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Silhouettes of a Woman: Style Masterclass Recap

Silhouettes of a Woman: Style Masterclass Recap

Are you a pear shape or an apple shape? Have you ever heard that question before to describe your body shape? While it’s understandable and even relative, I think it’s time to move on to a different way of describing the unique shapes of our bodies.

In 2019, Queen Anna House of Fashion launched a movement coined “Silhouettes of a Woman." This movement was created to celebrate womanhood at every stage of life continually. Our mission is to help women positively embrace who they are and every silhouette, while also exposing societal imposed barriers and breaking-free of the mental limitations we place on ourselves as women. 

We aim to empower, embrace and encourage one another to be comfortable with our authentic self regardless of shape, size, race, and roles we fill every day. 

To move forward with our mission, on Thursday, September 19th, we launched our very first Silhouettes of a Woman Style Masterclass: How to Dress for your Body Type, to help shift the perception & relationship we have with our bodies. By using empowered language, kind adjectives, and diamond shapes as our new body type descriptors, we hosted an intimate group of women to share our evolving journey and how we can continue to stylishly dress our bodies.

queen anna style masterclass

It was an evening of raw vulnerability, wardrobe liberation, and creative inspiration on how clothing can positively impact how we feel & decide to show up in the world. Finding what works for our body does not have to feel like a daunting or overwhelming chore. The combination of understanding personal fit, preference and style provides clarity that will save you time and money daily.

queen anna style masterclass

We look forward to continuing our style masterclass series and breaking barriers, one stylish session at a time. 

queen anna style masterclass

If you are interested in learning about our next style class send us an email at contact@queenanna.co. Limited spaces are available.

Learn more about Silhouettes of a Woman and check out our recent Silhouettes of the City Fashion Show.

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How To: Update your Beauty Routine this Fall

How To: Update your Beauty Routine this Fall

We've all been there. The weather begins to dance between warm and humid and cool and dry, and our skin reacts just trying to keep up with the change. With the annual dip in temperature, it's officially time to put away the lighter skin care products and punchy shades of makeup and lipstick and turn our attention to moisture-rich products (we're looking at you body lotions and facial moisturizers!) to calm and renourish our newly dried-out skin.

We've got just the product line for you. Insert, BeautyCounter. Carried at our North Loop boutique, BeautyCounter is known for its wide array of clean beauty products. We've highlighted a few of our favorite finds, along with a new fragrance line, to add to your beauty routine ASAP. You'll fall in love with these picks, trust us.

Wash. Rinse. Repeat

First things first. When switching up your seasonal skincare routine you need to start with cleansing. Since the fall air has a tendency to dry your skin out, opt for a gentle cleanser that won't be too harsh on your newly sensitive skin.

Before cleansing, give your face a clean slate with their Instant Eye Makeup Remover. Simply grab a cotton pad and remove your makeup in a snap - it even wipes away waterproof products!

One of the many wonderful things about BeautyCounter is that their extensive line of facial products suit all skin types and problem areas. From fine lines and wrinkles to acne-prone skin, there's a product that aids in every type of problem area.

Moisturize to the Max

With the dry air your skin is dying for some moisture. Give it some extra TLC with heavier face creams and serums.

What's the ultimate solution to hydrated skin? We're stocking up on the Countermatch Collection. Known for it's anti-aging and hydrating benefits, choose from a cleanser, serum, eye cream, lotion, and sleeping cream, or put them all together for the ultimate skin quench.

Keep up the dewy look by giving dull skin an additional boost with Glow & Go facial oils a few times a week. And remember, even with the heat dropping you still have to protect your skin from the sun - be sure to find a moisturizer that includes SPF.

Lather on the Lotion

Now that you've got your facial routine set, give the rest of your body the hydrating boost that it needs with thicker body lotions, such as a Body Butter in a yummy scent. Packed with shea butter and mongongo oil, the thick, buttery formula leaves even sensitive skin feeling nourished and non-greasy.

New Season. New Scent

Time to put away the summery citrus and sweet floral scents, fall provides an opportunity to usher in fresh seasonal fragrance.

New to our store, Skylar fine fragrances. Clean and refreshing, try a spritz of one of their signature scents - you'll be sure to love them as much as we do! Plus, they're hypoallergenic.

