mmmm…i discovered Kelly Lane  towards the end of my tenure at ooma.  her designs were fresh, eclectic, eco-friendly and original.  exactly what i was looking for.  Kelly got her start in graphic design (she has not one – but two degrees!) - and you can see the energy of color and graphics come through in her clothing designs.  in fact – one of the things that attracted me most about her line was the tag line , “clothing with color“,  as most of you know how i utterly adore color.

Her collections are small, well-edited and fun.  the intersection of bold solids and colorful prints breaths wonderful life into her garments.  i especially love that she provides 3-4 color ways per garment which all hang together beautifully.

the Fall 09 collection is inspired by the colorful whimsy of carousels.  now that’s inspiring to me!  perhaps a little different than the trends in the mags – but that’s what excites me about indie designers (and boutiques!) following their own vision.  

the quality and attention to detail is phenomenal.  prices range from $45 – $110 wholesale.  minimum opening order is $750.

and don’t worry!  if you’ve just discovered Kelly Lane – there is still time to place an order for Fall.  email Kelly  quickly – as the deadline is 8/15 for 9/15 delivery and 9/3 for 10/15 delivery.  the full collection of 16 sillouettes can be ordered in any color for the delivery of your choosing. 

if you’re like most retailers – you likely ordered light for Fall – given the uncertainties of the economy.  this is a great time to try out a proven designer that may be new to your neighborhood!  it’s like trying a new flavor of ice cream – you’re almost always pleasantly surprised.

it’s no secret that i adore color.  walk into my closet and you’ll think you’ve stepped into the remnants of a rainbow explosion.  this is only one of the reasons why i’m smitten with ViviDot, a darling line of fabric covered earrings, necklaces, brooches and more.  the line has got some serious personality and i think her pieces would add fun & sass to any boutique.

the recession-friendly prices rock.  the line retails from $5 – 45 retail.  the result is an irresistable sale.  great gifts too!

and there is a sense of humor here that i dig.  for example – the “ouch” ring pictures an image of a band-aid.  kitschy – but cute.

the flower brooches are definitely my favorite item – i think they’d add just the right amount of pizazz to a jean jacket, a tank top, a lapel or a handbag.  whimsical  – yet modern – they have flair without being too girly.

When ready to place an order, you can choose from items in her store – or create custom items - for those who like a more tightly edited, personal selection.

want to woo your customers with luxurious silks in rich, vibrant hues?  how about a flouncy party dress with a sexy racer back?  Jesica Milton, from Seattle, is a new designer who aims to blend comfort and glamour into beautiful garments.  Jesica’s first collection is an example of sophisticated relaxation – easy, breezy – but instead of your usual jerseys and cottons – she’s upping the ante with 100% silk.

 

i’m especially loving this bright blue number.  would be a great dress for a cocktail party, holiday soiree, or as a wedding guest.  100% silk crepe, w/s for $142.50.  the line is small – but well edited.  w/s price range is $60 – 227.

i can’t even remember how i found Kiki Parry’s website – but when i did, i knew i hit comedy gold.  it was my husbands 1st father’s day and she had the perfect card.  i also found the card that epitomized a friend of mine – and her fabulous hair.  and then the 1 year  old card – that’s really for the mom. 

when i get around to opening my stationery store – Alternate Greetings will be there.   clever, relatable, sweet & funny….all the recylced love we’ve come to expect….and clean, modern design.

 

check out her offerings – you will be glad you did.

(and yes – i’ll be posting about items other than stationery this week – i’ve just been on a kick in honor of the NSS).

as i was perusing the Fall Collection for Suzabelle – i think i emitted several audible gasps.  each photo was more enticing than the next.  i began to picture clients fawning over these dresses and coats.  i imagined how pleased they’d be when they looked at their reflection upon trying on one of these saucy, yet elegant numbers.  they’re the sort of clothes that are interesting, yet classic and cut to enhance the female silhouette.  beautifully detailed, gorgeously cut – these clothes will live in your clients closets for years and years to come.

Wholesale prices range from $75 – 150.  If interested in learning more about the line or placing an order, please contact suzie at info@suzabelle.com