Je Suis Prest Boutique

Style Challenge Time!

2011-01-06T14:46:00.000-08:00

Hiya there ladies!

First and foremost, a big Happy New Year from your girls at Je Suis Prest Boutique. Thanks to all of you for making our 2010 the best year yet!

We're having a blast unpacking our new Spring deliveries (check out our facebook album for all the pics!), but we're realizing that the short, dreary winter days are still upon us for a little longer! So to make January a little less... drab, we're spicing it up a bit with a little style challenge.

Don't be scared! You don't need to be a professional blogger, or an extreme fashionista to participate in our challenge. You just simply need to love our store, and snap a pic!

Here's how it works:
Post a picture, or 2, of yourself on our facebook wall up until January 19. Found here!
Depending on the number of entries, we'll determine the select finalists.
We'll post them up, and then it's up to you guys to vote! Get your friends, family, pets... whatever you got, to vote for your favorite picture.
We'll tally the votes on January 31 to determine the winner!

So what are you playing for?
Winner will receive $100 gift certificate to Je Suis Prest Boutique
....as well as...
a one hour session with Sean McGrath (photographer extraordinaire) valued at $250.

Ready... set... snap those pics! :)

The not-so-secret obsessions of a store owner

2010-12-15T17:38:00.000-08:00

My customers, friends and employees often wonder where I get my inspiration for what to into buy for the store, what to wear, and how to style all the pretty girls that come to us! Well my darlings, lots of research and time spent behind my silly silver laptop (that I'm sure you've caught me on more than once huddled up near the fireplace in the store!).

I'm a busy little bee reading every fashion blog I can get my hands on, checking out all the online mags and researching the online lookbooks for upcoming seasons from the lines I carry, and hope to carry! Another terrible part of my job involves a lot of online 'shopping' on a whole bunch of trendy cool websites. Tragic, really, that I have to spend my days doing something so terrible, eh?

My laptop is nearly as important to me as my never-more-than-2'-away from me black(crack)berry. They're my life lines to the big, bold fashion world that I love and live in :)

Here's a snap shot that's usual for me on my laptop!

facebook, email, blog spot, twitter, my fave blogs, an article for KV Style, simply accounting, and of course, music to rock out to!

Oh here's another fun little fact:
my desktop pic- my dream car, just to keep my sights high! (an audi s6 in blue just in case you're wondering what i'd love for christmas!!!)
and my blackberry background- my sweet pup covered in xmas lights!
What can't you live without?

Happy holidays my lovely followers!
Hope your holiday shopping is going seamlessly!
(if all else fails, follow my cardinal christmas shopping rule: 1 gift for me, 2 for others...)

This is my winter song to you! Song of the... month! (baddd blogger!)

2010-12-15T17:35:00.000-08:00

One of my all time favorite winter songs!
Hope you're finding a little peace for yourself this time of the year :)

SJ Outstanding Business Acheivement Awards

2010-12-08T10:19:00.000-08:00

This is the video that played at the Outstanding Business Achievement Awards on November 24, 2010. Little old me won the award for Young Entrepreneur of the Year. So nice to be recognized for doing something I love!

Thanks very much to the Board of Trade for such a great honor and experience!
We had a blast at the event and will remember it forever! :)

A funny little story...

2010-12-03T12:35:00.000-08:00

So the store's name, as you can imagine, has some controversy around it.

Anyone who speaks the french language typically has something to say about the spelling of 'prest'...

Yesterday, Joy and I had a fun little experience for the first time ever.

An elderly gentleman, decked out in nice slacks, a newsboy cap and fancy orthopedic shoes walked into the store, bee-lined straight for me, yelling "THERE MUST BE A FRASER IN HERE". You got that right sir, my last name is Fraser. The Fraser family name (which dates back a few hundred years) has a motto, and it's 'je suis prest'... which means I am ready. Prest is the ancient spelling of the modern day, pret. So in the midst of showing him the explanation on my business card, and him telling the whole history of Frasers in his family, in walks another older man. Two men of any age in this store at the same time is a rare occurrence. This place is drenched in estrogen.