Color Change

Raise your hand if you love a good lipstick. At Queen Anna, we're all for a pop of lip color, and we're especially excited to bring out the deeper berry and wine shades. We carry many of BeautyCounter's luxurious lip gloss shades, and we even have a sample pack for when you can't choose just one.

If you're looking for a specific product, or if you're looking for additional information on the products carried in our store, don't hesitate to ask! You can shop all skincare, makeup and beauty products at our North Loop boutique. 

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Silhouettes of a Woman: Shalaun N.

Silhouettes of a Woman: Shalaun N.

Say hello to Shalaun! Shalaun is one of our fabulous clients who owned the runway at our Silhouettes of the City fashion show this past spring. Learn more about her silhouette...

Name: Shalaun Newton

Occupation: The co-founder of Emerald Gems Foundation

The Makeup of your Silhouette: I'm business savvy

How would you describe your ideal style? 
My ideal style is both classy and modern, timeless style is key for me.   

Now, what’s your style actually?... 
I tend to stick with pieces that are casual and comfortable to accommodate my everyday life as a wife and mom on-the-go.

Tell us, what’s one thing you love about you? 
I love my height and that I'm intuitive.

What’s your favorite purchase from Queen Anna? 
A long bright marigold jacket by Moon River, the perfect layering piece for when I want to make a bolder statement with my look.

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6 Essential Pre-Fall Trends From the Runway to You

6 Essential Pre-Fall Trends From the Runway to You

A big misconception about the Pre-Fall season is that it’s nothing more than a filler between the ever-so-popular summer and fall collections. However, in reality, Pre-Fall is a season of complexity, transition, and unparalleled style.

Pre-Fall 2019 has proven to be the most unique and fashionable season to date. With ambitious style choices hitting your favorite stores, we’ve decided to compile a list of trends to make you look fresh off the runway. Let's jump right in to some of our favorite fall fashion looks.

1.    Suit Up

This season, you can't go wrong with classic, suit inspired apparel. Seen on the runways of Givenchy, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, and Oscar de la Renta, and suit jackets have proven their spot as a prominent Pre-Fall trend. 

Want in on the movement? We carry a variety of women's suits, blazers and other on-trend pieces from your favorite designers to ensure maximum style.

mod ref tan women's blazer

Mod Ref The "Poppy" Blazer

2. Pleats and Thank Yous

The 80s are coming back, and stronger than ever. But don't freak out, we’re not talking about shoulder pads, leg-warmers, or mullets this season. Pleats are back in style, but with a much-needed update. Joseph Altuzarra brought front-pleated pants to the runway that offered a more flattering silhouette, while Stella McCartney showed off long pleated skirts in her fall fashion show.

According to Vogue, pleats are one of the hottest trends this year, especially pleated pants. This new take on an old classic is more tailored and refined, making this trend fresh, fashionable, and closet ready.

allen schwartz reeve pleated trouser pants

Allen Schwartz "Reeve" Cropped Pants

3. A Tad Plaid

Plaid has been a closet staple for years in women's fashion, but this season, it really shines. Typically seen on the runways of Burberry, other designers such as Coach, Giorgio Armani, and Michael Kors jumped on the hot seasonal trend.

Combining the classic plaid print with pleating creates the ultimate on-trend garment for this season, plaid pants. Go one step further... full plaid pant suits.

joa houndstooth plaid skirt

J.O.A. Houndstooth Mini Skirt w Button Detail

4. Silky Smooth

Is there anything better than comfort and style? Silk has both, and it’s one of the longstanding clothing trends that will always have a special place in our hearts. On the runway, Michael Kors featured romantic silk dresses, Dior showed masculine silk pants, and Thom Browne created silk bomber jackets in different colors and prints.

