#Festival #Gear

Didn’t make it to Coachella? Neither did we. But we’re still awesome because Chicago is jam packed with street fests, outdoor concerts, Lollapalooza, and so much more! Get your fest/festival gear today at Trends. Here are the essentials:

Fringe-the more fringe, the better.

Swimsuit– a little bikini top pairs well with high-wasted pants or shorts for those hot summer nights. Try a retro silhouette bathing suit top or one piece if a bikini top is too revealing.

Sturdy shoes– be ready to face the elements and stampedes of people with a pair of boots or booties. (We don’t want to mess up our perfectly pedicured toes either.)

Lightweight jacket– once the sun sets, the fun REALLY starts. Don’t forget a sweater or light jacket so you can party all night long.

Rompers– they aren’t just for babies. Adult rompers are such a hot trend right now. Not only are they cute but they cut out the middle man…pants!

Jeans– obvi because they are an essential for everything.

Sundress- like a romper, you’re getting two for one with a sundress, meaning you only have to put on one article of clothing…

Hats– fedoras, wide-brim… hats are awesome, buy some.

We have provided some festival inspiration with these looks, let’s enjoy all of the outdoor events Chicago has to offer and look good doing it! Come into Trends today.

Hot Kiss Lace Denim, 6, 7.99
Cellective COncepts Top, L, 7.99
Circus Lace-up Boots, 7.5, 29.99

 

Staring at Stars Tribal Dress, 4, 11.99
Butterfly Necklace, 9.99
Urban Suede Bag, 11.99
Jeffrey Campbell Gladiators, 7.5, 27.99

BDG Colored Jeans, 30, 11.99
Polo Suede Backpack, 13.99
DKNY Strapless Top, M, 7.79
Bangles, 8.99
Nike Sneakers, 19.99

Banana Republic Denim Shorts, 27, 9.59
Loft Cream Top, M, 5.99
Cowboy Hat, 6.39
R2 Gladiators, 9.5, 13.99
Bangles, 9.99

Reformed Cut-Out Dress, L, 10.19
Deux Lux Bag, 13.99
Michael Kors Sandals, 19.99

 

Heels, wedges, and flats…OH MY!

We are at full capacity with shoes at Trends! Our shelves are PACKED with fabulous heels, flats, wedges, and sandals.  Stop by to pick up a new pair of sassy sling backs or high heels to top of your outfit for the weekend!

Talbots Peeptoe, 7.5, 7.19
Bass Floral Flats, 8.5, 17.99
Eitienne Aigner Espadrille, 7.5, 15.99
Betsey Johnson Cheetah, 6, 19.99

Preview Cheetah Heels, 6, 8.79
Kensie Girl Bow Heel, 9, 13.99
Poetic License, 7.5, 13.59
Steve Madden Striped, 7.5, 16.99

Kenneth Cole Beaded Sandal, 6, 13.99
Vince Camuto Gem Sandals, 8, 19.99
MIA Tassle Sandals, 8.5, 6.59
Deena and Ozzy Canvas Sandals, 9, 8.99

Montego Bay Club Wedge, 8.5, 6.59
Van Eli Wedge, 9, 17.99
White Mountain Stripes, 10, 12.99
Rampage Stripe Wedge, 8.5, 11.99

Let’s hear it for the boyz

For those who may not know, we do accept and carry mens clothing at Trends!  We will admit, it is not as large as our women’s selection, but it is just as fabulous.  Inspired by GQ, trendy celebs, dapper dans, and hipsters, we have put together some looks that will inspire you!  We have button down shirts for days, as well as many golf shirts.  Get in here to grab that special something for Father’s Day, or just because you want your man to look his best.

