Its All About the Bag

I truly believe that a bag can make or break an outfit. You could be wearing jeans and a t-shirt and a great bag and look totally stylish and pulled together but the wrong bag with the same outfit could say something all together different. This weekend, Hysteria will host a trunkshow with New York handbag designer Michelle Vale. I can't sing the praises loud enough for Michelle Vale's handbag collection. Her collection is simple and chic and totally sophisticated. They are super stylish without being overt and I love a bag that doesn't have a huge logo on it that screams how much you paid for it. There is something to be said for owning your style without everyone having to know what you paid for "said" style. The best part is that most of the bags are convertible from shoulder, to cross body to clutch and the hardware on the bags is interchangable from gold to silver. I carry the uber chic shopping tote as does Alicia and can't seem to swith it out...ever! Believe me I have tried to change it up but my tote goes with EVERYTHING. It is super transitional and multifunctional. With three kids in tow at all times, it is the quentissential carry all without looking like I am carrying a diaper bag around. Her totes are favorites of celeberities like Sarah Jessica Parker, Cameron Diaz and Kate Beckinsale and have also been used multiple times on Gossip Girl.
If you haven't yet heard of Michelle Vale, you should definitely take notice. She is a hardworking mother of two who loves fashion but totally understands juggling between motherhood and looking great. She is currently working on her Spring 2012 collection, a very exciting collaboration with a highly coveted jean brand, and an amazing documentary about designers that are committed to making their products in Manhattan which will be released this Fall.
Michelle will be joining us on Thursday evening for a Sip and Shop and discussion about style and transition, and will also be at the store to show her collection on Friday and Saturday. If you are interested in coming to the private shopping night, please call the store to reserve your spot. See ya there!

Don't Miss This!!!

Jules Reid is coming to Hysteria for an exclusive trunkshow that is not to be missed. Jules is a native Virginian, in fact one of my favorite pieces is called the Virginian. As a child, Jules and her family were relocated to India and since then she has spent a lifetime inspired by the exotic patterns and high voltage colors found in her mother’s saris and the painted elephants of Jaipur. Other sources of inspiration include her style icons, Emilio Pucci and David Hicks, each with its own courageous use of graphic patterns and color. These amazing textiles personify the collection and are a true testament to the artist in Jules Reid. The prints are clean and fresh…silhouettes are simple but modern and chic. A great addition to any wardrobe! The dresses are great on their own and really don’t need much, if any, adornment. I would wear them with a flat sandal or a wedge. What a great piece to throw on if you are hosting a summer dinner party or even attending one. I could see the dresses at the Gold Cup or Derby. They are all so versatile that you could really utilize them for multiple events…of course not with the same people : ). This is her first season at Hysteria and in order to introduce the collection, Jules will be joining the staff on Thursday evening from 6-9pm. The pieces really speak for themselves and can be paired with simple wardrobe basics. A must for the Spring and Summer!

I have a new fashion crush thanks to Hysteria and his name is Alexander Berardi. I was first introduced to the collection by Alicia who found him on one of her buying trips and was instantly in love with his collection. When she showed me what she had found, I too was on board and was so excited that a trunkshow was forthcoming. So tomorrow night Hysteria is kicking off a weekend long trunk show with this amazing designer . I had the pleasure of meeting Alex last night at the DC Sample sale...if you missed it you must be on the lookout for the next one. I already thought the collection was amazing before I met him, but after spending a few hours with him I was officially in looove. I think Alicia and I are in competition to be his biggest fan! You must, must, must come by and check out his Spring collection. The pieces are super chic and modern but what I love the most is the ease of the collection. You really don’t have to cinch up, buckle up, and squeeze into any of his pieces. They are, as I love to say, enough on their own. How much easier can it be to put one piece on and be done. He has done the thinking for you…all you need to do is put it in your closet and wear it…easy enough? All of these looks can be worn with flats, a big bonus for a great look during the day and all are timeless and not overtly trendy. These are pieces you will have and wear forever. I could go on and on and on about his collection as I often do when I find someone new and amazing. Seriously, he is one to watch and I would suggest scooping up a few pieces before everyone else does! Be a trend setter instead of a follower...with these pieces it isn't difficult. All of your friends will be asking you what you are wearing. So much more fun to say you are wearing a new great designer instead of something that everyone can get their hands on at any store in the area. Can you tell I am excited! Above are my faves. See below for the trunk show schedule. See ya there! xo - Susan



