Brand: Gee WaWa
Style: Glory
Price: $116 $49
Available @: BTV store
Staff: Alison, 24
Seen Worn @: Stella Mae BTV, Church Street Marketplace
As I approach 1 year at Stella Mae, I realize how much my style has changed. Brands I had never even heard of and shoes I wouldn’t dare try on now fill up my closet – including my most recent purchase, the Gee WaWa ‘Glory.’ I distinctly remember picking up the display during my first week of work and thinking ‘HUH?’ Half boot, half sandal? What’s going on here? 10 months later, as I brought the remaining sizes back out onto the floor to put in our $49 summer sale section, I fell in love. What changed my mind? Well, I’m finally starting to ‘get it’ – footwear fashion that is. The ‘Glory’ has a European look to it, elegant and classic. The lace-up closure is perfect for my wide feet, enabling for a custom fit. The leather lining wicks away moisture, while the open toe and heel allow ventilation – perfect for the hot summer months ahead of us. It is ironic that the ‘Glory’ is my new favorite shoe, and at half the original price I couldn’t help but choose it as my BTV Staff Pick of the Week.
—Alison
It was my childhood dream to work in the fashion world. From an early age, I loved to play with beautiful prints, textures, and silhouettes to create outfits that made me feel my best and let my personality show. There were some scary moments. Like when I tried to start a mismatched socks trend in 4th grade and the skater phase I went through in middle school. Developing my own style was, and continues to be, an evolutionary process.
Through that process, I am proud to say I turned my dream into reality. It started with a part-time sales gig at J.Crew in college while I earned a business degree (the sorority girl look of polos and pearls really flourished for me during this time). I then moved to NYC to work as a Merchandiser for a few pretty cool designers (yes, there were glamorous moments, no, I could not afford the clothes on my salary). And finally went on to manage and buy for the Stella Mae boutique in BTV (and, as you know, still work for the business blogging from my current home in Charleston, SC).
Despite these fabulous experiences, some moments left me longing for a more meaningful career. A former big city boss once replied in my desperate request for a day off, “it’s not like we’re saving lives here.”
That stuck. I wanted to save lives! Maybe not in the literal sense, but I wanted to help people to live more meaningful lives and give back my good fortune, so I took off on a search for the unknown solution.
A year, a rough move, and one very transformational yoga teacher training experience later, I have a new viewpoint. Doing what you love is meaningful. Living your passion is giving back.
When I learned more about the ARTICLE 22 collection that Stella Mae now carries in store and on stella-mae.com, it really hit me! A career in fashion does offer an amazing opportunity to help others in a very special way. The founder of ARTICLE 22 also deserted her day job at a major fashion corporation. Her curiosity about where American consumed, foreign-made goods actually come from led her on a journey to SE Asia where she discovered talented local artisans needing a helping hand in developing economic sustainability practices in their businesses and communities. ARTICLE 22 was launched to “create a traceable link between producers in the east and consumers in the west.”
Stella Mae features the peacebomb collection as our current Fashion with Compassion find which includes bangles and necklaces handmade by women in Laos out of war and other scrap metals.
Customized Burlington bracelets are available for purchase in-store and online
Styles range from $40-60 and proceeds directly support artisans and their communities. Farmer-artisans are paid 4x the local market rate.
Buying from small businesses and artisans means supporting real people and making a major impact on their lives. You are providing them with financial stability while they share their beautiful talents. Shopping local is always number one in my book, but we cannot deny globalization. As a part of a thriving nation, I believe in seeking opportunities to contribute to the success and growth of honest workers around the world. ARTICLE 22 is a great place to start.
As I revisit my passion for the fashion world and continue to seek new ways to get involved in the industry to make a difference, I urge you to think before you shop. Understand the destination of your dollar. Check out your local farmer’s and artist markets. Shop small — local, national, and abroad. Spend more on quality, buy less quantity. Make proud purchases.
And, most importantly, always do what you love and what makes you happy and allow others the freedom to do the same. From there, everyone benefits.
— Liz
At only 5’5” I thought for a long time that short skirts were the only way to go - that is, until last summer when maxi dresses became popular and I just had to try them. After finding my first beautiful maxi at the Stella Mae store last June, I haven’t been able to stop shopping for them. This love has become an obsession as the BTV store seems to have a gorgeous and endless influx of the trend this season.
For the vertically-challenged of us, this sheer-skirted YA printed maxi shows some leg and ties at an empire waist to help elongate the body.
For the hippie in all of us, this YA dress accentuates one’s figure and brings shape to the waist of this ruffled maxi.
