Wear It's At: Take the Sunshine Wherever You Go

Bring some sunshine into your wardrobe by adding a pop of yellow. Yellow signifies all things summer, sun and celebration. From lunch with the girls, to a day at the lake or a backyard barbeque with family and friends; yellow will never disappoint. Kick off the summer right by bringing the sunshine wherever you go.

Brunch

1. Leith Tie Front Dress- $72, Nordstrom

2. Eric Michael Sam Wedge- $130, Sundance Shoes

3. Devoe Street Tinley Bag- $278, Kate Spade

4. The Birdy Watch- $475, Shinola

The Lake

1. Boxy T- $55, TBD

2. Destroyed Side Slit Denim Shorts- $34, Pitaya

3. Birkenstock Gizeh Sandal- $95, Sundance Shoes

4. Mar Y Sol Montauk Woven Tote with Pom Charms, $139, Nordstrom

5. Claudia One Piece Swimsuit- $168, Free People

6. Mara Hoffman One Piece Wide Strap Tank- $245, Everything But Water

Backyard BBQ

1. Free People Georgina Top- $98, Caruso Caruso

2. The Phoebe AG Jeans- $235, Rear Ends

3. Steve Madden Irenee Ankle Strap Sandal- $79.95, Nordstrom

4. Lunch bag white- $79.00, Detroit is the New Black

Wear It's At: Sneaking Up on Comfort

Heels are out and sneakers are in! Comfort is key with the trend of fashion sneakers as its popularity and practicality increases. Whether you are going to work, a night out with the girls or just running errands you can wear sneakers for every occasion.

Keep it casual.

1. The Morgan Long Sleeve Relaxed Crew, $150, Alchemy Detroit

2. The Legging Ankle (18 years destroyed), $235, Rear Ends (AG Jeans

3. Adidas Superstar Sneaker (Silver), $79.99, Journey's

4. Black Nero Tote, $267, Douglas & Co. Detroit

Dress It Up.

1. Soprano Cutout Midi Dress, $49, Nordstrom

2. Midnight Bomber Jacket, $78, Caruso Caruso (Free People)

3. Bertie Metallic Platform Sneaker, $69.95, Steve Madden

4. Half-Moon Black Concrete Loop Earrings, $40, Koonyai Studios

5. Accordian Clutch, $395, Shinola

Wear it to work.

1. Astria Off-The-Shoulder Sweater, $178, BCBGMAXAZRIA

2. Baboon Cohen Pant, $165, Aritzia

3. Becky Embellished Sneaker, $149.95, Rebecca Minkoff

4. Coin Edge Cuff Bracelet, $350, Shinola

5. Studio 8 Crossbody Bag, $375, Julie Lindsay

Busy Bee: Detroit Garment Group Expands Its Fashion Incubator Offerings To Better Support Detroit’s Fashion Community

We have exciting news! Detroit Garment Group is now servicing a larger segment of Detroit’s fashion community by offering additional services in its year-old fashion incubator based in TechTown in Detroit. The DGG Fashion Incubator was created to assist Detroit’s burgeoning class of fashion professionals with learning how to be successful entrepreneurs while building their fashion collections and is one of many educational programs presented by the five year-old non-profit organization whose mission is to cultivate education and economic development opportunities for Michigan's fashion community.

Along with offering office and production space, industrial sewing machines, high-end design technology, a mailing address, and 24-hour access, the incubator, which previously serviced mainly the sewing production needs of fashion designers, has now expanded to include ancillary services that cater not only to fashion designers, but other industry professionals such as photographers, bloggers and fashion reps. New services include a photography and design studio with capabilities for conducting full product and fashion photo shoots, as well as onsite photography editing.

"We're retooling the DGG Fashion Incubator to be more inclusive for fashion professionals," said Lindsey Alexander, Executive Director of Detroit Garment Group. "By adding backdrops for photographers, utilizing the desk space differently and only keeping the sewing machines used most, we are able to welcome many different fashion professionals into our space, and create an opportunity for better networking and potential collaborations within the community."

DGG is now accepting new incubator residents, along with hourly, half day and full day studio rentals to utilize either the industrial sewing machines or photography equipment. To learn more about the incubator and other programs such DGG’s annual FashionSpeak conference or Industrial Sewing Certificate Program, contact Lindsey Alexander at lindsey@detroitgarmentgroup.org.

