Viktor & Rolf Trunk Show at Forty Five Ten Starts Tomorrow

Viktor & Rolf fall 2013 ready-to-wear (photography, cropped, courtesy of style.com)

Starting tomorrow, Forty Five Ten is hosting a trunk show for Viktor & Rolf’s Fall/Winter 2013 collection. In case you missed the duo’s latest runway show, the line is full of classic closet staples, with a modern twist–sculptural black dresses, textured white blouses, and ruffled leather jackets that strike the perfect balance between feminine and edgy. Need more convincing? This will be the only Viktor & Rolf trunk show in the U.S. this season.

Where: Forty Five Ten
When: Thursday, April 11 through Saturday, April 13, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Jessica Mitzner is a ShopTalk intern.

Urban Street Bazaar in Oak Cliff this Weekend

The skies are going to open up and the sun is going to shine this weekend, so it’s the perfect time to head to Oak Cliff and wander about the Urban Street Bazaar. Hosted by IndieGenius, a shop for independents artisans, the outdoor market will showcase tents full of local goods. I had a few favorite vendors last year, but this year I’m looking adding a few new favorites to my list, like pendant necklaces from That Guy Joey, a soft summer tee from Dowdy Studio, and maybe more tea from By the Grace of Tea.

Where: Bishop Arts District
When: Saturday, April 6, 11 am to 8 pm, and Sunday, April 7, 11 am to 4 pm

The Weekend Just Got Better: Urban Zen Trunk Show at Number One

A look from Urban Zen's "Reflections" collection (photography courtesy of Urban Zen)

Number One is hosting a trunk show this weekend for Urban Zen. The clothing collection is a fashion-based philanthropic endeavor of Donna Karan’s. It’s made up of lifestyle pieces, soft separates, drapy dresses, cashmere, jackets, and scarves that Urban Zen calls “seasonless, ageless, and timeless.” I agree. You can live in this line. Everything’s soft and drapy, ruched into flattering silhouettes, and in an earthy palette, easy for mixing into any wardrobe. The latest collection, Reflections, is full of cowl necks, long dresses that can double as glamorous evening attire and loungewear, leather leggings, and rich, dark colors made edgy with thick cuffs. Shop the line this weekend and 10 percent of proceeds will benefit The Family Place and Donna Karan’s Urban Zen Foundation, which caters to a variety of organizations.

Where: Number One
When: Friday, April 5 and Saturday, April 6

Check Out These Vintage Designer Goodies from Local Etsy Shop, BelleBea’s

photography courtesy of BelleBea's

In case you missed last weekend’s Vintage Clothing & Jewelry Show, never fear. There’s always Etsy, the online marketplace for all things vintage and handmade—and one of my personal favorite places to shop on the web. It’s full of gorgeous antiques, and guess what? Some of them come from right here in Dallas.

My latest discovery is BelleBea’s, a local Etsy boutique stocked with designer clothing and accessories. My personal picks include a fabulously oversized pair of Yves Saint Laurent sunglasses, a Christian Dior silk scarf, and graphic black-and-white Salvatore Ferragamo pumps—so fresh for spring.

Though there are a few pricier pieces (like these amazing Alpina aviators), most items in the shop fall under $200, so feel free to stock up.

Jessica Mitzner is a ShopTalk intern.

A Peek Inside “Sample This” in Mockingbird Station

Sample This boutique has officially been in Mockingbird Station for two years, but do you even know what it is? The warehouse-style shop on the end of the lane, neighboring Victoria’s Secret, houses racks of sample size clothing (sizes 2-8). You might have to do a little digging, but there are real gems scattered through. Occasionally, you’ll stumble upon items with no tags, but the payoff is the super marked down price tags. I inquired about the tagless nature of some of the items, and here’s the deal, according to owner Allyson Cooke:

We buy all of the pieces in Los Angeles from designers who are wanting to get rid of their samples from the past season. We are able to buy them at very discounted prices because they are not production sizes, meaning they are no particular size just a sample made for the models. That is why everything is one of a kind, meaning we only have one to sell. Also there is no size tag in the clothing so our customers just have to try it on. Some of the designers do cut out their labels because we are selling the merchandise at wholesale prices and the actual production from these designers is double or more from what we are charging.

So there you have it. Now, a little look inside:

What’s on the Racks at Nicole Kwon? Take a Look.