Finally, this Willow & Clay Midnight Spaghetti Strap Dress, exclusively available at stella-mae.com, is the quintessential goddess dress, with flowing lace and feminine silhouette, all I want to do is twirl and show it off!
With various styles to suit any personality, maxi dresses can be worn by all, regardless of height or size. More maxis make their way into the Stella Mae store at least once a week, so check in when you have a chance to find one perfect and flattering for you.
—Taylor
Jeffrey Campbell P-Tail-NS, $198
This week I’ve been thinking a lot about my upcoming birthday. It’s the last one left in my 20s, so I’m planning to get a little wild before I run out of excuses. This sassy Jeffrey Campbell number is exactly what I need on my feet to accomplish this task. The height. The color. The tassel. All the right elements to give my outfit the “it’s my birthday” standout effect.
I know what you’re thinking. Suede in the summer…won’t that be sweaty? In pants or a jacket, well, yes. In shoes, other than the unique softness and luxe look, it’s no different than wearing leather. Remember (as I covered in this post) natural materials breathe and wick moisture. It’s ok, common misconception. And these shoes are smokin’ hot.
I’m only concerned about drinks spilling on my feet while I boogie on the dance floor. One of the reasons I always treat suede with a protective spray to prevent damage, discoloration, and the birthday blues.
Birthday or no birthday, these shoes demand a good time.
— Liz
I’m super psyched that Saako scarves are now available online! When I first found out that they were becoming available in the BTV store via facebook awhile back, I knew our friends all over the country (and world!) would want this item. And now you long distance Stella Mae lovers can all have one. Made in many colors from supersoft upcycled jersey fabrics, Stella Mae always picks the best of the best available, and we’re offering up fun bright solids and neutral combos for your liking.
I can’t decide between the coral and the ivory/taupe stripe, so I think the natural choice is to get them both. At $58, this is also a reasonable choice. Can’t justify spending $58 twice? Well, I’m always here to enable all you shopaholics out there, so here are three great reasons why there is no such phrase as “one too many”:
1. They look great layered. You can’t layer just one.
2. They are all-season. Two is better when it’s cool (think A/C).
3. They are handmade in Barcelona. Spain is sexy.
Now that everyone is convinced, hurry up and get yours while they are still in stock.
If you happen to miss out, there are many exciting new arrivals on stella-mae.com! Check ‘em all out here.
— Liz
Top JC. Latest Stella Mae #BTV arrival, Jeffrey Campbell - Hopie. Totally sick, love it, wow factor. Will also be available at stella-mae.com.
Have you always had an entrepreneurial spirit? Did you know you would own your own business one day?
Where do you seek inspiration for new business ideas and the buying process?
You just got back from a buying trip in NYC, what can we expect to see in store and online this fall?
When you’re not working, how do you prefer to enjoy your free time?
(Pictured above is the Noele by Pour La Victoire at $200).
Designers such as Missoni and Acne have finally accepted flatforms back into this summer’s resort collections, resurrecting them from the fashion graveyard where they’ve lain since the late nineties. While I, being an 18 year old who cannot remember 90s style, automatically jumped on the flatform bandwagon, others seem skeptical of the trend. Instead of allowing their shapes to force one to relive terrible fashion choices, I suggest looking at them as such: a stylish, trendy shoe that gives great height without also giving great pain. The girls at Stella Mae have started embracing this trend as we have flatform styles rolling in and out of the store by the minute, by designers such as Jeffrey Campbell, Coclico, Gentle Souls and Pour La Victoire.
Spanish built brand Coclico brings the ultimate craftsmanship to this funky trend. The leather on the “Melania” ($322) is absolutely gorgeous and additionally the quality of the shoe is unprecedented. Not to mention, the cork makes this pair of flatforms light and easy to wear.
Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole creates absolute comfort to the easy-to-wear flatform. With flax-seed foot beds that are truly more like standing on a Tempur-Pedic mattress, the “June Flower” ($198) is the ultimate comfort shoe, perfect for individuals who find completely arch-less flatforms difficult to wear. With colors in both red (pictured above) and black, you cannot go wrong with this feminine style.
For those looking for a more weather-versatile shoe, this flatform sneaker by Jeffrey Campbell does the trick. The “Mill-Cork” ($120) has a summery cork platform yet oxford look, making them perfect for any season - except potentially VT snowstorms! This super lightweight style presents itself as a great twist on a classic summer shoe. Also available at stella-mae.com.
