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Score Spring Fashions From These Blissful Boutiques

Wednesday, April 21st, 2010

It’s time to step out of hibernation and score some of the hottest trends in the process.  Whether it’s a cute new suit you’re after, a to-die-for dress or a classy clutch, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your style at these these LA area boutiques.  Read on for some of the looks we CRAVE.  We promise,  these  gorgeous trends are bound to put a spring in your step!

ARCADE - arcadeboutique.com

Since September 2008, ARCADE by Rochelle Gores has been bringing LA fashionistas the finest garb from hard-to-find designers.  Set in a trendy, 18th century European shopping mall “arcade,” be sure to check out haute style from international designers.  We’re totally loving this season’s Mara Hoffman bikinis and racer back cover-up.  What more could a girl want?  Whether you’re looking for the perfect gown for a special night on the town, the sweetest swimsuit on the West coast or something comfy and creative, ARCADE is your go-to.

Beige - beigestore.com

When you hear the word “beige,” what do you think?  You’re probably thinking of a color that isn’t exactly synonymous with style.  We promise, when you walk into this Beige, any preconceived notions you might have about the word and the color will be completely flipped upside-down – in a very good way.  Beige proclaims that “Beige is More Than a Color” and it most certainly is.  Head on over to Beverly Boulevard to score the hottest shoes, handbags and clothes.  We’re super smitten with this season’s homage to the one and only Jackie Kennedy Onassis.  Get your pretty presidential spirit on with ones of Black Halo’s Jackie O dresses in blue or gray.  Which is for you?  Head over to beige to snag the shade that speaks to you!

Ethel - ethelboutique.com

At Ethel, “Clothes are Heaven.”  Take one step in this sassy store and we guarantee you’ll be walking on cloud nine.  With a sizzling selection of clothing, jewelry, handbags and shoes from the season’s hottest designers, what’s not to love?  We’re suckers for the anything but traditional Ts from Stewart Brown and Laurie B.  It may be hard to choose at Ethel, but with the handpicked selections of the season’s most glamorous garments in a  gorgeous gallery, you can’t go wrong – with style or shopping experience.

happy LA – happy-la.com

Step into happy LA “the boutique by the beach” and a burst of sunshine and vitamin D won’t be the only things making you smile.  This new gem of a shop,  or should we say star(fish) of the Pacific shore, boasts a “‘mod beach’”style that will make any beach-going girl beam.  We totally CRAVE the new 5-wrap bracelets in mother of pearl or sodalite stones – they’re the perfect addition to any outfit, weather you’re grabbing a sip with the girls or out on the town in your LBD.  Cruise on over to happy LA today and you’ll be smiling for days to come.


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Treat the Whole You at The Painted Nail!

Saturday, April 17th, 2010

Katie Cazorla’s The Painted Nail isn’t just about nails.  It’s about pampering all of you!  Cazorla’s concept nail bar, located in Sherman Oaks is the perfect place for a pedicure or a manicure.  It’s also the perfect place to sit back, savor a sip (all services come with a complimentary cocktail) and relax with the girls.  Whether you CRAVE a nail party with your girlfriends or the hottest custom nail prints, waxing, eyelash extensions or some R & R reflexology, The Painted Nail is your destination.

Katie is thrilled to bring the best in nail service and more. Be sure to check out the latest and greatest from the creative connoisseur – the Boutique & Party Lounge has just been added and the Hair Bar is coming soon!  In the meantime, get familiar with Katie and The Painted Nail.  We’re CRAVING a fab treatment right now:

How would you describe your business in exactly three adjectives?
Fun, Memorable, Unique.

What are your most popular products or services?
Definitely would have to be the “Ice Cream Sundae Mani/Pedi.”  You can chose Chocolate, Vanilla or Strawberry! Yummy!  Plus people really like to buy our t-shirts, they are just like James Perse but $24 (Love It)!

People may be surprised to know…
That I was a “Stand-Up Comic” for 10 years before I opened the The Painted Nail

What or who inspires you?
People that come from “nothing to something,” whether it’s big or small.  People who make an impact or become a success story all by working hard without  expecting it to be handed to them. I love a great success story like it’s nobody’s business!

If you could choose only one nail treatment or color what would it be?
Definitely the Sorbet Sugar Mama Pedicure that we do at the nail bar.  I live for this treatment – Hot Soak, Hot Towels, Sugar Scrub, Massage, Glitter Polish in Purple – HEAVEN!