He seeks Joy out, and proceeds to yell (why do old men yell?! *make note: must tell future husband not to yell when he surpasses 80*) "YOU SPELLED PRET WRONG!" in a very thick Acadian accent. Poor Joy, she didn't know what hit her. After politely informing him why in the world we spelled pret wrong, and never meant to offend him personally.... the men met each other.

Well. They duked it out in the store for a bit, then proceed to fight it out outside of the store for a half an hour (still yelling, mind you).

Who would of thought my little store would a) attract men over 80 (whoo hoo!) and b) cause a debate of epic proportions of a Scot vs. an Acadian.

*sigh*... and that my darling fashion friends, is the trials and tribulations of a store owner!

Summer to Fall with Kensie

2010-08-12T14:58:00.000-07:00

Like most women, we love to get every ounce of wear out of our favorite items!

We love pieces that can be worn multi-season. Something that works right now, in the warmer weather, and also into the fall/winter. We're huge on it! And when I do my buying for the store, it's something that I'm constantly looking for.

Our summer's short! So when we invest in a good piece, we want to be able to bring it into a few seasons, not just one!

Here's a great example of a late summer dress.... dressed for late Summer, Fall and Winter! Check it out:

Kensie Dress $89
BB Dakota Blazer $73
Noa Noa Necklace $16

Ever tried a dress worn as a shirt?
Kensie Dress $89
BB Dakota Skirt $65
Jack Jacket $79
Black Scarf $19

Kensie Dress $89
Long Sleeve Kensie Dress $59
Jack Jacket $85
Jack Sweater $70

Song of the week!

2010-07-10T08:32:00.000-07:00

Feather headbands are back!

2010-06-30T06:26:00.000-07:00

Free People

2010-06-28T11:11:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to tell you that Free People is becoming a permanent staple at the boutique! We love the brand, and apparently so do you!

New styles arriving soon. Follow us on facebook and twitter- you'll be the first to know when we get the following piece! ;)

Kiera Fraser likes

Je Suis Prest Boutique

Create your Like Badge

Song of the week!

2010-06-28T10:59:00.000-07:00

rockin' the crop?

2010-06-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

Personally, I like the idea of a crop top. It's a cool new way to show off a little skin with out bearing it all! I think there's a few good ones out there... there's also a few bad...

Seems like crop tops have hit the runways, the celebs and the streets... all again! (not a good look for whitney port, ouch.)

Tomorrow we receive a new shipment of Alternative Apparel, and with it comes the Molly Crop, which I am excited to rock with a pair of boyfriend jeans, or a cute pair of jean shorts. What's your opinion? Will you be rockin' the crop?

Will you rock the crop this summer?Market Research

Summer lovin'

2010-06-18T07:51:00.000-07:00

Kensie Dress

Lucy Love Dress

Kensie Dress

BB Dakota Dress

Check out our fun NEW summer dresses!

A few reasons why I LOVE being a store owner

2010-05-07T06:40:00.000-07:00

Hopefully my wonderful customers know that I love my job, but after a year (and a month!) of store owning, I've learned a few things about why my job may be the best one out there...

Going into this, I had NO idea how much work it would be! But it quickly taught me that hard work, perseverance, and sheer determination is the key to success and it has never felt so rewarding.
Our customers are the best, most loyal, most wonderful, most surprising people we've ever met! They teach us something new everyday.
I get to shop... all the time!, for beautiful, unique, amazing clothing and accessories. For myself, for the store... all the time! What's a better dream than that? :)
The rewarding and overwhelming feeling of helping a woman find an outfit that she looks and feels fabulous in. There's nothing quite like it.
Having the support, smiles and push from other local retailers. Saint John is a GREAT community to be an entrepreneur!
I could not do this everyday without the endless support from my family, my friends, my employees and of course, my customers!
Everyday brings a new challenge, a new laugh, a new reason to smile, a new lesson learned and a chance to meet new, amazing people.

"Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe, it can achieve."- Napoleon Hill

Yours Truly,
Kiera

socks and sandals... no really, its cool.

2010-04-21T20:16:00.000-07:00

So I've been perusing fashion blogs, magazines and runway collections and noticed another common theme that i just can't wrap my head around.. socks and sandals?

i feel like this is some spin off of the birkenstocks with those warm wooly red/grey/white sock combination thats plaguing the youth of saint john right now. don't get that fad, but leave it to rebellious teenagers to find ways to wear our sandals thru the winter ;) 'Whad ya motha tell ya?!'

i did a little investigation into the sock/sandal phenomena and here's what trusty urban dictionary has to say about this subject:

Socks and Sandals:

A footwear combination worn only by the fashion-challenged.

If it's hot enough for sandals, it's too hot to wear socks.

If it's cold enough to wear socks, it's too cold for sandals.

well put, urban dictionary.

here's the first thing that comes to mind when i think of socks and sandals:

yuck. gives me the willies just lookin at them!

right- so anyways, leave it to the evolving fashion industry to turn 'fashionably challenged' as seen above, into 'fashionably awesome'. some bloggers are looking stylishly cute in their socks and summery wedgy/chunky heels. I like the look, don't get me wrong. It's cool, and casual. And another way to break out those summer sandals well before you should.

Burberrys version in their Spring 2010 show:

Lou Lou's version in their March 2010 issue:

So orginally- before doing my research- this is what i had written about the trend hitting my personal wardrobe:

"I feel like this is one fad that i would certainly be stared down by in saint john by even the chic-est of chic."

However... after much research, i'm tempted to try this.

If you plan on it, here's a few details i've found that help pull the outfit together:

wear a neutral colour, blending is the key here ladies...
make sure your shoes aren't too fancy, or too detailed
grab some thinner socks, not too bulky- no sweat socks.
keep it casual, *not* cool for an cocktail party. more of a day look!

You should avoid looking like this-

Holly Madison at some awards show. gag me.

and more like this-

Rhianna and Leighton Meester. Tres Chic.

Will YOU be wearing socks and heels this spring?

!iT's finally here!

2010-04-21T16:58:00.000-07:00

Our new line of AMAZING jeans have finally arrived!

They're !iT jeans- based out of L.A., they have an amazing fit for REAL girls, with real dimensions! They're unlike anything I've seen.... and i'll admit, i've fallen hard for them! They don't compare to anything i've tried before- they are DEFIANTLY worth a try.

Ranging from $95-$130, you've gotta get your hands on a pair!

Over the next few weeks, i'll update you with the amazing styles we have in store!

First and foremost are my fave jeans of the moment, and will be close to me all summer- are the ELLIES!

They're a boyfriend jean, but a crop, and a comfortable option to capris... I love them. With heels, flats, for comfort and style. (for more info on how to style the Ellie, check my earlier blog on boyfriend jeans!)

check out the whole line here!

spotted: our picks in the magazines!

2010-04-07T11:42:00.000-07:00

Here's a recent update of items that were spotted in the magazines, and conveniently located at your uptown boutique!

Three of our most popular dresses!

And our silky, sexy shift dress!

SHORTS!

2010-04-06T14:37:00.000-07:00

So you may think i'm a little off my rocker with this one... but i've always been a true believer in pulling every buck outta your clothes! No sense in buying something you can only wear for one short weekend of the year. Us maritime-ers know that it rarely gets warm enough to pull off a shorts, tank top, sandal combo.... so lets make use of our sassy summer wardrobes starting this Spring!

I don't know about the rest of you readers out there, but i'm addicted to fashion blogs. Especially ones from all over the world. When i'm stuck in a rut, can't find anything to wear, tear my closet apart in search of that perfect outfit and still can't find it.... I plop myself on the couch and search lookbook.nu, chictopica and a few fave blogs for some inspiration. One thing they all have in common is that shorts are running rampant. And have been all year.

