space519
Periodically, we like to touch base with our cutting-edge retailers to find out what's hot (other than our fragrance of course)! Here's a short q&a with Jim Wetzel, owner of space519, a self-described general store that is anything but general. I am personally obsessed with space519's refurbished furniture and cool home decor objects, like bookends, ceramics, and unique beauty brands. If you are looking for a unique shopping experience, don't pass it up!
What inspired you to open the store?
In light of the economy, we really felt that there was a void in the “fun” of shopping. Everything got really serious and bland. At space519, we wanted to create an environment where you could explore, discover and purchase items that were special, hard to find and plain cool.
What are your favorite new finds and designers?
What a hard question! I really love all that we have but some new stand-outs are: R13 denim – an amazing denim line from Paris that is chic & tough at the same time. Thierry Lasry sunglasses – celeb obsessed sunglass line that turns up the sexy in frames. Alasdair – a fantastic clothing line from NYC stylist April Johnson, who started the collection because she could not find cool clothes to chase her 5 year old in. The right vest, the killer dress, the unreal legging - all pieces that the fashion tribes are already wearing. Kjaer Weiss Cosmetics – organic cosmetics are on the rise and Kirsten Kjaer Weiss has nailed the simple, yet beautiful face while not compromising health, anti-aging or quality. All in stunning silver packaging that is refillable.
Any trends in the pipeline that we should be ready for?
The continuing and even more amped up statement necklace. Rhinestones, turquoise, neon all together on one necklace, paired back to a simple sweatshirt and a delicate silk skirt or cropped jean. High vs. low!
Space519
The 900 shops
900 N. Michicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
312-751-1519
Anne Hathaway iin Thierry Lasry sunglasses
A look from Alasdair's spring/summer 2013 collection
Another look from Alasdair that we love
Kjaer Weiss lip tint
Waylande Gregory ceramic home accessories
Lulu Frost jewelry
A beautiful lucite bar cart
LA based 19 4t
An amazing aerial shot of Chicago from 1988 (60x60)
CATEGORIES: Places
The Top Trend for 2013 is…
After ushering in the New Year, editors and commentators are quick to predict the top trends for 2013. On the top of everyone's list for spring fashion is "black and white." Black and white? Really? Is that a trend? Let's discuss. A trend is by defintion something directional that eventually wanes. For example, I would put last year's neon brights in this category. The color combo of black and white goes back to the Coco Chanel days in the early 1900s. It is simply a classic. Other non-trendy classics: the peacoat, the cotton safari jacket, denim, the tuxedo and pointy pumps. The trends are usually found in the silhouettes. For example, the length of a skirt, the rise of a jean as well as its leg shape (flare, skinny), the strength of the shoulder (soft and rounded or padded and square).
For me, spring is all about ruffles. Givenchy, Balenciaga and Gucci had outstanding looks. I also love the use of the colors yellow, coral and turquoise blue. Finally, I saw many new versions of the tuxedo, most notably Lanvin's high-waisted shorts tuxedo, which I would love to wear (spray tan essential). Finally, the long dress continues to rule. As things warm up, I promise to keep you informed!
Givenchy's ruffles
Gucci turquoise ruffles
Lanvin's tuxedo with shorts
Valentino long blush gown. All images from www.style.com
CATEGORIES: Beautiful things
Golden Globes Style
This year's Golden Globes were fun and entertaining (thank you Tina and Amy) and the fashion was truly outstanding. Bravo ladies!!! It was hard to pick favorites but then Julianne Moore arrived in a custom black and white Tom Ford and nailed it. Apparently, she simply emailed Tom Ford for a dress and he certainly delivered. Right behind Julianne in the best-dressed department was Naomi Watts in wine colored Zac Posen. The fit was perfect for her lean frame. The long-sleeved floor length gowns are elegant and sophisticated (and never dated). Somehow, the strapless fish tail gown just seems a bit "prom" these days. I thought Katharine McPhee had a "who's that girl moment" in plunging Theyskens for Theory. She looked age appropriate with her hair in a top knot. The top color trend for the night was red - see Claire Danes, Marion Cotillard (fresh in Dior), and Jennifer Lawrence. There was also a lot of sheer - Jennifer Lopez, Julianne Margulies, Amanda Seyfried (perfect in Givenchy) and Kerry Washington. Kerry looked modern in Miu Miu. One of the more unique looks of the night was Emily Blunt in gold Michael Kors. It was a great look for her!
The biggest disappointment was Jessica Chastain in an ill-fitting Calvin Klein dress. This was her moment to shine!!! It was the wrong shape for her and the dress fell flat. Halle Berry's dress also looked dated. We've seen her in one too many one-shouldered, cut out dresses. I would have loved her in the Marchesa that Amy Adams wore. That's it for now until the Oscars!
CATEGORIES: Beautiful things