Style It Local: CMU Fashion Student Talks Fashion & Career Pathways

Name: Macey Ronquillo

Major & School: Fashion Merchandising at Central Michigan University (sophomore)

Website: www.chiclyinkedd.wordpress.com

Instagram: @MaceyRonquillo

About Me: I am a sophomore at Central Michigan University, and I grew up in Oakland county Michigan. I love fashion and I am so thankful my parents are giving me the opportunity to follow a career in what I feel passionate about! When it comes to the fashion industry, I see big things coming to Michigan. I want to experience working in fashion in cities like New York or Los Angeles, but I eventually want to come back to Michigan to pursue a career because I am so proud of where I come from!

Style It Local:

Sweater – Urban Outfitters

Leggings – Lululemon

Jacket – Kit and Ace

Shoes – Sorel 

Sunglasses – Ray-Ban

Style Inspiration: My biggest style inspiration comes from the girls in my classes and sorority, as well as the girls I see on social media. I am glued to my phone (especially Instagram), and I like keeping up with my favorite celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian and Jessie James Decker. They are both so causual but stylish all of the time. I believe I am a hippy at heart, so I like vintage styles that have a 2017 twist. 

Favorite Item in Your Closet: My favorite item in my closet is surely any sort of chunky knit sweater especially this time of year. All four seasons though, definitely a black or white bralette they make layering so fun and you don’t have to wear a real bra (yay!!).

Go-To Garment: My washed out black jeans that have a tear at each of the knees. I wear them to class with short booties and when I go out on the weekend I pair them with a chunky or strappy heel. 

Style It Local: Melissa Malesky, Owner of Posh Boutique

Name: Melissa Melesky
Website: www.poshnovi.com 
Instagram: @poshnovi

About Me: I am a wife and mom of two, a 6-year old boy named Aiden and a 3 year old girl named Brooklynn. I am originally from Dearborn. I graduated from the University of Michigan - Dearborn with a bachelors degree in Communications - Electronic Media. I worked in the past as a marketing assistant for a couple of different types of companies. I always dreamed of owning my own business. Actually growing up, I really wanted to own a shop on the beach somewhere. Being in the corporate world just made me unhappy. I am such a hard worker and super motivated to accomplish the things I want in life no matter how many hours of work it takes, so I really wanted to be working for myself. This allowed me to create something of my own but also to have to ability to be a full time mom. It takes so much time and dedication to really build a business but I wouldn't change any of this for the world. I honestly feel like I get to have it all. 

Navy Cold Shoulder top- Posh Boutique
Flying Monkey Jeans- Posh Boutique
Fat Bootie- Posh Boutique

Style Inspiration: Growing up, I always loved Jennifer Anniston. I love that cool and casual look when you look on trend but it was effortless. Even before kids, I just loved a great fitting pair of jeans and a fun, chic top with a little accessory accent like a scarf or a statement necklace. As a mom, I tend to be inspired by other stylish moms. I like checking out how they put together everyday pieces to look so put together and trendy. I am on Pinterest everyday, for ideas about everything in life whether it be home decor, DIY projects, projects for the kids or style trends. It inspires me on what I wanna carry at Posh and how I wanna style it.

Favorite Winter Trend: I love oversized sweaters, leggings, and boots. It's so easy yet so stylish. Fall and winter are my favorite fashion seasons. At Posh, we call it the trendiest time of year!

Favorite Winter Accessories: Scarves and socks. I can style up a basic long sleeve top with a fun, warm scarf and complete my look. I also love boot socks. It catches attention but you can have fun with it. 

Advice for Aspiring Business Owners: Jump in and get your hands in the mud. You will never really live your dream unless you set aside all of your doubts and just go for it. Life is all about risks. Your biggest regrets could be the risks you never took. You can't expect to have it all if your not willing to jump in and do the work. It's not easy but if you really love what you are doing, it will never feel like work. Make sure you are ready to put in hard work, dedication, and the motivation to keep going even when times get tough. 

Style It Local: Torie Fagan, CMU Student

Name: Torie Fagan

Major: Recreational Therapy at Central Michigan University with a minor in Child Development

Instagram: @torie_fagan

About Me:

I am a junior at Central Michigan University and I am originally from Commerce, Michigan. In my spare time I enjoy singing and all things music. I am also very passionate about photography and working with kids. I am the director of a recreational gymnastics program in Mt. Pleasant and am also Vice President of the Child Life Student Association at CMU.

