shopbop shoptalk

An Eye for Exquisiteness: Q&A with Retrosun Founder Nicole Miller

Radiant retro-chic. It’s the iconic style of jetsetters like Diane von Furstenberg, Bianca Jagger, and Isabella Rossellini—then, now, forever. No piece defines this look better than a signature pair of sunglasses. But are the intricate hardware details, luxe designs, and storied brands of the past just a distant fashion memory? Not if Retrosun founder Nicole Miller has anything to say about it. I recently chatted with Nicole to find out more about her covetable collection of rare vintage sunglasses.

Suzanne: Your story about finding a warehouse of pristine vintage designer sunglasses and then launching Retrosun is like my fashion fantasy come true! How did you come across these amazing shades?
 
Nicole: Before setting up Retrosun in 2006, I had been working as a fashion consultant doing product development and strategy for a variety of high-end fashion and jewelry brands. I was out on a buying trip with a client, and on our travels I came across a few pairs of Christian Dior sunglasses from the 1970s. I was astounded by their beauty and how well they were made. Since then, Retrosun has been sourcing unworn stock from all over the world.

S: Are all your sunglasses new vintage, and where do they come from? How do you guarantee authenticity?

N: Yes all of our sunglasses are new vintage. You can see from the markings inside the glasses, the stamps, etc. where they were produced and that they are authentic. For example, most of the Christian Dior glasses were produced in Austria and West Germany. However, since the ’90s Christian Dior has been produced in Italy.

S: How have the lenses been modernized?

N: All the glasses we find go through stringent quality control checks. Should we find that the lenses do not live up to our standards, the glasses are refitted with Optical class 1, vision 400 lenses, 100% UVA and UVB. These are top lenses in the market and exceed the legal requirements.

S: You carry ’70s to early ’90s styles, everything from Paloma Picasso to Gucci. Do you have a favorite designer and/or era, and what do you find special about the designs of that era?

N: I love the Dior designs from the late ’70s and early ’80s; the colors and the hardware detailing are super special. Also the Porsche Design by Carrera plastic and metal aviators are ultra-cool with their interchangeable faces—they are so of-the-moment. Porsche has even started reproducing the old models due to fashion demands!

S: Could you talk about why it’s important to build a sunglass wardrobe? In my opinion, one pair is hardly enough.

N: Sunglasses are an amazing fashion accessory, which can completely change or complete an outfit, especially Retrosun sunglasses, as each pair is so unique it really is the ultimate fashion accessory you won't find on everyone else. In today’s environment where everyone stocks every brand, it is nice to be able to buy something which is limited in stock, unique, and reasonably priced.

--Suzanne

Favorite Blogger: Jane from Sea of Shoes

At Shopbop, we spend a lot of time reading magazines and blogs, chalking it up to research (it is, we swear). And though our list of bookmarked sites is long, there are a few favorites we can’t help but check out every day. This week, we’re talking to the stylish ladies behind some of our favorite fashion blogs.

Incredible style, an enviable wardrobe, and a successful blog all before the age of 18? This is the life of Jane Aldridge, the stylish blogger behind Sea of Shoes. The Texas teen has been featured on countless websites and, most recently, in fashion’s bible, Vogue, for her fashion-forward, often daring sense of style. We talked to her about blogging, travel, and the things fashion fetishes are made of, shoes.

You started Sea of Shoes in 2007. What made you decide to launch a personal style blog?

I was inspired by my favorite bloggers like Kingdom of Style and Style Bubble. There were far fewer fashion blogs back then. Mine started as a fun weekend project.

Your style is so sophisticated for someone so young. What role do you think age plays in personal style?

I guess the older you get, the more sure you are of what you like and don’t like. For now I am happy to experiment with lots of different things.

You’re the epitome of a jet-setter. How do your travels to New York, Paris, Tokyo influence your style choices?

The biggest influence of travel on my style is that I love to shop for one-of-a-kind pieces when I’m abroad! But traveling definitely broadens your perspective on fashion, and it’s interesting to see how everyday fashion differs so much, especially in Paris and Tokyo.

Your focus, shoes, is the fetish of many a fashionable woman. What do you think it is that draws so many women to shoes?

Shoes say everything! To me, shoes are special because they are all so different, and beautiful shoes are so rare. Each shoe has a personality of its own. The fact is that there are a lot of ugly shoes in this world, and maybe that’s what makes beautiful shoes so special to us.

Favorite Blogger: Garance Doré

At Shopbop, we spend a lot of time reading magazines and blogs, chalking it up to research (it is, we swear). And though our list of bookmarked sites is long, there are a few favorites we can’t help but check out every day. This week, we’re talking to the stylish ladies behind some of our favorite fashion blogs.

