Crossroads Trading Co. – Ask Our Stylist

Q: I’m seeing a lot of gold accessories in my fashion magazines.  I’m tempted to try some, but I don’t want to overdo it.  Any suggestions?

A: You’re right!  From celebrity photos in the tabloids to high fashion spreads in Vogue, it’s evident that gold is a color that is currently dominating the fashion scene.  I understand your hesitation;  no one wants to look like they’ve taken a trend too far.  The key to this look is subtlety.  A bracelet here, a gold hoop earring there.

A solid gold bangle will complement your summer tan and white eyelet dresses.  A gold-accented cuff will pop against your favorite jeans or your go-to little black dress.  And when you’re finally feeling brave and the mood strikes for some boldness, add a gold chain necklace. 

Just because gold prices are sky-high, don’t think you need to break the bank for this trend.  Our gold tone jewelry pieces are a steal.  The ones pictured here start at only $7!

Look for them in Crossroads stores next week.*

Gold Bangle $7.50, Cuffs $7.00 each, Necklace $8.50

*Excluding our outlet store in Stockton.

Frances Marie Amella is the June winner of our Best Crossroads Find contest!  She has just won a $25 Crossroads gift certificate. Here is her winning photo and comments:

“I love this dress and the shell belt accompanying it! The belt looks like it’s part of the dress and I get a lot of compliments from this.

“Crossroads on Market and Church, where I love to shop, assembled it onto a mannequin and I bought the two pieces together.

“Thanks, and I always say ‘Got it at Crossroads’!”

Want to be next month’s winner?  It’s easy to enter.  Just email askourstylist@crossroadstrading.com with your name, a photo of you with your favorite find, and a short description of why you love it.  We will pick one winner each month to publish on our blog.  If we pick your favorite find, you will receive a $25 gift certificate good at any of our stores!

We’re now taking entries for July.

CONTEST RULES:

1.  The winner will have entered the best photo and entry description about an item found at Crossroads Trading Company.

2.  Each entrant may submit only one entry per calendar month.

3.  Photograph requirements:  digital images, jpeg format, rgb mode, at a minimum of 4 by 6 inches and a resolution of 72 dpi are preferred. Images should not be embedded in email but rather submitted as a file attachment.

By entering this contest, you understand that your name, photograph and entry description may be published on the Crossroads Trading Company blog and web site.

Prizes will be awarded solely on the basis of the judges’ evaluation of the entries. Prizes will be awarded unless judges fail to identify qualifying entries. Current CTC staff is not eligible to participate.

Q: With summer right around the corner, I am beginning to eye warm weather dresses.  Which styles should I be looking for this season?

A: Dresses are one of the simplest ways to survive the warm days ahead.  Sandals and a tote make them perfect for weekend strolls at your local farmer’s market, while a pair of pumps and a fitted blazer can make them office-appropriate. I’ve showcased four styles below to show you the range available this season. 

The first is a wrap dress that looks lovely on its own.  A tank or tee underneath could give it a casual feel, and a cap-sleeve blouse would dress it up for the office.

The second is a loose fit dress which focuses on a bow neckline and flutter sleeves.  I’d wear it out to dinner with a pair of wedges, but I can see it paired with cropped skinny pants for a day of shopping.

The last two are fitted knit with a tie-back.  Their pretty structure and print conceal just how comfortable they are to wear.  These would be my first choice for an outdoor party.

These styles, and more, will be shipped to Crossroads stores next week.* Find the one that best fits your summer style.

Assorted Dresses By Eva Franco, $28.50-$36.50

*Excluding our outlet store in Stockton.

Watching the Sex and the City movie was a perfect opportunity for our fashion-savvy team in Santa Cruz to critique the abundance of attire that was featured.  Here is a brief compilation of findings from their “research.”

What do you think inspired Carrie’s wardrobe?  Is there a particular designer, era or trend that stood out?  Carrie’s look is all about mixing high and low to make a one-of-a-kind ensemble.  She pairs Manolo Blahnik’s with a vintage dress, or a Chanel dress with costume jewelry.  Her style is an expression of her personality; she rocks the latest trends wile remaining true to herself.

What was your favorite Samantha outfit and why? My favorite was the rhinestone cocktail dress from the very last scene because it’s oh-so-glam!  I also loved the black and white striped dress she wore upon arrival in Mexico because it looks like something I’d wear.

What colors, prints and fabrics did you see Miranda wearing? Most of her colors were brown and dark pastels, and I noticed her wearing a classic chain print.  She wore sophisticated fabrics like silk and heavy wool.

