Fall Fashion 101...

Every Fashionista’s favorite season is finally upon us...Fall. Each Fall as we flip our closets from summer dresses to winter sweaters, we sing praise to the return of outerwear, accessories a plenty of leather boots. Fall is a sophisticated season and “most” of the trends can be worn by all.
Some of the key trends to add to your wardrobe this Fall/Winter are shoulder accents, bold pops of color and yes...the 80’s fashions are still important to the wardrobe...

Draw attention to your Head and Shoulders with tuxedo style jackets and a “must have” leather biker. These jackets can be worn with everything from jeans to an evening gown (remember to be occasion appropriate). They give a finished, polished look while adding a little flare and spice to any outfit. If you prefer to wear your jackets as outwear then choose ruffles to draw attention to your head and shoulders. Beware of the ruffle though. The ruffle look can be tricky to pull off. The ruffle has the tendency to make almost anyone look fuller on the top. It is a great accent though...if you love ruffle, try a ruffle scarf.

Ahhhh, finally there was color on the Fall Runways....pops of color amongst the typically greys, charcoals and blacks added vitality to the runway and can to your wardrobe as well. Look for pops of neon in electric yellow, blue, pink and purple. Accessories are the perfect way to add a pop of color...be careful not to overdo it, you don’t want to look like you are attending an 80’s roller skating party.

Speaking of 80’s.... the Old school trend continues to be strong for the Fall/Winter season. Fortunately for all of us, designers learned from the past and have taken a more sophisticated approach to the 80’s look. Silhouettes are slimmer and though there are still embellishments a plenty, they are much more toned down this go around.

Fall is a time to have fun with your wardrobe...layer appropriately, accessorize just right and show a little Fall Sass as you stroll down the street...you look good and you know it!!!

“Fashions Fade, Style is Forever...”
~Ana Coe

Chic meets Purpose

article by: Ana Coe

pictured K2 Phat Luv


Bruce Springsteen and Natalie Cole had a #1 Hit in 1988 singing Pink Cadillac and now K2 has their own #1 Hit with the “Pink Cadillac” of Skis.
Some look to Europe for the latest fashion trends, some to NYC Fashion Week…but for outdoor trends…I look to Hard goods.
Hard goods set the tone for ski and snowboard fashion – shapes, colors, graphics…Hard good Designers are the equivalent to the Michael Kors’, Zac Posen’s and Calvin’s of the Fashion World. What they say is a “must-have”, becomes a “must-have”. Hard goods lead the way in the ski industry as far as fashion and function. K2 has accomplished this most gracefully by introducing the Phat Luv ski. I must admit I LUV it and haven’t even skied it yet. I LUV it if only for the cute “Barbie” pink color and flowers on it. Yes, these may appear to be skis that Paris Hilton may own (ewww), but only if Paris can keep up with backcountry “Barbie”. These are the highest performance woman’s powder skis on the market…you must admit it, we all ski better when we look and feel better, so bravo…K2…I can’t wait for the first Powder “Puff” Day.

The Revolution is here…and the forecast is calling for Purple Rain this 2009/2010 Ski Season. The Urban Dictionary defines Purple Rain as: n. A restless feeling. A non-descript feeling of boredom, restlessness and confinement. A feeling one has when wanting to escape from responsibility (chiefly emotional) by travelling. With that definition, it makes sense that Purple is the color of choice for girls this winter season. In fact, that definition sounds strangely similar to the feeling of a Telluride local around mid Novemeber, just before the first good snowfall, “Purple Rain”.
Purple is the Must Have color winter season. No need to buy all new outerwear every year, but a little pick-me up always helps. Whether you add some purple gloves, a purple jacket or just a fun purple hat – go for it. I promise you, you’ll smile every time you put it on. My eye is on the Universal Infusion Jacket from North Face. It’s cute, a few shades of purple and of course waterproof, breathable, seam-sealed. See, you can have it all …”Chic meets Purpose”


