Congratulations to Dawn, comment #10 the winner of the fun Brighton umbrella from ACCENTUATE! Accentuate is a small women’s boutique located in Camas, Washington. I work there part-time. If you live in the area, I’d love to have you visit the store. If you would still like one, please CONTACT me. The umbrellas sells for $25 and there are a few left. Whether you are local or long distance we can make arrangements. Someone also e-mailed me about the gloves:
These are ECHO also from Accentuate. They sell for $35 and we have them in black or teal. Again, go to the Contact tab on my home page and I can help you. We have a few pairs left, but I can also direct you to another source.
Today I’m continuing my ongoing series on stores. Last month I featured the GAP and now I’m switching gears to Talbots.
About ten years ago I was an avid Talbots shopper. I loved visiting Dallas because Talbots stores were EVERYWHERE and each one was different. They had killer season end sales. My sister and I were known to do some “damage” at Talbots.
Talbots has always been known for a classic style. Blouses, suits and staples were always available here. I didn’t really wear those type of clothes. For me it was great fitting pants or a fun sweater that was unique. We don’t have as many Talbots stores in our area, so clothes purchased in Dallas were always a little different and I liked that.
But over the years, my style evolved and it took a different turn. Talbot’s style turned too. I found that I was not drawn at all to their clothes. Their style seemed to be for a much older woman. Now admittedly I’ve aged in ten years, but I try to look 10 years younger, not 10 years older!
I stayed on their mailing list. Many times I thumbed through their catalog and it hit the recycling bin. I almost felt bad that I had lost my allegiance to Talbots. A store that had once had so much to offer was no longer an option for me personally.
But lately, I have found myself looking more intently at the Talbots catalog. In addition to just the clothes, there were many ideas on how to style outfits. I found the combinations and ways they used accessories to be quite interesting. I like looking at the catalog better than online. I am still not overly thrilled with our local store, but I have learned that each store is different so check out the Talbots near you.
A friend who has an extensive background in retail informed me that Talbot’s had recently done a complete overhaul. New buyers and stylists. They are trying to change their look and it shows! A great store carries styles that cross a wide variety of age groups. I haven’t purchased a thing yet–I may consider it if they keep improving.
The price point is definitely higher. If it doesn’t fit your budget, you’ll be on the sale page. There is nothing wrong with that–their clearance deals are amazing. Before I share some photos, I wanted to direct you to a section called “pearls of widsom” Q&A, videos and lots of tips are under this tab. Mary Alice Stephenson, a renowned stylist is now a style advisor for Talbots. She includes some tips in every catalog. Here are a couple from one issue that will sound just a bit familiar if you’re a regular Style by Karen reader: 1. Put a belt on it 2. Liven it up 3. Don’t match-mix!
Below are some photos. I tried to choose things that you wouldn’t normally associate with Talbots. A couple of months ago I posted pictures on my FB Fan page and readers could guess what store. I believe I fooled some people with the various stores I chose. The second photo is a casual, comfortable skirt for just $49!
Check out their jackets–now in 3 categories: Grace, Jackie and Kate
Tops/Sweaters:
Statement Jewelry!
I’m curious to know your view on Talbots. There is something to be said for a store that carries classic pieces that you know will always be there. I am working with a client right now who cannot find a decent white blouse anywhere. I know that Talbots will come through for us. I also love how they are mixing it up a little. What do you think? Will you check out the new Talbots?
