Cynthia Vincent for Target

I love the idea of designers providing affordable fashion in limited quantities by partnering with big box retailers.  Unfortunately, I have been a little disappointed by the fit and quality of many of the clothing collaborations of late, but I guess that is why the clothes are retailing for a price much lower than what one would traditionally pay for that designer.  However, I have had great luck with the "designer" shoe and handbag collections offered at Target, Payless and H&M. 

The Cynthia Vincent for Target collection made its debut on April 18th and they have been selling out at stores across the country.  I am dying to get my hands on a pair of these Cynthia Vincent for Target wedge sandals.

Gladiator Wedge in Yellow - $29.99 (they only show black online but I know the yellow exists and I will hunt them down because I don't think my life would be complete without them)

The resemblance is pretty good for a tenth of the price.  Mason Wedge Sandal - $350

Strappy Ring Heeled Sandals - $29.99

Studded Thong Sandal - $24.99

White Out

I am a girl who likes to follow the rules.  I generally only wear white between Memorial Day and Labor Day but times are changing and this rule seems to be fading.  I think it is definitely appropriate to bring out your white jeans and bright whites a little earlier this year.  In fact, I am wearing my white denim today and I am feeling pretty rebellious.  However, I would let your white shoes hibernate a little longer unless you are 80 and live in Florida.  Here are some of the whites I am considering adding to my wardrobe.

Citizens of Humanity Skinny Jeans- $150

J.Crew Belted Beach Tunic- $68

Mystique Sandal- $115

B. Makowsky Leather Satchel- $258

Fumblin Foe at Hadley Emerson- $88

Aryn K at Hadley Emerson- $88

Ann Taylor Loft Studded Leather Clutch- $98

Back to My Roots

I believe everyone who grew up in Maine has a soft spot for L.L.Bean or "Beans" as we affectionately call it.  We are proud to proclaim that the Freeport store is open 24 hours and doesn't have locks on the doors.  I caught my retail bug while interning at Freeport Studio (the short-lived women's career line) one summer in high school.  Unfortunately, despite my desire to be loyal to our hometown hero, I haven't shopped at Beans for fashionable clothing since oversized plaid flannel shirts and moccasins fell out of favor in the early 90s.  As someone who considers herself pretty fashionable, I wonder did I really wear that?  I am happy to report that I will once again shop at Beans for more than just Bean Boots.  They recently launched the new "Signature" line of casual wear that is just what was needed to lure back in the younger, preppier customer.  The Signature line is a little more J.Crew and a little less tree hugger.  I have seen the ads all over fashion magazines in recent months and I truly hope the fits are on point because I think the line is a move in the right direction. 

Belted Twill Jacket - $99

Striped Sailor Tunic - $65

Chambray Shirt Dress - $79

Rebecca Fabric Wedge - $99

I think the Men's line may have even more potential than the Women's.  And, for the fashion conscious men in our lives (i.e. my husband), the fits are much slimmer than the Beans standard. 

Gingham Poplin Dress Shirt - $59

Canvas Cloth Pant - $59

Washed Oxford Cloth - $49

She Wears Short Shorts

Get those legs ready because the summer of 2010 is all about short hemlines.  Don't be afraid to show of your stems with some bold patterned shorts.  Add a simple tee or tank in a solid color to make these the main attraction.  Dress them up with heels for a night out or sandals for running around town.  Here are my favorites.....

Trina Turk Seedling Short - $148

J. Crew Flora Paisley Lily Short - $59.50

Topshop Eyelet Floral Shorts - $65

Melly M at Hadley Emerson - $140

Corey Lynn Calter at Hadley Emerson - $128

Nanette Lepore "Rainshower" Printed Ruffled Silk Shorts - $198

Brian Reyes Pleated Wrap Mini Short - $520 (maybe if I win the lottery but until then they are still pretty to look at)

Spring Cleaning

Clocks have changed and it is time to start thinking about swapping out your winter purse for something a little more appropriate for the season.  Neutrals go with every outfit and can carry you through the summer months.  On the other hand, the brighter colors add a little spice to a simple everyday outfit.  I know it is a pain to change bags but consider this the opportunity to clean out all that junk you have been carrying around for months.

Trina Turk Palmetto Atlantic Beach Bag- $176

Steve Madden Bweave- $88

JPK Paris Small "Sasha" Hobo- $144.90

MZ Wallace Olivia Bag-$304

Big Buddha Tahiti Clutch $48 - Available at Hadley Emerson

Cole Haan Eve Hobo- $298

Tory Burch Canvas Tote- $195

Easter Style

As of yesterday, it is actually starting to feel like Spring in Chapel Hill.  I am hoping this weather is here to stay.  These warmer temps have me comtemplating baring these pale legs and stepping out into the sunshine.  There are so many great florals and prints in stores right now.  If you are trying to decide what to wear to Easter Brunch, look no further, I have scoured the market for the best statement skirts and dresses.  Happy Shopping!

J. Crew Sunshine Peony Pencil Skirt - $98 (free shipping on orders $150+ with code "SPRING")

Lily Pulitzer Fiesta Printed Poplin - $258

Shoshanna Bright Printed Strapless Dress - $340 (use code "SPRING" for 15% off)

Tibi Monte Carlo - $215

Forever 21 Lush Floral Dress - $22.80

Corey Lynn Calter at Hadley Emerson

Melly M at Hadley Emerson

New Inventory in the Store Now

Hadley Emerson is now open and fully stocked with Spring inventory! Here is a little preview of some of our favorite dresses. Check out Hadley Emerson's Facebook page for photos of the shop.