Who is your role model or mentor?
Any women who had a great idea and “WENT FOR IT”! I am so in awe of plenty of people, I could never name just one!

How do you spend your free time?
Thinking what more I can do to make my store better.  Free time makes me nervous – So I guess in my free time I SLEEP.

What is your indulgence?
Love going to Shabu Shabu, love to buy Louboutin’s.  I  love singing and dancing and love DVR Reality Shows,

What do you CRAVE? In business? In life?
I CRAVE people having a better understanding of what I am trying to do with The Painted Nail.  WE deserve a better way of getting our nails done and I want to provide that!  I CRAVE growing and showing that I CAN do this and I am not going anywhere! Bad Economy or Not, I am here to stay and better the “Nail Salon Industry!”

For more information on The Painted Nail visit thepaintednail.com or go check out the latest and greatest in nail fashion in person at 13327 Ventura Blvd. in Sherman Oaks.


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Bright, Beautiful, Blissful – We’re Craving These Blooms

Wednesday, April 14th, 2010

As hibernation comes to an end, what better way to celebrate the sun than with a bunch of your favorite flowers?  Whether you’re after the perfect peonies for mom, a carnation corsage for your prom-goer, a budding bouquet for that springtime wedding, or a pick-me-up for yourself, Los Angeles is blooming with fantastic flowers.  Be sure to check out these flower shops we CRAVE.  With so many budding options, you’ll be smelling the roses all spring long!

Botany - botanyflowers.com

Their sidewalk shop might be small, but Stacie Rubaum and Stephanie Schur share a space that is blooming with the seasons brightest and most beautiful buds.  The duo’s regulars are testament to the business’s familiar feel and the freshness of the flowers.  If you’re looking for an addition to an outstanding arrangement, be sure to score some gardening tools, candles and lotions.  We’re loving the shop’s ever-so-quaint, cozy vibe!  So head over to Botany and discover the flowers and family for yourself.

Lauryl Lane - wwwlauryllane.com

With her flair for flowers and fashion, Lauryl Lane is sure to set you up with dream flowers for your dream wedding.  Check out Lauryl’s portfolio – we’re daydreaming about the “Anthropologie Ambiance” wedding right now.   This avant-garde designer is renowned for her versatility, attention to detail, vision for creative color-texture combos and love of organic flowers.  With an ability to connect with her clients to bring their floral fantasies to life, you’re sure to find a lifetime worth of memories with Lauryl Lane’s masterpieces.

Stephanie Grace - www.stephaniegrace.com

With the personalized charm and charisma she brings to her vibrant blooming arrangements, Stephanie Grace is sure to make any event – whether it be Valentine’s Day, your wedding day or any other – a day to remember.  With Stephanie Grace, the world of flowers is blossoming with possibilities.  We’re craving her “Rebecca” arrangement right now. Beyond her floral designs, Stephanie Grace applies her vision to entire events as well.  Check out Stephanie’s latest designs, and we guarantee you’ll be floating in flower heaven.

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Peek into the CRAVE Closet

Thursday, February 25th, 2010

Our very own Melody Biringer had her closet raided! MyCloset.com, a website dedicated to airing people’s dirty laundry (literally), recently featured the CRAVEcompany founder in its scintillating Celebrity Closets installment. Among the hangers and hampers, a myriad of wardrobe gems were unearthed from all over the world. Woolen leg-warmers from Amsterdam, Ilse Jacobsen rain boots from Seattle, a bold purple dress from Vancouver, BC… how can that much cuteness exist in one closet? Lucky for us, Melody divulged a few of her shopping secrets and we can all check out her fashion favorites for ourselves. Below check out some of her most-cherished boutiques.

Moscow (moscowdesign.nl)
Runstraat 8, 1111 AA, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Horseshoe (horseshoeseattle.com)
5344 Ballard Avenue Northwest Seattle, WA 98107

Lambs Ear (lambsearshoes.com)
3516 Fremont Place No.inesgloves.com Seattle, WA 98103

Ines Gloves (inesgloves.com)
Oudezijds Achterburgwal 132 1012 DV Amsterdam, Netherlands

JC Studio (jcstudio.ca)
46 West 6th Avenue Vancouver, BC V5Y 1K1

sonja | clothes to live in (sonjatacoma.com)
2701 N 21st St, Tacoma, WA 98406

Switch Shoes (switch-shoes.com)
7871 Southwest Capitol Highway, Portland, OR 97219

For a truly in depth look into the world of women-owned boutiques, check out the CRAVEguide for a city near you. These books are brimming with local women you need to know, whether you want to satisfy a craving for your closet, appetite, business, or piece of mind.