The stereotype goes that in the fashion world, it can be a rare thing to find genuine, kind, and truly considerate people, but French blogger, illustrator, and photographer Garance Doré has found two in international Vogue editors Anna Dello Russo and Carine Roitfeld. And we’ve found one in Garance herself. I talked with this charming blogger about photography, illustrations, her boyfriend Sartorialist Scott Schuman, and what it’s like to be in touch with fashion’s royalty.

Garance Doré at Milan Fashion Week. Photo by Scott Schuman.

When and why did you launch GaranceDore.fr?

I launched it three years ago out of frustration from my job, which was at the time being an administrator. I felt like I was very disconnected from the people who see my drawings because when they’re published in a magazine you have no feedback. I felt far away from the readers, so one day I decided to open a blog.

Your website transitioned from focusing on your illustrations to including photography. Do you prefer one over the other?

No, I think it’s all an organic energy. Photography inspires illustration, and illustration inspires photography. I couldn’t do one without the other.

What do you think is the biggest difference between the two?

Illustration is more like a dream representation, and it’s more difficult to grab. People will look at it, and they won’t identify with an illustration so much. But with a picture of someone they can really identify. And I think for fashion … it’s great to have pictures because you can show the actual clothes. With an illustration, you can show the feeling of the clothes.

Each of your posts includes a personal account about fashion or about the person you’re photographing or about the illustration, but you rarely show pictures of yourself. Now, I’ve seen pictures of you, and you have great style. Why don’t you feature yourself on your blog?

It’s not really a choice; it’s not my first interest. I like to talk about my life, but more in a funny way. I don’t know, I could do it, but my blog is my personal diary. I mean, I know what I look like, so I don’t need to show myself. On the contrary, I love to see other people because they inspire me.

Favorite Blogger: Carey from Corks and Caftans

At Shopbop, we spend a lot of time reading magazines and blogs, chalking it up to research (it is, we swear). And though our list of bookmarked sites is long, there are a few favorites we can’t help but check out every day. This week, we’re talking to the stylish ladies behind some of our favorite fashion blogs.

This favorite blogger is actually three, but we have to admit we’re partial to Carey’s sense of style. Launched in 2008, Corks and Caftans chronicles newlyweds Carey Wodehouse and Rob Burden’s style and wine exploits with special appearances from Eli the cat. Here Carey talks to us about Eli’s diva model attitude, her style icons, and, of course, caftans.

Carey from Corks and Caftans. Photos courtesy of Corks and Caftans.

When and why did you launch Corks and Caftans?

C&C was launched in the heinous winter of ’08, while I coped with the loss of my “hot-shot” ad agency job. Funny story: Napa honeymoon was over, I went back to work, poured a cup of coffee, and got let go. C&C is a product of finding the silver lining in that situation. We had passions and we needed an outlet to express how important they were to us––and finally had the time to do it. It became like a working resume.

Your blog mingles your love of fashion and style with your husband Rob’s love of wine, all with a very personal touch. What made you take this direction?

Every blog post could be a conversation we just had on the couch. We encourage each other to talk about what we love, so the blog happened organically. We saw blogs that were either very production-oriented or lacking anything to sink your teeth into. C&C is all us, a lifestyle. We wanted to connect with people at that level. When I’m reading a blog, if there’s only one line that lets you into the author’s life, I linger on it. It’s what I’m there for.

The photography has a very luxe, dramatic feel to it, which adds to the blog’s overall aesthetic. Who’s the photo guru, or is it a collaborative effort?

Oh, that’s Rob. He’s way more artistic than he gives himself credit for. We photograph not to document, but to convey our enthusiasm for the subject. The rich tones amp it up and make the photos more like a distant memory; less like “These are shoes. They are brown.”

Favorite Blogger: Emily from Cupcakes and Cashmere

At Shopbop, we spend a lot of time reading magazines and blogs, chalking it up to research (it is, we swear). And though our list of bookmarked sites is long, there are a few favorites we can’t help but check out every day. This week, we’re talking to the stylish ladies behind some of our favorite fashion blogs.

Armed with a magazine background, Emily Schuman launched Cupcakes and Cashmere in March of 2008. Featuring her impeccable personal style, as well as mouthwatering recipes and DIY home design features, this blog has a little something for every fashionable female. Here she talks with us about working at Condé Nast, how food and fashion relate, and sequins for daytime.

Emily Schuman of Cupcakes and Cashmere. Photos courtesy of Cupcakes and Cashmere.

When and why did you launch Cupcakes and Cashmere?