Hawkings McGill Blazer, M, 9.59
Armani Exchange Button Down, L, 10.99
Levis Denim, 32/30, 9.59
Cole Haan Loafer, 11, 23.99

Benetton Skinnies, 31, 17.59
Joseph & Lyman Button Down, M, 5.99
Tuscano Knit Polo, M, 11.19
Giorgio Brutino Suede Shoes, 8.5, 31.99

Sperry Topsiders, 8.5, 7.60
Banana Republic khakis, 30/32, 10.39
Travis Matthew Polo, XL, 13.99

Etienne Carrone Tweed, 38, 6.40
Timberland Khakis, 34/30, 11.99
XMI Button Down, XL, 7.19
Tie, 5.99
Mezzlane Shoes, 10.5, 19.99

Lorenzo Brionne Trench, 44R, 10.99
Ralph Lauren Button Down, M, 14.99
Ermengildo Zengo Stripe Pants, 40, 16.99
1901 Loafers, 12, 19.99

Wear White Right

Now that Memorial Day has come and gone, it is “officially” time to bust out one of our favorite colors to wear during the summer season; white! White is the perfect color, or lack there of, to create endless possible outfits with.  Do not be afraid to mix bold colors along with neutrals to your favorite white piece, don’t forget textures and prints as well.  Here are a few rules to wear white right:

1. Do NOT wear a white dress to a wedding, there are no ifs, ands, or buts on this one!
2. Wear off-white in cool weather.  White is OK in the cooler seasons.  Just be conscious of the fabric choice.  I.e. do not wear a white linen suit in the middle of December.  But do wear a chunky white turtleneck to wear white right in the winter.
3. Warmer months can afford a lot more leeway in fabric choices than the winter months when it coming to the color white.  Basically anything goes! It’s free-for-all of wearing white right in the summer months.  Enjoy it, because we all know that in Chicago, it doesn’t last long.
4. Wear the right shoes no matter what the season.  Light neutrals or pastel colored shoes pair better with white in the spring and summer, and darker browns and blacks pair better in the fall and winter.
5. Be conscious of wearing white while taking public transportation or traveling!  If your a city gal who loves to wear white, more power to you, however do be careful because you never know what your going to spill, step on, etc. etc. etc.

Here is a tiny taste of the fabulous white-colored garments hanging in our racks at Trends.

Rubber Ducky Studded Tunic, M, 17.99

BCBG Silk Dress, 6, 26.99

Betsey Johnson Strapless, 8, 24.99

Topshop Peplum Dress, 4, 39.99

Our racks are stocked with white linen, eyelet, silk, chiffon, and every other type of fabric tops, pants, and dresses. Come into Trends today to check it out!

Jeans and Tee’s Style Event

In preparation for our jeans and tee styling event tonight, where stylist Suze Solari will give our guests special wardrobe tips, this weeks blog post is dedicated to updating jeans and t-shirts.  Who doesn’t love jeans?! Everybody, it’s a staple in the American wardrobe.  Denim is such a versatile textile.  Dress it up, dress it down, it even looks great damaged and distressed!

Feel like your denim is looking drab? Update the classic jean and t-shirt look with these simple tricks.  The idea is to take 5 different jeans, 5 different t-shirts, and 5 different black pairs of shoes and combine them in a fun, bold, fashion forward way to update this classic combo.  Become inspired and make sure to attend our event next week.

NY Skinnies, 27, 11.99
Ellion Lauren Tee, L, 8.79
Silver Necklace, 7.99
Coach Wristlet, 34.99

Here’s the skinny on skinny jeans- they are a classic silhouette that gives a slight edge to any look.  We can thank the 1950’s for making them a thing.  In this look we cocktailed dark-wash skinnies with another classic silhouette, a boat-neck tee.  The casual jean and tee is joined by sexy, velvet pumps for added contrast and texture.  A pink Coach wristlet screams awesome so you can basically wear it with anything, this outfit included.

Calvin Klein Jeans, 1, 13.99
Common Thread Tee, S, 9.59
Tahari Wedges, 9, 14.39
Kate Spade Tote, 43.99

Next, we have the classic flair.  I feel like flairs have gotten a bad rap these days because skinnies are so popular, however if paired with the right shoes they can have a whole new life.  Take a pair of dark flairs and combine it with a tee that has some texture, like this Common Thread tee with embroidery around the neck, a fierce pair of wedges, and a fun tote, like this striped Kate Spade number.

