Veruca Salt Style

Local Breaks: December 2010: luckymag.com

2010-11-23T15:29:00.000-08:00

Check out the amazing deal featured in the Lucky newsletter
Local Breaks: December 2010: luckymag.com

7 days of the perfect vest

2010-11-10T15:30:00.000-08:00

When we were little my younger sister went through a stage where she watched the movie "Peter Pan" everyday for a week. I never truly understood this concept till now. I just bought this Amazing Truth&Pride vest that I can't stop wearing.

Day 1: Long underwear and vest+broken foot= cute ski bunny costume

Day 2: Black Sunner mini dress, tights and vest

Day 3: Navy and white plaid button down, light blue James Jeans bell bottoms and vest

Day 4: Freezing cold day. James Jeans twiggys, grey cashmere Ka sweater, vest. So warm.

Day 5: Black leather Susana Monaco t-shirt dress, tight, and vest. Perfect date night.

Day 6: Light heather grey turtleneck sweater dress, black tights, vest.

Day 7: Casual day off. Black English Muffin smocking sweatpants, grey long sleeve t-shirt and vest. Obviously.

Buy it here http://shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=5867#

Anniversaire Deux

2010-11-09T15:17:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been two years already for the Veruca Salt River North location. We are ready to celebrate with some music, cocktails, and as always great shopping deals. Another reason to come celebrate is to view the launch of the English Muffin California collection. There are some amazing colors that make perfect holiday gifts! See you there. 520 N. Kingsbury Chicago, IL 60647 RSVP: retail@shopverucasalt.com

Dead Head

2010-04-12T16:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, I used to rock the big boxy Grateful Dead concert t's with my cutoffs and Birkenstocks. It wasn't the most glamorous look, but I was showing my love for the band and thought I looked totally cool. Good news, now you CAN look good and pledge love to the band. I'm obsessed with this Chaser LA remake of the European tour in a sexy womens body. You'll see me in cutoffs again this year too, they are big for summer! http://www.shopverucasalt.com

Getting up Early

2010-04-09T08:06:00.000-07:00

How amazing was our WGN segment this morning? The Veruca Salt staff did a great job on this morning's broadcast for the Around Town segment. The van arrived just before 6am and everyone was bright and shining, ready to go! Check out the segment:

http://www.wgntv.com/news/morningnews/aroundtown

Perfect Pants

2010-02-04T13:36:00.000-08:00

Do you avoid buying those comfy, cozy sweats because they run too long and don't think spending money on tailoring sweats is a good idea? Or, do you avoid the same sweats because they are so short they may as well be capris?
English Muffin is your perfect solution! The pants are all a 36" inseam and you just take a pair of scissors and cut to your desired length. They are made with a special fabric that won't snag, fray, or shrink. English Muffin comes in two styles and four colors. Don't forget the matching hoodie.

Mention this blog to get 20% off your English Muffin order.
VERUCA SALT 773.276.9888, 773.276.3888 http://www.shopverucasalt.com

Red Carpet to Real Life

2010-02-02T10:44:00.000-08:00

People always ask me how the red carpet translates to "real life." When I look at Lady Gaga's ensemble from the Grammy's, I'm stumped too. However, in most other cases, it's a great place to spot trends. What are the top trends from the Grammy's that you can use in your spring wardrobe?

1. Nude Colors- Heidi Klum got it right with her long sleeve mini, Katy Perry was more bejeweled pantyhose.
2. Asymmetrical tops- Carrie Underwood and Lea Michele did this look proud but please please don't do asymmetry on the bottom.
3. Sheer- ok, so nobody really got this one right but it can be amazing, especially in "real life." Try a simple cami and a sheer blouse with a hot pair of jeans.

http://www.shopverucasalt.com

Smells Fantastic

2010-01-28T12:42:00.000-08:00

Searching for the perfect scent is painful. Hours of smelling, spraying, sniffing coffee beans trying to get rid of the pungent musk the sales girl insists is divine. Yuck! 2 friends, Court and Kai, have come up with Celestine. It’s an eu de parfume that seems to be universally flattering. It has lovely hints of vanilla and citrus that work with your body chemistry to smell unique on each person. The best part is that it retails for $55 instead of the usual $120+ that most go for.

Note: there will be special Celestine events coming up February 19 and 20

Veruca Salt: 1921 N DAMEN 773 276 9888: 520 N KINGSBURY 773 276 3888

February Pick

2010-01-25T20:41:00.000-08:00

It's almost February and I'm thinking roses, chocolates, and this amazing Susana Monaco dress. This "pop" pink color will really make you stand out in a crowd and the flirty silhouette looks great on several shapes. It will be in the stores and on http://www.shopverucasalt.com next month. Don't miss out!