Mista platforms with holographic panel

Stepping in Nicole Kwon’s West Village boutique is a little like being on vacation. Gone are all the labels you’re too familiar with: J Brand jeans, Tory Burch, Equipment blouses, etc. And fresh on the racks are dozens of off-the-radar designers you can’t wait to slip into. Like, platform wedges with holographic toe straps by Mista, retro inspired shades by Karen Walker, and a killer white knit body suit with a black sheer back from Nicole Kwon’s own line. Every time I walk in here, I am inspired to becooler. I left with a couple fingers of dainty Catbird knuckle rings. See what else is in stock:

left: Nicole Kwon's own shimmering linen harness vest and right: Cheap Monday duochrome bangle (only $40!)

In love with this stone encrusted arm cuff by Deborah Mullen Jewelry

Cheap Monday double-strapped sandal

I'm taking an organizational cue and copying Kwon's cube box display at home. Wouldn't getting accessorized in the morning be more fun this way?

Like the store's interior displays? (I do.) You can buy some of it, like this glass box and stone.

Lots of fun shades of green in feel-good fabrics for spring.

Happy Birthday, Cotton Island!

photography courtesy of Cotton Island

Cotton Island, one of SMU students’ favorite affordable boutiques, has been in Dallas for 30 years now. To celebrate, they’ll be giving away goodies to lucky customers all month long. Winners are drawn daily, and prizes include Cotton Island t-shirts, Kendra Scott earrings, Dogeared necklaces, and Kai perfume. Throughout March, you’ll also receive an additional 30 percent off sale merchandise, and a free scarf with any purchase of $300 or more. Stop by the store to enter–and to sample some of the celebratory treats.

Jessica Mitzner is a ShopTalk intern.

Fair & Square Imports in McKinney Makes Shopping a Good Deed

photography by Josh Martin

I don’t make it to McKinney very often, and that’s a shame. Stores like Bloom and Another Time & Place live there, and I would love to visit them more often. And then there’s Fair & Square, featured in the latest issue of D Home.

Looks a little World Market-y, and the merchandise compares: bamboo picture frames, paper lanterns, earthy home decor items made of wood (stools, vases, tchotchkes, and baskets), rugs, bird houses, chimes, and jewelry. Silver bangles, dangling earrings, colorful beaded necklaces abound. The difference is the crafting of the goods. Everything here is fair trade and handmade. Get the scoop.

photography by Josh Martin

Blinc Has a New Online Shop

A few of my favorite things. (photography courtesy of Blinc)

One of our favorite local spots, Blinc, is now online. In addition to the Park Cities and Plano locations of this contemporary boutique, you can now browse the merchandise from the comfort of your own computer screen. The site showcases a limited number of pieces–if you’re searching for denim, you’ll only find a few pairs–but this edited selection is true to the store’s style. And if you’re in need of something more specific, you can always stop by one of the physical locations.

Jessica Mitzner is a ShopTalk intern.

Pencil This In: Sussie’s Annual Holiday Bash

The holidays are here, which means cooler weather, lots of shopping for those on your nice list, and hopefully a holiday party or two. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for a gift, you should add Sussie’s Annual Holiday Bash to your list of places to stop for a few reasons:

1. The clothing includes some of our favorite lines, like Milly, Haute Hippie, Trina Turk.
2. The in-house shoe boutique, El’s Stilettos.
3. Sussie’s owner Rory Boyd just told me that purchases will be tax free all day.
4. Every $50 you spend, you’ll get you an entry into their raffle, where you could win prizes like a handbag, coat, or Sussie’s gift card.

Need another reason to stop by Sussie’s next Thursday? They will be serving up light bites cocktails all day long.

Margaux Anbouba is a ShopTalk intern.

Pencil This In: Deck the Halls with Rent the Runway and Make Up For Ever

Make Up For Ever's holiday look, left, and a few of our fav Rent the Runway holiday dresses

While some people have visions of sugarplums for the holiday season, we here at ShopTalk are dreaming of something better: the perfect holiday ensemble. Luckily, Rent the Runway and Make Up For Ever are here to help. Whether you need outfit inspiration for a holiday tea or New Years Eve, these companies will show you what to wear and how to wear it this evening from 6 pm to 8 pm at Make Up For Ever in NorthPark. For those of you who are not familiar with Rent the Runway, it’s an online service that makes the latest dress and jewelry trends–seen on the runway, on celebs, and in magazines–accessible to every girl. It’s easy: just sign up, pick your perfect dress, and it’ll be delivered to your doorstep just in time for your function. They have dresses for every event imaginable and will always send you two sizes to guarantee you have the perfect fit. While you’re there, check out Make Up For Ever’s new holiday collection, “Holodiam” is perfect for anybody who wants to sparkle this season. RSVP to rsvp@renttherunway.com.

Where: Make Up For Ever
When: TONIGHT, 6 pm to 8 pm

Margaux Anbouba is a ShopTalk Intern.

