We're welcoming NEW changes for Spring!

If you liked Envy before, you’re going to love us now!

Below is a letter from the owner, Kristi, regarding some excited Envy news:

Dear my amazing customers,

In 2013, I opened Envy in Downtown Evanston with a goal of providing a fun and personalized boutique experience, from the unique clothes and jewelry to the hands-on customer service. Envy was opened as a licensed store allowing us to provide fashion-forward clothes under $40 selected by buyers in L.A. While we have gained our loyal customers by staying consistent with the Envy model, I consider myself a perpetual learner, and I’ve always continued listening closely to the needs of the Evanston shopper. With a new season around the corner, it’s time for us to be as loyal to you all as you have been to us. So, we’re shaking things up a bit and moving on from our licensing agreement, and come Spring 2015 we will have some exciting changes!

Ace of Lace Top

The biggest change:

Inventory: We will now be able to bring in exactly what you want, and in a much quicker timeframe. Your customer requests will be fulfilled faster, so the waiting list for our most popular items (Read: Chicago FlagNecklaces, Sticky Bras, etc!!) won’t be so long. In terms of clothing, you can expect a lot of the same. I know that the reason you shop at Envy is because we provide unique clothing and affordable prices. I’m not going to rip that away from you! But without corporate buyers, we’ll have the opportunity to bring in what you specifically ask for.  Also, you may see some items above our typical $40 price point when the item is worth it—we will never, ever, ever mark up items just for the heck of it (I hate that!!). But the $40 price point has restricted us from carrying some shoes, coats, and jewelry that we know you will love and value. So, it’s not a huge change, but it’s definitely one that will make the store even better than it already is.

Another change:

I know how everyone loves online shopping--- Our new website will be e-commerce ready and you can peruse our inventory from your own home 24/7. However, we still would love to see you every now and again, so don’t forget to come visit us in Downtown Evanston!

Finally…. We’re Getting a New Name!!

Envy will become 522 Envy—as in, 522 Davis Street.

What will stay the same:

Our location!! Come visit us at 522 Davis Street in Downtown Evanston, and soon online at 522envy.com (formerly www.EnvyMyOutfit.com)

Our staff: We’re not changing ownership or management, so you can expect your regular Envy personal stylist to help you shop for outfits and gifts just like they always have.

Our passion for our customers: The whole reason for this change is because I realized that my boutique could serve you better. I have to opportunity to provide you with more of what you want, and hopefully soon we will be your favorite boutique in Evanston!!

I am so excited about this change, and I hope you are, too!! In the meantime, if you’ve learned anything about me in the last few years, you know that I like to throw parties, so get on our email list now because you better believe our Grand Reopening party is going to be a big one!!

Sincerely,

Kristi Pawlowicz

Owner, (Soon-to-be) 522 Envy

Currently Reading: Project Soiree by Sara Visser

"Currently Reading" is a misleading title for this post, because we've been following along at Project Soiree for over a year now.  Initially, we were attracted to her effortlessly-cool sense of style, but even more than that, Project Soiree offers a fun daily perspective of life in Chicago.

Why We Read: 

1) Sara has nailed how to show her personality through her outfits.  You will definitely get ideas for mixing casual + dressy and wear bold pieces without feeling obnoxious about it

2) Check out the recipe section because OMG.

3) You will definitely feel inspired to discover the city because the@ProjectSoiree Instagram is on point for go-to dining, coffee, etc.

We were honored to get to know Sara a little more in this interview:

1. Tell us a little bit about Project Soiree:

Project Soiree is my little space to grow, learn and celebrate my favorite things in life. It’s a continual “Project” that evolves with the twists & turns of my eventful life in Chicago while celebrating big and/or small moments “Soiree.” After 4 years I’ve grown along with Project Soiree, and it’s truly a great creative outlet.

2. Why do you love fashion?

I love fashion because it’s an extension of my personality. I really enjoy trying new trends, mixing different pieces together and taking risks with my outfits. I approach fashion as a fun and artistic way to express your mood each day.