At Queen Anna House of Fashion, there’s no shortage of silk this season. Fashionistas, shop the trend in all forms: dreamy dresses, flowy bottoms, silk blouses, and even accessories - hello, silk scarf!

allen schwartz royal blue silk dress

Allen Schwartz "Lilia" Capelet Dress

5. LOL = Lots of Leather

No matter the year, no matter the season, leather will always have a spot in your closet. This Pre-Fall season has featured head to toe leather looks shown by Sally LaPointe and Alexander McQueen in an array of colors, styles, and silhouettes. Rock a classic leather jacket over some jeans, or go a little bolder with a sexy leather skirt. For an even more unique look, layer a leather bodysuit under matching pants for that head to toe runway look. 

bano eemee black leather jacket

Bano eeMee "NZ Alex" Leather Jacket

6. Come Back to Earth

Neutrals and earth tones are hotter than ever and trust us, we've got you covered. From the runway shows of Victoria Beckham to Chanel, rich browns, taupes, and beiges have been worn from head to toe, creating a luxurious, simple, and editorial look. 

This look has been seen head to toe on many celebrity style icons, including Kendall Jenner, Rhianna, Gigi Hadid, and Duchess Megan Markle this season, proving the neutral color pallet compliments any style. 

Want to add more interest? Contrast the neutral pallet with a splash of color in a necklace, a pair of shoes, or even a bag! We have dozens of resources on how to accessorize the right way, and the right pieces to do it with! 

Regardless of how you choose to wear it, this trend looks great on anyone, in any way.

caara camel sweater dress

Caara Khaki Marchella Sweater Dress

From the Pre-Fall season and beyond, Queen Anna House of Fashion is here to keep you up to trend and feeling your best. Try out some, or even all, of these styles at some point this season! You won’t regret it a bit.

 

 

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Fashion How To: Learning to Style My Silhouette

Fashion How To: Learning to Style My Silhouette

The backstory is that in two years, I gained about 30 pounds. While it did not happen overnight, once I recognized the change, it had an immediate effect on my state of mind. If you’ve ever gone through something similar, you’ll be familiar with how quickly a weight change can impact your self-esteem.

NOTHING in your wardrobe fits your body.

So, you avoid leaving the house. Then, the tears flow when you stand in your closet, which is now chock-full of clothes that no longer work for your body type. 

It’s FRUSTRATING.

We often punish ourselves when our body shape is not what we want it to be. We don’t go to the beach because we don’t think we’ll look great in “beachwear.” We don’t buy that amazing blouse because we want to lose 10 pounds first. We believe we deserve stylish, fashionable clothes only after we’ve achieved a body type that we may, honestly, never have.

Trust me, I’ve been there. However, what I've learned is that this kind of behavior only hurts YOU. I’ve realized that all you can do in the present moment is to learn to love the shape you are and dress for the body you have today. 

Embrace yourself today, which includes your shape and size. Love on your shoulders, arms, waist, hips, thighs, and ankles. When I did this, I finally felt like myself again. Is it perfect, no and I'm okay with that. 

Even if you still intend to lose weight or change your body, this is an important first step to style your body type. Making changes that start by embracing where you are today. 

There is something about getting dressed in clothes you feel GREAT in. You feel unstoppable. You feel free. You feel…beautiful.

Here are three quick ways to help you start:

  1. Compliment yourself every day

Look in the mirror and say, “I like my…” (insert thighs, legs, smile, hair, eyes, wrists, waist and hips…you get my drift) You may not truly mean it on the first try, but you will over time. Your body is a beautiful creation, so show it some love!

  1. Go shopping (with a plan)

No matter where you are in your body journey, there are items that will work for your shape! A pencil skirt, sheath dress, statement jacket, bootcut jeans, or shoes will never steer you wrong. If you find that you need to add some flavor to your look, these are tried-and-true classic pieces that can work at any size.

  1. Learn how to style your body type

Weight fluctuates, especially as we get older. But never let a weight change convince you that you’re no longer beautiful, or no longer worthy of stellar style. There are tricks to the trade on learning how to dress for your body type no matter what size you are. Find out what fit and style works best for you and repeat it.

In fact, we are hosting an upcoming Style Masterclass on How to Dress for your Body Type, you can click here for more details.

After attending our Style Masterclass, you are guaranteed to have a better understanding of your specific body type, learn ways to dress for your body type, make getting dressed in the mornings a lot easier, and new style tips on how to take your look from day-to-night. We hope to see you there!

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5 Easy Ways To Style A Slip Dress

5 Easy Ways To Style A Slip Dress

A simple slip dress. We dare you to name anything chicer in your closet than this 90s-era staple that graced a number of fall fashion shows. We would wear a slinky dress every day if we could (maybe we should?) and with the right combination of pieces, this iconic dress can be transformed into work attire, a date night look, or a casual fall outfit with ease. 