Black Leggings- Lulu Lemon (Twelve Oaks Mall)

Black Booties- Target (Commerce)

Long Sleeve Sugar Lips Top- Posh Boutique (Novi)

Grey Quilted Jacket- Cabi

Style Inspiration: I would consider my style simplistic, but with the occasional statement piece. I like shopping at boutiques and local stores to find unique clothes that few people have.

Favorite Winter Accessory: My favorite winter accessory are all things BOOTS!

Favorite Winter Trend: Oversized sweaters and knit socks that peek out of your boots are my favorite trends this winter.

Do It: New Exhibit at the Henry Ford Museum Showcases American Style

Ever wanted to see a collection of clothes from the span of 130 years? From November 5, 2016 through April 2, 2017, you have the chance.

The Henry Ford Museum is getting ready to open its new exhibition: American Style and Spirit. This exhibit is a living catalog of style with selected clothing from the collection of lives of the entrepreneurial Roddis family. Letters, photographs and heirloom objects will bring to life the person behind each piece of clothing. The clothing revels a sense of self-expression against a backdrop of history.

To kick off this exhibition, there will be a preview party on Friday, November 4 from 7 to 10 p.m. You can be the first to see the exhibit while enjoying passed hors d' oeuvres and a wine bar. Tickets are $75, and you must respond by October 28 to attend.

You can purchase tickets here.

It Trends: June's Style Board

Wear It's At: A Transitional Jacket with an Explosive Name

Bomber jackets are the perfect transition piece for the spring and summer. With all of the different prints and colors available, it's super easy to find one that fits your style. You also don't need to worry about sweating up a storm since there are many light-weight options. Dress the jacket up or down, and for some style options, check out the outfits we've put together below. 

1. Silence + Noise Stays On Tour Satin Bomber Jacket, $159, Urban Outfitters.
2. Strappy Surplice Bodysuit, $16, Forever 21.
3. High-Rise Denim Shorts In Washed Black, $70, Madewell,.
4. Adelphie Bootie, Steve Madden, $100, DSW.
5. NO.7 Convertible Backpack, $498, Henri Bendel.

1. Top Shop Badged Bruce Bomber Jacket, $110, Nordstrom.
2. Sub Urban Riot Kale Tee, $39, Urban Outfitters.
3. Mid Rise Dark Blue Cropped Cuffed Jean Legging, $79.90, Express.
4. Miu Miu Metal Cap Toe Skate Sneaker, $495, Nordstrom.
5. Tiffany & Co., TF3052B, $360, Sunglass Hut.

1. Jacquard-Weave Pilot Jacket, HM, $67, H&M.
2. Cap Sleeve Pocket Tee,, $25, Gap.
3. Knit Midi Skirt,, $70, Bebe.
4. Tarrra, $140, Steve Madden.
5. Rebecca Minkoff Micro Moto Satchel, $195, Nordstrom.

It Trends: May's Style Board

Wear It's At: Trapeze Shapes Make for Easy Wear and Interesting Silhouettes

Keep cool this spring and summer with a trapeze top or dress. This easy-to-wear trend can be worn many different ways and in a ton of different situations--just pair the right accessories with it and you can wear it day or night. If you aren't too sure about how to style this trend, take a look at what we've put together below, and you may just want to add this on your to-shop list.

1. Wilfred Octave Blouse, $75, Aritzia.
2. Rosalie Large Raffia Clutch, $198, Michael Kors. 

3, AG 'The Beau' High Rise Slouchy Skinny Jeans (Dunes Destroyed),$198, Nordstrom.

4. Cataclou Studded Cork Espadrille Platform Sandal, Christian Louboutin, Saks Fifth Avenue, $795

1. Michael Kors Collection Short Sleeved Draped Bouse, $850, Neiman Marcus.
2. Pandora Round Sunglasses, $16, Urban Outfitters.
3. Jetsetter Convertible Backpac, $228, Henri Bendel
4. Slinng, $99, Steve Madden.

5. Slacks, $15, H&M.

1. Wilfred Trompette Dress, $135, Artizia.

2. Dior SoReal Leather Round Sunglasses, $850, Solstice Sunglasses.

3. Coiled Cuff, $6, Forever 21.

4. Black Chevron Weave Fedora, $40, Express.

5. Sam Edelman Gretchen Tassel Sandal, $130, Urban Outfitters.

Oh, Shop It: KENDALL + KYLIE Kollection Available at Neimans

The  KENDALL + KYLIE collection has launched at Neiman Marcus and is in stores now. This collection is exclusive to Neimans as part of the #OnlyatNM program. 