Where To Shop In Dallas This Weekend

Junkadoodle Fall Flea Market: This West Lover’s Lane shop is known for their eclectic mix of merchandise – which aligns perfectly with the spirit of a flea market. From 9 am to 6 pm, shop the wares and enjoy free hot dogs and refreshments.

Tootsies Carpe Denim Trunk Show Featuring DL 1961 & Viscanio Denim:
Stop by Tootsies this weekend to find your perfect pair of  DL 1961 jeans with the help of a “denim specialist” and complimentary tailoring. There will also be snacks, cocktails and a DJ–sounds like a sweet deal to us.

Happy Hour with Dee Keller at Julep: Julep is combining some of our favorite things this weekend: shopping, wine, and shoes. The party starts at 6 pm, where you can meet shoes and handbags designer Dee Keller while checking out her fall line.

Grand Opening of Nicole Kwon Boutique: The new eponymous boutique opens doors in West Village this weekend. Check out merchandise from all over the world and the price points for all budgets.

Holmes & Yang Trunk Show at Forty Five Ten: Drop by one of Dallas’ favorite upscale boutiques this Friday to see the Holmes & Yang trunk show. Designed by actress Katie Holmes and stylist Jeanne Yang, this luxury ready-to-wear line features classics that ooze casual glamour.

Amanda Sterett Fall Trunk Show at Melanie Gayle: If you haven’t stopped by to check out Melanie Gayle’s new location in Snider Plaza, this event is the perfect excuse. Jewelry Designer Amanda Sterett’s fall line will be featured, as well as on-site wrapping of her signature Game Day Hoops in the colors of your choice.

Margaux Anbouba is a ShopTalk Intern.

Party with Piermarini at the Grand Reopening Party

New jackets. photo courtesy of piermariniboutique.com

Piermarini has moved to Snider Plaza and you’re to come celebrate. Next Thursday evening, head over to check out their fall collection–which we love–while snacking on hors d’oeuvres and champagne and soaking up the cooler weather. Piermarini’s fall merchandise features gorgeous and cozy sweaters, versatile blazers for him and her, leather leggings, zipper details, and more.

Where: Piermarini Boutique
When: Thursday, September 27, from 6 pm to 9 pm

Margaux Anbouba is a shopping intern.

Where to Shop in Dallas this Weekend

Trunk show at Pinto Ranch: Still searching for the perfect outfit for the Cattle Baron’s Ball? Look no further than Pinto Ranch. This Saturday they will be featuring Old Gringo’s line of fall cowboy boots, as well as Leaders in Leather’s handbags and accessories. Check it out Saturday from 10 am – 9 pm.

The Dallas Flea: Local vendors of both handmade and vintage clothing, furniture and jewelry are setting up shop on Saturday from 9 am – 4 pm. For $5, you can spend your Saturday exploring this stylish market, which is featuring some of our favorites like F. is for Frank, Southern Fried Paper, and The Urban Cottage.

LF‘s Last Sale of the Season: This is the last weekend of LF’s spring and summer sale. All merchandise is discounted at 60% off.

Girls Night Out and Chocolate Walk: Take a stroll through charming downtown Carrollton while enjoying in the sights, sales, live music, and chocolate. Yes, chocolate. Get those endorphins pumping as you discover great deals on clothing and jewelry (like from the Best of Big D’s Vintage Martini) while participating in raffles and indulging in chocolate. This Friday, 5 pm – 9 pm.

Julep Anniversary Sale: It’s been a busy year for the Julep, and to show their thanks they are offering a 20% off coupon. Print it out and bring it to shop the clothing, accessories, and home décor this weekend.

Margaux Anbouba is a shopping intern.

Where to Shop in Dallas this Weekend

Today’s weekend roundup is brought to you by our new shopping intern, Margaux Anbouba.

The Blues Jean Bar Mobile at Capelli Salon: The BJB Mobile, stocked up with over 30 brands of men’s and women’s jeans, is at Capelli Salon this weekend. Stop by for one-on-one fit consultations, complimentary refreshments, and a $30 dollar gift card to Capelli Salon with denim purchase. Open 10 – 7 on today and 10 – 5 on Saturday.

H.D.’s Clothing Company Paris Rendezvous 2012: Discover the latest fashions from Paris with a little help from your friends at H.D.’s. Purchases over $250 will get you a complimentary Parisian gift.

Flirt Boutique’s School’s Back Special: Shop around the store’s new fall merchandise and receive a 10% discount on your purchase when you present a valid student I.D.

Trunk Show at Tootsies: Jewelry brand Virgins, Saints, and Angels and will continue their Fashion’s Night Out trunk show into the weekend in case you missed it.