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Put a Spring in Your Step with these Hot Colors

Monday, February 22nd, 2010


When we think of spring we think of pastels and floral prints, but those just seem a little too passé and boring. What will you be wearing this spring to spice up your wardrobe? Here are some of the color trends that you won’t want to miss out on. Pick up a few bright accessories that are both trendy and timeless.

Turquoise – We’re pretty sure this is on EVERYONE’S hot-list, along with other aqua-colored hues. This vibrant color turns every outfit up a notch, making you just exude that cool confident aura that will make you the center of attention. Splurge on a Jamie Joseph brightly colored stone ring. We love this Sea Blue Chalcedony Ring for a beautiful eye-catcher.

Light Pink – More specifically, champagnes and corals are two “light pinks” that won’t have you gagging on pastel and cotton candy. Champagne is the closest you can get to a nice neutral color while adding a little pop! And for coral, try some of Cara Lyndon’s hairpins, we recommend Coral Wheel . Whether your hair color is light or dark, this feminine flair will turn heads.

Yellow – In every shade and size. Add a dash here or there or a big bright bag to have everyone around you smiling. Evoking sunshine and happiness, everyone could stand to integrate this cheerful color into their wardrobe or even their home. Try a bright throw pillow to add to your living room, we like the yellow Gloria pillow from Henry Road. The great thing about throw pillows is, when spring is over, you can just throw them back into the closet until spring comes again!

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CRAVE LA Best of Women Owned Businesses Tour

Friday, February 19th, 2010

This past weekend CRAVE, along with a small but mighty group of local bloggers, writers, and friends, took to the streets of LA for a fun filled day of shopping and discovery.  We joined forces with Chevy’s Best of Tours to create the CRAVE LA Best of Women Owned Businesses Tour and traveled to four amazing businesses soon to be featured in the upcoming CRAVE LA guidebook. After brief hellos and an introduction to the day, we hopped in to our chauffeur-driven car of choice and got on the road. The sleek and sexy collection of Chevys included a Camaro, an Equinox (our personal favorite, well, after the red hot Camaro), a Malibu, and an Avalanche, all complete with On Star concierge service to help us navigate through the crowded streets.

Our first stop was Calleen Cordero on Beverly Blvd.  This chic boutique is filled with a carefully crafted selection of the most beautiful shoes, belts, bags, and accessories you’ve ever seen. Just as much about comfort and function as it is about high fashion, Calleen is out to “prove that hand crafted luxury can be made in the U.S.A”. All of the products are handmade right here in her North Hollywood Factory by the 45 artisans she employs.

Next we traveled across town to Santa Monica where we visited STUDIO BEAUTYMIX at Fred Segal.  The ultimate stop for beauty lovers worldwide, Studio Beautymix is truly a feast for the eyes.  Long time store manager Rosie walked us through the lavish 250 lines of makeup, fragrance, bath and body products, and accessories in the store.  She shared founder Robin Coe-Hutshing’s story and showed us some of her favorite products like their signature Memoire Liquide fragrances and brand new line Soft Corp before letting everyone loose for some power shopping!

Up next was The Drybar in Brentwood.  LA’s first blowout only salon opened their doors just one day before we visited and is already buzzing with press.  While we sipped champagne, owner Allie Webb took a few minutes to share her story.  We love the selection of fun blowouts offered like the sleek, smooth Manhattan, or the messy and beachy Mai Tai.  We adore the beautiful, bright, and modern décor too and know where we’re coming the next time we need a “big night out” ‘do.

After a full day of shopping and beautifying, we headed back across town towards Silverlake for our fourth and final destination; Valerie Confections.  A perfect ending to an indulgent day, and a very timely stop for the day before Valentine’s Day! Valerie Gordon greeted us with a huge tray of scrumptious chocolate treats all handmade on site.  Our personal favorite was their signature Almond Fleur De Sel Toffee.  Need we say more?

