It’s that time of the year when most people are vitamin D deprived, done skiing, and ready for early sun-setting nights to come to an end. Although the spring equinox has come and gone on the calendar, it may not look like it outside your window.

As a mompreneur, wife, Girl Scouts leader, etc. I, as well as many others, are ready to overcome the cold weather woes and pack up and head to the nearest (sometimes the furthest) beach possible. Whether or not you have young children or you're just prepping fora much-needed vacation, I want to share my favorite vacation must-haves.

1. Casual (yet fashionable) Sandal

I will always travel with a pair of Converse and pair them with everything, BUT not everyone is comfortable doing that, so for everyone else bring a casual (yet fashionable) practical sandal. A pair that can be worn with a basic tee and shorts during the day and then a midi dress for dinner in the evening.

The cold winter weather is still lingering, but spring is just around the corner! Whether you're vacationing or staycationing these last few weeks of winter, here are some bold trends that will have you dreaming of spring.

Floral Embroidery

Reminiscent of the flowers to come! Not only do florals leave us longing for spring, embroidery takes us back to the 90's.  Stemming from Gucci's love of embroidery - everything from jeans to handbags, this trend has finally hit the streets. Embroidery can elevate any item, turning simple pieces into beautiful must-haves. This Alice + Olivia "Launa" Embroidered dress is the perfect use of floral embroidery, bringing a simple cocktail dress from dull to daring.

Stripes

Stripes are one of our favorite trends right now as they give dimension to many of our garments. We carry several stripped pieces at Queen Anna, including Chan Luu's blue and white "Lolita" dress. Stripes carry contrasting powers, giving the appearance of a slimmer or fuller build, depending on how they are placed. They also give contrast in a subtle way. This trend provides many options and it all starts with the simple stripe. 

One-Piece Swimsuits

Perfect for a midwinter vacation, the one-piece swimsuit is making a comeback this year! The unspoken swimwear rule of "less is more" has been prevailing over the last several years, making coverage the new standout statement. Add Venice Maillot's "Marysia Swim" swimsuit to your packing list. The yummy bright orange hue will complement your tropical poolside drink.

Midi Skirts

We love the sophistication of a midi skirt, which is of course why we carry the gorgeous C/MEO Check "We Woke Up" Skirt. The mini, micro mini, and full-length skirt lengths have all come and gone. With the midi skirt falling just below the calf, it's an ideal length for both work and play. Not to mention it's fresh and sophisticated!

Tropical Prints

At Queen Anna, we are all about bold prints! The C/MEO Ivory Floral "Vanish" Pant from our boutique is definitely for the aspiring trendsetter. The tropical print gives both a playful and striking look, and of course, keeps us dreaming of warm weather destinations.

Denim Jumpsuits

Who doesn't love denim? Moving beyond traditional jeans and jackets, this Ali & Jay Chambray "Jungle Garden" Jumpsuit provides the denim look with a soft, rich and comfortable feel. Easily dress it up or down with just the switch of shoes and accessories. Customize this effortless spring outfit even further by adding an undershirt, a cozy cashmere duster or an embellished leather jacket for the fluctuating spring temperatures. The possibilities are endless!

Rainbow Sweater 

Want to add some color to your wardrobe with one simple piece? Meet the season's bright rainbow trend. Thanks to the recent runway shows of Gucci, Chanel, and Giorgio Armani - all designers that incorporated some form of the rainbow pattern into their pieces. Jump in on this trend by pairing Chinti and Parker's "Striped Cashmere" sweater with a leather pencil skirt or your favorite pair of boyfriend jeans. 

Whether you're shopping with us at Queen Anna or looking for fashion inspiration, we hope you're as excited for the upcoming season as we are! 

We'd love to hear... what trend are you most looking forward to?

Super Bowl weekend is here, and whether your favorite team is playing or not, we’ll make sure your style is winning. Although the game isn’t until Sunday night, the city will be filled with glamorous parties and social events throughout the week. Thanks to the Minnesota winter climate dressing for these events can be a bit of a challenge, but we have some head-turning pieces here at Queen Anna and a few of our favorite stores that are sure to land you on the best-dressed list. Layering is important with the expected temperatures, so don’t forget to accessorize.

Here are our top party weekend picks:

Chan Luu Matte Sequin Vienna Blouse

Pair this top with black skinnies, a classic pump and a statement jacket for a super sleek but casual look. Sequins are this season’s effortless trend! Available at Queen Anna.

Eliza J Metallic Pleated Maxi Skirt

Elegant enough for the finest parties, yet fun enough for your favorite bar. Pair this gold maxi skirt with a black tank (or the Chan Luu Vienna Blouse!) and sleek coat for a chic party-ready look. Available at Nordstrom.

