Royalty comes in all shapes and sizes, and we are beyond excited to announce that Queen Anna now offers a curated plus size collection, featuring a handful of oh-so-chic designers and more than 50 pieces. 

Currently, the collection includes everyday essentials, such as luxuriously soft cotton tees and tunics, along with closet staples like classic trousers, wide leg pants, and wear-to-work skirts. 

The entire collection is now available at our North Loop boutique, along with a small selection of plus size fashions from Ripley Rader and AND COMFORT available for purchase online or in our Queen Anna Fashion App (iOS). 

Love a designer or brand that you think we should carry? Send us a note at contact@queenanna.co

Fashion Week Minnesota is just a few weeks away! With the upcoming festivities we’re pleased to announce a special in-store event on September 27, “The Art of Leather” with Canadian leather designer, Aleem Arif - the gentleman behind the brand Bano eeMee. 

Arif's designs are contemporary and one-of-a-kind. All pieces are crafted from genuine leather which is sourced by a by-product of the food industry. Bano eeMee specializes in using vegetable dyes to color their pieces as well as certified chemicals. They’re for the benefit of human health, as well as the environment. Another factor to admire is that Bano eeMee is using fashion to create fair-work opportunities all around the world. In addition, their pieces radiate street style! The jackets pair perfectly with dresses, denim, heels, or sneakers – a fit for all 

"The Art of Leather” is a FREE event and accommodates both men and women. You will have the chance to customize your very own jacket. This includes the color, lining and hardware. Another added feature is the opportunity to receive your jacket just before the Spring/Summer 2019 collection makes its debut in stores. Please RSVP on our Facebook page or in-store. We look forward to sharing this exclusive event with you and Fashion Week. 

Our Queen Anna royal family is filled with designers we admire and we’re delighted to welcome The Classics Paris.

Founders and co-owners, Sarah and Sara believe in the versatility of outfits while they pack to do what they love most, which is to travel. That became the passion behind their line: creating pieces that were convenient for every occasion and sensible to pack in their suitcases. Feeling like they should be prepared for any occasion, without the stress of having to pack so many outfits. Keeping both the idea of comfort and chic in mind, they began to create. The Classics was then born, over conversation and champagne.

Sara and Sarah are involved in the entire clothing creation process from sourcing to the completion of the final product. They ensure quality fabric and ethical working environments. The women of The Classics value having close relationships with each individual involved in the process of making their clothing designs come to life. The pieces are visually satisfying, they're comfortable and we just think they look amazing on. Each piece is 100 percent made in Paris. 

Below are some of the pieces we carry in-store.

The "Eloise" Tee 

The "Eleanor" Tee

"Antoinette" Dress

"Charlotte" shorts

"Amelie" skirt

"Aurore" Dress 

Here at Queen Anna, we are all about preparing you for life’s special occasions, and summer is the season of weddings. There are always plenty to attend and in a variety of locations, which means curating a wardrobe for one. We’re suggesting florals and structured details, this season. 

Heading to an afternoon outdoor wedding? The Chan Luu Vintage Floral Neckerchief is a trendy addition to your outfit. The neckerchief pairs well with an eyelet dress, a flowy pantsuit, or a playful jumper. 

For an evening wedding in the city with a semi-formal dress code try this alternate option to a dress by pairing a tuxedo pant or ballgown skirt with Keepsake's Floral "Last Dance" Top  - a sophisticated twist! The trumpet sleeves are an elegant detail – no bracelets needed. Top off your look with dramatic chandelier earrings. Tres chic!

If your invitation reads black tie or black tie optional look no further than the C/MEO Ivory Floral "Vanish" Dress or the Allen Schwartz "Eden" Dress both the epitome of elegance. The Vanish dress features warm colors touched with that wedding white and silk materialThe deep neckline makes room for a beautiful statement necklace. 

The "Eden" dress features black lace and sheer midriff – a classic silhouette with modern detail This piece also has the added feature of pockets (yes, please!), and its feminine characteristics are quite romantic. 

Jet-setters we’ve got just the thing for you. If you’re heading to a tropical destination wedding the Allen Schwartz Blush "Yael" Kimono is a casual and stylish piece that is easy to pack and perfect for the evening ocean breeze. The pastel colors, large floral print, and soft, shiny material make for the perfect statement. 