Vo Beaded Denim, 28, 13.59
Derek Heart Tee, S, 7.99
BCX Blazer, M, 13.99
Kenneth Cole Pumps, 6, 14.99
Prada Handbag, 71.99

Now I know what you’re thinking, bedazzled jeans, what is this, the 90’s? But I think if the rest of the look is kept simple, then the classic bedazzled jeans are a MUST. This pair adds flair and personality to a black blazer, pumps, and Prada handbag without becoming too overbearing.  Remember, it is all about contrast of texture, high-end and low-end, as well as combining glitz with simplicity to create a stylish appearance.

Banana Republic Shorts, 27, 9.59
Lucky Brand Tee, 6, 11.99
Liz Claiborne Tote, 12.99
Turquoise Necklace, 9.99
Bracelets, 9.99
Matt Bernson Gladiators, 9, 13.89

Who doesn’t have a pair of bermuda’s? Oh you don’t…this is awkward. For those who do, just simply pair them with a cute white t-shirt with a little detail to give it a little something extra, combine with gladiators and a “throw-your-whole-life-into-a-purse” purse, and you’re set for a busy day running errands in style!

NYDJ Denim, 8, 15.99
DKNY Tee, L, 12.99
Marc Jacobs Crossbody, 95.99
Betsey Johnson Pumps, 8, 19.99
Necklace, 9.99

Last but certainly not least, the printed jean!  Print on print on print is good in theory, however printed jeans can really shine when they are paired with a plain white tank, sexy pumps, and a bright bag.  We LOVE these Betsey Johnson pumps for an uber feminine touch, and finish the look off with a bold bag.  Obvi this patent Marc Jacobs cross-body is amazing.

It’s party time!

If your weekends are booked through Labor Day with weddings, graduations, and other miscellaneous celebrations, that means you’re going to need a lot of outfits! Don’t stress, we’ve got you covered. Start planning your looks NOW and come by Trends to create the perfect look.  Here is some inspiration!

Teez Me One-shoulder Dress, M, 7.19
Jessica Simpson sling-backs, 8.5, 8.95
Gold Necklace, 10.99

Pair a neutral dress with a bright shoe. The asymmetry of this dress adds to the flair of the outfit! It is all about contrast to create a well-balanced look.

Banana Republic Silk Dress, 12, 16.99
Chunky Necklace, 9.99
Yellow Clutch, 7.99
Jimmy Choo’s, 7.5, 79.95

This green number is sure to impress at any occasion.  Perfect for an outdoor wedding or graduation party.  Are you obsessed with those Jimmy Choo’s? So are we!  Do not shy away from color this “spring” and summer.

Donna Morgan Dress, 10, 9.59
Franco Sarto wedges, 6, 15.99
Braided Tote, 13.59

This look is perfect for a fun barbeque with friends and family.  Keep it feminine with a cute bow to draw attention to your waist.  The contrast between the brown satin and hemp wedge on the shoes is a perfect combination of feminine and casual!

Stripped Maxi, L, 8.99
Sun Hat, 11.19
Straw Clutch, 9.99
Pour la Victorie Wedge, 9, 23.99

Maxi’s, maxi’s, and well…MORE MAXI’S!  You can’t go wrong with this look.  It’s comfortable, it’s fabulous, you’re fabulous, we’re fabulous.  Everything is FABULOUS!

BCBG Strapless Chiffon Maxi, 0, 26.99
Purple Necklace, 11.99
YSL Clutch, 14.99
Vince Camuto Botties, 9.5, 16.99

Another maxi and more contrast, are you getting the point yet?! Pair this feminine dress with a sturdier shoe to create that soft look with a hard edge.  We also love the yellow/eggplant combo.  You will be the bell at any summer ball with this look!

Life is too short to wear boring jewelry!

Jewelry, jewelry, and MORE jewelry! Come into Trends today to see all of the fabulous jewelry and accessories that our shelves our stocked with! Here are few different looks to get you inspired today.

