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Perfect Gifts for Mom

Mother’s day is around the corner, so we’ve hand-picked some great gifts to give!

The first is a striped cloth cosmetic bag, beautifully handmade from Thailand. Perfectly sized to carry all of Mom’s beauty products. ($80).

Another classic option is earrings. But instead of plain-Jane pearls or diamond studs, we’ve opted for more unique choices. We love the gold knot earrings ($24), the Clara Beau flower studs, and the funky, beaded Taolei earrings ($48).

Lastly, we chose Aunt Sandie’s candles ($18). They come in all different patterns and scents, from Lilac to Fresh Pine. They are a lovely addition to any room!

And don’t forget a card- we love our Verrier cards ($6.75). They are even more perfect for Mother’s Day, as they are handmade by a mother and daughter in New York City.

Or even better- combine all of the above gifts for a perfect Mother’s Day gift basket!

xoxo,

MJ

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Graduation Dresses 

Graduation is right around the corner, so we thought we would show you just a few of our amazing options for a graduation dress!

We have so many choices when it comes to dresses. Some of our favorite designers are featured above (from left to right): Paper Crown (Lauren Conrad’s line), Amanda Uprichard, Julie Brown, Trina Turk, and BB Dakota. 

At MJ, we love having options for every woman’s individual style. From classic to quirky to flirty, we always want to make sure every woman has the opportunity to not only express herself, but feel beautiful, as well- and finding your perfect graduation dress is no exception!

Which graduation dress suits your style?

xoxo,

MJ

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Designer Feature: MILLY

One of Mint Julep’s favorite designers is MILLY. This designer is known for creating colorful, unique dresses, many of which can go from day to night.

For Spring, MILLY opted for structured silhouettes and bold patterns, especially with her three striped dresses. Rather than stick to a typical horizontal or vertical stripe, these dresses mix and match this classic design for a more modern look. The light-blue striped dressed also features a removable panel across the chest, transforming the dress into a deep-v neckline.

MILLY dresses are ideal for so many different occasions; work, a night out, graduation, or a sorority formal. Tell us which MILLY dress is your favorite!

xoxo,

MJ

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Spring Trend: Midi Dresses and Skirts

Say good-bye to teeny-tiny mini skirts: the hottest trends for Spring/Summer this year is midi dresses and skirts! 

The best thing about this trend is many of these looks can be carried from day to night. The longer hemline is classy yet still feminine and sexy, which makes it the ideal piece for all-day wear. Dress up your look with a pair of heels and a bold necklace, and dress it down with some flats and a chic blazer or cardigan. 

This season at MJ, we have an abundance of options to choose from that can help you rock this trend! 

In the first collage, MJ model Heidi is wearing a striped dress from The Fifth, paired with an Urban Expressions magenta bag. Opposite, she’s wearing a gorgeous floral dress from one of our favorite brands, BB Dakota, paired with an Urban Expressions clutch.

In the second collage, she is wearing another BB Dakota number, a figure-flattering solid white dress, styled with a bold Enttra necklace. On the right, she’s rocking a flowing, floral dress by Two Arrows. 

In the third collage, Heidi wears a simple yet chic Kensie dress, paired with our brand new Patrizia Luca reversible tote (featured here in the brown/red combo), and a Serefina navy/gold necklace. Opposite, she wears our beautiful light-blue striped skirt from The Fifth and a 525 America off-the-shoulder shirt, paired with our best-selling Orla Kiely tote.

We can’t wait to see all of the beautiful midi dresses and skirts out and about this season!

xoxo,

MJ

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Mint Julep Woman of the Month: Danielle 

Mint Julep is launching an exciting new campaign called MJ Woman of the Month! Each month, we’ll nominate one of our Julepers (AKA the amazing women who shop at Mint Julep) to be featured on our blog. This month we have chosen Danielle, who has been shopping with us for eight years! She exclusively buys her dresses at Mint Julep, and introduced her friends to us, as well. Check out her interview below!

