Charleston Shop Curator

Charleston Fashion Week Streetstyle – Friday Night

The people watching at  Charleston Fashion Week is always the highlight for me.  Sometimes I don’t even feel like I’m in Charleston, and where do these beautiful creatures come from?  There’s nothing like seeing people decked out in the middle of Marion Square.

Photography by Clifford Pate

Style Through the Decades

March is Women’s History and I’m so proud to team up with Kristen Fanarakis of Senza Tempo for Style Through the Decades.  Our love and appreciation of vintage fashion is a constant influence – her with design and me with style.  There was a time when women’s wardrobe was very concise and selective, and fast fashion wasn’t even a thought.  Senza Tempo‘s philosophy of timeless luxury wardrobe essentials that are made in America is something that more women are embracing.

We are at a pivotal time in history where women are again at the forefront, voicing our opinion and standing up for our rights.  Fashion comes in cycles and so does history.

Kristen wears necklace from Croghan’s Jewel Box, rings from Gold Creations, Andrea wears earrings from Croghan’s Jewel Box, rings from Gold Creations

In the 20’s women finally liberated themselves from their wardrobe and way of life.  Corsets and modesty were traded for shorter lengths and leaner silhouettes. The era was known for decadent parties and a carefree attitude and the wardrobe reflected that.

The 30’s – 40’s were a more understated glamour. Hollywood starlets influenced the trends and everyone wanted to duplicate the look.  The introduction of the ensemble – the matching top and skirt, was a popular style.

The ultra feminine hourglass shape reflected the idealized look and attitude of women in the 50’s.  It was a complicated mix of conservatism and glamour.  Shorts and pants were finally staples in women’s wardrobes.

Kristen wears earrings from Croghan’s Jewel Box, rings from Gold Creations

The 60’s were a varied contrast of prim and proper to another rise in liberation and style.   In the early 60’s the decade reflected the elegance of Jackie O.  The first lady set mainstream trends and became a style icon that is still relevant today.  Women were becoming more socially conscious and wanted to be agents of change.  Later in the decade women pushed the envelope by experimenting with style.  The mod, futuristic look was their nod to progression.

Kristen wears earrings from Croghan’s Jewel Box, rings from Gold Creations

Andrea wears Columbus neck collar from Jahde Leather Atelier

The rebellious spirit of the 70’s influenced everything from fashion, to music, to a more liberated lifestyle.  Music heavily influenced the styles, especially rock n’ roll and disco.   With the rise of social consciousness women began to develop a personal style rather than being dictated by the elite fashion houses.

The saying is so true – “What goes around comes Around” and what’s old is new again.  As we progressed, the 90’s were influenced by the 60’s and 70’s and now in 2018, the 90’s are trending.  I’m so grateful I am surrounded by forward thinking women and many who are entrepreneurs here in Charleston.  Ladies, we’ve come a long way, but we still have so much work to do.  At least we can do it in style and look good doing it!

Photography by Nicole Mickle,  Makeup – Elina Mille at Bellelina Studio, Hairstylist – Lauren Elise Hall at Updos for I Do’s, on location at Vintage Lounge,  earrings by Jahde Leather Atelier

Street Teaming at the Charleston Wine & Food Festival

It was such an honor to be a part of Charleston Wine and Food Festival’s Street Team again this year.  The festival knocked it out of the park, outdoing themselves with bigger and more innovative ways to share food culture.  With well known chefs and alcohol brands from all around the world every event was an experience stimulating all of the senses. My round up of events covered everything from baking biscuits with Carrie Morey of Callie’s Biscuits to a decadent brunch entertained by drag queens.  Besides getting to indulge in the best food and drinks you can consume in one sitting, I love the sense of community these events evoke.  It’s so refreshing to see a gathering of people of all cultural backgrounds come together because we all believe that eating great food with a drink in hand, is our happy place.

What does is mean to be on the street team for Charleston Wine and Food Festival?  I was able to attend events that I wanted to highlight and promote on my social media.  Since I’m not a big drinker I went to food focused events that were both hands on and had some entertainment value.  My partner in crime was Liz Martin AKA the Charleston Weekender.   We got to play Instagram wifey and provided each other with some comic relief.  I’m so glad I got to bump into a lot of my fellow street teamers this year like The Cocktail Bandits, Charleston Food Writer, Jai Eats, Holy City Handcraft, Queen of the Foodage, Sweet Southern Prep, and Snoop Natty Nat.

Photos by Libby Williams, Bus from Lowcountry Valet, balloons from Cannonborough Collective

I’ll start with the last event (and maybe my most favorite) and work my way back.  The Queens on King drag brunch was out of control amazing!  Set at the William Aiken house, it was southern decadence at it’s best.  Monica Van Pelt of Lips Atlanta was the host of the show and brought the flashiest girls from Atlanta to Charleston.  We started out with cocktails topped with cotton candy from Pure Fluff Co. and breakfast bites from soon to be open Daps.