The key to shorts is pairing them with TIGHTS ladies! mix and match, day or night, cute or sexy, boots or heels... whatever you gotta do to feel comfortable! This is another great way to extend that boot usage! I plan on wearing my lighter boots in the summer, with fun dresses and shorts!

Here's a look I love! So classic and chic! Easy to do too!Check out this blogger here!

and this is me!wearing all things current in store!
Noa Noa Black Jacket, Noa Noa printed tank, IT Jeans Cuffed Shorts, Tights and Boots!

What are your thoughts ladies? Let me know!

it's time!

2010-04-06T14:26:00.000-07:00

...for some new, inspired, exciting, dramatic, intense, enjoyable, fashionable, interesting blog posts! whoo hoo! It's about time, eh?

now, it is my goal to make sure i update this regularly... because as busy as this crazy store makes me, i can, and will, always find time to make sure my customers get updates on important things! like new lines, insight into the fashionable future, and the latest trends. because without my fabulous customers, and great following, and amazing supporters, i wouldn't be having as much fun as i am!

so enough babble... on with the fashion!!

Holiday Fashion Party!

2009-11-09T09:45:00.001-08:00

1st Fashionista's Anonymous Meeting!

2009-10-06T09:33:00.000-07:00

Check out our facebook event for more details!
Hope you can make it <3

6 Months on October 1st!

2009-09-30T12:46:00.000-07:00

and to celebrate.... we're giving discounts! what better way? :)

Come in Tomorrow, Friday or Saturday to receive a coupon (with store purchase) for 25% off your purchase between November 2-7!!

Hiring again!

2009-09-16T06:53:00.000-07:00

Je Suis Prest Boutique is now hiring a fashionita!
Love what we're all about?
We're now looking for a full time assistant manager!

The position will include 32+ hours a week, with the potential to expand your hours! We offer a competitive wage as well.

We're looking for someone who:

Enjoys fashion.
Loves the retail environment.
Is available days, Thursday and Friday evenings and Saturdays.
Has has retail experience, preferably in a leadership position.

About the store:
Enjoy a chic, charming clothing boutique for the young, and young at heart, fashion forward ladies of Saint John. Visit us for your premium denim, casual and office wear clothing needs. Our hand chosen fun, functional and unique fashions and accessories are designed in Canada, Europe and the United States. Enjoy friendly, personalized service in a comfortable atmosphere while shopping for brand labels such as Paige Premium Denim, J Brand Jeans, Noa Noa, BB Dakota, Gentle Fawn, and Hunter Boots.

Stop on in to apply with your resume!

Fashion Show!

2009-09-14T11:41:00.000-07:00

Come check out all the latest fashions from us and other retailers in Brunswick Square at the Fashion Fall Preview.

September 30- 7pm!

Stop in and get your ticket before it sells out!

Time for another DENIM SALE!

2009-09-08T06:22:00.000-07:00

How does 25% off all regular priced denim and an additional 15% off already reduced denim sound?
Sounds pretty awesome to me.

Hope to see you this:
Thursday September 10,
Friday September 11 and
Saturday September 12.
All Day. Be there.

PS!- Jeans can, of course, be put on layaway too!

Twilight's hit the Prest!

2009-08-31T07:56:00.000-07:00

We have the coat! Officially! The wait is over!!!

Prest Boutique <3 PPD

2009-08-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

So as you all know- Prest Boutique loves Paige Premium Denim. Currently we have 6 styles in the store that cater to every woman that walks in the door (a classic jean, a high rise jean, a petite jean, a skinny jean, a dressy jean, a boyfriend fit jean, and on and on...). I also LOVE the story behind PPD.... read it here!

Long story short- she used to be a fit model for all the famous lines (designers would base their fits on her body!). She was tired of being poked and prodded and all the pressures that go along with being a size 2 model, so she decided to design the jean company to fit every woman, regardless of weight, size, body type, height and all that. I only carry 6 styles in store, but there are hundreds of different styles and colours out there.

But I just discovered a really cool 'day in the life of Paige Adams-Geller' kinda thing from denim blog.com! Check them out here!