How long have you been a Mint Julep shopper?

I was introduced to Mint Julep when I moved to Brookline in 2008 and have been a loyal customer ever since. There is only one dress shop. Period. This enchanted place is like having your own personal "A" list stylists. I consider myself fortunate to have found my real-life fairy godmothers- Brooke and Steph (the owners)- who hand pick every piece of clothing themselves and incorporate the latest fashion trends with precision, class and ultimate style.

Over the years, my fashion wishes have been consistently granted, including those of my friends as well. it's more than just about the fashion though. As I look at all the photographs from so many life events over these years, I recognize and appreciate the role that the Julep and these lovely ladies (Brooke, Steph and of course, Miss. Molly) have played in making these memories that much more special. I can't imagine life without them.

What's your favorite purchase ever?

There are countless favorites but my best purchases of all time were both in the Spring of 2015. The first, a blue China-print dress by Milly. And the second, a dress of such grand proportions that I have not even found an event worthy of its sporting yet- "the" blue octopus print maxi gown by Amanda Uprichard.

Favorite vacation destination?

Princeville, Hawaii

Ideal night out in Boston?

To be dressed up on my way to a benefit/fundraiser with late night plans to meet the girls for drinks on Fiore's rooftop bar.

Favorite trend right now?

Off the shoulder silhouettes- a classic yet modern cut that will never go out of style. It is one of my favorite looks of all time that I frequently sport, regardless of whether it's the latest popular trend.

What's your dream job?

To be the Diane von Furstenberg of the healthcare industry. A bold risk taker, a force to be reckoned with, glamorous, persistent, hard working, driven and determined to succeed- she built her own business with only two people on the ground and has made significant impact in many people's lives, especially young women. The true epitome of resilience and class, and one who understands the meaning of giving back through her many philanthropic endeavors. My dream is to emulate her approach to success and impact in order to help people attain access to the medicines and health care they so need around the world.

Favorite restaurant in Boston?

Mistral

Style icon?

Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. Effortlessly elegant,  modern, regal, timeless and simple. Unequivocally the most influential style icon of my youth and remains so still to this day. When I think of what real style is, I think of Carolyn- clean lines, modern silhouettes, black being "the" staple wardrobe color, bare minimum makeup with bold red lips and of course, the beautiful long blonde hair. It is my mission in life to carry on her fashion footprint.

Favorite brand to shop at Mint Julep?

The fabulous brands at Mint Julep are like my children so it's hard to single one out. However, my true loves are Shoshana, Nanette Lepore, Milly and Amanda Uprichard.

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BCBG and Nanette Lepore at NYFW

This past week, designers from all over the world debuted their collections for Fall 2016. Two of Mint Julep’s favorite designers, BCBG and Nanette Lepore, showed off their fabulous designs.

BCBG’s fall ready-to-wear line consisted of lots of layering with bold prints, cozy knits, and giant fur coats and vests. The brand is known for being edgy yet feminine, and this line leans towards the edgier, bolder side. Although all of the layers at once are a bit overwhelming, the individual pieces BCBG has to offer are gorgeous, and we cant wait to cozy up in their styles in the fall!

Nanette Lepore’s designs were quite the contrast to BCBG’s. Ms. Lepore’s collection features relaxed prints and shapes, such as the maxi dress above. The collection offers a mixture of elegance, classiness, and femininity. Each piece feels somewhat whimsical but not impractical- in fact, many of these looks are extremely versatile, and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. 

What did you think of BCBG and Nanette Lepore’s collections, and who were your other favorites?

xoxo,

MJ

Photos taken from Women’s Wear Daily.

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Celebrities Love Our Jeans!

At Mint Julep, we are all about quality denim- and these celebrities are, too! Two of our brands, Citizens of Humanity and J Brand, were featured in this article listing the top five go-to jeans for celebrities. Actresses Hilary Duff and Kirsten Dunst were spotted in LA wearing J Brand jeans. H Duff went for an edgier look in her ripped, J Brand “Alana” black jeans, while Kirsten opted for a more classic look in her 620 Super Skinny jeans in Ink.