VERUCA SALT 1921 N. DAMEN 773.276.9888 520 N. KINGSBURY 773.276.3888

2009 Favorite Comes Back for 2010

2010-01-22T10:15:00.000-08:00

This year we were introduced to the perfect marriage of cool and comfort; jeans and leggings. I thought I had died and gone to fashion heaven. Even my husband was excited to see me watching Grey's Anatomy in "jeans" instead of my usual sweats.

The Veruca Salt favorite was the James Jeans "twiggy" by miles. They are super comfy, hold up really well, and most importantly...make you look a whole size smaller! If you don't have a pair already, the most classic color is the China Doll. If you are already addicted, get on the waiting list for the unbelievable spring colors.

1921 N. Damen 773.276.9888: 520 N. Kingsbury 773.276.3888 http://www.shopverucasalt.com/

Keeping up with Kim

2010-01-21T11:16:00.000-08:00

Whether you like her or not, Kim Kardashian has some great style and I love the way she wore this Van Halen T for a casual day out. http://www.shopverucasalt.com/

It's so comfy and perfect with leggings and a vest or with your favorite pair of jeans. There are tour dates on the back too!

Band Fan

2010-01-19T11:10:00.000-08:00

I used to scour vintage shops for band t shirts. They were always boxy, unflattering, mens shirts (those are the only ones you can find.) Then I'd spend hours cutting and sewing to make them resemble something a woman could wear. Chaser LA has finally answered my prayers and taken away the painstaking labor. They've recreated vintage band t's in flattering womens shapes. They are so comfy too!!! Check out this AC/DC sweatshirt with tour dates on the back at http://www.shopverucasalt.com

Go Wild

2009-09-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

This fall I'm seeing tons of animal prints and just love them. However, there is a dilemma that many people deal with including myself: "How do I wear animal prints without looking like I belong with the Real Housewives of New Jersey?"

The key is to tone down everything else. Make sure you go neutral with everything from make-up and nail polish to your shoes and other pieces. I love the combo of black skinny jeans with a flowy animal print top and a killer pair of boots. I'm also LOVING the animal pants and leather combo look. Shop it all http://www.shopverucasalt.com/

Denim Leggings

2009-09-11T14:17:00.000-07:00

During the fall 2008 season I packed on more than a few lbs. and devoted myself to leggings. I decided jeans were so last year...mostly because I could fit into my jeans last year.

Good news: I shed the weight (kindof,) and jeans are back in a better form than ever. The best designers have fused our two favorite bottoms and voila Denim Leggings. They are super stretchy and make you look ridiculously skinny!!! I actually got 2 pairs in the same color because I wear them almost daily.

My favorite are the James Jeans twiggy in any color. Check them out http://www.shopverucasalt.com

Black is Back

2009-09-10T13:31:00.000-07:00

Brown is the new black, grey is the new black, navy is the new black... sound like the past three years??? Not anymore. For the next few days I'll be highlighting some of my favorite trends for the fall season. Today we have simple and exciting news: Black is Back!

http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=4589

For those still suffering from the economy tumble this will really help: buy your basics and some other interesting peices in black and then accessorise like crazy. Remember, it's best to mix textures when wearing black on black.

Try this boho dress by Susana Monaco. You can wear it with flat boots by day and killer heels at night http://www.shopverucasalt.com

Flower power

2009-06-04T07:40:00.000-07:00

I can't help it, this season I'm obsessed with flowers. It may be becaause they were all over the runways for spring and summer, or just because they are beautiful. Designers tried to incorporate them in several ways, one of my favorites is the tonal rosette.

Try these Susana Monaco dresses with rosette details to get a perfect feminine, flirty and up to date look. http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/?sQuery=Susana%20Monaco

White Hot

2009-06-02T07:23:00.000-07:00

The summer is finally here and there's no better way to show off your (real or spray) tan than a white hot outfit. http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=4354

A common myth is that white makes you look bigger but it can actually have the same slimming effect as black. The most important key: buy the right size. Don't go saggy but you will look like a sausage if you go to tight.

Garden Love

2009-05-27T10:13:00.000-07:00

I haven't planted my 4x6 foot "yard" this year due to a combination of laziness and poor weather conditions. Usually I need a fix of flowers and color after the long cold winter but this year the garden prints are prevalent and filling the void. This Rachel Pally dress won't help your yard look any better but it will do wonders for you. Check it out: http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=4341

Spring Break

2009-03-31T15:33:00.000-07:00

All this rain and snow puts one thing on my mind: VACATION! I am so ready for a spring break. I can't actually go anywhere warm this year so I've decided to get a spray tan and buy some new clothes. Hey we can wear them eventually, right?