Lamb Tote, 99.99
Sunnies, 9.99
Lace bracelet, 7.99
Heart Earrings, 10.99
Bow Necklace, 9.99
Peep-toe Pumps, 15.99

A little pop of color goes a long way in this edgy inspired look.  We are channeling our inner Gwen Stefani with this L.A.M.B. bag, peep-toe pumps, and sassy shades.

Michael Kors Bag, 59.99
Paisley Scarf, 9.99
Cat Eye Sunnies, 9.99
Gold Necklace, 9.99
Black Necklace, 8.99
Alice & Olivia Booties, 63.99

Pink and gold pink and gold! We LOVE Michael Kors at Trends, pair this bold, pink number with layered gold necklaces and statement booties!  Keep it classy with some cat-eye sunnies as well. Layer jewelry to make a statement!

Ivanka Trump tote, 22.99
Stuart Weitzman Pump, 47.99
Black Sunnies, 9.99
Cheetah Scarf, 9.99
Orange Earrings, 10.99
Black Beaded Broach, 8.99

Heading to the office?  We’ve got you covered.  This patent, nude Ivanka Trump tote goes fabulous with a patterned scarf (cheetah…because obvi it’s the best), a pop of color from your earrings, and a fabulous broach.  This look can also transition well on the way to happy hour!

Brahmin Bag, 11.99
Navy Tie-Dye Scarf, 9.99
Cheetah Wedge, 9.59
Orange Necklace, 9.99
Aviators, 11.99
Orange Bangle, 7.99
Gold Rings, 4.99

Go to the beach in style with accessories from Trends.  More cheetah (obvi) with these wedges, paired with a canvas bag, bangle and layered necklace, cool aviators, and a tie-dye scarf.  Girl, you look good.

Michael Kors bag, 59.99
Snakeskin wallet, 16.99
Dumond Shoe, 13.99
Emerald Ring, 8.99
Gold Bracelets, 7.99

An evening with the girls sounds like just what the doctor ordered.   Grab your tote, through on your bright, strappy heels, and that fabulous cocktail ring you’ve been dying to wear and you’re ready to go.  Enjoy that fabulous cocktail, gush about your latest celebrity crush, and talk about all of the FABULOUS accessories you saw at Trends.

BRIGHT on Trend

Who’s ready to show off a little of that COLOR that has been sitting neglected in our wardrobes for so long?

We’re more ready than ever – so we decided to gather some of the looks we are most excited about for Spring 2014 and show you how to get the look at Trends for (duh) less.

Linen Maxi, M, 9.99 Hester & Orchard Chambray Top, L, 12.99 Theory Woven Belt, OS, 12.99 Multicolor Shimmer Scarf, 4.79 J. Jill Pants, 10, 13.99 Banana Republic Hobo, 13.59 Michael Kors Wedges, 9, 20.99

Loft Stripped Tee, S, 8.79 J Brand Jeans, 26, 24.99 Scarf, 7.99 Deena & Ozzy Moto Zip Bag, 16.99 Sperry Topsiders, 9.5, 14.99

Laundry Silk Sheer Tank, 10.79, 8 Talbots Satin Skirt, 2P, 21.59 Stuart Weitzman Bootie, 7.5, 71.99 Express Lace Clutch, 9.59

Eileen Fisher Sweater, XS, 12.99 Loft Denim Skirt, 4, 9.59 Juicy Ruffle Top, S, 16.99 Loft Suede Wedge, 6, 11.99 Cynthia Rowley Bag, 34.99

Miami Cheetah Top (M) $10.99, Jones New York Red Pants (12) $12.99, Tignanello Bag, $17.59

What looks are YOU inspired by this spring? Share with us in the comments below or on our Facebook page 🙂

Favorite Spring Trends

Slouchy/Boho: Eileen Fisher Knit Sweater (XS) $19.99, Passport Skirt (L) $11.99, Cowboy Boots (9) $10.79, Necklace $10.99

Although our knit sweaters aren’t quite in storage yet, we have decided that it is officially time for spring. We don’t even care. We’ll wear our winter coats over our sundresses. How do you feel about that, mother nature???