Thursday: Trunkshow VIP preview 7pm...Cocktails and goodies
Friday: Trunkshow during business hours 11am-6pm
Saturday: Breakfast preview 10am...Alex will be at Hysteria until 1 PM. Mimosas and breakfast treats
Sunday: Trunkshow during business hours 12pm-5pm

How to Make a Dress Work Overtime

So many times we buy a dress with one event in mind but unless it is a lime green bridesmaid dress, you can actually wear a dress many different ways for a lot of different occasions. A belt or a jacket can really change the look of a dress. The key is to pick simple, classic shapes that fit you well and the dress can then be transformed with simple accessories and wardrobe staples like a blazer, a jean jacket, or a cardigan. Check out the video below of our stylist, Susan, showing Sarah, a member of our sales staff, how she can transform her favorite dress for Spring.



We have also included some of the other great dresses you will find at Hysteria as well as images of Susan and Tess trying on their favorites in several different ways. Note that the dresses they are wearing do not come with a belt, but by adding one she has changed the look of the dress. This is an easy update that any of us can do. In the video, Sarah's dress does come with a belt but by removing it and adding a different belt, it also changed the look and feel of the outfit. There are endless possibilities. Have fun!
P.S. All of the shoes are right next store at the Shoe Hive. One stop shopping, gotta love it!

Short with tights - one of the key looks right now

Bergdorf Goodman recently sent out a blast email to customers highlighting a "BG Key Item": a $1,100 pair of shorts in a nude, buttery leather by The Row, the fashion label designed by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. Saks Fifth Avenue is showing a pair of $446 Geren Ford shorts in crinkled black leather in its spring catalog. At the Ikram boutique in Chicago, several customers have shelled out $3,100 for tight black leather shorts by the label Chrome Hearts.

Hysteria currently has a pair from V-Moda for $352.

	V-MODA Black Leather High Wasted Shorts High waisted, pleated, lambskin shorts./100% Leather/Made in USA

Step into fall with "Over the Knee" boots

It's approaching day by day, degree by degree. Cooler weather is upon us and in order to stay one step ahead, it's time to start thinking about your fall wardrobe. Trend #4 this season is "Over the Knee" boots. The Shoe Hive next door to Hysteria has a great selection and we are here to help you with how to pair them.

Mark & James has made a statement with a deconstructed sweater, a little fur collar and then finished the look with over the knee boots. One reason this look works is that it is monochromatic. Simplicity is key with this look.

The mini is a great way to accentuate the drama of the high boot.

Anne Hathaway rocked a look in one of our favorite films, "The Devil Wears Prada". Take a cue from this look by mixing classic separates and keeping your boots close to the leg (Chanel always nails it) and with a feminine heel. One golden rule to this look, keep the leg covered with a tight. You've taken the risk with the footwear, no need to drive it home with anything overt (no cleavage necessary).

This fur collar tuxedo sweater coat from Autumn Cashmere - available this fall at Hysteria - screams for a black suede over the knee boot. If you are wondering which heel, it is really a personal preference. If your short, go for a platform or a heel. If you played center on the basketball team, go for a flat - they all work with the right proportion on top. Although if this is too near the edge for you, opt for the flat-heeled style, which will keep the look more of a foxhunt classic style.

This dress above from Lorrie Lester is a perfect dress for an over the knee suede boot. This dress is also available in an animal print and solid black at Hysteria for $264.

Try going a little understated with a silk dress and over the knee boots. If the dress is loose fitting you have the ability to go with a bare leg if desired. When choosing your boots this season, keep in mind how tight they fit at the top of the thigh - if they are too tight you may find muffin top thigh - beware of this fashion faux pas. If you find a boot where the top of the back laces up you can achieve a most proper fit. The other extreme is not pretty either so avoid a swashbuckler costume appearance.

Taylor Swift Loves Leona... So does Hysteria!