3. Describe your personal style.

My personal style is somewhat unique with a twist of classic pieces and on-trend items. I love mixing items in my closet so it’s rare to see me in the same outfit twice.

4. A fashion rule you never break.

Honestly, I really don’t believe in fashion rules. I will always wear white after Labor Day, mix navy and black and attempt socks with open toe heels. Have fun with fashion and don’t be afraid to break the rules and try something new.

5. Suggest a must-have for this fall/winter.

The cape trend is my must-have for Fall/Winter. A cape is such a chic item to stay warm and stylish so it’s a win-win in my book.

6. If you could only have one pair of shoes for the rest of your life, what would they be?

If I could only have one pair of shoes for the rest of your life I would choose a classic pair of black heels. You can’t go wrong with black heels that go with everything.

7. Your Chicago go-to hotspot this fall and why:

My Chicago go-to hotspot this Fall is MFK in Lincoln Park for incredible seafood dishes and a cozy atmosphere.

8. Do you have any fall traditions? Any specific to Chicago?

A trip to the apple orchard for pumpkin spiced donuts and Honeycrisp apples is a must in the Fall. I also love visiting the Green City Market on Saturday mornings in Chicago for apple cider and local produce for baking up some of my favorite Fall recipes.

9. Every brunch is incomplete without ______. 

Champagne. Cheers!

You can follow Project Soiree at the links below:

Blog
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram

Top 3 Reasons to Shop Small this Holiday Season

For retailers like us, we have already started planning and prepping for our busiest season: the time when YOU shop for the ones you love most.

Envy owner Kristi explains the top reasons you should shop local this holiday season:

1. Shop with your Friends
I've been lucky enough to help many of my customers over and over-- I know their taste, their lifestyle, their body type, and their price point. Or, if I don't know you personally, chances are I've assisted your neighbor, daughter, co-worker, etc.

From the customer's perspective, however, it's more than just building a personal connection with sales associates; it's about convenience. It is so much easier to shop with someone that already 'gets' you. Holiday shopping can be a headache, but not when you're shopping efficiently in stores that already know how to help you.

Even more, holiday returns are annoying, but chances are, the same employee that helped you pick out the gift item will be working *if* the item comes back to be returned. Last Christmas, I helped a husband put a whole outfit together for his wife. So sweet! When she came back with the entire gift still wrapped in Envy tissue paper (wrong size, darn!), I thought, 'This is so fun putting a face to the gift!' And I was able to help her get the correct items in less than 5 minutes.

2. Diversity of Products
Local businesses don't have to stock their shelves with products to reach a "mass market." Instead, we pick products for our local audience. For example, the two most popular items in our store right now are Chicago Flag necklaces and Fleece Lined Leggings. Obviously, these items are specific and regional, but we sell hundreds of each item in our Evanston store.

But it goes beyond niche-y products. You ask for sweaters, leg warmers, infinity scarves? We run to the phone and make sure our buyers order it. Because it's what YOU want (and need-- let's be real, it's freezing here), not what someone in L.A. or Dallas wants to buy. The benefit of shopping local is we listen to you when we fill our stores so you can purchase exactly what you are looking for.

3. Help us create jobs and invest in our community!

Without a doubt, the best part of owning a small business is connecting with the community that supports us. We hire local residents and college students who are active in the community, and we support their local charities, schools, and events. For example, in the past year, your support has allowed us to contribute to Evanston Township High School, Northwestern University Dance Marathon, Relay for Life, Delta Gamma Sorority, Kappa Delta Sorority, and a handful of other charities and fundraising events.  You are able to patronize the shops that support your causes, and that means YOU have a direct impact on your community. That's pretty cool!

This is a feel-good post for us! We have been blessed with a community filled with local support, and we can't wait to help you shop this holiday season for your loved ones :)


Mark your calendars for these Envy shopping events in November:

November 7 - November 9: Shop3V Pop-up Shop at Envy in Downtown Evanston
Meet Danira from Triple V Clothing at her online boutique's Grand Opening event!

