Tag Archives: Sanctuary

by | September 26, 2012 · 11:00 am

10 Ways to Wake Up Your Work Wardrobe for Fall

Take a cue from the season’s changing leaves by transitioning your work wardrobe to fall with fresh colors, textures and silhouettes. Get started with our top autumnal pieces — all guaranteed to complement classics already hanging in your closet.

  1. Leather-Look LBD: Even the Little Black Dress deserves an update from time to time. This ponte dress from Sanctuary flaunts faux-leather panels for a luxe take on the wardrobe staple.
  2. Fanciful Brooch: Need a quick fall fix? Add a jewelry-box bauble to your favorite shirtdress or cardigan. We love these sparkling Dillard’s Boxed Collection pins worn alone or in light-catching clusters.
  3. Daytime Shine: The secret to surviving long days? Sequins. Especially smart with a crisp white blouse, this Antonio Melani skirt skillfully transitions from 8-hour day to holiday party.
  4. Better-Than-Basic Pump: Swap basic black for an equally versatile shade of deep green, burgundy or navy. You’ll find pointed-toe silhouettes, like this Vince Camuto pick, make even the most polished looks impossibly sharper.
  5. Menswear Motif: Borrow textural fabrics from the boys — but keep the cut all about your curves. Figure-contouring panels shape this houndstooth Tahari sheath dress for a thoroughly feminine take on the masculine trend.
  6. Peter Pan Collar: An instant pick-me-up, bejeweled Peter Pan collars lend radiance to your complexion. Luminous with beading on the collar and cuffs, this Sanctuary selection means little to no time spent on morning accessorizing.
  7. Eye-Catching Cobalt: Pitch-perfect in ponte knit, this cobalt blue Rafaella pant instantly reinvigorates basic blouses and blazers. It’s no wonder we’ve been singing the cheerful color’s praises all season.
  8. Leopard-Print Trench: Bundling up doesn’t mean covering up your personal style. Show off your feminine (and fierce) aesthetic with this MICHAEL Michael Kors leopard-print trench.
  9. Textural Satchel: A deep wine hue, python print and file-friendly size make this BCBGeneration satchel a stylish workplace companion. Compose a tactile, layered statement by styling it with fall’s touchable tweeds and nubby knits.
  10. Conversation Print: Your sense of whimsy should be no secret at the office. Share the love with prints equal parts clever and chic. Colorful horses gallop across this Cremieux blazer’s cuffs — clean lines keep the look classic.

Shop our entire selection of women’s clothing here.

How do you stay corner-office chic when it’s cold? Share in the comments!

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by | September 23, 2012 · 11:00 am

Style It: Tights & Leggings

This season’s must-haves: brightly colored and patterned tights or leggings. Not sure how to style them?  Check out our 4 examples below to get that effortlessly on-trend look for your wardrobe.

Bright Tights

Much like colored denim, brightly colored tights add a perfectly bold touch to your look. You don ‘t have to keep the rest of your look subdued. A leopard-print tunic and studded smoking slippers keep your ensemble fashionable yet comfortable for a workday or shopping. To finish off the look, reach across the color wheel for a bag that punches up your palette.

Shop the look: Collective Concepts Smockneck Shirtdress, Hue Opaque Non-Control Top Tights, MICHAEL Michael Kors Jet Set Top Zip East West Tote, Betsey Johnson Bliiingg Smoking Slippers

Patterned Tights

Not quite ready to take the leap to a bright leg? Then start your hosiery exploration with patterned tights. Depending on the pattern, they can add edge or sophistication to your outfit. For a sleek workday look, pair them with a tailored dress and authoritative pumps. A patterned bag coordinates perfectly with this option. Take this look to dinner by adding on a bold lip or a statement necklace.

Shop the look: T Tahari Libby Ponte Knit Dress, Spanx Tight-End Filigree Patterned Tights, Antonio Melani Joanne Pumps, Brahmin Melbourne Collection Anytime Mini Shoulder Bag

Cord Leggings

When the weather turns cooler, leggings are a great option for keeping warm. But how do you keep your look from getting too casual? Pair them with soft fabrics and feminine accessories. A chiffon tunic balances the corduroy perfectly, while the stones in these earrings subtly echo the jewel-tone hues. Add cute booties or pumps to finish it off.