Vibrant Summer Slip Dress

Summer may be winding down (sorry to say Twin Cities!), but with our warm weather days numbered there’s no time like the present to pop on a bright colored dress like Amanda Uprichard’s vibrant hot pink “Laramie” dress or go for head-to-toe pleats with this dazzling blue slip dress by Vince

Pair your neon with an outer layer such as a denim jacket or a sheer organza and leather bomber for the ultimate street style look. Now all you need is a rooftop happy hour to soak up some sunshine. 

 how to style a slip dress 

Amanda Uprichard "Laramie" Dress and Bano eeMee "Agua" Organza

Casual Layers

Pre-fall styles are full of layers on layers on layers. Our warm-weather wardrobe needs to be versatile enough to jump forward into fall when the temperatures begin to drop a degree (or 10!). 

For an ideal layered clothing option, seek out Lunya’s washable (yes, washable!) silk slip dress as a base layer. It comes complete with pockets and adjustable straps to create ultimate comfort and the perfect fit depending on whether you layer under or over your dress. To take it a step further and completely transform your slip dress into a skirt throw on an oversized t-shirt or blouse.

how to style a slip dress

Maison de Papillion "Therese" Silk Slip Dress

Weekend Ready

Who says a silk dress can’t be in your weekend outfit rotation? Playing off of the layering concept, try a yummy cashmere hoodie on top of a silk dress for the most luxurious lounge attire you’ll ever find.

Pull your new favorite weekend look into your workwear lineup by adding heels or booties for a trendy business casual look. If you’re still seeking a punch of summer color, J.O.A. keeps it cool with a stylish citron number featuring front-button detail and playful dual-front slits.

 how to style a slip dress

Maison de Papillon "Bella" Velvet Slip Dress 

Date Night Approved

First of all, we’ve got endless amounts of date night outfit ideas - be sure to ask next time you’re in our North Loop store. Until then, may we suggest that you slip into something silky, like this Reformation midi dress or one of our new pieces from Maison de Papillion?

A slip dress doesn’t need an accompanying piece - it speaks for itself, but on a chilly fall night you’ll want to reach for a long sleeve top or a blazer to keep you warm. Now all that's missing is the date idea!

how to style a slip dress

Maison de Papillon "Bella" Velvet Slip Dress and Splendid Crew Neck Long Sleeves

Fall Work Layers

We LOVE summer weather, but who doesn’t love fall style? The sweaters, jewel tones and new fabrics… we can barely contain our excitement! With each new season comes a rotation in business attire. 

Don't fret! You don’t have to put your bright-hued or fun patterned dresses away just yet. Try mixing a fun print, like this emerald leopard print silk midi by Olivia von Halle or when you want low effort, but maximum style, throw a long sleeve shirt or turtleneck under the dress. Finally, make it truly 9 to 5 chic by adding a blazer.

how to style a slip dress

Mod Ref the "Satin" Dress

As Fashion Week shows, fashion trends come and go, but the classic slip dress is here to stay. Stop by our North Loop boutique to shop our selection of wardrobe staples. 

P.S. fashionistas, summer staples are currently on sale, including camis, shorts, sandals and more. Enjoy 30% off online or shop in-store. 

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Silhouettes of a Woman: Britney P.

Silhouettes of a Woman: Britney P.

Say hello to Britney! Britney is one of our clients who owned the runway at our Silhouettes of the City fashion show.

Name: Britney Pierce

Occupation: Business Development

The Makeup of your Silhouette: I'm a yogi, an explorer, an athlete, a friend and a meal creative.

How would you describe your ideal style? 
My ideal style is classy with a subtle edge to it. Also, asymmetrical. 

Now, what’s your style actually?... 
My closet has lots of black and white, along with classic and comfy fabrics. 

Tell us, what’s one thing you love about you? 
I love my brave independence. 

What’s your favorite purchase from Queen Anna? 
A sparkly black sequin Chan Luu dress.  