"Fashions Fade...Style is Forever" ~ Ana Coe

Don’t throw in the bag just yet….

article by: Ana Coe


CARLOS FALCHI Bags are hot on the scene.As a woman we reserve the right to change our minds… be a little moody once in a while and own as many shoes and handbags as we want. Why, our male counterparts may ask? It’s simple. Shoes and bags make us feel good. They add a little flare to any look, and bottom line, they always fit. Fat day, skinny day….doesn’t matter. You always look like a million bucks with the perfect accessory. Whether off to the spa or a night on the town, an accessory will complete your look.

Carlos Falchi is one of the most talented handbag designers of our generation. Falchi has been known for over thirty years for creating masterpieces with leathers and skins. His legion of fans includes the late Jackie O, Tina Turner, Madonna and Nancy Reagan. Young Hollywood is on the Falchi bandwagon too with the likes of Sienna Miller and Jennifer Anniston sporting the new Microfiber. Falchi’s signature is vivid color combos and unusual patterns and textures. Several of Falchi’s designs have been placed in the permanent collection of the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

I’m sure you are thinking….all this sounds amazing, but Madonna, The MET, Jackie O….these bags probably cost thousands! Well, they do. BUT fortunately, Carlos has created the “IT” Bag this season, the Microfiber Tote. It feels amazing, looks amazing, doesn’t harm any animals and won’t break the bank.



“Fashions Fade…Style is Forever” ~ Ana Coe

You can Finally Breathe Easy…

Article by: Ana Coe

In layers of luxury and comfort… B by Donna M

Whether you are a die-hard Yogi, dabble in the yoga lifestyle, or simply enjoy comfortable luxury in your everyday life; B by Donna M must B your clothes to B in…

In the famous words of Tim Gunn,A “must-have” in every woman’s wardrobe is the sweat suit alternative… don’t be caught in a sweat suit with a logo across your derrière, there are much more chic ways to run around town, head to yoga or even drive carpool….

B by Donna M is about a woman’s personal expression; layering is key and all pieces are light, breathable and natural… so layering is comfortable, easy and fun. If you don’t quite trust your personal knack for “layering” B by Donna M offers suggestions on each hangtag.

Clothes to Yoga in….Live In….B in….

Available at The Apothecary located at The Shops at the Peaks
The Peaks Resort and Golden Door Spa in beautiful Telluride, Colorado
(970) 728-6900

It's a HOT Summer, so Guys - - take the "PLUNGE", in "Gradiaint Colors" and always…show a little "Class"

I bet you never thought you'd hear this, but a trend in Men's Fashion in Summer '09 is Plunging Necklines. Yes, you heard it right, plunging necklines. Keep in mind there is no need to take this trend directly from the runway and make it your own. But don’t dismiss this trend, just tone it down and it easily becomes a wearable trend for all lifestyles. Instead of a "Plunging Neckline", try a v-neck.

When the Sun is shining BRIGHT, so must you - - Gradiant Colors are the “it” purchase!
Bright colors are always important in the hot months of the summer, but this summer they are especially important. Fashion trends throughout history show that during a downturn in the economy, color in wardrobe is more important than ever. So, go ahead, spice up your wardrobe and your frame of mind, with a great orange, yellow, blue or green piece of clothing.

Bond, James Bond - - Add a little Bond to your wardrobe with a "Dinner Jacket"
A "Dinner Jacket" in Summer 2009 is not what it once was. Dinner Jackets are now worn not only for formal occassions, but with jeans for a cool, chic, sophisticated, yet casual look. A great staple to add to the wardrobe.

So men, as you are planning your weekend getaways, summer vacations or just an afternoon around town, remember to incorporate a summer trend – it’s sure to bring a smile to your face and others. Who doesn’t smile when they look and feel great?

Fashions Fade, Style is Forever…..Ana Coe

Pictured: Salvatore Ferragamo

Back to the Future....