I constantly come across new things (whether it’s a great jewelry line or a fabulous pair of boots) and I liked the idea of sharing my findings with other people. I launched my blog in March of 2008 and document things that bring me joy.

Cupcakes and Cashmere has a very personal tone—you fully welcome your readers into your style world. What made you decide to take this approach?

It was never really a conscious decision, but it speaks to who I am as a person. I’m fairly open and think that adding my own opinions and personal touches to my blog makes it feel very accessible. I think people can relate to me since I’m not a model, but just a girl who throws together outfits and puts my own spin on trends.

You have a background in magazines (Teen Vogue and Domino). How has this influenced Cupcakes and Cashmere?

When I worked at Condé Nast, it was like a little runway show every morning. If you had a new top or even lip gloss, we all wanted to know about it. It was such a fun environment, and I think I’ve found a similar one within the blogosphere where we all like sharing what we like.

Favorite Blogger: Jennine from The Coveted

At Shopbop, we spend a lot of time reading magazines and blogs, chalking it up to research (it is, we swear). And though our list of bookmarked sites is long, there are a few favorites we can’t help but check out every day. This week, we’re talking to the stylish ladies behind some of our favorite fashion blogs.

“The Coveted is about style without compromise.” So says the mission statement of this favorite eclectic blog. Launched and managed by Jennine Tamm Jacob, The Coveted covers fashion, beauty, and all things style, showcasing Tamm Jacob’s own multifarious looks (if a person could get a master’s degree in mixing prints, she’d have it). Here she talks about why she started blogging, her sojourn in Europe, and her covetable sense of style.

Jennine Tamm Jacob, founder of The Coveted. Photos courtesy of The Coveted.

When and why did you launch The Coveted?

Well, The Coveted began in February 2007, and why, well there is a long story and a short story. The short story is I started The Coveted as a way to keep myself occupied. The long story is that I had been reading blogs avidly and was looking to change my career, so I started a blog to document what I was passionate about. It turned out I loved blogging about fashion so much it kind of overtook my life.

The Coveted mingles your personal style with favorite bloggers, runway highlights, and Sonja’s beauty posts. Is there a method to your blogging madness?

Haha. Not really. It's pretty much just madness. 

You recently got back from a spell abroad. How did living in Europe influence your style?

Being in Europe influenced my style in a way, but that's hard to quantify. I had always read European blogs and I went to university in London and my husband's German, so I think my approach to a lot of things is more international. But I would say that while I was there I hardly shopped at all. Buying is a whole different experience in Europe. I noticed that it's so easy to buy in America—we make it very tempting!

customer service chic

Shopbop’s Customer Service reps are the voice of shopbop. They field questions from shoppers every day about everything from style advice to fit tips, so it shouldn’t be surprising that they’re a pretty stylish bunch. Want a behind-the-scenes peek? Meet Kayleigh:

Tonya: First things first: what are you wearing?

Kayleigh: I’m wearing Seven jeans, a KAIN Label tee, Tory Burch flats, and a Gorjana necklace.

T: How would you describe your personal style, and how has it changed since you started working at shopbop?

K: I’d probably describe my style as casual chic. In addition to working as a CS rep here at shopbop, I’m also a full-time student! Because my days are so busy, I need a collection of great basics and staples, but to keep things current I’ll work in a few on-trend pieces. Since I’ve started working here, I’ve become more open to adding different styles and brands to my wardrobe.

T: What is the best tip you give to shopbop shoppers when they call in for advice on building an outfit?

K: We love helping customers choose outfits, but it’s always helpful to know style and brand preferences. This way we can help build a custom look that still reflects your style.

T: I love how your outfit is office-appropriate but still unique. Do you have any advice for staying fashionable at work while avoiding the dreaded button-down-and-trousers?

K: Don’t let drab staples limit you! I like to sneak in unexpected bright colors, scarves, or a great piece of jewelry to keep things interesting.

--Tonya

customer service chic

Shopbop’s Customer Service reps are the voice of shopbop. They field questions from shoppers every day about everything from style advice to fit tips, so it shouldn’t be surprising that they’re a pretty stylish bunch. Want a behind-the-scenes peek? Meet LaToya:

T: First things first: what are you wearing?

L: I’m wearing Camilla Skovgaard’s Metallic Ankle Buckle High Heel Sandals, J Brand jeans, a blouse by Madison Marcus, and my grandmother's vintage bracelet and pearls.

T: I love the mix of vintage and modern. Is that how you would describe your personal style? How has your style changed since you started working at shopbop?

L: I would describe my personal style as sassy with a 1950s flair! My look has definitely evolved quite a bit since I’ve been at shopbop. In the past I would have described myself as a brand snob but not anymore! I’m constantly trying different designers for customers, and that’s opened me up to a whole new world of styles, fabrics, and fits.

