i spotted a piece by hope and glorie in a recent in style, and just had a hunch i was going to love the rest of the designer's line. sure enough...after a bit of digging (they're still relatively new to the scene), it turns out the masterminds behind the label have accomplished the impossible: chic, well-cut, well-thought clothing that's beloved by celebrities...at prices that are actually reasonable. crazy, i know.
designed by a pair of sisters, the line launched their first collection for spring '07, so you get the benefit of getting in before their pricing goes off the charts.
the blouse i first noticed is this keyhole top (above), which comes in 3 different color combos. the most versatile is probably that black-and-white version, though the white-and-purple would be a great way to add color to a casual outfit.
but then i started looking at the line a bit more, and there are actually a lot of really covetable pieces...all well under $200, which is all but unheard of when you couple that phrase with with "as seen on jessica alba." check out this darling ruffle cardigan - it'd be just the thing to add some fun to a basic black pant, or to take the severity out of a pencil skirt. the off-center placket gives it such great detail, and makes it wearable as a cardigan or just as a top. plus, that shade of blue is going to look amazing on just about everyone. love it, can't do without it, will be buying it as soon as i finish posting here.
and, last but not least, it really is time to start thinking about those holiday dresses. their halter dress in black and gold gives you just enough detail to keep the black from being basic, just enough skin to keep it sexy without giving away the store, but the cut is so simple and classic that you'll have this staple in your closet for years. i love the dash of spandex mixed into the silk - it'll keep you dancing the night away even after that second glass of eggnog. and, again, under $200.
keep an eye on these ladies: i have a feeling we're only going up from here! so far, couture candy seems to have the best selection of hope and glorie goods i could come up with, so it's well worth a stroll through their site to see what else strikes your fancy.