Finally, the “Caltha” ($220) by Pour La Victoire remains the truest flatform. With little arch they are truly great for those of us (including myself) who are a tad more flatfooted than the rest, though a simple foot pad would make them more wearable for our high-arch sisters. This buckled style is ideal for summer, with camel and taupe neutrals that can match virtually any outfit.
While for some it may be difficult to get on-board with this trend, the Stella Mae store has many flatform styles, shapes, and heights. All of the beautiful styles above are still available at the BTV store in a variety of sizes, waiting to find the perfect shopper to go home with; however, no guarantees the Stella Mae girls won’t snatch them up soon!
Brand: Jeffrey Campbell
Style: Trudeau
Price: $108
Available @: Stella Mae BTV
With warm weather finally on the horizon, it’s time to tuck away your boots, and give your feet some fresh air. We love the Jeffrey Campbell Trudeau, because it is classy and versatile. The slight wedge makes it easy to dress up or down, while the ankle strap offers extra support. My plan is to wear the JC Trudeau at my graduation from the University of Vermont this weekend. The cognac color and simplicity enables it to match virtually any dress, and it offers enough comfort to last from morning ceremonies all the way to dinner celebrations. So for all of you ladies unsure of what shoes to pair with your graduation dress, I think the Trudeau is the shoe for you.
For more Jeffrey Campbell styles, visit stella-mae.com.
—Carly
Note to self: Don’t forget Mother’s day is Sunday May 13.
Wait. That’s this Sunday. And I still haven’t gone shopping (of course). Based on my calculations, there is not enough time to purchase a gift and ship it to my mom who is 1000 miles away.
Good thing stella-mae.com is open 24 hours/day and has gift certificates that are emailed directly to the recipient. Genius.
BTV locals, you’re in luck. There’s still time to make it to the boutique on Church Street to pick up something fabulous. You can even make a casual pit stop on your way to mom’s Sunday brunch or BBQ as the store is open 11-6. As always the lovely Stella Mae ladies (and occasional gent) are there to help you pick the perfect gift, but if you need to make a quick in-and-out trip, ask to be directed to the Paddywax ECO Green Collection ($18-30).
The soy wax candles and diffuser oils are poured into upcycled bottles. How cool is that? Celebrate mom’s hard work and encourage her to take a much-deserved break by choosing the relaxing Mandarin & Lavender scent.
Happy Mother’s Day to all of the amazing moms and mamas-to-be in my life!!
— Liz
Florals were popping up on every runway this spring. Even if flowers are yet to blossom where you live, your outfit can still speak the full bloom of the season.
2012 is all about big, bold, and bright and the floral trend proves no exception. Whether you’re a wildflower or a wallflower, you can make it work.
THE WILDFLOWER -
If you love to work the trends and stand out amongst the masses, there are some great fun and funky ways to bring flower power into your ensemble:
Head to Toe: One print from top to bottom is easy to put together and the two pieces also makes great separates.
Mixed Prints: Don’t match, coordinate. Stripes and florals play well together.
Add Animal: Jump on two trends by finding prints that combine flower and bird motifs.
THE WALLFLOWER -
I know none of you really want to blend in, but I also know not everyone wants to stand out in an extreme way. If you prefer to play it safe with trends, here are some excellent options:
Accessorize: Add just a touch of flair with an over-sized printed handbag, statement floral shaped jewels, or fun footwear like this sweet Rachel Antonoff for Bass Oxford on sale for $55 on www.stella-mae.com.
Mix with Solids: Stick to one floral item and balance with solid basics or brights.
Watercolor: The blurred lines create a softness that is easy to wear.
No matter how you wear floral this spring, pay attention to scale. Small prints work best on petite frames and areas that you don’t want to accentuate. Taller girls can more easily rock large scale prints, but don’t limit yourself before you try on for size.
Visit our BTV store for a great selection of floral options to rock this spring.
— Liz
Lani Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress, $46
This dress makes it easy to be stylish this spring. The bold print amazingly weaves together three of the season’s best trends: ethnic prints, brights, and orange. That’s one stop fashion for under $50. Can’t be beat.
When I moved from Burlington, VT to Charleston, SC last August, my wardrobe could not handle the heat. Even if I cranked the A/C high enough to pull on a pair of my beloved jeans before going out, within minutes the humidity had them sticking uncomfortably to my sweaty self. Maxi dresses became a must in my battle to survive and show my style. They are great in the north and south alike as layering both under and over can give you more coverage, but on their own, the airy factor provides excellent climate control.
Maxis also create the perfect opportunity to wear those sky high heels and wedges that feel overpowering with skinny jeans. The Jeffery Campbell Franklin, $105 is a favorite of mine to avoid stepping on the longer hemlines. Super cushioned cork and a stable base = comfort.