I can hardly believe that the 80’s is now officially considered “vintage”. Wikipedia defines “Vintage Clothing” as clothing that was popular from the 1920’s thru the 1980’s….. In the true words of the 80’s “gag me with a spoon…”
I’m certain many of you have received an email forward titled…”You Might Be A Child Of The 80’s If…”
- You remember when MTV played videos
- You owned an Atari
- You remember when family TV consisted of Happy Days, Laverne and Shirley, etc…

Well, children of the 80’s, BEWARE….The 80’s are back and they're back in full swing… Fashion wise that is…

European Designers showed their resort collections in early June of this year. These collections won’t hit the stores until November and December, but are consistently an excellent indication of the direction trends will be going for Spring 2010…and that direction is “Back to the Future”.

Everything from neon colors to exaggerated shoulders are being shown in Resort collections. Leggings are still key as are one shoulder tops and dresses like we saw for Fall and Summer.

Don’t be too frightened, you can stay on top of the trends without dressing too much like Linda Evans on “Dynasty” .

The Resort and Holiday Collections you will see in your favorite stores will be some of the 80’s trends with a 2009/2010 twist on them. No need to fret, you do not need to go out and buy removable shoulder pads to add to every outfit. Shoulders will simply be slightly emphasized, which creates dimension and slenderizes the body. Leggings as we’ve talked about in the past are still an important staple in the wardrobe. Color is key…there is not need to run out and buy all neon colored tops; infact, please don’t go there…but pops of color are very important. The key colors are pinks(fuscia), greens, oranges and yellows. Shirts of to the knee and shorter and pencil skirts are very important. Look to see dresses that look like separates and separates that look like dresses. Asymmetrical zipper biker jackets with a feminine edge are HOT for Resort, as are tops with sheer arms. Think Rocker Chic meets the Upper East Side…a little something for everyone…

Go ahead and admit it….you are at least a little excited to see some of the 80’s fashions hit the runways and street ways again…

soooo... after a “Cruel Summer”, get ready to “Take on me” and “Relax” while you are “Footloose” and on the “borderline” of the “Holiday” where you can be a “PYT (Pretty Young Thing).

~Fashions Fade, Style is Forever~

pictured Derek Lam, Resort 2009 Collection

Summer Lovin...Happen So Fast

Summer Lovin’ happen so fast … Summer is finally upon us and with the change of seasons comes the change of wardrobe as well. One of the wonderful things about a summer wardrobe is that the fabrics are lighter weight and there is a little less of them, consequently spicing up your wardrobe with a few “must-have” trends for summer won’t break the bank… Choose a few that you identify with your personal style and Strut Your Stuff this summer…
Summer is a time of renewal, the flowers are in full bloom and the birds are singing from the trees. What better a motif to represent Summer ’09 than the elegant, feminine symbol of renewal…the butterfly. Pop a butterfly into your wardrobe…maybe a necklace, t-shirt or a ring…
Fun in the Sun…summer is a time for fun and celebration…Flappers in the 1920’s were advocates of care-free fun, just like the fashion they were famous for. FRINGE…. A fringe dress must be on every woman’s must buy list… buy a fringe piece that suits your personality and lifestyle…modern and sleek, feminine, or over the top…they all work as long as you know how to “work it”!
It’s okay, go ahead and give him the cold shoulder…it’ll cool him down when he sees you looking ever so HOT in the one-shoulder trend this Summer. One-shoulder tops and dresses can be subtly sexy and the possibilities on how to wear this look are endless. Casual with shorts, to a luncheon with a pencil skirt, out at night with jeans or to an evening event in a one-shouldered dress.
There is just something about a warm summer night that gives off an air of romance, well it's not the most practical of trends when it comes to every-day wear; but the romantic fairy-tale princess dress certainly had its place on the runway for Spring/Summer 2009. Look for romantic details and classic fairytale silhouettes on red carpets and down church aisles at weddings, but don't dismay, if you are not attending a red carpet event or getting married, there are practical applications for Romantic elements as well. Try a loose flowy blouse with skinny jeans or a romantic dress for an evening outside.
Remember….”Fashions Fade, Style is Forever” ~Ana Coe

Go Ahead….show a little LEG….

pictured: LnA

Leggings are the “it” purchase for Spring. Some hated this 80’s trend, but try it out – they can be cute, comfortable and sexy - - the perfect combination!