June 21st is the official date for the summer equinox. Most are already in a summer state of mind with the opening of pool season, school out, kids summer camp schedules starting or possibly opening your cabins for the first time this season. 

For those of us who live in cold weather, states will be in official countdown mode. June 21st is the one day this year where we will get the most extended amount of daylight, but will officially be decreasing in sunlight after that.

Having snow on the ground a little over a month ago, to now having rays of Vitamin D coming at me left and right, I want to make sure I take the time to enjoy the short time we "Mid-Westerners" have of summer. 

Here are a few things I am I am doing to make sure I enjoy summer like a Queen should this summer:

1. Poolside Dance Party

There is nothing more fun than being with friends or family, turning on music and having a dance party. It's an absolute summer must!

   2. Outdoor Reading

One of my favorite past times is reading. I have a love for knowledge, so my books of choice are all business based or on non-fiction systematics (outside of my InStyle, Vogue, Ebony and O Magazine). And when I say books, I mean REAL books; ones that you hold in your hand and have to flip the pages, not swipe. 

I have yet to experience literary mental stimulation outside in the sun, with a cold beverage of choice and without out background noise. I haven't done it yet, but it is definitely in the queue.

3. Taking a Walk

I am always rushing off somewhere (generally because I am always late) but I can't remember the last time I leisurely walked anywhere. Even when I am walking outside, I have a destination and purpose in mind. 

I am looking forward to taking a Sunday and walking downtown in the Northloop of Minneapolis, just to brunch and explore. Not only is the Northloop home to Queen Anna, but also home to amazing trails, food, and shopping.

If you're in Minneapolis you should make the trek too; every Sunday through Labor day, Queen Anna will be hosting its summer series Muffins and Mimosas and partnering with various Minneapolis based vendors to display the best of Minneapolis throughout the summer. Not to forget, we also host bi-monthly yoga classes for all of the interested yogi's out there; destination shopping at it's best. 

Outdoor Voices Yoga Dress  Perfect for Yoga at QA and Brunch afterward

 4. Taking a Nap

As absurd as it sounds trust me...JUST DO IT!

I was anti-catnap for years and one day sitting in the car line at school, and as cliche, as it sounds, it just happened. 15 minutes of sitting still and quietude and I was asleep. It must have been instant REM sleep because I woke up feeling refreshed and energized for what was going to be a Part 2, to the day I already started at 5:45 a.m.

Next time I plan on multiplying my cat nap by 4 and take it outside, with a refreshing beverage and underneath an umbrella. #Royalliving

Slip Eye Covers- I love them because they help my lashes stay put in the midst of my cat nap.

There is nothing more fulfilling than living a royal life and doing it with the people that matter the most, so whatever your summer intentions are may they be Royal and make you feel like you are living life like a Queen!

Cheers!!

 ~Nicole

Here at Queen Anna we are always looking to expand our royal family and we're pleased to announce that we are now offering pieces from local Minneapolis designer Slate Collective, exclusively in sizes 12-14. Slate Collective is a contemporary design house for the modern woman, full of elevated yet wearable classics.

Allison Quinnell, the leading lady behind the brand believes every day is deserving of creative expression. The line is a combination of flattering silhouettes and modern interpretations of the Little Black Dress, punctuated by limited-edition "Artist Sessions" - collaborations with up-and-coming female artists. All of Slate Collective's products are proudly designed and crafted in the USA.

Collective Artist Sessions: Each Session is a unique interpretation of wearable art from an up-and-coming female creative, with a portion of all sales returning to the artist.  Released on a limited basis, each piece is a collectors piece, an original masterpiece for your closet.

Session 01: Kim Kei

Kim Kei evokes the body without depicting the figure as a form. The body is implied by mimicking the skin's surface and the gesture of the form. The paper captures the cracks and wrinkles, the body's acquired marks through time, injury, repair, and illness revealing what we attempt to keep hidden - bringing these unruly parts of ourselves fully to the surface communicates a body in motion as if to say, "It's okay to look, we're still alive and notice how we're touching."

See below for a few of the chic designs we're now offering in sizes 12-14 at our North Loop location.

As we usher in a new season, we also welcome a new designer to our thoughtfully curated selection of brands - introducing Allen Schwartz. This talented designer is a California based brand that creates and produces everything right in downtown Los Angeles. Previously known as A.B.S by Allen Schwartz, the new contemporary Allen Schwartz brand relaunched February 2017, focusing on contemporary sportswear as well as classic dresses. 

