To be chic in Paris

The first thing I think of when I see a striped t-shirt not unlike the one pictured above is a very chic French woman. Cliche? Perhaps, but isn't it true. Over the years I've read books and articles about the way French women dress, live and eat. It's been somewhat of a fascination for me for a long time. Probably since I was in college. The key to their sartorial success is quality over quantity. I think I've touched on this topic in some of my past posts, so that really means I'm a firm believer.
The following items are what I think are essentials for a French inspired wardrobe. First, a stripe t-shirt. This is actually a very versatile piece. When paired with slim jeans and black ballet flats, it is the perfect choice to show a flair for pattern and ease. When worn with a black tulip skirt and whimsical heels, it is transformed into a dressy work staple.
The second item is a classic khaki trench coat. The most important feature to pay attention to when selecting a trench coat is the fit. It must be perfect in the shoulders and body width. You can always have the sleeves tailored. Hold out for the best fit in the shoulders, and it'll be with you for many years.
The third item is a white, cream or ivory blouse. It doesn't have to be a button down oxford style. Find a style that you like with one special detail. It could be a tie at the neck or a scalloped button placket. Once you find a blouse that suits you, pairing it with jeans and a pencil skirt will be so effortless.
I've noticed that coats and shoes are high on a French woman's priority list. To see pictures of French fashion, check out Lucky Magazine's Street Style. Their latest Paris edition is full of ideas and modern interpretations of classic French style. Enjoy and have a pleasant weekend!

Wren Spring 09 at Josef

Hello there! We are so excited to share our new Wren Spring pieces with you. Clockwise from top left are the Sepia Skirt in white and brown, the Ink Blot Tee in white and black, the Anorak in khaki, and the Button Front Shorts in navy blue. The tee and anorak look great with the skirt and the shorts - 4 pieces yield 2 outfits.
Our favorite piece is the anorak because of its versatility. Wear it in the rain and then on crisp Spring days. You can also wear it with jeans casually and then with cute summer dresses and skirts. It's super lightweight and easy to pack when you're traveling.
Check out our new Wren pieces during our shopping event benefiting the Family Service Agency of San Mateo County and receive 10% off only on Saturday, March 14th. See you soon!

Twinkle Spring: group 2 at Josef

We're happy to present group 2 of our Twinkle by Wenlan Spring collection. In this group from left to right, we have the Full Bloom Skirt with front scallop detail and 2 back patch pockets. The fabric is a light summer tweed of black and white cotton and is fully lined. It would go great with the Twinkle Ariel Tank and summer flat sandals.
In the middle is the Desk Set Top in 100% cotton with contrasting black collar and tie at neck. The collar is sewn down to create a trompe-l'œil effect. Pair this cute cotton tee with the Found Agatha Wide Leg Jeans and gold drop earrings for the perfect summer go-to outfit.
On the right we have the Paraplus Dress in cinder, which is mushroom taupe in color. The fabric is a rayon lycra blend and has a banded hem, puff sleeves and sash belt at waist. The front pleating and 2 slit pockets makes this body unique. Try wearing it with black ankle wrap sandals and delicate jewelry to create a casual and comfortable everyday look.
All the pieces from Twinkle's group 2 are wonderful entry level pieces that will allow you to dress casually, but to the nines.
We hope to see you this Saturday for our Shopping Event benefitting the Family Service Agency of San Mateo County. If you attend from 11am to 6pm, these pieces will all be 10% off. We'll have mini cakes, music and a fun day of shopping!

Family Service Agency of San Mateo County

Happy Monday everyone! We hope you had a great weekend. It was nice and sunny here in San Mateo over the weekend, a very pleasant break from the weekends of rain we've been having. We wanted to remind you of our shopping event this Saturday, March 14th, from 11am to 6pm. It will benefit the Family Service Agency of San Mateo County.

Shoppers will receive 10% off fully priced merchandise and enjoy goodies from Sweet Breams in Downtown San Mateo. Our new Spring collections are in store now. We hope to see you this Saturday in support of our event!