Shop the look: MM Couture by Miss Me Printed Chiffon Tunic, Hue Corduroy Leggings, Sam Edelman Louie Booties, Betsey Johnson Moroccan Medallion Drop Earrings

Print Leggings

Just add printed leggings to instantly take your closet favorites to fashionably fabulous. A long tee is an easy option for these leopard-print leggings. Take a full dive into rock star mode with a spiked bangle, moto-inspired boots and a sleek leather jacket.

Shop the look: Buffalo David Bitton Nepeta Faux Leather Jacket, Sanctuary Clothing Short-Sleeve Screen Print Top, Hue The Original Jeans Leopard Print Leggings, BCBGeneration Halen Moto-Inspired Boots, Natasha Accessories Pyramid Stretch Bracelet

Shop all tights and leggings. 

Which look are you excited to try?

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by | August 23, 2012 · 11:00 am

Rush Week: What to Wear

Planning Rush Week looks can be a daunting task. Our top tip? Choose clothes and accessories that you not only feel comfortable in, but also speak to your unique personality. We broke down the sorority recruitment process by day (though schedules vary by university) so you can impress stress-free.

Comfort is key on your first day as you’ll be walking from house to house. Pair your school-issued tee with tailored shorts, cropped pants or a preppy skirt. (We picked a pink pant that’s playful yet polished.) Your secret weapon on this busy day? Blotting tissues. They’ll ensure you’re fresh-faced and oil-free from the first house to the last.
Shop Our Picks: Sanctuary Clothing Cropped Pants, Michael Kors Watch, Bobbi Brown Blotting Tissues, Michael Kors Earrings, Sam Edelman Sandals

Take things up a notch with a sundress. Look to feminine styles with prints or textures to subtly set your look apart. If you still have several houses to visit, opt for a shimmery yet smart flat. When you get down to the final tours, lift your look with a pump or wedge. We chose a bejeweled wedge that catches the sunlight with every step. A cheerful nail polish —  we especially love this coral shade — is a constant reminder that this week is all about having fun and finding your place.
Shop Our Picks: M.S.S.P. Printed Dress, Gianni Bini Wedge, Michael Kors Bracelet, Guerlain Emilio Pucci Nail Lacquer, Anna & Ava Necklace, Vince Camuto Metallic Flat, Gianni Bini Lace Dress

Stand out from the crowd of black dresses with a saturated jewel tone. On-trend details, like one-shoulder necklines and peplums, create a sharp look that also complements your figure. Don’t go too heavy with your accessories. Instead, select one or two statement pieces that truly shine.
Shop Our Picks: Gianni Bini Pump, R.J. Graziano Earrings, R.J. Graziano Bracelets, Gianni Bini Peplum Dress

Keep it fun and simple on this special day. Since you’ll be running to meet your new sisters, slip into the flat sandal you wore on your first day. Wear a lightweight, fitted camisole or top you can layer under the T-shirt your house will give you. There will be plenty of photographs to commemorate the day — so don’t forget your lip gloss for flawless shots.
Shop Our Picks: Gianni Bini Shorts, C&C California Tank, Sam Edelman Sandal, BCBGeneration Sweet Bracelet, Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss, Lilly Pulitzer Sorority iPhone Case

Find looks for Rush Week here.

Do you have any tips for Rush Week? Share them in the comments!

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by | July 5, 2012 · 11:00 am

Shoes: What does your Favorite Silhouette Say about your Style?

Poll time! Do flip flops, flats or pumps dominate your closet? Read on to find out what your favorite shoes say about your style personality.

They say: You’re ready to relax and go with the flow, no matter what hits your to-do list. Impromptu pool party?  Backyard BBQ? You’re there.

Your Summer Uniform: easy-fit tees and breezy tanks with tried-and-true shorts

In a rut?  This season look for flip flops with eye-catching details. Metallic straps, jewels and glitter brighten your favorite silhouette, while snake print adds fresh texture. For evening, wedges dress up this summer staple.

They say: You want a stylish win-win: a feminine silhouette with the ease of a flat heel. With an everyday flat, you can seamlessly transition from work to dinner with friends.

Your Summer Uniform: fresh takes on classic pieces, like tailored shirts with bright pencils or cropped pants

In a rut? Peep toes give ballets a summery spin. Also, smoking loafers couple the flat heel you love with a luxurious menswear-inspired attitude.

They say: You are polished from head-to-toe. And nothing says fun loving like a flirty pair of pumps.

Your Summer Uniform: girly yet current with sundresses, maxi skirts and colored denim

In a rut? Make a stronger statement with bright hues, animal print or embellished styles. Keep your closet interesting with a mix of heights and silhouettes. Platforms add stability to sky-high heels, while pointed toes and low-height heels exude a ladylike feel.