As we said our goodbyes, each guest went home with a very generous pile of goodies from all of the stores we visited as well as a few treats from some other special CRAVE ladies and Chevy.  Thank you to all who participated on what we think was an incredible and fun day.  We loved getting to know each and every one of you and made some great memories along the way. Lastly, we want to send a very special thank you to those strong and inspiring women for sharing their stories with us. Hat’s off to you for following your dreams. We love what you have accomplished!

Want to know what the tour was really like first-hand? Check out these short video clips from some of our favorite bloggers to see what they liked best about the tour!



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Interview with Laura Jay of Broken English Jewelry

Friday, February 12th, 2010

Valentine’s Day: a day we here at CRAVE think is perfect to pamper yourself. What a better excuse to spend the day browsing boutiques and lunching with your girlfriends! While you’re out shopping, take a peek at Broken English Jewelry. This gorgeous boutique owned by Laura Jay is where each piece of jewelry calls out to your inner glam goddess! Here you can indulge and buy yourself both stunning vintage pieces and elegant modern designs. Let’s get shopping after we check out this short interview with Laura.

What makes a great piece of jewelry?
What makes a great piece of jewelry all depends on the person who falls in love with it. Each piece appeals to different people for different reasons. I look for pieces that are bold and unique, vintage, and worn in. I like the story behind each piece; that’s what makes it special to me.

Tell us about your style?
My style is a little bit tomboy with a “Little House on the Prairie” thing going on. I’m kind of like the love child between Pocahontas, Marianne Faithful, and Jane Birkin.

People may be surprised to know-
People may be surprised to know that I grew up in a tiny little town called Springdale at the mouth of Zion National Park. I am a small town country girl at heart.

Who has inspired you?
I would have to say that my Mom and Dad are the reason that I started Broken English. They have always been my biggest fans and encouraged me to follow my dreams. I love them for that.

What is your indulgence?
Chocolate and good wine.

What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
My favorite piece of jewelry is an antique red agate cuff that I scored off a Navajo woman by the side of the road when I was 15 in Arizona. I wear that piece all the time.

What do you CRAVE?
It’s all about the journey. I CRAVE in life to be constantly evolving as a person and get to the place where I feel satisfied, but in business I never want to be satisfied I want to continue to out do myself and break the mold.

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11 Ways To Be Single on Valentine’s Day

Tuesday, February 9th, 2010

Single, taken, or “it’s complicated”… regardless of your relationship status, Valentine’s Day can frankly be very obnoxious. If you’re with someone, you’re pressured to partake in extravagant displays of lovey-dovey cuteitude against your will. If you’re single, it’s even worse. You’re brutally reminded that those millions of cheesy greeting cards with kissing puppies on the front simply aren’t meant for you. Of course Valentine’s Day isn’t all bad, but it can be tough to go solo on a day when the rest of the world seems madly in love. In an effort to give single gals out there some solace, here’s a smattering of ideas from women (and two men) on what to do on February 14th if you’re single.

  • Get all your single girlfriends together for a fun-filled night of vino and good music… that’s what I’d do. Oh and shopping too (hell make an entire day of it)! -Phaedra, Taken, Los Angles [A Very CRAVE V-Day]
  • Two words: Southern. Comfort. Now you have advice from lady AND gentleman – Corbin, Taken, Washington DC [Best "Drink Your Sorrows Away" V-Day]
  • Celebrate the Chinese New Year! -Jocelyn, Single, Woodinvile [Best V-Day Replacement Holiday]
  • I heard the trick is to not make Valentine’s Day about loving a person you are in a relationship with, but to make it about loving all the people you love. If it isn’t about one person than it can be less disappointing when you spread out the love! – Courtney, Single, Santa Clara [Sweetest V-Day Idea]
  • Remember that it’s easier to be single on Valentine’s Day than stuck in a relationship that’s going nowhere fast. -Mike, Divorced, London [Best V-Day Reality Check]
  • This might be an LA only thing…but going to Disneyland with friends is awesome, as is going to Amoeba Records by yourself. – Natasha, Single, Los Angeles [Most LA V-Day]
  • Offer to babysit for your friends with kids! -Deborah, Taken, Woodinville [Most Charitable V-Day Idea]
  • I loved my single Valentines the best! Having a dinner party (with yummy cocktails) is fun with your single friends, or taking a little trip somewhere- the ocean, a cabin, a movie- with a few friends is wonderful! Just celebrating the people you love is what it’s all about! – Carly, Taken, Camano Island [Best Girlfriends V-Day]
  • If I were single on VDAY I’d go to Vegas for sure. But that’s just me… – Ashley, Taken, Los Angeles [Best V-Day for Ladies on the Prowl]
  • It’s two weeks away…. whose to say you will be single? Also… I hear having a bonfire is great fun… and if things go awry, a fireman comes over to visit – Adrienne, Single, Santa Fe [Hottest V-Day Idea]
  • Valentine’s Day is just another day…I would go to brunch and buy yourself some flowers. – Jess, Taken, San Diego [Best "Celebrate Yourself" V-Day Idea]