Can you see any of Charlotte’s styles in a Crossroads store? Yes, definitely!  She wore a lot of soft colors like cream, yellow and soft pink, but she also mixed in some bold polka dot and floral prints. 

And what about Mr. Big’s style? His wardrobe definitely reflects a high class lifestyle.  He wears suits that are tailored to perfection.  His style is pretty dressy, but clean cut dress shirts like his can be found at Crossroads.

Any other fashion from the film that you can find at Crossroads? Lots of gem tone dresses and tops, 80’s influenced pieces, full skirts,  oversized accessories and lots of bright colors and patterns.

Q: I want to update my wardrobe for the summer, but I am working with a limited budget. If I can only splurge on a few things for the new season, what would you suggest?

A: Select a neutral tone high-waist skirt if you plan to spend the summer working your dream internship.  If your plans include summer travel, a quality wide-leg trouser pant will keep you relaxed and stylish.

A big clutch will add a splash to your evening wear, and a new belt (go for BIG and shiny) will update a cardigan, dress or flowy blouse. 

If your social calendar includes a number of summer weddings, your best splurges may be a bright print dress and a pair of soft leather heels to dance the night away in.

These incredibly-priced heels and wedges from Shoes For Lovely People are my suggestion.  They’re on the way to your local Crossroads store this week.*

All shoes by Shoes For Lovely People, $40.00

*Excluding our outlet store in Stockton. 

Q: In my neck of the woods, spring can still be quite chilly.  What types of jackets and coats do you think I should count on until summer arrives?

A: Experiencing a gray Bay Area morning myself, I can definitely relate.  Sometimes spring weather can turn on a dime.  But there is no reason to fret; there is a wide array of options for us on days like this.

Try a cropped leather jacket over a soft sweater or invest in a 3/4 sleeve swing jacket.  Sweater coats can be updated when paired with a wide belt.  Or, transform a short sleeve jacket for cooler days by layering it over a long sleeve top.

For evenings, select a fun tuxedo jacket.  And weekend wear would not be complete without a cozy hoodie.  Look for one in a bright color.

When shopping for your spring and summer jackets, keep in mind that an empire waist style is fashionable and flattering.

In fact, these two-piece jacket tops by Porridge fit the bill.  These retail for over $125, but Crossroads has them in stock for a steal!

Look for them next week in our stores.*

Both Jacket Tops By Porridge (New)

$35.00

*Excluding our Stockton outlet store.

Q: I pledge to clean out my closet before my next shopping trip.  Which fashion pieces should I hold on to for the upcoming seasons, and which pieces should I purge?

A:  It is always a good idea to keep your closet uncluttered and season appropriate! You probably have a few favorite pieces that you’ll want to keep in your closet, but fashion-wise, here are some general guidelines:

Keep these pieces within reach: fitted vests, pencil skirts, skinny jeans, ankle boots, wide belts, cardigans, t-strap heels, patent leather accessories, scarves, ankle boots, shirtdresses, ballet flats and trench coats.

Put the following into storage: kitten heels, shoes with pointed toes, low rise pieces, tiered skirts, destructed denim and heavily-embellished pieces.

May I put these fabulous t-strap wedges at the top of your shopping list?

They arrive in our stores next week.*

All Shoes By Bamboo (New) $25

*Excluding our outlet store in Stockton. 

Q: I’m off to a tropical climate for vacation!  What pieces of resortwear should I make sure I pack?

A: Your go-to piece should be a stretch cotton dress that can be paired with gladiator sandals during the day and metallic heels at night.   An eyelet twill dress in a bright color will also work; wear it on the plane with a gray shawl and you’ll arrive fresh and festive.

Of course you’ll need a pair of fabulous sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat in a neutral tone like black or brown.

Finally, leave some room in that suitcase for your souvenirs.  Spend your days searching the local markets for one-of-a-kind jewelry.

I can see this pretty print dress by Tease Me on a sunny vacation.

You can find this dress next week in our stores.*

Dress by Tease Me (New)

$18.50

Also available in black.

*Excluding our outlet store in Stockton.

Q: I want to surprise my boyfriend with a new outfit for his birthday.  I’m looking for something that’s stylish, but matches his less-than-serious personality.  Any suggestions?

A:  Silkscreened t-shirts with fun and graphic prints are an easy way to go.  Another popular and summer-friendly trend is a lightweight pant in stripes or plaid. 

I must admit, I think I’ve found the perfect outfit for him. 

Check out these Paul Frank pieces on their way to our stores right now.*

Paul Frank T-Shirt (New), $13.50

Paul Frank Pants (New), $28.50

*Excluding our outlet store in Stockton.