Actress January Jones and singer Rita Ora rocked local LA brand Citizens of Humanity jeans. January chose a slimming and stylish High-Rise fit, while Rita wore the “Emerson” boyfriend fit. Both looked super chic!

See the original article below to see how these celebrities styled our favorite denim brands!

http://jeans.yournextshoes.com/2015/06/5-jeans-brands-celebrities-love-shop/

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Spotlight on Spring Florals

What a warm week we’ve had! Combined with our newest arrivals, and we couldn’t be more excited for spring! This week, we’d like to talk about flowers. Floral patterns go in and out of vogue, but we think there is always a place for them in an MJ woman’s wardrobe. They can be sweetly feminine, like the frilly mini florals that came onto the scene a few years ago. But this season, our florals are big and bold, watercolor inspired pieces of art.

While autumn saw moody florals in dark shades, spring calls for pops of bright, cheerful pieces that make us want to dance in the inevitable spring rains. Here’s what’s making us put on our dancing boots right now:

1)      JOULES! We just got in a new line from British designer Joules, and the collection is loaded with bright pink and grey tulips. You’ll fall in love with the wispy soft blouses to pair with black cigarette pants for work ($98).  And when the clouds gather, you’ll be so happy to throw on this navy and pink raincoat, you won’t even care ($224).

2)      Kensie’s watercolor poppy blouse. This hits a bit on the moody side, but the purples are bright enough to give you a boost while still acknowledging that it’s still winter ($82). Pair it with a white blazer and skinny jeans for a look that will take you from day to evening in this not-so-frigid weather.

3)      Paris in the Springtime. We love these scarves so much we already instagrammed them over @shopmintjulep. These watercolor gems that only imply a floral pattern are a subtle way to embrace spring. There’s an Eiffel Tower that shines through the brushstrokes, and what’s more glorious than Paris in Spring? Nothing! ($38)

There are plenty more florals in store, and we can’t wait to see what you do with them!

xoxo, MJ

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How to Wear: Bold Prints

As the thermostat drops and we’ve finally got some snow--but it looks like Storm Jonas will pass us by!--we at the Julep continually try to find ways to keep things upbeat and hopeful. After all, Spring is just around the corner! This season, we are looking at some wonderfully bright prints guaranteed to put you in a good mood. But how to wear them? A lot of us are pattern averse because we don’t know what to do with anything beyond dots and stripes. But have no fear!

Whether you don’t want to stand out too much or you just new to patterns, here are some great ways to embrace pattern this year.

Subtle: You can wear a bold print without having it cover your entire body. If you are looking for something subtle, your best bet is a blouse that you can throw a blazer or sweater over. You can go for something with a simple pattern but bold color, like this Jack tank ($58), or a more intense pattern in a single color, like this floral Velvet blouse ($134) or this Cupcakes and Cashmere cold shoulder top ($98). Make the rest of your outfit simple, and your pattern will pop.

Bold: Ready for the big leagues? A patterned dress is perfect for a big bright pattern, but surprisingly never seems too loud. Why? It’s a single consistent print on a single garment, which fools the eye and the mind into seeing “BOLD” and thinking “CLASSIC.” This Plenty by Tracy Reese dress is a perfect example. It feels adventurous but it is a simple cut with colors that are all in the same family ($126)

Adventurous: If subtlety isn’t your thing, you can always kick your patterns up a notch with brighter colors (like this Leota dress, $148) or—gasp!—mixing your patterns. How? Make one piece the focus and make your second pattern simple. You can do with a classic black and white stripe dress (BB Dakota, $86) and a boldly patterned scarf (From $32)

So go forth, Julep ladies! Play with bold patterns and brighten up your day!

Xoxo, MJ

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Spotlight on Color: Coral

It may not be Spring just yet, but that doesn’t mean we can’t brighten up our grey winter days with some pops of bright color. As spring collections start rolling into stores, brights are everywhere, and we LOVE them.