November 9: Kenilworth Club Holiday Bazaar
Shop with Envy and other local vendors at this festive event!

November 14: Envy Pre- Black Friday Party! at Envy in Downtown Evanston
Out of town for Black Friday? No prob-- we celebrate it early at Envy!

November 29: Small Business Saturday and Downtown Evanston Tree Lighting
Shop Small Saturday coincides with Downtown Evanston's most popular holiday event! This is your excuse to shop around the great local boutiques in Evanston!

Meet Danira from Triple V Clothing!

Mark you calendars! 

This weekend you will have the opportunity to meet the owner of Triple V Clothing, an e-commerce clothing store based in Evanston! Triple V Clothing will be hosting a pop-up shop at Envy from November 7th - November 9th. Currently, Triple V is only available online at www.Shop3V.com, so this is your opportunity to come and try it all on in person!

We interviewed Danira Alihodzic, the CEO and Founder of Triple V, so you can learn a little more about her and the brand. She will be at Envy all weekend, so stop by and meet her in person!

About Shop3V.com:

Triple V Clothing is modern, contemporary and unique clothing hand-picked by Danira. The price point is amazing but even better, Triple V Clothing gives a portion of it’s proceeds to charities. 

Briefly describe your story:

I was working at a law firm and simply decided one day that it made sense for me to start my own business and do something I truly love. The business plan was drawn up the same day, and here we are.

Where did the concept for Shop3V.com come from?

I was getting sick of seeing the exact same clothes at all the stores I was shopping at, and noticed that my friends were too. I decided to give us an option that wouldn’t leave us worrying if 3 other girls would have the same dress at the same party.

What is the best thing about being Founder & CEO (Chief Hustler)?

The best thing would have to be the creative freedom. I get to pull inspiration directly from my surroundings and pour it into the brand. It’s nice because my customers are girls like me, I get them – they get me. There isn’t a buying meeting at the 100^th floor of some fancy building with a handful of stuffy businesspeople whose main goal is money. I feel like that’s what Triple V’s customers appreciate.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Would it be super cliché to say life? Yeah? Ok.
It would be difficult to narrow it down to one major thing, but my friends and family are probably a huge part of what inspires me. Each of them is so different, yet somehow they all mesh. Their styles blend together and end up in our clothes. I’d like to think there is something for everyone at Triple V, and that’s a direct result of my friends and family.

What is your best selling item at Shop3V.com?

Everybody was going absolutely crazy over a denim coat we had last season! So much so that we’ll be re-introducing it in the Spring.

Describe your personal style.

I’m such a chameleon. One day I’m super sophisticated and sleek in all black, the next I’m channeling my inner 90’s grunge diva with a vintage band tee and purple ombre. But that’s the beauty of fashion; we get to be whatever we want to be.

What is your favorite thing about fall in Chicago?

The clothes! I’m not a fan of 90-degree weather, so when it drops down to 60’s and I get to shop for sweaters, hats, and boots – I am ecstatic! Also, the gorgeous lakeside walks in early fall. Our city is stunning!

Three things in your bag:

My liquid eyeliner by NYC – fall is the ultimate season for a bold cat eye, and this gem lasts forever and is such a bargain at $3!

MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Line lip liner in 3C – my ULTIMATE obsession at the moment. Move over, Kylie Jenner.

Business cards, because you never know when an opportunity can come knocking!

What is one thing our readers would be surprised to hear about you:

I lived in 7 different countries and 11 different cities by the age of 13. I’ve added London, UK to the list since then.

Check Triple V Clothing out on Facebook

And come meet Danira in person at Envy this weekend!! Can't wait to see you all there!