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5 Accessories that make your Outfit Pop

5 Accessories that make your Outfit Pop

There’s so much power behind accessorizing. The global fall fashion weeks on the horizon are sure to provide us with all the accessory inspiration we need to take us into the new year. With a simple change, your outfit can go from day-to-night, summer to fall, or simple to elegant. Sounds easy, right? Sometimes accessorizing and finding the right pieces can be a challenge. Our objective at Queen Anna House of Fashion is to bring elements to your everyday wardrobe that can transform your look. We strongly believe that accessories are the quickest, most effective way to completely change any ensemble. Here are five iconic fashion accessories that we recommend for making some little changes to your current wardrobe.

A Trusty Denim Jacket

A denim jacket will be your best friend, in any weather. Pop on a jean jacket to dress down a jumpsuit or dress. A blue denim jacket will never go out of style. This ABLE “Mina” Denim Jacket is a great option as it is a relaxed fit, and offers a classic look for maximum styling options.

able mina denim jacket

ABLE "Mina" Denim Jacket, Queen Anna House of Fashion

For an alternative look, try a darker, paneled denim jacket. It could be your new staple item. Depending on the occasion, you may want to have different denim wash options in your closet. We’re loving this Sacai jacket from Net-A-Porter.

SACAI Paneled denim and shell jacket

SACAI paneled denim and shell jacket, Net-A-Porter

A Simple Hat 

Hats are a multi-functional fashion accessory. They’re great for protecting your skin from the sun, but they can also add pizzazz to any outfit. Not sure what style to try first? A round brim straw hat is ideal for warmer days. It’s breathable but will pair with nearly every summer look. A total win!

BAGTAZO Tulum Hat

BAGTAZO Tulum Hat, Queen Anna House of Fashion

A Solid Crossbody

To anchor your look, try adding a simple cross-body bag. While being a practical way to conceal your everyday items, you will be adding a chic touch to your outfit. You can’t go wrong with a neutral crossbody bag. Looking for something a little bolder? In the latest fashion trends, jewels tone are all the rage for an interesting pop of color, like with this stunning Kira Chevron bag by Tory Burch.

Tory Burch Kira Chevron Small Camera Bag

Patterned Sandals

One way to add interest to your current style is to add a patterned shoe in the mix. Generally, we reach for our solid color shoes. It’s always a safe option, and a simple shoe can be a total show-stopper. But for some extra fun, try to opt for something more out-of-the-box, like this Corlina Ankle Strap sandal from Nordstrom.com. This faux-snakeskin heel will add the right amount of interest to your look while still resembling the classic nude heel. 

 

Vince Camuto Corlina Ankle Strap Sandal

Vince Camuto Corlina Ankle Strap Sandal, Nordstrom

Statement Jewelry

Take your look from 9-5 to a total 10 by adding statement jewelry. Jewelry is one of the simplest ways to include color and unique materials into your everyday collection. It’s a chance to introduce wild patterns and shapes into your daily fashion routine. We have a wide variety of unique jewelry pieces here at Queen Anna House of Fashion, like these M Street

Studio Acrylic earrings. The jade green can amplify what you’re currently wearing. Don’t be surprised if you get a lot of compliments when you’re wearing these beauties.

m street studio nina-berenato-acrylic-square-earrings

M Street Studio Acrylic Square Earrings, Queen Anna House of Fashion

What are you waiting for? Always be accessorizing. It’s a fun way to kick your fashion moments up a notch. Be sure to also check out our concierge service, One Posh Closet, if you’re stuck on curating pieces for your wardrobe. One Posh Closet designers are highly skilled in personal shopping, finding stellar fashion design, and closet organization. Our 24/7 stylists would love to help.

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Silhouettes of a Woman: Jo V.

Silhouettes of a Woman: Jo V.

This month we'd like to introduce you to Jo! Jo is one of our fabulous clients who rocked the runway at our Silhouettes of the City fashion show.

Name: Jo Vos

Occupation: Retired

The Makeup of your Silhouette: I'm both an athlete and an activist

How would you describe your ideal style? 
A mix of athletic, stylish and cutting edge

Now, what’s your style actually?... 
The same! Athletic, stylish and cutting edge

Tell us, what’s one thing you love about you? 
My belief that I can do anything that I put my mind to! Also, I embrace getting older, but I'll never be old.

What’s your favorite purchase from Queen Anna? 
A very heavy, grey, high-low plaid skirt. It’s a perfect layer piece in the cooler Minnesota months.

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