Shop Flip Flops: Kenneth Cole Reaction Glam-athon Sandals in pewter, Sanctuary Clothing Scout Shorts in guava, Chelsea & Violet Studded Racerback Tank
Shop Ballet Flats: Frye Malorie Woven Flats in lemon, Cremieux Mindy Pencil Skirt, Patterson J. Kincaid Patterson Tie-Hem Blouse
Shop Pumps: Vince Camuto Kain Cheetah-Print Pumps, Antonio Melani Mika Pleated Sheath Dress, BCBGeneration Julia Clutch in lime

Do you own more flip flops, ballet flats or pumps? 

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by | April 21, 2012 · 4:00 pm

The Fresh List: Our Favorite Spring Trends

Spring style has only just begun — new fits, colors and textures are debuting every day. Check out our freshest trends below, and then leave a comment for your chance to win $50 in Dillard’s gift cards to spend on your spring look.

Shop the Looks: 1. Antonio Melani Rowan Snake-Print Dress 2. Aryn K. Colorblock Pleat Dress 3. Sanctuary Clothing Noelle Ruffle Dress 4. Gianni Bini Cooper Swing Blouse 5. Vince Camuto Tab Cuffed Shorts

Which trend is your favorite and how will you wear it? Tell us in the comments for your chance to win $50 in Dillard’s gift cards. Contest ends at 11:59 p.m. central time on April 29, 2012. Click here for the official rules.

Shop the Fresh List on our site.

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by | March 24, 2012 · 9:43 am

The Edge: Our Contemporary Buyer’s Spring Picks

To say our women’s contemporary buyer is busy would be an understatement. After all, she’s charged with finding the latest and greatest before anyone else. We managed to catch up with Megan (between meetings at market no less) to talk about The Edge Shop, spring’s essential styles and her love of bold color.

Shop the Picks: 1. Greylin Palmer Tassel Belt Dress 2. Sanctuary Clothing Rosewater Floral Blouse & Catcher Shorts 3. Gianni Bini Madeleine Sweater & Annette Skirt 4. MM Couture by Miss Me One-Shoulder Dress 5. BCBGMAXAZRIA Abee Pleated Gown

Q: What is The Edge: Contemporary Shop? What makes it different?
A: It’s the department where you’ll find on-trend looks for work and play and everything in between. The Edge features premium denim lines like Joe’s Jeans and Rich & Skinny, modern collections like French Connection and Sanctuary, and great tops and dresses from brands like MM Couture and Aryn K.

Q: How would you describe the contemporary point of view in three words?
A: Forward, confident, fearless — and fun and independent. Do I have to choose just three? Contemporary is a mindset, not an age.

Q: What lines or designers are you most excited about this spring?
A: Kensie looks great this season. Their color palette is current but has a unique twist. Sanctuary, French Connection, Chelsea & Violet and Gianni Bini all have fantastic spring lineups. And I can’t get enough of Rich & Skinny’s colored denim.

Q: So what are you wearing to your market appointments this week?
A: I’m excited for spring dresses and styling, but March weather can still be chilly. I’m relying on statement blazers and jackets that I can quickly toss on or take off. Another go-to pairing is my foam green Rich & Skinny cropped jeans with the white French Connection Cass blazer. It’s a really fresh, clean look.

Q: What will you be wearing this spring and summer?
A: Lots of dresses, hi-low hems, lace details, colored denim and maxi dresses.  

Q: If you had to choose one spring statement, what would it be?
A: Bold color: colorblocking, bright denim, saturated blouses, bright floral, geo prints, even lace. Have you seen all the colors the BCBGMAXAZRIA knit power skirt is available in? I’m even excited for bright colors in swim — Gianni Bini has some vibrant swimsuits that are easy to mix and match.

Q: What emerging designers do we need to look out for?
A: I’m really loving Greylin — their flirty dresses have a cool edge that miraculously works for everyone. Jill Jill Stuart has beautiful dresses that are also versatile and appropriate for many different occasions. C&C California has perfect knits (really, you have to touch them!) that come in a range of modern silhouttes. Also check out Patterson J. Kincaid for cool pieces with surprising details, like long fringe ties on a silky blouse or metallic sheen on a pleated maxi dress.

Shop all of Megan’s expert picks here. Or, browse our entire selection of women’s contemporary clothing at The Edge.


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