Kensie Plaid Tunic- we've got it :)

2009-08-24T08:03:00.000-07:00

Hi shoppers! Just a quick note to say that the awesome plaid tunic featured in all the latest mag's under a Dillard's ad is in store! We have a full size range so come on in and check it out :)

What's in a name?

2009-08-13T06:35:00.000-07:00

So I get this question quite frequently as you can imagine... where the heck does 'Je Suis Prest' come from?

Well.... let me tell you!
It's a family business, as you've guessed. With three girls, none of which will carry on that Fraser name! So this is my small attempt at keeping our family name alive :)

Our last name, Fraser, is super Scottish. Each Scottish name has a clan associated with it, also: a few tartans, bird, crest and of course the motto! So the Fraser motto is Je Suis Prest, obviously! Which translates to 'I am ready'. You may be asking of course, why I spell it with an 's'. Because, back a million years ago, that's how they spelt the modern day 'pret'.

I think it's an awesome motto to live by, always being ready for anything is important! Being ready in an awesome outfit is pretty important too! Bring it on baby, I'm ready and look great too ;)

So now you know, and tell all your friends that I didn't spell it wrong and I'm not losing my mind! (Well maybe I am...)

Here's our crest, to prove I'm in fact NOT making things up :)

Oh Fall, my favourite season of all!!

2009-08-08T06:24:00.000-07:00

I know we're FINALLY getting some nice weather that we so deserve, but just a quick reminder that Fall is around the corner!

We're slowly getting in Fall stock, and I have to say, it's ALMOST making me want to pack up my (unused) summer dresses and throw on a great jacket :)

Je Suis Prest is THE shop in Saint John for all the latest trends! Here are some you'll see in the store for Fall:
- Boyfriend Jeans (of course, now a staple in your closet!)
- Leggings, Leggings and MORE leggings! (the leather looking ones, the new jean legging, and of course just the multi-coloured ones!)
- Blazers, jackets and coats! and too many to count!!!
- Plaid! it's everywhere, and I can't speak for everyone, but I LOVE it :)
- Tunics too! Pair them with great thick tights and wicked boots and you've got yourself a comfy, but chic look!

Oh and so much more to come.... here's a sneak peak of the new stuff from BB Dakota and Jack!

HUGE Summer Sales!

2009-08-04T12:38:00.001-07:00

Hi Shoppers!

Just a quick note to say that:

ALL SUMMER STOCK IS NOW 25%-75% OFF!

Stop in soon before it's all gone (and while the sun lasts!)

OH! And Fall stock has started to arrive! Pop in to check it out :)

It's so bright in here now!

2009-07-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

...Good thing we have sunglasses!!!

Accessories have landed at Prest Boutique!

A good assortment of Chinese Laundry sunglasses and BELTS!

Come check 'em out!

A little inspiration

2009-07-08T12:12:00.000-07:00

Hiya fashion lovers <3

I wanted to give you a little slice of what my days consist of while I sit behind my computer all day!
I'm always looking for new outfits, trendy stuff, and ways to make my old stuff look new again!

So here's a little list of blogs, websites and store sites that I check out:

Blogs:
http://lookbook.nu
http://www.chictopia.com
http://3-of-hearts.blogspot.com/
http://nymag.com/daily/fashion/
http://www.fashionista.com/

Stores:
http://www.freepeople.com
http://www.topshop.com
http://canada.forever21.com
http://www.anthropologie.com
http://www.urbanoutfitters.com

Have any more? pass them on!

Don't forget- 25%-75% off the store until Saturday. Get in here!!

Canada Day!

2009-07-03T06:49:00.001-07:00

We officially tied for 3rd place on our Canada Day window!!
Here's a pic in case you missed it:

Hope your Canada Day was wonderfully relaxing!

PS- don't forget to stop in to the store, HUGE savings (25%-75% off!!)

oh and bring your reusable bag for an extra 10% off your purchase!!

Prest Boutique is going green!