5 Last Minute Costume Ideas for Movie Lovers

It's this time of the year - Halloween, a.k.a. time for costumes. You want to be creative, funny, unique, and have the set of costumes that every girl wishes she came up with first, but at the same time, you want to look good. So if you love movies and are still searching for the perfect costume for this year's Halloween, you're at the right place. Here are 5 costume ideas that are not only unique but so practical you can wear them all year round!

1. Corey from Empire Records

Simply wear a blue cropped sweater with a plaid skirt, and put on a pair of short black boots and you're good to go! It looks even better if you add a name tag around your neck and a few buttons.

2. Mia Wallace from Pulp Fiction

This is a very easy outfit - a white shirt, black pants, and white shoes. But the distinguishing factor of this costume is Mia's killer look. If you have bangs, great! If not, don't worry. Put on dark lipstick and maybe even some fake blood on your skin and you'll look like you walked right out of Pulp Fiction.

3. Cher from Clueless

Cher wears everything and anything preppy, and the key to recreate her outfits is a high waisted skirt, a blazer and some type of plaids. If you want, you can also hold a bunch of designer shopping bags as props!

4. Nitta Sayuri from Memoirs of a Geisha

Want to look exotic? No problem! Throw on anything with a silky texture and top it with a kimono. Tie your hair up into a loose bun and add on catty eyeliners and red lipstick.

5. Princess Ann from Roman Holiday

Although Audrey Hepburn's classic LBD look from Breakfast at Tiffany's is my all-time favorite, she also has some other amazing outfits! This one, from Roman Holiday, she wears a white sleeveless shirt with a high waisted midi dress. Accent this costume with a little square scarf around your neck!

Fall Accessory Picks

Although this weekend's weather felt more like spring than fall, it's almost November. Of course our outfits have been reflecting the season, from our fleece lined leggings to our oversized sweaters. We go on and on about our favorite clothes, but our accessories deserve some recognition! Here are our top picks of our best selling items.

1. Leg Warmers
Not only do these keep our legs warm, but they are cute and easy additions to any outfit. Both styles come in lots of colors to match whatever you're wearing.

2. Statement Necklaces
Statement necklaces are perfect to dress up basics and add some fun.

3. Knit Ear Warmers
Let's be real - hats keep us warm and all but hat hair is not cute. Luckily, these earmuffs protect your 'do AND keep your ears from getting frostbite.

4. Chicago Necklaces
Rep your city! These necklaces have been flying out our doors. Available in gold, rose gold, and silver, these themed necklaces not only show your love, but also are the perfect amount of bling if you aren't comfortable wearing a statement necklace.

5. Statement Earrings

Whether you want to dial down the jewels and wear these alone, or pair them with a matching statement necklace, these little gems are so cute for adding some flare.

Scarf Check List

Scarves are the most versatile, practical, and must-have accessories. "ALL of them are so cute!" But which ones should I add to my wardrobe? How should I wear them? Well, here is a check list of a couple scarf styles that will keep you stylish and warm this winter:

1) Knitted Circle Scarf

A knitted circle is cute, hip, warm, versatile, and more. Wear it over a floral dress, a knitted sweater, a denim shirt...layer it up with a cardigan, a military jacket...you name it! There are infinite possible looks with a knitted circle scarf and it will never go out of style. So never hesitate to add one to your wardrobe, you will love it!

2) Classic Oversized Scarf

A wide, long scarf you can tie however you want. A darker color creates a subdued, classy look, while a brighter color accents any outfit. Crumple it up for a casual look, and when it gets cold, stretch it to wear around your shoulders. This is a classic staple you should never miss.

3) Square Scarf

A small scarf just enough to highlight your face and add a personality to any outfit. What's great about it is not only can you wear it around your neck, feel free to use it as a headband, tie it on your bag, and even as an arm accessory! You will be surprised what this little scarf can do...

                                                    

4) Patterns never get old.

Add some fun splashes and prints to your collection of scarves. They can be classic patterns like animal prints or if you are a dare devil, try these...

Happy scarfing! Don't forget you can get an infinity scarf for just $5 with ANY purchase at Envy! See you soon :)