These are my top 2 spring break picks:Every girl needs a great pair of white jeans. Try the Charlize Flare jeans by 7 for all mankind http://www.shopverucasalt.com/ These have a new technology called 4 way stretch. Can we say "perfect fit?"

http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=4179 Rachel Pally Mexico dress. This is the most versatile piece I've seen in a long time. It can be worn as a tube dress, a halter, or a long skirt. Amazing! This won't wrinkle in your suitcase either.

2008-10-16T07:08:00.000-07:00

I walked my dogs this morning and the combination of brisk fall air and foliage got me thinking jackets. Everyone should have a perfect leather jacket in their wardrobe. What do I mean by perfect? Snug fit, good quality leather, and a nice neutral color. If you already have a neutral, add to your collection with a new color.

Try the brown leather Doma jacket above. It has a beautiful knit lining and a functional hood!

http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3611

Navy and Black

2008-08-08T12:03:00.001-07:00

What do I wear with Navy?

An age old dilema has finally been solved this season and I'm thrilled to say the least. Black is the answer and designers are mixing these two colors in every way. We saw black and navy stripes on the runway. Black patent leather shoes mixed with navy suede (see below) and every other combination you can dream up.

All you really need to know is that it's ok to mix these two colors. Find these black and Navy mary janes http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3505

I'm obsessed with this dress

2008-08-06T13:16:00.000-07:00

You need this denim ruffle dress! Imagine with a pair of camel boots for the fall. Love it! Check it out : http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3485

Transitions

2008-08-06T12:36:00.000-07:00

It's blazing heat outside but I can feel change in the air...or maybe it's all the new fall merchandise filling the store. People ask me all the time, "how do I wear this now and then when it gets chilly?"

The answer isn't "just add Uggs."

The best example I can give you is with a simple dress. Make sure you choose one in a transitional color, no white or pastels. This beautiful Sunner frock is a perfect example.

http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3486

Wear it now with a nude heel and easily move into fall with a pair of tights and a little bolero sweater like this one by Emma & Posh. http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3487

Petite and Perfect

2008-07-08T15:55:00.000-07:00

My friend Dana has a hard time reaching the middle shelf in her kitchen; you may know where I'm going with this. Some call it vertically challenged; I prefer petite.

There are some great benefits to being small e.g. she can buy shoes in the kids section and it’s harder to find her in a game of hide-and-seek. But a major drawback has always been that it’s impossible to find a pair of jeans that don’t need to be altered…until now.

Seven for all Mankind just came out with their first ever petite jean, the “Lexie.” These jeans aren’t just your regular jeans with a shorter inseam; they were actually made for the petite frame. All I can say is Dana looks pretty hot in these jeans.

http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3394

Yoga Chic

2008-06-30T13:45:00.000-07:00

I'm a huge fan of Yoga. I prefer Vinyasa Flow myself, but no matter what your practice preference is, you will love these new Hard Tail yoga pants and matching tie dye tank.

The pant is black everywhere you need it to be and then there's the cutest fold over top. The top can go from yoga class to a rock concert if you throw on the right jeans.

I think my practice may improve with this new gear. See you in class!

Top: http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3239
Bottom: http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3242

Wear your Politics

2008-06-25T11:21:00.000-07:00

Are you getting all fired up for the democratic convention? Do you love the GOP? Or are you just a huge fan of your right to vote? Either way, it's easy to show your support these days by wearing your favorite candidate or party!

Halle Berry is a huge suppporter of Barak Obama and shows it wearing this T: http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3130 shop online!

Hayden Panetierre will vote this year and shows it off: http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3128

I heart Barbie

2008-06-18T09:23:00.000-07:00

Did you ever flip on the TV set to a bad Donahue episode and see the Woman who had something like a million surgeries to turn herself into a human Barbie? I did, and let me tell you; she went a little too far....but I still love Barbie and think it's fun to channel her spirit in a less painful way.

Check out these Barbilicious items for the Summer!

1. Malibu Earring- definitely something Malibu Barbie would wear. http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3375

2. Barbie T- Barbie loves to wear things with her name on it http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3254

Gladiator Style

2008-06-17T14:11:00.000-07:00

It may not be ancient Rome, but these sandals are just what you need to make it throught the summer. Gladiators are better than the average sandal because they provide extra support strapped to your foot. They look oh so cute too.

What's the best way to wear this summer trend?

Throw them on with your shorts and a t-shirt or go super simple and wear with a dress. You can really wear your gladiators with just about anything. I say stay away when wearing jeans, but that's just me.

My favorite:http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=2508

Why go Wide?

2008-06-12T17:43:00.000-07:00

If you scan the tables at any good store, you are bound to come across several varieties of this season's favorite trend in pants: the wide leg. Several friends and clients come to me with the same questions: Why go wide? What do I wear on top?

