sleek, sophisticated structure and bold bad-girl edge,  I would very much like you to make yourself at home in my closet.  Alas,  $790 is a bit steep.

Miu Miu, $790

Thankfully, Vince Camuto has a similarly sexy, edgy-luxe look with a price that is just right.  This nude version has the same bold and brash branded pumps, but the price packs an easier punch.  At $118 I have no problem welcoming these home.

Vince Camuto "Missie", $118

Summer Sale!

Huge Summer Shoe   Clearance Sale! Starting Tuesday, June 21st through Sunday, June 26th, receive   15 - 60% off ALL Spring/Summer Shoes!   And, for ADDITIONAL Savings, stop by our VIP Shopping Nights.   Different Stores, Different Days,   Even Bigger Savings!

Wednesday, June 22nd - Annapolis  *Ladies' Night at the Annapolis Towne Center* TIME: 5 pm til 8 pm   LOCATION: 1910 Towne Centre Blvd. To celebrate Ladies' Night, we're serving   up the bubbly and offering an additional   10% off EVERYTHING,   including items already marked down!   You'll also receive a free gift with purchase   (while supplies last)! Urban Chic, As Kindred Spirits, a la mode intimates   & Eastern Mountain Sports are participating   in Ladies' Night, too.   ************************ Thursday, June 23rd - Fells Point      *Poppy and Stella & Cupcake's VIP Sale*   TIME: 5 pm til 8 pm  LOCATION: 728 South Broadway    Poppy and Stella & Cupcake are partnering up   for a night of fun and savings!   Enjoy some champagne and an additional   10% off EVERYTHING,   including sale items! You'll also receive   a free gift with purchase (while supplies last)!

American Classic

When I think of American Classic, I think about Ralph Lauren, the Kennedy's, Martha's Vineyard, Lauren Hutton, Katharine Hepburn, and most notably Jackie O.  This sense of style is timeless and effortless and yet not the easiest to master.  For some the simplicity isn't enough and they want to add something extra special, but this look is less about the clothes and more about you.

Keep to classic tailored lines and a subtle color palette of navy, white, red, and tan.  The sharp contrasts when combining these colors is enough to make you stick out, but not in the sore thumb kind of way. If you must add something to create interest, a stripe within this color family is best.  The clothes should fit, nothing should be too tight or too loose.  Keep accessories to a minimum. A neutral shoe or boot and simple gold accents are just enough to accentuate the look.  Less really is more, let your personality shine through.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Are you making a quick escape and trying to pack for that weekend getaway to sun and sand? The key to the fast getaway is sticking with a small number of essential items that you can mix and match for stellar style.  Here begins your basic assembly for perfect packing.

The cure: Beachcomber Bliss

A pair of boyfriend cut denim shorts, printed tank, and a light layering cardigan for those cooler nights are great for a stroll on the boardwalk or an afternoon excursion.  Add a flat sandal, layered chains, and a graphic tote to complete the look.  The best part, you'll be able to incorporate these pieces into other looks with ease.

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Hybrids are all the rage these days, from cars to plants to even shoes!  Take for example Pedro Garcia's suede peep-toe wedge, a combination espadrille and clog with wearability from summer to winter.  Tonal pickstitching splits the upper, the sling back fastens with a hook and loop closure and the cork footbed separated the covered linen wedge for a lighter look.  But as well all know, hybrids tend to be a bit more expensive, the particular pair will run you $440.

Pedro Garcia, $440

If you don't think you can get the miles worthy of $440 out of Pedro Garcia's wedge, the "Lively" by Nicole may do the job for you.  The platform wedge offers a liberal lift and a chic, comfortable look.  The peep-toe and buckle sling back make it great for summer, and the leather makes it an easy transition piece to fall.  At only $142, you're sure to get the most bang for your buck!

Nicole "Lively", $142

Surfer Girl

Catch a wave and you're sitting on top of the world, especially when you're laid back in your style and your attitude.  While we may not all have that California girl beachy blonde hair and blue eyes, we can still emulate her style.

This relaxed look is the epitome of summer. String bikinis, bright colors, and of course stellar sandals.  You don't have to try too hard to pull this off.  Frayed jean shorts or boyfriend cut denim, paired with a bikini top and a loose fitting graphic tee are signature surfer girl style.  Girly it up by wearing a bright colored maxi and a cute hoodie on those breezy cool beach nights.  Stick to a less is more rule and enjoy the wind in your hair, sand under your toes, and the sun shining down on your skin.

Fresh Cuts!