"Neiman Marcus is delighted that Kendall and Kylie created exclusive pieces for our #OnlyatNM program,” said Neiman Marcus Senior Vice President, GMM, Lisa Kazor. "The sophisticated, feminine designs will appeal to a great range of our customers." 

The sisters have created nine pieces inspired by their current closet bringing shoppers one step closer to their aesthetic, taste profile and personal style. Kendal and Kylie have brought a modern twist to black silk jumpsuits, leather shorts and other closet favorites.

“The collection is sophisticated, clean and beautifully tailored,” said Kendall Jenner. “We wanted to widen our range of customers by introducing a more premium clothing line. We incorporated a lot of sophisticated and versatile pieces that were simple yet chic.”

This collection comes just in time for festival season. Visit Neiman Marcus Troy to view the whole collection. Happy shopping.

Wear It's At: Opening Day Duds

Opening Day is right around the corner, so you know spring is here. Although the weather won't be ideal, you need something to wear! We have put together three striking outfits that will be sure to knock you out the park with looks for every different Opening Day celebration from tailgating to watching the game from the office. 

1. Pink Detroit Tigers Bling Mesh Jersey, $59, Victoria's Secret.
2. Authentic 1969 Best Girlfriend Jeans, $79, Gap.
3. Chuck Taylor “Shoreline” Sneaker, $49, Nordstrom.
4. BP Denim Anorak, $64, Nordstrom.
5. Ceder Street Carine, $178, Kate Spade.

1. Off-The-Shoulder Top, $12, HM.
2. Women’s Mid Rise Jegging Light Wash Mossimo, $29, Target.
3. Nitis Flat, Aldo, $75.
4. Mona Crossbody Bag, $44, Francesca’s.
5. Wide Enamel Bracelet, $29, J. Crew. 

1. Jared Fringe Scarf Vest, $248, BCBG.
2. Stretch Shirt, $19, H&M.
3. Straight Crop Pants, $78, White House Black Market.
4. Marcir Small Crossbody Bag, Chloe, $795, Saks Fifth Avenue.
5. Steve Madden ‘Christey’ Wraparounf Ankle Tie Sandal, $109, Nordstrom.

Industry Spotlight: Michigan Startup Solves the Problem of What to Wear

If you're one of those people who could care less about putting an outfit together or if you're on the opposite end of the spectrum where that's all you think about, listen up. A local startup has solved both of those problems. Stylists, you now have a platform to legitimize your business and start managing your clients a little more efficiently, and for the busy men and women who just don't have time to figure out their outfits, you have a way to do so with an expert. Read more about The Styled Life and how it answers life's most important question: what am I going to wear today?

Image from The Styled Life

DGG: Tell us about The Styled Life.

The Styled Life: Remember Cher Horowitz’s closet computer in the movie Clueless? How many of us lusted after that machine that would tell us precisely what to wear each morning?! It has been a dream ever since to bring that exact feeling to every closet. We all struggle with what to wear when faced with the contents of our closet and we all want to feel confident in the image that we present to the world.

THE STYLED LIFE was created to solve the struggle of figuring out what to wear. We have bridged the gap between professional stylists wanting to help clients feel great about their look and members searching for someone to put their clothes together for them. It is the only monthly subscription service that will actually take your own clothes and show you how to wear them. No more laying clothes out, stressing about a special occasion, or wasting time trying stuff on and not liking the way it looks.

Through a special photographic process, each article of a wardrobe is documented and uploaded to a personal virtual closet.  From here, wardrobe items are catalogued by category, type, color, and brand.  Our members can request outfits from their personal stylist, ask for shopping suggestions, assign outfits to their calendar, and ask a stylist to plan out outfits to pack their suitcase for a trip. Every time a new item is added to a closet, the stylist gets an alert to create new outfits so that our members know exactly how to wear it.

DGG: Why should a local stylist choose this as a platform versus managing it his or herself?

TSL: The job of a personal stylist is to help their clients feel great about themselves in what they are wearing, whether it is done in a fitting room at a store or in the comfort of their own home. Men and women desire to look their best each and every day; the image we portray directly affects how we feel and how others view us. The demand for personal stylists is on the rise, yet the time in each day does not change. How else can you meet the needs of your growing number of clients if you cannot be in 10 places at once? This is the exact reason why we created the solution to the struggle.  