Get on stella-mae.com to get your hands (and feet) on both before they are gone!
— Liz
Creating a thriving new website that offers fashion trends consistent with our retail store and the industry has been an exciting process. Photographing these trends, extremely important. The images put before our customer can make an impact on their wardrobe, provide ideas and inspire. However, we are fortunate to have big city talent at our disposal when it comes to stella-mae.com photography. At Jessica Anderson Photography, spring fashion, talent and creativity was alive during this month’s photo shoot. The outcome? Perfection!
Working with Jessica is always a smooth and inspirational process. She provides an upbeat and fun environment, yet puts us all at ease as she clicks away at her artistry. Jessica delivers more than enough images to choose from, always leaving us satisfied and excited about the end product.
We are also lucky to have such talented ladies on the Stella Mae staff. Store associate, Amanda Richer, lent her styling expertise with hair and make-up while owner, Llyndara Harbour, styled the models in this season’s hottest trends, including colorful maxi dresses, platforms and wedges.
Veteran model Cathleen Bombard, in from New York City, and local beauty Kelly Tailer, provided us with stunning shots of new apparel and shoes now available at our retail store and stella-mae.com.
Cathleen wears the Sam Edelman Lorissa Pump $186 and dress by Milla $58.00.
Kelly wears the Frye Carlie Huarache $198 and Green Tie Dye Maxi Dress $50, by Lani.
Want to see more of the final product this talented group of locals produced? Visit stella-mae.com. While you are there, take a peak at our spring and summer inventory. This season, we are offering an eclectic variety of choices to bring a new pop to your wardrobe.
— Cynthia
It’s that time of year when pretty engraved envelopes filled with thick luxe paper start to outnumber the bills in our mailboxes. It’s the season of love, celebration, happiness…and new shoes, for you.
Before you shop, read the fine print. The invite is more than something pretty for the fridge, but also your clue to what to wear. Check for these dress code hints and find your way to best dressed status. Just try not to upstage the bride. (Major Fashion Faux Pas Warning: Unless you’re the one about to say “I do”, do not wear white).
Who: What would the couple wear as guests to their own affair?
What: We know it’s a wedding, but is there a ceremony and reception? Is it a destination or weekend event? There may be multiple events and outfits needed.
Where: Is the ceremony at a church? Is the reception outside? Keep in mind respectful and appropriate choices for the location.
When: Daytime events tend to be on the casual side and evening usually allows for upping the glam factor.
The Overall Presentation: The chosen stationery design presents a first look at the theme of the wedding. Here are my stella-mae.com shoe picks for 5 very popular wedding styles:
MODERN -
The Pour La Victoire Tifara, $220 fits the feel of the modern wedding. Expect crisp white linens, clean bold lines, and trendy accents. Don’t worry about the stiletto, the party planner did not overlook the need for solid ground.
RUSTIC -
The Chelsea Crew Bedford, $60 belongs at the mountain top or outdoor farm setting of a rustic affair. The cork lends a casual touch, but the ankle strap keeps it dainty. Perfect for dancing under the stars.
VINTAGE -
Re-Mix is a retro inspired footwear brand and a go-to for a vintage themed event. Whether you’re headed to an old-time movie theater or a historic elegant library the Re-Mix Parkview, $106 will take you there.
BOHO -
A flowy floral frock will compliment the Frye Carlie Huarache Ankle, $198 as you dine on organic dishes and desserts in the hostess’ backyard.
BEACH -
After receiving compliments on how your shoes are as gorgeous as the nearby ocean, don’t be afraid to take off the Miz Mooz Sailor, $112 for some photos in the sand.
— Liz
All wedding invitation photos courtesy of Martha Stewart Weddings
The FAQ I’m getting this season is: “If I can only buy one new pair of shoes this summer, how do I choose?”
Easy. Go with a natural colored wedge. My stella-mae.com pick is the Frye Corinna Strappy, $248.
While blacks, browns, greys and even reds, blues, and yellows make great neutrals, natural the neutral. Whether it blends or contrasts with your skin tone, the soft look easily compliments any clothing choice. It always matches and never competes.
Natural doesn’t mean boring. The braided detailing on this sandal keeps it fresh. I know my Stella Mae gal is no Plain Jane.
The wedge style is a great neutral in itself. It says dressy when paired with a pretty maxi and keeps it casual next to cropped denim.
Love the look, but not the price? If Frye is not in your budget this season, the Chelsea Crew Russian does the job for under $100.
— Liz