Bright & Girly: Lily Pulitzer Strapless Dress (12) $29.99, Nine and Co. Sandal (7.5) $12.99, Coach Clutch $27.99

If you are ready for Spring like we are, check out some of our favorite looks for the season. And remember, Trends will always help you find the look that works best for you. We’re your go-to fashion experts, people! All you have to do is ask 🙂

This outfit has everything. Stripes? YES. Camel-colored jacket? LOVE. Flowy black skirt? PERFECTION. Bright red peep-toe flats with owl pendant? OMG R U KIDDING?!

Stripes: LAL Jacket (M) $11.19, Max Studio Skirt $11.99, Loft Striped Sleeveless Top (XL) $8.79, Kate Spade Bag ($89.99), Marc Jacobs Peep Toe Flats (6) $34.99

Now that our outfits will be front-and-center again, go big with a combination of patterns. A flowy polka-dot shirt mixed with structured checkered pants works effortlessly. Because they are both neutrals, add a pop of color with your accessories.

Pattern Mixing: Talbots Printed Pants (10P) $10.39, Peppermint Lip Sheer Top (M) $11.99, Franco Sarto Sandal (8), Kate Spade Logo Bag $34.99

This one barely needs an explanation. A jewel-toned ocean blue dress with camel/brown accessories is a color combo that is not only timeless, but works on pretty much every skin tone.

Blue/Brown color combo: Kate Spade Shift Dress (10) $84.99, Jessica Simpson Heel (38) $13.99, Mikai Spain Leather Bag $89.99

For all you business casual ladies, this is another timeless look that is easy and effortless. A classic, tailored skirt suit with bright structured accessories makes for a totally polished and totally non-boring look. Add a simple neutral colored blouse, or go bold with something in a bright red or a simple print.

Business Casual: Le Suit Petite Suit (6P) $14.39, Nine West Patent Heel (7.5) $14.99, Tumi Briefcase $71.99

Which looks are you dying to try this spring? Or do you have a go-to spring ensemble that you can’t wait to bring back out? Let us know here or on our Facebook page.

Hellooooo SPRING!

Could it really, truly, finally be here? We’ve gotten our hopes up once or twice several times already this winter. I mean seriously, is a string of 60-degree-days at the end of March too much to ask?

Steve Madden Wedges, Sz 8, $6.80 | Dots Wedges, Sz 8, $7.79 | Loose Knit Scarf, $6.39
Michael Kors Leather Crossbody, $34.99 | Michael Kors Metallic Crossbody, $39.99

Whether the sun is here to stay or not, the first day of spring has officially arrived AND we’ve started accepting spring items from our consignors….which means we will be wearing floral, bright colors and wedges through the snow if that’s what mother nature calls for.

London Time Dress, Sz. 6, $19.99   |   Eci Printed V-neck dress, M, $16.99
Positive Attitude Polka Dot Dress, Sz 12, $14.99   |   DBY Dress, Sz 14, $13.99

So bring those fun spring pieces back to the front of your wardrobe! And as you unpack them from storage, set aside the pieces you know you won’t wear, and consign them at Trends. It’s a triple win: you clear your closet, you make room for new clothing/accessories you’ll actually wear, AND you’ll have some extra spending money for your new Trends purchases! Like these gorgeously springy jackets….

Mine Zip Up, Sz S, $9.99 | Odille Flower Print Jacket, Sz 4, $15.99
DKNY Linen Zip Up, Sz S, $13.99

…or these tops that are totally satisfying our craving for color…

Uno Core Chevron Top, $10.99 | Alfani Ruffle Sleeveless, Sz L, $13.99 |
Cantana BD Tank, Sz S, $9.99
Sheer Peacock Top, S/M, 9.99 | Trac Sheer, Sz M, $9.99 |
Loft Bead and Flower Top, Sz S, $13.99 | Free People Knit Top, Sz L, $22.99
Milla Sheer Blouse, Sz S, $13.99 | Pins & Needles Striped Peplum Top, Sz L, $16.99

We have thousands of square feet of the gorgeous spring items you’ve been waiting for at Trends right now…so come on over and spoil yourself! Your closet and your bank account will be proud of you 🙂