DREW Eve Velvet Blazer

Bringing “menswear chic” to a new level. Pair this ultra-soft blazer with a silk tank and flare pants for a retro-take on the classic pantsuit. Available at Queen Anna.

Lamarque Cordelia Wool Coat

No need to sacrifice great style to bundle up. This Lamarque coat is full of movement and is the perfect piece to take you around the city in cold temperatures all week long. Available at Queen Anna.

Kira Crochet Ruffle Dress

Red is always a good idea – it is February after all. Crochet details and flutter shoulders make this flirty party dress a winter winner. Available at Nordstrom.

Hexorn “Out of the Darkness” Necklace

A simple quartz necklace to add elegance to any look. Available at Queen Anna.

Alice & Olivia Soshana Mini Dress

Wearing white in winter has never felt so right. A sleek off the shoulder silhouette with a collar neck pairs perfectly with statement heels for your big night out. Available at Net-A-Porter.

Wish Desert Storm Dress

With an asymmetrical hem and flounce details, this dreamy cocktail dress is ideal for dancing and socializing. Pair with a faux fur wrap for a bold winter look. Available at Queen Anna.

Alexander Wang Buffalo Plaid Dress

Nothing says winter like buffalo plaid. Comfortable and on-trend this long sleeve dress checks all the boxes for those “not too dressy, not too casual” events. Pair with tights and booties for a night out in Minneapolis. Available at One Posh Closet.

Ganni Lace Mini Dress

Did someone say cocktail party? Covered in lace, with a high neck and scalloped edge sleeves you’ll be party ready in this LBD. Available at Net-A-Porter.

Bebe Cape Sleeve Jacket

The silhouette of this jacket screams showstopper! Get game-time ready with this cape-style jacket. Available at One Posh Closet.

Rebecca Minkoff Pebbled Leather Moto Jacket

For your events during the day, pair this jacket with skinnies and white sneakers for ultimate girl-on-the-go vibes. Comfortable and edgy!

Here at Queen Anna, we get to present our clients an experience with the brands we love. Most recently, our coveted leather designer, Aleem Arif of Bano eeMee flew to Minneapolis from Toronto with a few suitcases of leathers in tow. After a much successful showcase, we met up with him for a quick Q/A. For those who were not able to make it to the event, you’re in for a treat.

Aleem, your leather designs are just beautiful! You brought along the S/S18 Collection, and I noticed more usage of shape. What’s, was the creative process here?

I start with inspiration that I find all around me through my travels and architecture. I create designs that are unique yet timeless and will evolve to become wardrobe staples in my customer's closets. With every sketch, choice of leather and hardware I strive to create the world’s best leather jackets.

Do you remember your first leather jacket? If so, what was it?

My first leather jacket was a tan biker style leather jacket inspired by icons who made leather jackets “cool” like Joan Jett and Madonna. The coat was designed to encourage confidence, power and a sense of independence

When did you start designing?

I used to work on Wall Street before switching my career to fashion design five years ago. I have always loved fashion and being creative, and I decided to pursue my dream and challenge myself instead of doing what was safe or expected. I chose leather as my medium of artistic expression, and today I am very grateful to be working in the creative industry and following my dream and creating amazing leather jackets.

A question for the aspiring designers out there, how did you get where you are today?

Passion has always driven me and being persistent. Fashion is a robust industry to make a mark especially when you are self-taught, but I did not give up and kept pushing forward. I accepted criticisms and used them to fuel my drive to succeed. I was selected as the top emerging North American designer in 2014 and have met and styled who’s who of the US and Canada in my leathers. I am incredibly grateful for this recognition.

With each piece (leather jackets) being so unique, is there a commonality among your designs?

I always stay true to my product which is well-made leather jackets. I get inspired by my travels, people I meet, social and environmental issues and architecture. I embed these stories into my design through textures, choice of cut, color, and print thereby elevating what was a regular leather jacket to a Bano eeMee leather jacket that exudes uniqueness, attention to detail while still being wearable.

Does your style influence your collections?

My style positively influences my designs. I always think of practicality and how my jackets should enhance my customers’ wardrobes and be comfortable to wear with what they already own. I travel a lot, so I want my pieces to be light, great travel pieces that can be styled in lots of different ways so that my customers get lots of wear out of their Bano eeMee.

The perforated blazer, Adria, is a personal favorite that I pair with everything. Tell me, which one is your favorite?

It’s tough to pick just one design, but that said I love AGUA: an organza/ leather mixed media bomber I designed that the likes of Lady Gaga were styled in.

It is such an honor to be able to share a wealth of knowledge with our followers at Queen Anna. Aleem is one of many designers that will be highlighted this year so make sure you follow along. 