Check out some of the new inventory from Jeffrey Campbell, Not Rated, Vince Camuto and Corso Como.  Summer is just beginning, grab these stellar summer styles while they last!

Not Rated, $49

Jeffrey Campbell, $98

Jeffrey Campbell, $89

Jeffrey Campbell, $72

Jeffrey Campbell, $109

Corso Como, $99

Vince Camuto, $118

Vince Camuto, $89

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

As the temperatures continue to rise we wage war with our wardrobes, trying to keep cool and comfortable, but delightful and demure, revealing too much skin is a major faux pas.  Can you stay easy, breezy and refreshingly swell without skimping down to your skivvies? 

The Cure: Short and Sweet!

Now is not the time to max it out, make it short and sweet to beat the heat!  Choose breathable fabrics, like cotton, and consider light layers.  A chambray button down, layered over a white tank will take you from a frigid air conditioned office, to the sweltering sun outside by just removing a layer.  A simple striped skirt that falls just above the knee is cute and comfy. Pair with a strappy espadrille or a great flat sandal and you won't just win the battle with the heat, you'll look good doing it!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

The ever elusive embellished sandal, something with just enough glamour but not so much that it's gaudy, does it exist?!?  Well Giuseppe Zanotti seems to think so.  The coral flat sandal with t-strap design is embedded with multi-cut coral stones, golden beads, and tan crystal insets.  A sandal like this rivals the styles of the Roman empire, but can your wallet compete at $995?  We may be bordering on gaudy here.

Guiseppe Zanotti, $995

I'm certainly not going to shell out $995 for a pair of sandals when I can find a perfectly comprable pair that doesn't set off the gaudy meter.  Not Rated has a thong style coral sandal with a bead encrusted vamp that gives you just enough glam.  The intricate design details add interest and the elastic back and padded footbed provide comfort.  The best part...they are just $49, a sure winner!

Not Rated, $49

Cast Your Vote!

It's that time again! Make sure your voice is heard and don't forget to vote for Poppy and Stella as your favorite women's shoe store in Balitmore!!! Thanks for the support!

Modern Vintage

What do you get when you combine the glitz and glam of vintage style with the simple stripes from a prepster's wardrobe?  A whole new look all of it's own.  Mix and matching not just patterns, but entire trends is a great way to create a customized look that just may express exactly who you are.

For a new kind of vintage, take the sparkles, sequins, and lace and combine them with stripes and denim.  The simplicity of the preppy look creates an interesting balance with the opulence of a vintage glam look, something that can easily take you from day to night.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Is it possible to roll out of bed on a Saturday morning, throw on an outfit, and head out the door looking stylish and feeling comfortable?  It seems like an enigma, but it is possible the run out for your morning latte looking dapper and not disheveled with very little effort.

The Cure : Weekend Update

Grab a pair of shorts, neutral preferably, and a bright pull-over top.  Add a statement necklace and a great pair of embellished sandals and you're good to go.  Up the ante by adding a tailored blazer over your top and really pull your look together.

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Looking for a shoe to anchor your flowy maxi dresses and wide leg bell bottoms this summer?  Steady your sails on this beautiful wedge bootie by Chloe!  The wedge adds just the right amout of weight to light and airy looks while the peep-toe and cutout sides balance the high vamp.  But, when it comes time to pay out, you might be calling mayday, don't drop anchor for $695.

Chloe, $695

Instead set your sights on the Eye to Eye by Seychelles.  This leather, top-stitched wedge carries a similar peep-toe and cut-out look, but at $116 it will be smooth sailing all summer long.

Seychelles, $116

Urban Chic

What happens when you combine edgy city basics with an element of class and sophistcation?  According to Haper's Bazaar you get a hybrid know as "Urban Chic"

By combining city dweller basic black with modern metallics your outfit goes from smart and sleek to elegant and exclusive.  If you wish to highlight a bit of rebellious spirit, and some glitz and glam with sparkly separates and posh accessories.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Are you worried that if you don't add color to your wardrobe this summer that you'll come off as a Plain Jane? Don't be afraid to go for a more subdued look.  Just because neutrals are muted doesn't mean they will make you look mousy.

The Cure: Summer Neutral Sophistication

While color will always have a role is summer styles, neutrals are easy to work with and impossible to screw up.  Ivory, gray, beige and blush are a complimentary color combo.  The trick to pulling off this look is to layer on the texture.  Pleating, sparkle, knits, lace, ruching, and crochet details will enhance the subtle hues.  Make the detailing work for you, have it highlight your best assets, an embellished neckline will draw attention upward.  Add interest to your look with edgy accessories that add shine and maybe the slightest pop of color.  This is surely a "can do" style that is subtle and sophisticated.