What do you wear to a drag brunch?  Me and the Charleston Weekender opted for a monochromatic look – suit and PJ’s.  My outfit is from from Rachel Roy – Mint leaf blazer $139, Sailor Jogger Pants $99, Tarah Top $79.  You can shop the links and when you use CHARLESTONSHOP20 at checkout you receive 20% off!  These sunglasses by Blue Planet Eyewear are my new favorite and they’re only $55.

Brunch is my favorite meal of the day and Saturday was another breakfast bonanza for the #brunchsquad event at The Workshop.  What does a brunch squad entail?  We divided up into teams headed by a well known chef and learned how to cook/bake a dish enough for hundreds of people.  Once those dishes were ready they were brought out to us on the great lawn and we stuffed ourselves while we enjoyed sweet beats by a dj. The inspiring Ellen Bennett of Hedley & Bennett was the host along with sponsors Cherry Bombe Magazine and Williams Sonoma.  Talk about a lot of girl power!

Innovative food like these ice cream drumsticks were just some of the fun dishes on the line up.

The only bad thing about the Charleston Wine and Food Festival is coming off that high. After days of eating my heart out I’m already going through withdrawals.  The reality of cooking for myself at home has set in, but thank God I have plenty of my favorite local spots I can always treat myself to.  I’m looking forward to seeing what the 2019 festival has in store!

View more to find out about my all food adventures.

Photo by Jonathan Boncek

Room with a Vieux

Whether your hosting a Galentine’s/Valentine’s dinner, shopping for last minute Valentine’s gifts,  or looking for a wedding registry that’s a little more local and personal, Vieuxtemps is the ultimate gift boutique to shop at.  Their fine china and glassware is some of the chicest I’ve ever seen.  Offering the largest selection of china, crystal and silver in Charleston, you can’t help but to swoon over the gorgeous place setting options.

This green combination is perfect for a an outdoor garden party.

Deshoulieres Blue Arcades Dinner Plate with Annie Glass Edgey Charger from Vieuxtemps // Gold flatware from West Elm Charleston // Flowers by Petaloso

William Yeoward Juliet Waisted Vase from Vieuxtemps // Flowers by Petaloso // Jewelry by Temple St. Clair from Croghan’s Jewel Box

This art deco inspired fine china is decadent and you can have your initials engraved on this silverware.

Waterford Crystal with Crystal Cube Salt and Pepper Set, Mepra Silverware, and Haviland Hollywood Place Setting  from Vieuxtemps

White cold shoulder jumpsuit $68 from Mulberry & King // Jewelry from Croghan’s Jewel Box // Razzle Champange Flute from Vieuxtemps

This hinge vase makes a statement and you can surprise your loved one with a note in the hand painted Italian “Love Bird”.   If you want to dazzle your guests and be the hostess with the mostess, you must make a trip to Vieuxtemps to pick up those special details.

Hinged Flower Vase by Pickard, Trousdale Dinner Plate and Herend Golden Laurel Dessert Plate, with the exquisite William Yeoward Crystal Flavia with the square base  from Vieuxtemps// Rose gold flatware from West Elm Charleston

How pretty is this Clara Williams necklace from Croghan’s Jewel Box on this fine China from Vieuxtemps?  Swing by Croghan’s Jewel Box for their Clara Williams trunk show today and their Temple St. Clair trunk show Friday and Saturday at 308 King Street.

Photography by Nicole Mickle, on location at The Parsonage

Love Sensation

I can’t believe it’s already February!  Where did the time go?  Luckily I can feel that spring is around the corner, which means a change of wardrobe and Valentine’s Day.  I’ll be sharing a lot things on this post starting with this dress from Mulberry and King.  I was eyeing it at the Champagne Society at The Skinny Dip a couple of weeks ago when the founders Meghan and Meredith were speaking.  I loved hearing their story about starting a successful online store, how could you not want to support these two boss moms??

Rose gold is still having a moment, and it’s not going anywhere.  I love these rings from Gold Creations, especially the morganite ones. The pale pink stone on the rose gold is too good.  The flowers are from Petaloso, and I’m so lucky I have a good friend who is both talented and has great taste.  Flowers add so much life and vibrancy in photos and who doesn’t love fresh flowers?  I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more pretty arrangements popping up on my blog more frequently.

This cute little macaroon jewelry box from Vieuxtemps is the cutest thing and it comes in a array of pastel colors.  Perfect for storing your jewelry when your travelling, but don’t try to eat them, they’re not edible.

But these cupcakes from Cupcake sure are!  I’ll be featuring them on my Lowcountry Live Valentine’s segment today at 10am alongside Island Haus Paperie, Stella Nova at Mt. Pleasant Towne Centre, and Holy Spokes Bike Share.  I’m also doing an instagram giveaway with Cupcake and Holy Spokes Bike Share, click here to check out the latest posts and enter to win!

These rose gold beauties are by Pilar Cuadros, a Peruvian brand I discovered from my friend Romel Oliveria.   I love supporting home grown brands across the globe, especially when they make gorgeous shoes.

Today is also National Wear Red Day to raise awareness on women’s heart health.  The American Heart Association’s national movement to end heart disease and stroke in women has been a huge campaign and I’m happy to spread the word.  I hope I see a lot of red on the streets in Charleston today!