So there you have it. Booze, babysitting, brunch or bonfires – whatever you do, you definitely do not need a beau to enjoy your Valentine’s Day this year. Have fun!

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The Paris Haute Couture Shows

Thursday, February 4th, 2010

The Paris Haute Couture fashion shows are unlike any other fashion experience you have ever had, seen or heard of. True to what couture is, this kind of fashion is definitely one-of-a-kind. Showcasing their spring and summer couture collections, the French designers filled the runways with whimsical, wonderful and weird creations this season. There was bizarre head-wear at Jean Paul Gaultier (shocking, right?), Lady-Gaga-inspired hairdo’s at Chanel, and clothes with a strong space-age feel at Armani Prive.

Like Hilary Alexander, fashion director of The Daily Telegraph in London, says, the couture shows are a “laboratory of dreams”. Made to fit exactly to the wearers specifications, these one-off creations aren’t something you will see another girl at the club wearing – they are far from anything worn in everyday life. True haute couture is art. Its the kind of clothing that makes for a lush, other-worldly Vogue fashion spread. Its usually impractical and at prices that rival a small house or car, its the best kind of fashion fantasy.

This season, Chanel seemed to be channeling the great Lady Gaga with hairdo’s resembling giant bows or ears, but their colorful collection had us drooling from start to finish. Actually, it seemed like everyone was feeling the Lady Gaga vibe on the catwalks this season. The Jean Paul Gaultier headpieces looked like something we might see Ms. Gaga sporting at the next awards show, and a balloon bubble dress from Armani Prive looked like something she might rock down a red carpet any day now. If not Lady Gaga, then the architectural, space-agey dresses from Armani would definitely look fabulous on any future astronaut/fashionista. Finally, the pieces at Stephane Rolland were escapism and futuristic fashion-as-artwork at its best with laser cut Plexiglass forming coils and crenelations on shoulders and pockets.

Across the board, this year’s couture shows were all about pastel colors and Lady Gaga-inspired style. Haute couture may not be made for a trip to the grocery store, or even your next birthday party, but the shows are spectacular and the pieces are a work of art in themselves. Vive la Haute Couture!

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Interview with Jeannie Lee of Satine

Friday, January 29th, 2010

 

Los Angeles fashionsitas will love Satine, where they can find both major international fashion brands and unique indie labels. Owner Jeannie Lee says she is inspired by global fashions and has completed her expansive collection of everything from handbags to lingerie to classy trousers to include both luxurious pieces and those that reflect the quirky style of Southern California. You can join the Los Angeles fashionistas who shop at this chic boutique on 3rd Street or shop from the comfort of your living room by visiting the website www.satineboutique.com. Meet Jeannie Lee, the brilliant mind behind this shopping hot spot. 
 
How do you design fashion that sells in California AND is marketable across the globe?
 California clients are more tactile, meaning they are sensitive to anything that does not feel soft, and of course there is the fact that the climate is much milder than in most parts of the world. But overall, buying for a California store is not really that different.
 
What are your most popular products?
 Alaia and Balenciaga shoes, all things Isabel Marant, and our own Satine label.
 
People may be surprised to know…
 Most people who work in high fashion still shop at Target.

 Who inspired you to start your business?
 My mother has great style and took us with her shopping when we were growing up.  I literally grew up in boutiques, so it seemed natural to go into the business……
 
Where do you like to go with your fellow fashionistas? Your favorite shopping location?
 Rose Bowl Flea Market.
 
What is you favorite piece of clothing you own?
 A vintage Chanel military jacket.
 
What do you CRAVE? In business? In life?
 In both business and life, I crave tremendous success and happiness for my colleagues, friends, and family.

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