Memorial Day Weekend Sale!!!

Ladies Night!

Join us tonight at our Annapolis location for Ladies Night! Great deals at lots of retailers in Annapolis Towne Centre including Urban Chic, a al mode, Kindred Spirits, Origins, and of course Poppy and Stella! Discounts, champagne, and an overall good time will be had by all.

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Have I got a steal for you this week!  Let's start off with our fabulous fantasy pair.  While this designer may not be known to many, they are known enough to be copied! Paloma Barceló, a spanish footwear line who specializes in wedges, dreamt up this divine pair that retails for $295.  This leather and raffia combination is not in the same league as some of my other fantasy finds, but these are still a fairly pricey pair.

Paloma Barceló "Amaya", $295

Lucky for you, Poppy and Stella carries this luscious look-a-like from Naughty Monkey!  Same leather and raffia combo, with a strappy, knotted, open toe design, but with a price that is very nice.  At just $79 there is no excuse not to have these!  Pick yours up before they're gone!

Naughty Monkey, $79

Tangerine Tango

Bursting with sweetness, this hue is just as refreshing to wear as it is to eat.  This month's InStyle explains why,

"A staple of '60s Pop Art, tangerine is a brighter, more vibrant version of orange.  It projects confidence in an offbeat yet cheerful way.  Bonus: The punchy shade complements every complexion."

This shade can be paired with navy and gray for shocking appeal, or dashes of beige and hot pink for a subtler look.  It is easy to pull off as a separate, like a skirt with a simple white tee, or embrace it "full on" with an all over look.  "Layer with muted tones so the result doesn't come off as costumey".  This color is so full of vitality and energy wearing it is sure mood booster!

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Lately I've been craving that beachy feel, the laid back, comfortable, effortless cool that is always acceptable while strolling the shores.  Believe it or not this style made its appearance on runways this season and is spreading beyond the sand.  So how can you pull it off when you're not at the beach?

The Cure: Baja Breeze

Many of the elements of this style are soft, washed out, and "artfully disheveled".  Look for woven and crocheted fabrics to communicate the comfortable, cool vibe of the look.  Maintain a neutral palate in your main pieces and add pops of punchy color with woven leather bracelets and colorful stone pendants.  Go easy on your feet with flats and sandals, but let them have a look of their own.  With a look like this, you'll be smelling the sea breeze in no time.

Side effects: Warning, this look is certainly not appropriate for the office, but is great for a weekend of lounging or running around.

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

In 1921 a craftsman named Guccio Gucci opened his store to sell leather goods, and a legend was born. I have been oohing and ahhing Guccio's work since before I could walk, so how could I resist this simple yet sophisticated design of the Miss Bamboo Sandal ?!?  This beautiful double leather strap high heel sandal, with simple ankle strap and trademark horsebit ring buckle is just one of Gucci's many fine pieces of craftsmanship.  So what will fine Gucci craftsmanship cost you? Oh just $625.

Gucci

Just $625 she says?!? I know, I know, I haven't totally lost it, I know you can still get fine craftsmanship for much much less.  For now I will pass on the Gucci's and focus my sights on a similar Bacio61 style. Lauched in 2010, Bacio61 fuses organic elements and modern influences to create a truly special style. The Vandois sandal features a similar double leather strap heel and the price is oh so nice, at $136.

Bacio61

Don't Forget to Vote!

It's that time again! Don't forget to vote for Poppy and Stella as your favorite women's shoe store in Balitmore!!! Thanks for the support!

Tropic Thunder

How many of you are dreaming of an island escape, lounging in a hammock on the beach, with a fruity frozen cocktail in your hand???  I know I am! But even if a vacation is just out of reach, it doesn't mean that the tropics can't be a part of your daily life.  Tropical prints and colors are on the rise, hot weather begs for some hot hues!

Brighten everyones day by incorporating a few small elements.  Bold floral prints in a range of bold colors is the quickest way to inform the world of your island fever.  Not feeling as adventurous? Spice up your outfit with your accessories, coral and turquoise jewelry go great with just about everything.  If you feel like just dipping your toes in the water, a great pair of shoes can take you from the street to the sand.  Color block heels and tie-dye printed wedges can give you just enough without overdoing.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

So you've been trying to come up with that quintessential effortless looking outfit, you know the one you've been putting more effort into than you should?!? Somewhere between the California Cool, and East Coast Prep it hides in your closet just waiting to be discovered.  How do you find that easy going look without looking like you've stressed over it?