The most festive month of the year has finally arrived! 

As we usher in a month full of holiday parties, family gatherings and chilly weather, we say hello to luxurious textures, classic holiday hues and trend-forward silhouettes.

Take a scroll through some of our top holiday picks. You'll find a mixture of pieces suited for all occasions. Cheers! 

C/MEO "We Woke Up" Skirt

Stand out from the crowd in this unique C/MEO plaid circle skirt. The volume and silhouette make a bold statement that can be dressed up or down for endless holiday events.  

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Keepsake Black "Exhale" Top 

Featuring velvet polka dots on a sheer black mesh, this top is fashion-forward and perfect for winter festivities. Pair with classic black trousers for a work party or tuck into a flirty skirt for a holiday soiree. 

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 C/MEO "Fatal Lines" Pant

Who says dressing up has to involve an actual dress? These flared trousers in a charming rose color pair perfectly with a silk blouse to make a showstopping holiday outfit. This unique hue plays well with cream, slate grey, and forest green.  

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 C/MEO Black "Circuit Is" Top

Exaggerated sleeves are one of the hottest trends this holiday season. This black top is versatile, figure flattering, and easy to accessorize, making it an excellent wardrobe addition.  

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 C/MEO Red "Allude Is" Dress

An elegant choice for a New Years Eve gala, a winter wedding, or any other special occasion. The bold red color and cascading ruffles make the piece an absolute stunner.  

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Keepsake "Bridges" Lace Long Sleeve Top 

Ring in the new year in this exquisitely detailed top. Classy yet daring, this piece is sure to spice up your holiday ensemble.  With skinny black pants and a bold heel, your outfit is sure to turn heads.  

As the seasons change and closets are transitioning, your style can effortlessly remain. We have been updating our inventory along with you and we're excited to share a few of our newest arrivals. Make room for these gems in your closet!

C/MEO Collective Marigold Floral “Another Lover” Skirt

Coy and fashion-forward, this heavy-weighted, bold, fall floral print skirt has an amazingly fresh silhouette. A fun addition to your winter wardrobe that instantly spices up a simple sweater and booties.   

Chan Luu Black Matte Vienna Blouse 

We're all in on sequins, and this stunning top looks like liquid in the light. Perfect for pairing with your favorite jeans and a simple jacket.  Easily dress it up or down for any holiday occasion.  

Wish Australia "Pursuit" Jacket in Khaki

A classic silhouette in a fresh color for the cold weather season.  This blazer pairs well with everyday workplace essentials, adding both structure and comfort.  

Chan Luu Chiffon Necktie with Chain Fringe

Stand out in a sea of ordinary everyday jewelry with Chan Luu's necktie.  A layer of fringed chains on a chiffon necktie adds an edgy touch to any outfit. 

Wish Australia Black "Arosa" Jacket

Classic and timeless, this lightweight coat is an ideal transition piece for cooler temps. Swap it out with one of your workwear blazers for a fresh indoor option. 

C/MEO Collective Black Floral "Immerse" Midi Dress

Make a statement with a bold black floral print and dramatic off-the-shoulder design. This showstopper is a beautiful pick for holiday parties or a fun evening out on the town. 

 Cheers and Happy Holidays!

Designer Spotlight: Kes

KES Elongated Peruvian Wool Handknit Hoodie

Queen Anna curates collections from emerging designers.  This week's spotlight falls on Kes by Lia Kes, who was recently featured on Vogue's website.  

KES Green Military Sweat Pants, Kes Raw Wood Edge Texture Wool Jacket

Lia Kes grew up on a kibbutz in Israel where all of the community's clothing was produced on-site.  The clothing was all simple,  practical and high quality.  She went on to study fashion design at Shenkar College in Tel Aviv and relocated to New York City after graduation.  Here, Lia launched her namesake collection in the Upper West Side of the city.  

All of Lia's designs draw from her childhood on the kibbutz.  The pieces are raw and natural while maintaining dreamy vibes. The designs maximize the use of the luxurious fabrics, meticulously made to drape beautifully.  Often designs are patterned around the cuts of other pieces, to use fabric scraps in an innovative, upcycled, no waste way.  Kes is becoming well known in the world of fashion and often works with celebrity stylists and photographers.  A few of her recent collaborations include styling by Dianna Lunt and Guy Hecht photographed by Elizabeth Lippman.

Kes's designs are practical yet beautiful,  additions to the Queen Anna wardrobe.  

Kes Wave Sleeve Velvet Slip Top

The photos in this article are from Vogue.com and were selected because they feature Kes pieces that we carry in store here at Queen Anna.  