Designer Lauren Leonard interned at Milly after graduating from University of Alabama and decided she has what it takes to make it in fashion. Success for Lauren was good old fashion perseverance and of course some talent for designing what she loved and would wear herself. After her first capsule collection, she took the money she made and invested back into herself. Project Runway took notice of Lauren Leonard and called three different seasons to convince her to participate in the competition. Her pass on this opportunity has not impacted the success of Leona as it is now represented in over 80 stores internationally. Watch for the debut of her swim collection this spring!
Taylor Swift has been a fan of Leona for some time. It's no wonder with Leona's bend for girly fashion forward dresses and a . With a lot of hard work and dedication, Leona took off not only in the United States but in Europe as well. The collection has a definite Southern charm about it and sweetness about it without being too traditional. Fresh is a much more suiting description for Leona.
Hysteria is excited to showoff some great styles that will work now and go into fall with grace. Ask us about Leona's collection for bridesmaids. Contact Hysteria for more information regarding Leona's collection for bridal.
And one last piece of information on this bright young designer... she designs with a conscience and also has Leona Green Label. This collection utilizes the unused fabric from her Leona line retailing for under $150.

Travel Tips for Summer Trips

Check out Jessica Alba in her Houlihan JBrand, Cargo Jeggings at LAX airport. When you are wondering how to travel in style this summer take a tip from Jessica...Sunglasses, a sharp carry-on bag, flat shoes or yes, even flip flops and easy on the jewelry. Try and avoid metal pieces that can set off metal detectors. It will make your life easier. Don't forget to have something to cover your arms and your child's arms for a cold airplane.

Michelle Vale is a Finalest in the Independent Handbag Designers Award

Michelle Vale Entrechat 3 in 1 Convertible Bag
in Washed Grey Leather with our patent pending removable hardware.
Recently featured Vogue's Most Wanted.

What is your design philosophy?: Harmonious Luxury

What makes your handbags innovative?: Our patent pending custom removable hardware, which also allows our bags to be convertible.

How were you inspired by mark. by Avon?: They support companies that are innovative and are working to support designers that are striving to be innovative.

What is your price-point range?: $900
However her Balance Tote is priced at $355 - Now at Hysteria

What else has influenced your design?: New York City

Hysteria has two of the Independent Handbag Designer Awards Finalists

Elle Nicole's Saloon fringe hobo, altnerate leather, retails $130

Danielle Diferdinando on her Elle Nicole bag line....
What is your design philosophy?: Quality, function, and great styling

What are the retail price-points of your line?: $65-$130

Do you change your silhouettes and materials every season?: We have classic sihouettes that we continue every season with and change the material and we also bring in new styles each season.

What other handbag designers have inspired you?: Bottega Veneta, Trussardi, Balenciaga

Which stores currently stock your handbags?: Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Neimanmarcus.com, Holt Renfrew, Lane Crawford and Hysteria

J Brands Houlihan - Homage to "Hot Lips"

J Brand honored Major Margaret J. "Hot Lips" Houlihan of M.A.S.H. with their skinny cargo pant. The Houlihan will no doubt be one of the hot items of the summer for those who join the ranks of the stylish and fashion forward. As "military" trends continue to influence fashion as far as Fall 2010, these fatiques will keep you on the edge and get you in the mind set of "reporting for duty" - although your only duty will be to look casually chic in this uniform. Consider sizing up as they are best worn slightly loose fitting - not quite the same fit as their close relative - the "jegging". Hysteria receives their first delivery of the Houlihan this week. Retails for $230.

Sarah Jessica Parker's cute Michelle Vale bag is the perfect bag for getting around town this summer. The Balance Tote is $355 and is available in a variety of colors. Come see what every style girl is loving about the Balance. Michelle Vale's signature hardware is on the inside - so refreshing. Now you will have a bag that can go everywhere and will be timeless because after all, it's a tote! There are pockets on the inside for your phone, keys, lipgloss and a secured zipper pocket. Come discover the simplicity of the understated luxe bag - we promise you won't be disappointed.

Sucker Jeans have found their way to Garden & Gun...

although Hysteria has had them since the very beginning. The first group hit our doors September of 2009 and we've been taking followers who love the brand one by one. It's not a hard sell either. The soft touch of the puckered 10 oz seersucker that is 97% cotton and 3 % spandex speaks for itself. Then you try them on and you're amazed at the fit and the comfort factor. Four styles to choose from for women and another four styles for men. Savannah, Monroe, Fulton and Macon - named after southern cities with a lot of charm. Sucker Jeans proudly calls Charleston, SC home ~ a city we feel a kindred spirit to in Old Town Alexandria. Although we are located in the historic district, we are quite progressive and don't mind reminding you every now and then. Check out Sucker in the newest release of Garden & Gun Magazine (April/May 2010 issue).

Look Inside This Garden & Gun Cover To Read About Sucker