Leggings range from chic and inexpensive available from XCVI for only $50 to Maggie Ward Leggings featuring custom designed fabrics for $195.

You heard me right… the 80’s are back… first belts, then slight shoulder pads, and now leggings. Wear then with high heels, flats, ankle boots, wedges…pretty much anything goes!

All sizes can sport this trend, just pleeeease wear them in a way that is “perfect” for your body type. Yes, there will be fashionistas that sport them with long fitted tees and they will look hot and oh so hip, but BEWARE – that look isn’t for everyone. Some other great ways to wear leggings are layered with a long tunic or blouse or even as an accessory with short dress.

Talk about a fun way to spice up your wardrobe, treat yourself to a new pair of leggings and Rock ‘em…

ZZ Top said it best in 1981 with … “She’s got legs, she knows how to use them.”

To Belt or Not to Belt...

…that is the question….

When in question…throw on a belt. The belt is the perfect accessory for Spring and was also seen all over the runways during Fashion Week in February, which means belts are going to be the “it” purchase for Fall ’09 as well. Belts are being shown with pretty much anything you can imagine… coats, dresses, sweaters, t-shirts…

Don’t make the mistake of just throwing on any belt with any look. Though belts are the hottest accessory, you must wear them appropriately.

Belts are now accenting the upper part of the body not to the bottom as in recent history. It’s all about pairing the belt with your top, not your bottom. A few trends seen on the runway are double wrapped belts, belts worn at the natural waistline and belts worn low on the waist. Trends such as wearing the buckle to the side or even the back were seen as well – belt options are endless.

Leather, colored leather, studded… the list goes on…bottom line (or should I say “top-line”) - belts are the must-have accessory this spring and Fall ‘09. Seen all over the runways—those in the know and fashion forward are making this accessory an almost daily occurrence. Chic clean belts are hot with a form fitting dress and for those seeking a little funk, try an extra-long skinny belt, wrap it a couple times around the body and you suddenly have an updated, stylish ’80s look. Yes, the 80’s are sneaking back!

The best news of all – belts are versatile, inexpensive and can add style and spice to any outfit. They are also seasonless, so get going and “BELT it OUT”!

Check out W.Kleinberg for timeless belts at a great cost. Some of our other favorites are…

Motif 56
Street Ahead
Suzy Roher

Pass the Shin Choi please...

Shin Choi is a Korean born, New York based designer. She designs the perfect attire for any occasion – whether it be an at home dinner party, a night on the town, or a day you just want to feel great about yourself. Shin’s personal energy is contagious. It is translated directly into her energetic styling. She is traditional with an edge – after all, aren’t we all? Clothing that fits a woman and makes a woman feel beautiful is what defines Shin Choi’s designs. Her designs are modern, clean and offer lots of texture. They are classic, but youthful; modern, yet traditional. Every woman from her 30’s through her 60’s will feel beautiful and special in Shin Choi’s designs.

For year’s bars, clubs and restaurants have touted names such as …”Living Room”, “Dining Room” and even “Bed”. Restaurateurs have strived to offer the comforts of a beautiful home combined with the gourmet tastes that only a restaurant can offer. Well, many of us are now taking those restaurant names literally… and entertaining at home. You don’t have to be a chef to entertain, just know how to play the role of the perfect hostess. Much of that role has to do with looking the part, of course…

It’s chic in 2009 to entertain in the home. Opening your home to guests can be a nerve racking experience, but not if you are prepared and of course….if you look your best. Celebs have been doing it for years to avoid the paparazzi…now it’s your turn. Just dress up, make it an event and wear the designer that Oprah, Julia Roberts and Katie Couric love to wear…Shin Choi, http://www.shinchoi.com/.

