As a mother of four, a wife and a business owner, I can understand the pressures of the holiday season. It's that time of the year when you have children's activities at school, work obligations, deadlines, and the list continues on from there. With the holiday season officially here, I wanted to share a simple solution to your holiday shopping needs. 

Philanthropy, sustainability, and women empowerment are at the core of our brand and it is with great joy that this year, we're making it easy for you to shop purposefully and with ease as we highlight the brands housed within Queen Anna that align with our brand philosophy. 

You will find each of them listed here within our exclusive 2019 Holiday Gift Guide.

I know that I am not the only one that gets excited when I find out that Oprah has released her list of “favorite things” - it’s like she has taken the stress out of thinking of holiday gifting for you. Queen Anna has also done that for you but taken it a step further... and added access to expert personal shoppers who can give you first access to what we have at Queen Anna but can also take your holiday gift list and personally shop for you. 

Understanding how deeply important your time is, we wanted to assist our clients by making their holiday season less stressful. Our Luxury Concierge Service is made available to you and is something you won’t want to miss out on. We want to assist you in keeping your holiday jolly and bright!

Lastly, don’t forget to download the Queen Anna android and iOS app so you can take advantage of all of our holiday festivities sales and promotions this holiday season.

Happy holidays and happy shopping!

Sincerely,

Nicole

Introducing Ngo! Ngo is one of our amazing clients who rocked the runway at our Silhouettes of the City fashion show this past spring. Learn more about her silhouette...

Name: Ngo Imbu

Occupation: Administrative Officer

The Makeup of your Silhouette: Woman, Mother

How would you describe your ideal style? 
My ideal style is anything that I can wear to work and feel good.

Now, what’s your style actually?... 
I focus on pieces that are both classic and casual that I can wear to work or in my everyday life. Efficiency and practicality are wardrobe priorities for me.

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

What’s your favorite purchase from Queen Anna? 
My Caara shirt, it's great for work and an evening out with friends.

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. 

Fall may have just arrived but Spring has been in full bloom at New York, London, Paris and Fashion Weeks (plus the Emmy Awards!) this month. There's something about seeing all of the upcoming trends, prints, colors, and styles, of both men’s and women’s clothing, that help us get through the upcoming chilly winter months.

Because it's so difficult to wait until the ground unthaws, we've rounded up a few of our favorite trends that we're all for infusing into our wardrobe immediately.

Polka Dots

Spotted at Fashion Week New York, Carolina Herrara, Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs and more featured polka dots from head to toe. Add a dash of dots to your look by layering on a mix of our favorite materials, silk, and cashmere, with this luxuriously soft scarf by Chan Luu.

If you're rocking tights with a dress or skirt to the office, subtly add polka dots to your outfit with a pair of Commando sheer black tights. A new twist on the classic solid color tight.

Chan Luu Cashmere and Silk Polka Dot Scarf

Winter Brights

Most notably a late spring fashion trend, we're all for adding winter white and other light shades into your weekly wardrobe. Tory Burch and Mara Hoffman showcased bright white on the runway in the form of workwear - blazers, trousers, and blouses.

Instead of reaching for your tried and true rich jewel tones or black pieces this season try a lighter shade like grey or white to make your outfit pop. We love this grey tweed blazer by SOIA & KYO as it's a heavy-weight (and comfortable!) winter fabric in a flattering fit with single-button closure. Ideal for layering and feel like you're living in luxury!

SOIA & KYO "Ellen-B" Tweed Blazer

Sheer Delight

Netting and mesh are particularly perfect fabrics for warmer weather, but we see no reason why they can't make an appearance now. The Emmys red carpet was full of stunning gowns with touches of sheer necklines, sleeves and more.

Coveted leather brand, Bano eeMee, created a luxurious option that is completely on-trend. Made out of sheer organza with touches of buttery-soft leather, the "Agua" jacket is a true statement piece.

Bano eeMee "Agua" Organza Jacket

Another fabulous option is to layer a cardigan or blazer over a sheer turtleneck or top, like Commando's Chich Mesh Long-Sleeve Top - throw a dress on over your shirt if you're looking to totally transform your look.

Matchy, Matchy

Spring/Summer collections at New York Fashion Week were full of matching colored sets, and some designers, such as Proenza Schouler, took it a step further by matching a purse to the full outfit. If you're a fan of color, or if you have one favorite color that you try to incorporate into your weekly wardrobe this look is for you.

Remember, punchy spring colors don't need to be front and center to jump in on this trend. We're all for cozy winter sets in the same color. For a fall weekend chic look try pairing Maison de Papilion's "Eros" cashmere hoodie and matching "Jessica" joggers in a yummy cream with booties or sneakers. Outfit complete!

Maison de Papilion "Eros" and "Jessica" Cashmere Hoodie and Joggers

Wearable Art

Both the Moschino and Marni runway shows at Milan Fashion Week were full of pop art, watercolor, and bold prints. We're big fans of patterns, both delicate and bold, and this season we're loving the KES slip dress in a dreamy silk watercolor print. It's not oversaturated with color, making it a perfect seasonal option, and to top it off, it's also available in a silk tank - an ideal piece to take you from day to night with the quick change of jacket.

KES B&W 7/8 "Triangle Slip" Dress

Looking for additional outfit ideas and inspiration? Or if just want to chat about your favorite 2019 Emmys looks (We still are!), visit our North Loop boutique in Minneapolis to shop all things women's fashion. Our Queen Anna stylists are able to put together looks for the season, work, vacation and more. And remember to share your favorite fashions with #queenannamn.

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.

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 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" 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.

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 "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 "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 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.

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!

2. 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.

3. 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!

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. 

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.

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.

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!

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.

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. 

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.  

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, 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, 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, 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.

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, 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 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.