The Cure: Effortless with Ease

You're going to kick yourself when you hear about the things you should keep in mind when creating this gem.  Basics and neutrals! They pretty much go with everything and are your never fail options, just try something different with them.  Choose a darker neutral bottom and layer a neutral print under a lighter neutral crocheted top.  Glam the out fit up with a shoe that is neutral in color, but bold in design and go for a darker accessory to balance the look out.  See easy as 1,2,3.  Imagine the endless possibilities of effortless looks that wait in your wardrobe.

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Why is it that Yves Saint Laurent always seems to have a perfectly polished pump.  This platform peep-toe has the ability to put you on a pedestal.  With the softly sculptured heel and a clean, classic look, there is nothing you can't wear with this shoe. Quite possibly the ultimate power pump. Alas, the $720 price isn't very practical.

YSL, $720

However Me Too has a pump that can rival this seemingly sublime shoe.  With a similarly sculpted heel, this shoe is sans platform but has a lightly cushioned footbed for comfort.  Still clean and classic and cost effective around $100.

Me Too

Sporty and Spicy

So we've talked about lace, and florals, and uber-girly trends, but what about the girl who wants to break away from her tracksuit, but still maintain a sporty style?  InStyle magazine reports,

"Racing stripes, primary colors, weightless ease.  All the best parts of athletic wear have been crafted into shapes much hipper than any tracksuit jogging down the street.  The comfort level can't be better in these relaxed looks that are just right for spring."

How do you pull it off?

"Take advantage of sporty separates or dresses that offer body-conscious flexibility in fabrics like satin or cashmere that feel a bit luxe.  Use white as your base color, and don't weight yourself down with accessories--aviators or a bright watch are all you need to score. One surefire tip to keep it street-smart: Never wear any of it with sneakers."

--InStyle Magazine

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Are you getting tired of all things mini? Trying to think of ways to awaken your wardrobe? Put those sleepy mini's to bed and enliven your look with a new trend this season.

The Cure: Max out the Maxi

This season adding a  maxi skirt to the mix is an instant revival for your closet.  Choose a bold, bright color, and bare your shoulders to show some skin.  Can be dressed up or down with the right accessories.  Perfect for an afternoon outing, or a midday treat.

Mother's Day Sale!!!

Mother's Day Sale This four day sale is for you, Mom.

Happy Mother's Day! Celebrate the woman who taught you the importance of good shoes.  From now until Sunday  enjoy 15% off everything!* Donate new or gently usedclothing, shoes or handbags to either store and receive 20% off!**  Clearance items included.     As an added treat on Sunday, we'll be serving mimosas and giving away a small gift with purchase, while supplies last.

And, come check out our Sidewalk Sale  at the Annapolis Towne Centre's Momfest.  This Saturday and Sunday only!  *Sorry, no price adjustments. **All clothing and shoe donations will be given to Light House, a homeless prevention support center in Annapolis. Handbags are being collected for Project Plase, an organization that provides transitional and permanent housing as well as supportive services in Baltimore.

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

How easy is it to be resort ready?  It can be as easy as packing a powerful punch with the perfect pump.  Right now Dolce & Gabbana's Woven Crochet Flower Pump has an argyle-esque pattern that is carefree and classic.  Neutral colors and natural textures help bring out the pattern that is particularly pleasing.  What isn't so pleasant is the $545 price.

Dolce & Gabbana, $545

Perhaps you're looking more for a TKO than just a punch, in which case the "Picnic Ready" by Poetic Licence is your ringer.  With a woven heel and soft rosette accent this pump is similar to D&G's, but the bolder pattern is sure to beat it.  And if that doesn't convince you that you have a winner I bet the $99 price can.

Poetic Licence, $99

Ode to Audrey

One cannot prep for warmer weather without considering Audrey's gamine yet lady like look!  Her simplistic style with a kooky, quirky edge has been inspiring wardrobes since the 1960's.  Off beat punches of color, perfectly placed panels of feminine floral embroidery, pointed toe flats, and the quintessential silk scarf are all characteristic of this iconic style idol.

Classic pieces with a punch, think cropped cigarette pants in a light neutral, full, yet mini, skirts with bold accessories,  tailored gingham and metallic embellished woven totes give the "Audrey" a modern spin.  Embrace your inner Holly, Sabrina, or Princess Ann this summer.