Here's the answer and reason our favorite trendsetters are bouncing around Hollywood in this new look. Wide legs balance out your hips. Most women's bodies are naturally curvy; a wide leg creates symmetry and makes for a more pleasing line.

As for the top, wear something tight to balance out the look. Show off your little waist with a banded top or a body skimming top with a belt.

Try these: http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=2124

Fit that Fanny

2008-06-11T09:28:00.000-07:00

Jeans can be tricky. Let's face it, you practically have to be an expert to figure out how to get the right fit. That's where I come in. Follow only 2 fool proof tips and guys will be drooling over your backside in no time.

1. Buy your denim just a little tight.

You don't want to cut off circulation anywhere but the average jean has room to give. If you buy them fitting perfect or a little big; chances are you'll end up with a drooping backside.

2. Fit for your body, not the trend.

It's not rocket science. If your body is super curvy, your best bet will be a jean with curves. Try a wide leg to balance out those hips. No curves? Create them with a straight or skinny leg, and go for a flap pocket on the rear to create more of a booty. Somewhere in the middle? A bootcut jean is your classic but be brave and try a bell bottom or a high waist (see my suggestions below.)

Skinny
http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3170

Curvy

http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=2123

Average

http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3169

Flip Flops are not Heirlooms

2008-06-03T06:32:00.000-07:00

Let's talk flip flops. You wear them to the beach, pool, lake; you traipse around the city in them because they feel oh so good in lieu of your heels. It's so nice to show off that pedicure and let your tootsies breathe! Ok- those are the good things.

On the flip side (pun intended) they are gross little dirt traps. They get embedded with sweat, dirt, and sand. Ewww!

I'm not saying you should forgo the flop, just replace them every year. I usually get 3 pairs each year. When the season ends, toss them into the recycle bin and move on. Another expert tip: if you choose to don a white pair, keep them fresh with a little Soft Scrub.

My favorites:

http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=2804

http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=2808

Confidence SATC Style

2008-06-02T12:06:00.000-07:00

With Sex and the City on my mind as well as every commercial, billboard, and newscast I see; I have to ask the obvious question. How do Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha always look so fabulous?

Sure, a plethora of Manolo's and Choo's help any ensemble look fab; but what is it that makes them look fabulous in a bright yellow blazer with shoulder pads? (the same one you tried and saw Big Bird staring back in the mirror.)

Confidence is the answer my friends.

I know it sounds cliche but this is the cold, hard, truth. If you want to set a style trend: do it, just don't have regrets. You may make some mistakes, (see SJP's hat at the London premier?)

but that's ok. Put on your funny hats, mismatched belts, and tallest stiletto's. You can wear anything, just throw your shoulders back and strut down the street!

For simple SATC style: Check these out

http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3125

http://www.shopverucasalt.com/shop/detail.asp?id=3131

Somewhere between Slutty and Safe

2008-05-30T06:15:00.000-07:00

I've been spending some of my time on the bachelorette party circuit. Between the pulsing beats and bad come on lines from the bachelor party across the way, I look around and see fashion mistake after mistake.

Let's be honest, nobody wants to dance on tables looking like their 3rd grade librarian; but you don't need to look like a street walker either. What to do???

Show off one asset, not all of them:

Have a great pair of legs? Don the mini dress that provides a bit more coverage on top. My favorite: String ruffle dress by Susana Monaco $244 http://www.shopverucasalt.com/

Friends envy your bust? Show those girls off. Wear a great top or dress that brings attention to your cleavage. Just don't skimp on the length. My favorite: V- Neck top by Frenzii $70 http://www.shopverucasalt.com

Slammin body overall? Go for that skin tight dress. Just make sure you're not showing too much cleavage and don't go too short. My favorite: Dots dress by Jully Kang $160 http://www.shopverucasalt.com/

Pull it Together

2008-05-29T10:06:00.000-07:00

Some days it seems quite the feat to look like you spent more than 30 seconds in front of the mirror getting dressed. I had to walk the dog, the kids needed to get to school, I drank too much last night and didn't get out of bed till I was already late for brunch. Whatever your excuse may be, there is NO excuse for looking like a complete mess when you exit your front door. How do you pull it together?

The simple answer: Buy a scarf!

Scarves are our friends and they turn us from frumpy to fabulous. Dress up jeans and a basic white t-shirt with a colorful scarf in silk or cotton. Heading to the office? Throw on a silk scarf with your basic suit or dress to look polished and professional.

My favorites:

Steal- Renee's silk square scarf $34 http://www.shopverucasalt.com/

Spend- Hermes vintage silk twill scarf $295 http://www.hermes.com/