Coterie: Spring 2012

/ Monday, September 26, 2011 /
Twice a year, retailers from all over the world gather in the Big Apple with one purpose: fill their boutiques with amazing clothes for the next season! Going to market can be overwhelming and exhausting, but tons of fun all at the same time. Not to mention that it can be hard to look at the next season just as we are getting into the current one. All I want to do is buy boots and sweaters, so looking at tank tops and sandals seems crazy. But, onward and upward to spring 2012!

Taking place in the Javits Center (a convention space that can feel more like an airplane hangar in size), there are literally thousands of vendors there, showing clothing, shoes, bags, jewelry, hats and more. Every booth is decorated to the nines and shows the personality of the brand. My favorite, to no ones surprise, is Milly. I want my apartment to look like their temporary showroom! The wallpaper! The chandeliers! The furniture! Oh, and all the clothes would look great in my closet, too...



While we are on the topic of Milly, I might as well show you some of their super cute bags and shoes.  They teamed up with everyone's favorite boat shoe purveyor, Sperry Topsider, for a fresh new look for spring. The floral and bright colored bags are also looking lovely.


 



I always feel a bit like a kid in a candy store--everywhere I looked is something beautiful that I want to take home RIGHT THIS MINUTE! It is definitely an exercise in patience, since we all have to wait months and months until we see these pieces in stores. A practiced eye (like Bob and Martha's) is necessary to wade through the madness and buy for your customers, not just you!

We saw all the Cotton Mill favorites and they are looking AWESOME. Here is quick run-down on who we saw:

  • DVF
  • Tibi
  • By Smith
  • Shoshanna
  • Vince
  • Yoanna Baraschi
  • Milly
  • Rebecca Taylor
  • Badgley Mischka
  • Alice + Olivia
  • Halston Heritage
  • Kirribilla
  • Nicole Miller
PLUS, there are some new lines that might be in the mix, but I'm going to wait to let the cat out of the bag on those. Be on the lookout for more Coterie posts this week! 

Meet the New Manager: Erin

/ Thursday, September 22, 2011 /
The Cotton Mill is proud to introduce our new manager, Erin Foley! Hailing from Hunstville, Alabama,  Nashville newbie Erin moved here in December with her husband. When she is not styling up a storm at the Mill, you might find her jogging the streets of Nashville, enjoying time with friends, or lounging at the beach (a girl after my own heart!). Let's get to know her!





What is your fashion background?
My fashion career started in 1999 at Luna's Boutique in Charlotte, NC. I have continued to manage small boutiques over the years, such as Luna and Intermix. I love working with people and helping them to feel great in their clothes.

How would you describe your person style?
I would say that my style is classic but with an edge.  I love having and effortless and cool feel to my outfits, incorporating some trends.

Who are your favorite designers?
Tom Ford. I love Gucci and Dior, too.  Michael Kors always has the best red carpet dresses.  In the store right now, I would have to say Alice + Olivia. Their comfy sweaters, stripes, and sequined details are amazing.

Who are some of your fashion inspirations?
Halle Berry, Eva Mendes, and Jennifer Aniston. You can always count on them to look classic, sexy, and timeless.


What trends do you love for fall?
Sequins, leather, fur vests, bold bright colors, and open-toe booties!


What is the one essential must-have for fall?
A great leather jacket. Every woman needs one in her closet!

We heart Style Blueprint!

/ Wednesday, September 7, 2011 /
We already knew the lovely ladies at Style Blueprint have great taste, but we were super excited when they included us in their September Finds post! They picked out two of our amazing faux fur pieces, which are perfect for layering in this finicky chilly fall weather. Head over there and check it out!

Neutral Palettes

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One of the things I am most excited about this fall are the amazing neutrals popping up everywhere from Tibi to Vince to Alice + Olivia!  Creamy nudes, dove grays,  bright navy, rosy coral...I love it all, mixed together and set off with a pop of bright color in the accessories.

Here are a few from Tibi that I'm OBSESSING over.

A thin belt adds shape to a chunky sweater. Also, I'm crazy about the chunky knit socks with the ankle booties.

Try a more cropped top with a higher waisted pant to lengthen those legs.

 Is it wrong that I love shorts more in the winter than the summer? Because I do.

This pale pink with the off-white pattern is so lovely and lady-like. 
 
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