Designed for the modern woman, we are not the only ones who have been captivated by Allen Schwartz's gorgeous pieces. Schwartz has designed for numerous celebrities under his previous brand, including Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry, Kim Kardashian, and Gabrielle Union.  

Allen Schwartz: Seen on Celebrities  

Jennifer Lopez wearing an A.B.S. By Allen Schwartz coat (photo by Fashionbase).

Halle Berry wearing an A.B.S. By Allen Schwartz dress (photo by Fashionbase).

Kim Kardashian wearing Yeezy an A.B.S. By Allen Schwartz dress (photo by Fashionbase).

Gabrielle Union wearing an A.B.S. By Allen Schwartz coat (photo by Fashionbase).

Allen Schwartz: Now at Queen Anna

"Eden" Bustier Midi Dress 

The "Eden" bustier midi dress is whimsical in its silhouette and sheer style, feminine in its floral print and lace, and sexy in its bustier design. A back zipper closure, attached interior slip, and barely-there spaghetti straps complete the design.           

Dark Midnight "Jan" Track Pant

Classic athleisure with a chic twist, the "Jan" Track Pant is perfect to slip on for an effortlessly stylish and casual look. With an elastic waistband and drawstring, relaxed fit from the hip, vertical running stripe, and two front pockets, the design is classic and comfortable. Dressed up or down with a pair of white sneakers or a strappy heel, these pants are carefree and fabulous. 

Blush "Oliver" Velvet Blazer

This blush colored velvet blazer is luxurious in every way. The rich hue and texture will have you feeling exquisite, pairing it with just a few simple pieces. The thin lapel and deep front pockets keep the design minimal and poised. 

Dark Midnight "Carmen" Evening Jacket

This Dark Midnight "Carmen" Evening Jacket exudes cool and elegance. Its satin feel, classic lapel, and two front slit pockets finish the modern design.

Our curated collection of Allen Schwartz designs are now available on queenanna.co, the Queen Anna fashion app and at our North Loop Minneapolis location.

As a mother of four, I will occasionally stop in the middle of doing something and look up at one of my children in awe of their size, or height and get that emotional itch of "Oh my gosh, my baby has grown so much and is getting so big." Queen Anna is my fifth baby, and I feel the same way today.

As I sit in my store and write this blog, I look around me at something, I could never have imagined doing in my life, and by the grace of God, I have done. Not at all on my strength but all through Him who has blessed me with a loving and supportive husband, family and friends who have listened, and encouraged me in more ways than one.

In hindsight, the creation of Queen Anna occurred in somewhat of an out of body experience because I'm honestly not sure how I got to this point in my entrepreneurial life. I have to believe that I have been graced with an intense passion for fashion and philanthropy, and continuing a legacy steeped in history has been the fuel for my fire. Whenever my flame is getting low, I have images and memories of my Queen striving and grinding that keep me going.

Over the course of the last year, I have lived and learned a lot about myself as an entrepreneur, a wife, and a mother. I have learned that being balanced doesn't always mean things are going to be equal. I have learned that Kelly Clarkson was right, what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger. I have learned that the things that don't work out the way I planned for them to, actually turn out much better than the original plan when the dust settles.

I have learned that I'm NOT superwoman and I can't do it all by myself. I have learned it is ok to ask for help and accept it when offered. I have also permitted myself to say "no" unapologetically because I have come to understand saying "no" is a part of my self-care. Overextending is only felt on my end as the giver, it's never sensed by the receiver, and I refuse to expel my energy to the point of having nothing left to give to the people who deserve the most of me.

I spent the last year building Queen Anna the brand and finding the best way to introduce it so that everyone has a full understanding of what Queen Anna is and is not, and how the brand came to be. There is no time like the present to inform and clarify precisely who Queen Anna is and what makes us unique.

Queen Anna is a wife, a mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She is a woman who loves to be unique and different. She goes against the grain and does what others won't. She doesn't do "easy." She often takes the hard road to learn for herself and also pave the way for others.

Queen Anna is confident and knows who she is. She is knowledgeable about her shortcomings and loves herself just the same. She gives respect and also requires it in return. She is thoughtful, kind, and caring; often putting herself in other people's shoes to know how to assist others better.