Photography by Nicole Mickle, on location at The Parsonage

Frolicking Frocks

As 2017 draws to a close I’m wrapping it up with a couple of my favorite party looks.  This dress by Alexis at Beckett is a dream and the perfect to transition from winter into spring. This Upper King boutique has the most covetable collection of clothing and brands that are exclusive to Charleston.  They carry on trend Aussie brands like Rebecca Vallance and Lover the Label and when you wear one of their pieces it makes you feel you instantly cool.

The Fantasy Garden collection from Candy Shop Vintage is full of whimsical jewelry adorned with unicorns, bumble bees, and flowers.  Designer Deirdre Zahl teamed up with 125 year old jewelry company Ciner to produce her latest collection.  Her adorable Cannon Street shop is packed with vintage jewelry as well as other local designers and fun accessories from brands from all over.

Jeslyn Dress by Alexa from Beckett $560 // The Unicorn Collar Fantasy Necklace $395, Rhinestone Bee earrings (Crystal) $135 from Candy Shop Vintage

This dress from Mulberry & King is a knock out, especially when it’s under $100!  Unfortunately it’s sold out but they have plenty of other great party dresses that are perfect for a New Year’s Eve bash.  You’ve got to follow them on Instagram to keep up to date on the latest releases because they’re known for selling out quick on certain styles.  The online boutique based here in Charleston is run by 2 girl bosses and best friends – Megan and Meredith.  I have so much respect for theses women who can juggle young little ones while being successful mompreneurs.  I featured Mulberry & King a couple of weeks ago on Lowcountry Live along with Beckett and Candy Shop Vintage for my holiday outfits segment, you can watch the video here if you need some last minute ideas.

If your looking to drop any hints for last minute gift ideas that are sure to dazzle then Croghan’s Jewel Box is the place.  Specializing in fine jewelry, they also have a gorgeous collection of estate jewelry and playful costume jewelry at every price range.  I love following them on Instagram to see the latest baubles and engagements with their rings.  This family run business is over 100 year old and the 4th generation is just as excited to carry on the legacy.  They also carry gifty items for special occasions and something for the man in your life.  Goblets, silver trays, vases, flasks, engravable photo albums, and feathered bow ties are just some of the treasures you’ll find on their shelves.

  I’m so grateful for all of the opportunities and collaborations with all of the local talent here in Charleston.  It’s pretty incredible how many people I get to connect with on a daily basis through my blog, social media, and Lowcountry Live, these are the experiences that make my life fulfilling.   I’m so proud to see my city grow and all of the entrepreneurs and emerging talent that are thriving here.   I look forward to keep on exploring and enjoying new experiences with my family and loved ones in 2018.  Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas holiday and prosperous New Year!

I’m signing off for the rest of the year on my blog but you can keep up with me on my Instagram and see you in 2018!

Blue lace peplum dress and Black fringe heel with pearl trim $36 from Mulberry & King // Sterling Silver Wallace Water Goblet $450, 14k lapis and diamond earrings $2,980, 14k 12mm freshwater pearl fluid ring $1,915, 14k yellow gold mabe pearl diamond ring $2,950, 18k sapphire diamond pave mummy ring $7,500, 14k turquoise and diamond ring $1,950, 14k Tahitian pearl fluid cuff bracelet $1,915, 14k freshwater fluid pearl cuff bracelet $2,020 all from Croghan’s Jewel Box

Photography by Kim Graham, Manicure by Mylk Bar, on location at 12 State Street listed with Handsome Properties

Star Light, Star Bright

I can’t believe that Christmas is 1 week away!  I rounded up some wearable gift ideas for your last minute shopping from House of Sage and Ash Hoffman.   House of Sage is running a 12 days of Christmas sale from now until December 24th.  If you like jeans then this is your lucky day because it’s 20% off all denim.  Check out their Facebook page for daily deals including 20% off the entire store on December 23rd.  Their prices are already pretty amazing so stock up for yourself and gifts for that fashion girl in your life.

 Ash Hoffman is based in Myrtle Beach and has many fans here in Charleston including me.  She makes the coolest custom jewelry, but you still have time to shop online for her handcrafted boho chic jewels. I love stacking her jewelry to make a statement.  Follow Ash on Instagram to see the latest designs and her cute 12 days of Christmas ideas for last minute stocking stuffers.

My glitter ombre mani is by Mylk Bar, Charleston’s eco-nail bar located in Mt. Pleasant.  The color is Brentwood Wives and I had to get a gel so I could stay festive through the New Year.

Crushed Velvet Belle Sleeve Top by Olivaceous $66,  Jeans by Mink Pink,  Luxe Fur Jacket by Mink Pink $160,  Charisma Suede Booties by Chinese Laundry $94 all from House of Sage // Kristine earrings with diamonds $4,190, To the Moon and Back in yellow gold $225, Maria stacked rings with diamond $175, Meghan yellow gold stacked rings $175 each, Caroline thick hammered band ring $275,  Silver band with black diamonds $425 all handmade by Ash Hoffman // Luxury Wig Flatscreen sunglasses by Raen $150 from Zappos 

Photography by Kim Graham, on location at 12 State Street listed with Handsome Properties