Excitement is what the market is hungry for and Shin feeds this hunger with her Fall 2009 collection. She offers amazing textures, mixtures of fabrics and special “must-have” pieces, always with the thought in mind that women love to feel beautiful and special.

Hmmm….now what should I cook, actually does it even matter? – since I’ll look so great at my next dinner party in my Navy Cashmere Shin Choi Dress. I just can’t wait to graciously say… “Pass the Shin Choi, please…..”

RED, WHITE AND WU....

Michelle Obama looked glamorous, modern and tasteful in a JASON WU creation….



article by: Ana Coe

We were thrilled to see Michelle Obama grace the stage at the inaugural ball in one of our favorite designers’ creations. Jason Wu has been a favorite of ours for quite a few seasons and now he is a household name. Bravo Michelle…She chose an excellent way to exemplify the power of the youth of America by choosing a design by Jason Wu, the 26 year old New York City based designer.

Jason’s dress will be forever admired in the Smithsonian Institution, in the company of 21 other inaugural gowns.

The dress was perfectly glamorous, yet appropriate for the times – understated, yet fanciful. The one shoulder look is right in line with the current trends. White, a color of hope and grace was as becoming on Michelle Obama as it was on Jacqueline Kennedy at the 1961 inaugural ball (ironically the year Barak Obama was born).

Jason Wu is known for his use of luxurious fabrics and appreciation of the female silhouette. Jason creates designs that are ladylike, but fun. His looks are fresh, feminine and make getting dressed an event in its self.

We look forward to seeing Jason Wu’s Fall 2009 collection. We’ll get a sneak peak in a couple of weeks, so stay tuned….

BRAVO….President Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama…. and The oh so talented Jason Wu

Great shoes look even better with smaller feet… A smaller “carbon footprint” is definitely chic in Spring 2009

There are plenty of ways to be the “most fashionable YOU” and still reduce your carbon footprint. Of course you’ve heard the term, but do you really know what it means? A carbon footprint is a "measure of the impact that human activities have on the environment. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_footprint

Your own closet may just be the perfect place to start…. And it won’t cost you a dime….
Start your new year by revamping your closet... there are plenty of old trends reinvented with a new twist…

These are the hottest trends to look for in Spring 2009, bet you already have quite a few in your closet…

Dresses will be important with both short and long jackets, as well as short and long cardigans.
Pants legs are being shown both wide and narrow. The cigarette pant and the full fashion pant are both key, so choose the style that suits your body type best.
Skirts, skirts and more skirts….pencil and full.
Jumpsuits are HOT!
Color is everywhere, even in denim.
Belts are back – both skinny and wide
Prints add excitement (ikat, paintbrush and photograph), ribbon details, tons of pleats in both day and evening and plenty of cardigans and lightweight knits.

Of course we must all do our part to spur the economy and our wardrobes, while we’re at it– so hit the stores for some great pieces to spice up your wardrobe.

Design houses such as Marc Jacobs http://www.marcjacobs.com/, Stella McCartney http://www.stellamccartney.com/, Burberry http://www.burberry.com/, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein http://www.calvinklein.com/home/index.jsp, Donna Karan http://www.donnakaran.com/, Narciso Rodriguez http://www.narcisorodriguez.com/ and Versace http://www.versace.com/flash.html have all played a roll in raising awareness about “eco-fashion” and the need to use sustainable materials, while of course maintaining the utmost sense of style.

So now it’s your turn to do you part – read the tags and try to buy fashionable clothing that uses environmentally sensitive fabrics.

You’ll look good and feel great knowing that you’re reducing your “carbon footprint”.