But if you typically stick to neutrals, all this color may be overwhelming. So let us show you how to wear one of Spring’s staple colors—gorgeous sunset coral—from bashful to bold!

1.  Pop of Color: Not ready for full-blown color-mania? That’s ok. You can still join in the fun by adding a simple pop to your more conservative color scheme. These new elegant square scarves from Look by M ($24) are the perfect way to sneak in color subtly. Add to a white button down and slim navy trousers for a Hepburn-esque elegance.

2.  Key Piece: If you’re ready to venture into something a bit more adventurous, consider throwing on a signature piece in the eye-catching shade. We love this soft blazer from BCBG ($118) to wear with a silky cami and jeans for a day-to-night look, or even over a wool sheath for a creative office look. You’ll fall in love with the drapey feel, and the color will brighten any complexion.

3.  Bold Color: Ready to shine bright through the grey? Wonderful! This spring, you’ll see both solid and printed dresses full of uplifting coral. Some or our favorites are this Kensie “animal” dress with faux snakeskin stitching ($86), this sexy BCBG dress ($98) perfect for a night out, and this incredible abstract Tracy Reese dress ($126) that is a piece of art unto itself. Welcome to the big leagues of color ladies.

Whether winter sticks around til March or our mild weather stays (#knockonwood), adding in some brights to your winter wardrobe is a fantastic way to pave the path to spring. It will uplift your mood and make others smile as well.

Stop by the Julep for even more beautiful brights! We’d love to help you find your perfect pop of color.

xoxo, MJ

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Hello, 2016

Ahhh, a new year. The time where we all vow to eat healthy, exercise more, and have this be OUR year. Here at the Julep, our resolutions are about you. We vow to help you feel beautiful, no matter how well you are doing at your own resolutions.

It’s also sale time for most retailers, including us! And while we certainly hope you come in to check out our wintry sale things and our new arrivals that make us so excited for Spring, we want this year to be a thoughtful one. So today, we want to talk about owning your style and investing in yourself.

We’ve posted before about identifying your own personal style, and how to mix it up for whatever life throws at you. But even if you know your style, it can be hard to shop for it, especially with so many constantly changing choices and trends! We hear you. So how to navigate sale season? Read on, ladies.

1. Wear it Now: Winter sales are actually the best, because this is New England, and you’ll be wearing this stuff for many months to come.  There’s nothing more disheartening than shopping sales just to store everything away until next season. So as you comb through the sales racks, ask yourself if you can see yourself wearing it out of the store. If you want to wear it right away, you’ve found a winner J

2. Forget the Price: When things go on sale, our minds trick us into thinking we HAVE to have these things that are suddenly so affordable! But the best way to make sure you are staying true to your style in the face of deep discounts is to ask yourself “Would I want this at full price?” Maybe you wouldn’t buy a piece at full price, but if you would still want it, it’s a good indication that it fits well with your style and you will get plenty of wear out of it.

3. Color Scheme: Most of us gravitate toward a few specific colors. You may read in magazines that you need to mix it up and experiment, but we don’t buy that. If you know what you like and what works on you, go with it! One of our managers has decided that it is the year of Mint and Navy, and she is buying key pieces to freshen her wardrobe that way. Maybe you love red, but want something new…try coral! Love brights? Citron is making a huge splash this season. If you shop sales with specific colors in mind, you’ll be less tempted to buy yet another black cardigan for 50% off.

4. Invest Wisely: Just as sale items can make us buy things we otherwise wouldn’t, sometimes a higher price tag can make us ignore the perfect piece. We certainly won’t tell you to blow your budget on anything, and you should always keep in mind what you can reasonably afford when you are shopping. But whether an item is on sale or not, try thinking about value-per-wear. Does that gorgeous, perfect-on-your-figure cashmere sweater seem expensive? Yes. But if you wear it 3x per week, you’ll  be getting much more value than buying that much cheaper but itchier sweater that you never actually take out of your closet. Here at the Julep, we know that when things make us feel beautiful, we wear them more. And we think that’s worth the investment.