T: What is the best tip you give to shopbop shoppers when they call in for advice on building an outfit?

L: I think the best tip is always to dress for your body type and enhance your best feature–that way you’ll always look good. It’s also important not to be closed-minded when it comes to trying new styles, because you could be missing out on that PERFECT pair of jeans that hug your butt just right. Who knows, those jeans could help you get that man of your dreams.

T: You’re at your desk every day, on the phone. Do you have advice on how to stay cubicle chic?

L: Work is a great time to break in those new shoes, since you won’t be on your feet all day!

--Tonya

talking with j brand denim guru susie crippen

Founded in 2005, J Brand’s signature dark-wash skinny jeans were an immediate hit: sexy yet sophisticated with a spot-on fit. While the skinny is still a staple of the J Brand collection (not to mention many a woman’s wardrobe), the brand is adding edge this spring with holes, shreds, and more than a little attitude. With the arrival of these destroyed styles at shopbop, I asked J Brand’s Co-Founder and Creative Director Susie Crippen about the evolution of J Brand, how to wear destroyed jeans, and what to expect in seasons to come.

Shopbop: J Brand is known for its unadorned, clean-lined styles. How does destroyed denim fit the J Brand aesthetic?

Susie Crippen: When we launched J Brand, we were the only brand offering clean, dark denim. When that trend evolved into the current trend of destroyed denim we were excited to create our own version of that jean. We always want our customers to have the most current styles with the reliability of the J Brand fit.

SB: What was the inspiration behind the new styles?

SC: We do a lot of research for new washes and use as much vintage as we can. Our whole team collaborated on these styles–everyone participated.

SB: What advice do you have for styling destroyed denim?

SC: Keep it as simple as you can. Let the jean have the attention and keep the top, shoes, and accessories clean and simple.

SB: Will J Brand continue to branch out into new types of styles? What can the J Brand fan look forward to?

SC: Of course! We are always looking for the next new styles and great washes. It keeps us on our toes and makes our customers happy, and we have fun doing it. We have great things coming this spring: lightweight stretch, rigid denim, new bodies with slightly higher rises, and of course more destroyed denim!

--Tonya

introducing the halo collection from alex and ani

For her Alex and Ani jewelry line, designer Carolyn Rafaelian creates meaningful, spiritual pieces with an eco-friendly slant. For the launch of her Halo Collection, we talked to Carolyn about the beginnings of her line, what personal touches she brings to the new collection, and the importance of sustainable techniques.

shopbop: What inspired you to start a jewelry line?

Carolyn Rafaelian: I grew up in the jewelry industry, so to me this was always my life’s path. My father started our parent company over 40 years ago and I spent many days creating and designing on my own in our Rhode Island factory. When my two girls, Alex and Ani, were very young, I decided to open my own company under the umbrella of the family business because even then I knew the importance of leaving a legacy to my children and to all the children of the world.

SB: Could you tell us about the theme of the Halo Collection?

CR: The purpose of our Halo collection is to make each person feel not only beautiful, but enveloped in the divine. I took some of our small personal and meaningful charms and attached them to our delicate 16” precious chain, which creates a sweet yet significant statement around the neck. You have the ability to choose your favorite charm, such as St. Christopher, an angel, or the Buddha, and each holds specific meaning and emanates energy.

SB: Where does the name of the Halo Collection come from?

CR: The collection was designed to envelop the wearer in the divine, so we decided to name it Halo, as that’s essentially what a halo is by definition.

SB: Which sign from the Halo Collection do you relate to most?

CR: All of them! I wear so many different charms, as I benefit from each charm’s unique energy. The great thing about this line is that you can chose to wear one necklace, or layer them on. They are simply beautiful alone, but also not overwhelming together.

SB: Your line is unique in that you work with recycled metals. What made you choose to do so?

CR: I started Alex and Ani about 10 years ago, long before there was this huge green movement—which I am thrilled about—and I am proud to say that I have been designing green jewelry the entire time. We are one of the last jewelry manufacturers in the United States that does not import product. Our pieces are all made in the U.S.A., and we use recycled materials purchased from local Rhode Island mills. It’s important that we continue to produce everything here in the United States because we adhere to higher environmental standards and rules for waste management and chemical disposal compared to other countries.

SB: How would you describe the Alex and Ani woman?

CR: The Alex and Ani woman is any woman who wants to feel empowered, enlightened, and sexy, inside and out. We have customers who are as young as 5 and 6, all the way up to 85 years old, so we don’t have a target age market. I believe every woman is an Alex and Ani woman, because every woman is wonderfully unique!

--Tonya