Queen Anna never follows but always leads. She's a pioneer and has the heart to give and serve others. She's passionate and relentless regarding the things that matter the most. She's philanthropic and gives back with time and resources. She takes something that is good and strives to make it great; she takes the bad and uses it to make her better. She lives, learns and laughs.

Queen Anna is a mentality and lifestyle. Queen Anna House of Fashion is a brand with a fierce persona and an unwavering mindset of excellence that transcends into fashion and lifestyle and is in its infancy stages of something much more significant than presently seen.

So, to answer the question often asked: "Who is Queen Anna?" I AM QUEEN ANNA, and so is every other person who identifies themselves with the description of our royal brand and have "inherited the lifestyle." We welcome you to our "Royal Family."

As we continue to celebrate our anniversary with you (our Royal Family), I want to take a moment to say thank you for embarking on this journey with us. Cheers to lessons learned and the unchartered territory before us!

Have you ever gone into a store and fell in LOVE with a printed top or pant but didn't buy it because you weren't sure how to wear it? Today we're sharing with you not only how to wear prints but how to make your prints stand out with pieces you already have in your closet! In our recent blog post, "Top Transitional Trends: Winter to Spring", we shared with you the top spring trends: stripes, florals, and tropical prints, to name a few. Now it's time to take these trends to the streets!  

 The Basics

An easy tip when trying to incorporate prints into your daily look is picking prints that are a neutral or a dark print until you feel confident enough to add in colors. We love the black and white animal print skirt, paired with a solid black top, pictured below. It's a gorgeous look that falls in the comfort zone of many neutral lovers.

Look by Style Estate.  

The Curve Couture

Do you have curves?  Embrace them!  A structured pencil skirt elongates your bottom half while the print sculpts and flatters your silhouette. One secret we'd like to share with our curvier ladies is that when it comes to bottoms, the bigger the print the better. Bigger prints flatter the curves while also giving them a more cohesive, balanced appearance.  

Look by Trendy Curvy.

Look found at Polyvore: BellaBerry USA Pink & Black Floral Pencil Skirt.

The Printed Pant 

Sometimes it's hard to find the perfect printed pant, but trust us, they're out there. Opt for a straight leg pant - it's a more slimming, refined look no matter how bold the pattern. Another slimming printed pant option is a striped pant. We love this look from PopularLadies.net. Recreate this go-to spring ensemble with, Chan Luu Blue Stripe "Charlotte" Pants, available at Queen Anna!

Look by Popular Ladies.

Look found at Queen Anna: Chan Luu Blue Stripe "Charlotte" Pants.

The Pop

The easiest way to try prints if you're not quite comfortable with a bold look is with printed accessories. Try wearing some leopard print pumps or an animal print clutch to give your outfit that extra printed pop! Or, add one of our Chan Luu Vintage Neckerchiefs to elevate your look!

Look by Her Campus.

Look found at Queen Anna: Chan Luu Vintage Floral Neckerchief.

The Mix Up

One way to let your inner fashionista loose is by showing the world you know your way around prints. What better way to show your knowledge than by mixing them together! Try pairing stripes and florals - the result is a striking combination!

Look found at Stitch Fix.

The Casual Look 

Everyone looks great in a button-down denim shirt and chances are you already have one in your closet. Wear your chambray shirt with a printed skirt or pants. Play around with tucking, untucking, half-tucking or tying the hem of the shirt to achieve the desired look!

Look by Refinery29.

The Trifecta 

Now that we've gone over the basics, here is a foolproof formula that every aspiring fashionista should know: Big + Solid + Geometric = The Perfect Outfit. When planning "the perfect outfit,"  first, you should start with a big print, this could be florals, animal, stripes, tropical, or whatever you like! Next, choose a solid color that will break up the two prints, this can be as subtle as a black, or as bright as a fluorescent yellow. If you're unsure of what colors balance your prints, an easy way to choose a solid is by picking a color that is present in both prints. The last step is choosing a geometric. The geometric pattern is usually a smaller print. It can be anything from checkers, stripes, or any smaller repeating pattern.

Look by Style Estate.

Look found on Pinterest.

Look by Jamie Krell.

We hope that we've given you some new ideas for your spring wardrobe. Share your pops of prints and mixed patterns by tagging your photos on Instagram with #queenannamn for a chance to be featured.