5. Transition: Very few things are truly seasonal. Bikinis, wool overcoats, and snow boots are pretty much it. But when it comes to everyday pieces, all it takes to wear something all year is strategic wardrobing. Love this silk cami from Amanda Uprichard’s spring collection? Wear it now with a sale cardigan from Wooden Ships and switch it out for a white blazer when the temps warm up. A lilac cashmere sweater can go past March by shedding the scarves and coats, and pairing it with white cropped skinny jeans. See? Pick what you like and there will be a way to wear it for multiple seasons.

6. The most important question: No matter how much something is, how much you love it on the hanger,  how in-style it is, or how basic it is…there is ultimately one thing that matters more than anything else. Does this piece make me feel beautiful? We often tell ourselves that clothes are simply functional. A t-shirt, a cardigan, a pair of jeans. Everyone needs those, and they don’t have to be special, right? Wrong! There is no reason that the things you own and wear shouldn’t make you feel wonderful. After all, we think you’re beautiful, and your wardrobe should reflect your own unique beauty, whether it’s a Splendid T, or a Milly Dress.

These tips should help you shop sales smarter, and stay true to what makes you feel beautiful. Stop into the Julep while our sale is on, and we’ll help you on your way to being your best you in 2016!

 xoxo, MJ

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Give Love

In many ways, this seems like a dark holiday season. It feels like hate is everywhere, and we can’t turn around for hearing about another tragedy. It can seem impossible to do anything about it, and as a society, we collectively slip into helplessness and anger. 

Here at the Julep, we’re with you. We are so saddened by all of the stories hitting the news, and we want to do something to make the world a little brighter. As individuals, it can be overwhelming to try to impact the world, but we want to encourage you to start small. 

Doing things in your community, for your family, your friends, your neighbors are all more impactful than we think. This Washington Post article is a great reminder that kindness matters, no matter how small. 

So in the spirit of the season, and with some style, we’d like our Julep girls to take a moment to share their love with friends. If you follow us on Instagram and FB, great! If not, go do that now. We’re giving away 20 pairs of holiday hanky panky if you tag a friend and tell us in our comments why you love and admire her (or him). It’s our small way of saying “Thanks” for joining us this holiday season, and for shining bright wherever you go.

So take control of the season by committing to kindness, love, and remembering that every individual can make a big difference. 

Much love and peace this holiday.

xoxo, MJ

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Our Holiday Gift Guide

Shopping for gifts is hard! Especially when there a million other things to do to get ready for the holidays. You want something special, but you don’t want to run all over town. We hear you. So save some hassle and rely on our gift guide, guaranteed to make your life easier, and delight all the ladies on your list!

Here’s just a sampling of our gorgeous choices:

Wooden Ships Accessories: Softer than soft, carefully handcrafted in a range of beautiful, eye-catching colors and patterns, Wooden Ships accessories are a great stocking stuffer for everyone on your list. We have hats, scarves, gloves, and headbands to add a touch of cozy to the cold chill of the oncoming winter. ($28-44)

Druzy Studs: Druzy is all the rage right now, and it’s not going anywhere soon. This beautiful stone is naturally sparkly, with plenty of texture, and each one is different. If you know a lady who loves to shine, why not surprise her with a pair of these beauties? ($30-68)

Capulet Parkas: New England winters are...let’s be polite and call them chilly. We hope you all have enormous puffy coats, but some days, you want something that separates you from the marshmallow masses. These Capulet parkas keep you warm but still make a statement. Thick, insulated, and fur-hooded, your gal will use this all winter long (and let’s be honest, probably until April). ($250-280)

Giving Keys: Know someone committed to doing good? Try a Giving Keys necklace! These are a double-whammy for helping others. Handstamped with a word of encouragement--like Strength, Love, Fearless--these keys are meant to be worn and then given away to someone who needs a boost. It’s a beautiful way to pay it forward, and each sale helps someone transitioning out of homelessness. It’s what the holidays are all about. ($40-46)

Remi and Reid Totes: This is the perfect new go-to bag for the business or pleasure jet-setter. The Departure tote is made of resilient vegan leather, is reversible (WHAT?! It’s amazing), and comes with a detachable cross-body bag perfect for travel essentials or hands-free shopping. ($80-88)

Need more inspiration? Come in to Coolidge Corner or Harvard Square and ask one of our incredible ladies to help you find the perfect gift!

