I’ve been mulling a column idea this week about the proliferation of accessories stores, both locally owned and national chains. So many stores now specialize in affordable baubles and trinkets – which are also readily available at virtually every clothing store, discounter and outlet, too. When I asked friends on Facebook where they go to accessorize in a hurry, the answers ranged from specialty chains like Charming Charlie and Francesca’s to J.Crew, Opitz Outlet and locals like Fringe. The numbers support the trend – I did my homework, and accessories sales are up. You know the reasons: accessories are an easy, affordable update, a justifiable indulgence and one size fits all. But I have been wondering if we’re all so well accessorized at this point, that what we really need is some new clothes.
With this in mind, I was delighted by the new Maria Rivolta store at Southdale Center – it’s the first U.S. location for the Argentinian jewelry designer and is filled with bracelets, necklaces, rings and more for less than $50. But this new boutique really stands out in the increasingly crowded field. Color. Unique design and distinct point of view. Pieces seem current, yet not-to-trend – and look like they may survive more than a handful of wearings. You’ll find yourself needing a copper and black leather bracelet or a sculpted gold ring or a bright red watch. And I suppose that answers my original pondering: there really is no end to our appetite for accessories.
Maria Rivolta is 25 percent off this weekend – details in Sales/Specials.
J. Crew CEO Mickey Drexler is a big fan of Red Wing Shoes - the first outside brand he brought in to what is now a substantial heritage collection. But that admiration does not extend to every style – like the ones favored by Red Wing Shoes CEO David Murphy. While interviewing Murphy for today’s St. Paul Pioneer Press article on how Minnesota brands are benefiting from the American heritage trend in fashion, I asked him about the recent New Yorker profile that detailed Drexler’s visit to Red Wing Shoes headquarters. Murphy said he showed Drexler his favorite boot, the 2156 hiker (pictured.) Drexler’s unapologetic response: “Leave that to the designers.” Nor was Drexler impressed by the World’s Biggest Boot on display at the Red Wing Shoes retail store in the company’s home town. “He wants it to be a lot more hip,” Murphy said. The New Yorker piece quoted Drexler offering to help Murphy open a store in Manhattan. Murphy says retail is not a focus for Red Wing Shoes, but the brand likely will get to New York in the next few years. And when that time does come, Murphy said he will definitely take up Drexler, widely regarded as a retail superstar, on his offer. He’s got it in print.
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