With The Styled Life, stylists can access their clients’ closets from any mobile device. They are available when their clients need them and can offer advice, style outfits, and give shopping suggestions. The ability to view the wardrobe contents of any client allows a stylist the freedom to run their business on their time and still serve their clients at the highest level.

DGG: What are your plans for the future? Where do you see The Styled Life in 5-10 years?

TSL: In the next 5-10 years, we will be able to touch millions of wardrobes. Personalized shopping experiences are on the rise, and for good reason. Stitch Fix, Trunk Club, Wantable...all of these style subscription boxes are gaining attention and followers because women, and men, are understanding the power of their image. We live in a quick world, where first impressions are extremely important. The clothing that we choose to wear each and every day can have a major impact on our life interactions.  

The Styled Life takes what the style subscription boxes have to offer and adds one more unique touch: honoring your current wardrobe. With this personalized step, we are not selling you new products. Our stylists are not filling a box with clothes we think you will like based on a style quiz you completed. Instead, we are making informed decisions based on the contents of your closet. We are creating a personalized relationship to best serve your lifestyle and outfit struggles.  And we are NOT a subscription that you will take a break from because our styling professionals are saving you precious time and money. By creating outfits from your wardrobe that you love to wear, we are increasing the value of your investment in the items that are hanging in your closet. And who doesn’t want to make the most of an important investment?

The Styled Life will be a household name as it is going to change the way men and women shop and get dressed each day. Imagine being able to walk into a retail store and instead of wondering what you should buy, you can invite the sales associate to pull up your closet. The associate can then pinpoint exactly what your wardrobe is missing. This will not only help you make smarter decisions as a consumer, but also see a greater value in what you purchase.

We are excited to see what the future brings and have already seen the life-changing impact that our system has on our members’ lives.

DGG: What advice you would give to budding personal stylists?

TSL: You cannot serve everyone and you do not need to. Be focused. When you become clear about what you have to offer and who you offer it to, you will identify your exact client and can find them so much easier. Think about who you love working with and get to know your ideal client. Study them. What type of client are they? What do they look like? What are their struggles?  What do they like to do in their free time? What do they do for work? Where do they like to hang out? Really take the time to understand the people you want to serve. This will help you become clear on your own services and what you have to offer your clients.

DGG: If you could style anyone in the world, who would it be and why?

TSL: Oprah. Just to be in the presence of a woman who has built an empire, while never losing sight of what she has to offer others, would be incredibly empowering. Styling to me is more than just fashion and trends, it represents connecting with my clients on a deeper, more transformational level.  To have the opportunity to connect with Oprah on this level, while influencing her style decisions (not that she needs it!) I know would provide immeasurable insight.   

DGG: How do you take your coffee?

TSL: Black and strong.

DGG: Sarah Slutsky or Erin Walsh?

TSL: Sarah Slutsky.  

DGG: Classic or edgy?

TSL: Depends on my mood and who I want to be that day. I love playing around with my style and wearing outfits that are unique to me.

Wear It's At: Cold Shoulder for Spring Warmth

This spring, shoulder baring tops will be your go to. Not only are they sexy, but they are easy to wear and allow for great accessorizing. If you're not sure about how you're going to take the jump from a normal to off-the-shoulder top, we've pulled together a few looks to try out.

1. Rebecca Minkoff Jasmine Silk off the Shoulder Top, $188, Nordstrom.
2. High-Slit Pencil Skirt, $88, White House Black Market.
3. Licorie Too Pump, $298, Kate Spade.
4. YSL Rouge Volupte’ Shine oil-in Stick Lipstick, $37, Nordstrom.

1. Trixxi Lace Off the Shoulder Shift Dress, $52, Nordstrom.

2. Mariandre, $90, Aldo.

3. Robinson Adjustable Shoulder Bag, $425, Tory Burch.

4. Miu Miu Mu 04QS, $540, Sunglass Hut.

1. Willa Off-The-Shoulder Tassel Blouse, $38, Francesca’s.
2. vanka Trump Kieren Sandal, $139, Nordstrom.
3. Citizens of Humanity Liya High-Rise Classic Fit Jean, $258, Urban Outfitters.
4. Chloe Hudson Small Tassled Leather Crossbody Bag,  $2390, Saks Fifth Avenue.