Happy Holidays!

xoxo, MJ

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Give Thanks

Christmas and New Year’s are all about glitz and glamour. And they get the lion’s share of holiday attention. But Thanksgiving is just as important. Thanksgiving is about family, it’s about thinking about all that we’ve been blessed with, and it’s about sharing with others. 

It’s also a more casual holiday, for the most part. But that’s no reason not to add a little shine! Here are two great options for your thanksgiving feast that add just enough sparkle to feel special, but will keep you comfy around the dinner table.

Casual: Corey is modeling a beautiful Splendid sweater with sparkle weaved in ($108) with a velour--stretchy!--jean from J.Brand ($218). Pair with booties and a nature-inspired leaf necklace from Serefina ($94) and you have a cozy, glam look that will keep you happy all night!

Dressy: Sometimes, you have that extra-special Thanksgiving feast planned that requires a little more glitz. Enter Corey in this gorgeous Nanette Lepore sparkle tweed skirt ($238) and Velvet Hunter Green silk blouse ($148). Wear with the same booties to keep this outfit just casual enough. 

Ultimately, what you wear for the holidays is far less important than spending them with the people that you love. As we head into the holiday season, take a moment to tell your friends and family what they mean to you. We know that here at MJ we have a lot to be thankful for, and we hope you’ll join us is sharing the love!

xoxo, MJ

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Building a Great Outfit: Color, Pattern, Texture, and Shine

I love Clinton Kelly of What Not to Wear fame. I met him once, and he was a doll. And he’s never been wrong (except about skinny jeans, but no one’s perfect, right?).

But among all of the advice he’s doled out over the years, I think that the best of all is that any great outfit has to have 4 components: Color, Pattern, Texture, and Shine. I love this advice, because it works no matter your personal style. Girly, Edgy, Bohemian, Classic, Casual—all of them work with these guidelines. The key is balance. A lot of color? Go for a little shine. Patterns galore? Cool it on mixing your textures.

So with the holidays coming up, here are some easy pieces to get you out of a style rut and get ready to celebrate! (Clockwise from top-right)

Texture and Color: Only Hearts Victorian Lace T-Shirt ($170). This is a great holiday piece that can be worn jeans or dressed up with a fit and flare skirt. The deep burgundy color is universally flattering, while the lace adds some femininity to a simple cut.

Color and Pattern: Feeling adventurous? How about this Milly top ($230) and skirt ($288) combo with abstract floral print. It’s bright and sophisticated, certain to make a statement. All you need is a few bold bangles and a faux-fur wrap to complete your ensemble!

Shine and Texture: Sequins! Nothing says “Holiday Party” like a sequined dress, and the Julep has plenty. This one is a super-comfy but still sexy sheath from BB Dakota ($122). The ombre silver to black can even count for your color and pattern, if you are the minimalist type. Otherwise, just add a red lip and a cocktail ring and you’re good to go!