Last month, Queen Anna partnered with Griffin Art Gallery for an evening benefiting the Agape Oasis. The night consisted of wine, hors-d'oeuvres, shopping, and great conversation.

On display throughout the store were paintings by fine artist John Gerber. Guests enjoyed being able to speak with the artist himself as he explained the inspiration behind a few of his pieces. 

Later on, John gathered an audience as he signed one of his pieces that Queen Anna has had on displayed since the grand opening of the boutique in April.

The night concluded with a speech from Jodi Thibideaux of the Purple Purse.  She spoke passionately about how the Agape Oasis is a nonprofit organization working hard to make a difference in the community. They focus on helping victims of domestic violence through crisis intervention, child development, and overall support. Since one in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime, the cause is important to Queen Anna. 

A portion of the store's proceeds from October was donated to the Agape Oasis.

A big thanks to everyone who attended for making the event such a great evening.

Art from Griffin Gallery is now for sale at our north loop location. Stop by and take a look!

October 12, 2017

At Queen Anna we carefully curated pieces from influential fashion houses and independent and emerging designers. This month we're highlighting one of those designers, Chan Luu. 

Chan Luu has had an eye for design since a young age. Growing up in by the sea in South Vietnam, she often created jewelry out of seashells for her friends. Her creativity inspired her to study fashion design in LA, where she would eventually found her namesake brand and open her flagship store.  

With designs that are modern, effortless and beautiful, Chan Luu perfectly complements the essence of Queen Anna. We also love the promise she makes to her customers that every piece in each collection she produces will be handcrafted. This ensures that all the items are high-quality investments to your wardrobe.

Chan Luu is well known for her signature wrap bracelet designs. They feature leather straps and semi-precious stones that are hand-woven together by craftsmen.   

Chan Luu Signature Wrap Bracelets

A new Chan Luu piece in our fall collection is the Tatiana Blouse. The top is a versatile addition to your fall wardrobe; perfect for pairing with pants or skirts, and layers nicely with your favorite fall cardigans and jackets. 

Chan Luu Tatiana Darkest Spruce Blouse 

We also carry three colors of her luxurious cashmere and silk scarves. Excellent to complement any fall outfit and keep you warm as we move into winter weather.  

Chan Luu Cashmere and Silk Scarves 

Be sure to stop by and check out all of the Chan Luu pieces in store!

 *Photo and bio information from official Chan Luu site.

We all have a favorite celebrity that we follow on Instagram, we have a secret Pinterest board with all of their looks, and we buy every magazine that we THINK they might be in. Trust me, there's nothing wrong with it, because I do it too. 

I also am very blessed to have colleagues and friends that I adore just as much, if not more. This week Queen Anna's Style Mark is being taken over by my friend and lifestyle blogger Dionne Boldin. She has her very own fashion blog called Boldinbeautiful.com and after reading it, you will be following her on IG and pinning her fashion forward looks on a secret Pinterest board too!

Enjoy...

There is no time more exciting for a fashionista than New York Fashion Week (NYFW). The week (or so) long series of international fashion houses, coming together in one city, is enough to drive any fashion maven wild! The street style, especially, gives me my life just as much as seeing the new collections grace the runways. And I must admit – Spring/Summer fashion is my absolute favorite! I love the bold patterns and colors of those seasons, which are always so refreshing after the winter months.

Hurricane Irma kept me grounded during the start of NYFW, but thank goodness for technology because I was able to tap into the happenings of Fashion Week from the comforts of my home. The Spring 2018 collections seem to fashionably persist with oversized trends, and I’m loving the addition of a little skin, here and there, which a few collections happened to showcase. I’m particularly in love with the Deplozo Spring 2018 collection! Its bold prints and vivid colors totally captured my attention. Neons and neutrals together?! Please and thank you! The feminine details of these pieces totally scream flirty with a punch of wow.

 
Image source: Vogue

Oh, and can we give the Oscar de la Renta Spring 2018 collection two snaps and a twist, too?! Creative directors Fernando Garcia and Laura Kim gave us a fresh, youthful look for spring. Keeping in line with the spring trend of bold colors and oversized prints, the design duo even gave us denim on the runway! You know I love me some denim, honey! The scribble-design, paint splatter pieces from this collection will certainly be on my must-have list for the spring.   

 
Image source: livingly

The Oscar de la Renta show is always one of the most coveted shows of NYFW, and with the spring collection coming,  I can see why. Garcia and Kim continually remind fashion lovers that classic, inventive fashion always translates to a timeless, yet unabashed, wardrobe. This collection is a winner – fresh, modern, and unlike any other – and I’m here for it!

Did you happen to tune into the beautiful mayhem of New York Fashion Week? Which fashion house caught your eye? We would love to hear your thoughts on NYFW ’18!