Color and Shine:  Not ready for a full outfit of shiny goodness? No worries. You can get plenty of shine and color from the right jewelry choices. Our best-selling (and local!) JoJo Bling is the answer. These gorgeous earrings pack quite the punch, but are small enough to make converts of even the most color averse. ($24-34)

Color, Texture, and Pattern: We are loving tartan scarves this season, and since we can’t keep them on the shelves, it seems you are too! These are a great way to add a classic winter vibe to your simpler outfits. The woolen texture, tartan colors in navy, red, green, and ivory add plenty of color, and plaid scarves scream New England prep. (From $38)

BONUS: This handbag has EVERYTHING. The subtle mint and pink, the shimmery thread, the plaid, and the boucle make this City Designs clutch the perfect piece to add to an LBD or even jeans and a plain white t. ($42)

The great thing about all of these pieces is that they combine different elements so that you can keep your outfit simple but still visually interesting and put together. And for us at the Julep, that’s something worth celebrating!

xoxo, MJ

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Wear Now, Layer Later

Ah, Fall in New England. 40* in September, and 70* in November. Classic. With our unpredictable weather, it’s important to have pieces that can work whether it’s warm or cool without having to break out your summer pieces. 

But not to worry! There are plenty of things at the Julep that you can adapt for both kinds of weather. It’s just a matter of layering on warmer pieces as the temperature starts to drop. 

Here are some of our favorite pieces to wear now, and layer up later!

Image 1--Wear to Work: 

Rock this Bailey 44 Archie Dress ($184) with bare legs, booties, eye-catching Saachi Teardrop earrings ($32) and our Remi and Reid Departure tote ($80) when the weather is mild, and then add on a Julie Brown Wool Trench ($252), a Printed Village plaid scarf ($40) and some black Spanx ($28) when the temperatures start to drop. 

Image 2--Date NIght: 

The approaching holidays mean more formal date nights in dimly lit restaurants (dream!). To be unforgettable in a sea of black, try this cobalt Lucrezia dress from Nanette Lepore ($248) with studded pumps and a Street Level Crossbody clutch ($60) for a warm yet festive evening. As you start seeing your breath in the frost, add on a date-worthy Shoshanna Effie coat ($464), a rabbit fur infinity scarf from 525 America ($158) and of course, black tights ($28). Stunning and Luxe!

Image 3--Weekend Casual

What to do on the weekends when the mornings are cold but the day is warm? Layer up of course! Start off with a super flattering pair of Citizens of Humanity High Rise Rocket Skinnies in Black ($190), throw on a comfy Rails shirt in Plum ($134), and add some bling with a Sugar Bean cross necklace ($70). If you find yourself getting chilly, you can always throw on a soft-as-soft 360 Cashmere Clodelle Cardigan in Moss ($396) and top it off with our best-selling fox fur pom hat from Almar ($68). Don’t forget a small but trendy bag that keeps you hands free! (Moda Luxe Pasadena Bag $70) It’s cozy weekend casual done right. 

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The LBD: Anything but Basic

For a lot of people, “LBD” (little black dress) conjures up an image of a basic sheath, simple, elegant, but ultimately kind of boring. After all, what good is an LBD if everyone is wearing the same one? 

Lucky for us, this season’s selection of LBD’s is anything but basic. The real key to the LBD is in its versatility. It’s the staple in your closet that will take you from work to cocktails to a wedding to everything in between. There’s no reason a dress with some pizazz can’t do that just as well as the Jackie-O sheath (which we will always love).

Here are our choices for an unexpected LBD. Texture and Shine keep them interesting, while their classic shapes--from fit and flare to wrap--make sure that you are ready for anything. No matter which dress strikes your fancy, these beauties will work for all occasions. Just change your accessories!

Pictured left to right: 

Ella Moss Twofer Lace Dress ($232)...the lace topper detaches and can be worn as a shirt. Talk about versatile!

Julie Brown Meredith Dress ($266)...if you follow our instagram, you’ve already seen this dress as a glamorous Wednesday Addams Halloween costume!

Darling Kellie Dress ($156)

Nanette Lepore Get Around Dress ($348)

Leota Charlotte Dress ($144)

Also pictured in detail bottom: 

Shoshanna Bella Dress ($354)

Greylin Vana Dress ($144)

Paper Crown Willa Dress ($280)

Kensie Lace Hem Dress ($108)

Velvet Fringe Dress ($188)

Nanette Lepore Live Wire Dress ($374)

Stop in to Brookline or Cambridge to check out even more selections!

xoxo, MJ