2009-06-22T07:34:00.000-07:00

June 22- July 11 is Summer Sale time at Brunswick Square!

Stop by for some great deals on Summer merchandise and check out the new arrivals for Fall.

What's better then Sun and Sales at Prest Boutique, you may be asking?

WELL! Remember the reusable bags?

How about an additional 10% off your purchase during the Summer Sale (June 22-July 11) when you bring your Je Suis Prest reusable bag back!?

Sounds sweet eh?

Don't have a bag yet? There's still some left! Stop by for a free bag with a purchase of $200 or buy one for $3!

Save the environment and some cash! What's better than that!!

Rock & Republic has landed at Prest Boutique

2009-06-11T08:14:00.000-07:00

Hey fellow shoppers :)

Just wanted to drop in and tell you that Prest Boutique has added Rock & Republic to our wide selection of premium denim!!

We have three different styles in the store (Pink R's, flap pockets and the ever so popular double R!). Stop in and slip a pair on, you won't want to take them off.

the WINNERS!

2009-06-11T08:08:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much for all the support for our grand opening! It was a great success :)

Here are the lucky six ladies who won the draw!

6th Prize- $25 Gift Certificate to Prest Boutique- Stephanie!
5th Prize- $30 Alternative Apparel Gift Certificate- Tahnee!
4th Prize- Glam Julz Ring (a $40 value)- Ellen!
3rd Prize- $50 Gift Certificate to Prest Boutique- Kim!
2nd Prize- Orb Purse (a $98 value)- Beverly!
1st Prize- Girl Friday Dress (a $140 value!!!)- went to Leah! (who looked mighty fine in it, might I add!)

Stop in soon to see our new arrivals and great deals on rainy weather gear :)

Grand Opening this weekend!

2009-06-01T06:53:00.000-07:00

Hiya shoppers!

Just a quick update- Je Suis Prest Boutique's official Grand Opening is this weekend!

Friday June 5 9:30am- 8:00pm
and
Saturday June 6 9:30am- 5:30pm

Please join us in celebration by enjoying:
- a FREE reusable tote bag with a $50 purchase

- Draws for free gifts and merchandise from:

- Sweets and Treats will be available!

- and finally! A G.R.E.A.T. discount on all of your favorite fashions :)

Can't wait to see you this weekend!

One Day Only!

2009-05-22T12:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Shoppers!

Just wanted to give everyone a sneak peak!

Tomorrow is Spring Renewal Demonstration Day in Brunswick Square.

What does that mean for YOU?

That means that you get to listen to our fabulous spiel about 'How to Find Your Perfect Denim!'.

But WAIT! I wouldn't want you to endure that without a little reward!
How about 25% off all designer denim?!

We're talkin' :

J. Brand
Fidelity
Rich & Skinny
Guido and Mary
MEK Denim
Paige Premium Denim

ALL of THOSE! for 25% off!
One Day Only! Saturday, May 23rd.
Be there.

Gril Friday dresses are here!

2009-05-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

Attention all dress lovers! Girl Friday is a super cool dress designer from Toronto. All made in Canada! These dresses answer all of your needs as far as graduations, weddings, formal, casual, length appropriate dresses go! In the store, I have 5 different styles, with the sizing ranging from 0-14! They look good on everyone!

http://www.girlfridayclothing.com/
"Designer Rebecca Nixon also stocks the stores with her very popular in-house label carrying the Girl Friday name. Girl Friday fans flock to the store for the label's impeccably fitting dresses, perfect for all occasions. Feminine, but never fussy, Girl Friday dresses flatter a variety of figure types. Clean lines and timeless silhouettes, the Girl Friday look never goes out of style, and Girl Friday pieces become favourite pieces in a fashionable-girl's wardrobe. Girl Friday's signature collection is now available in boutiques across Canada and the United States."

Psssst! Secret to all my blog followers! Mention that you saw this and we'll take 15% off of your Girl Friday dress purchase!!

Who's hiring?! US! That's who!

2009-05-14T10:31:00.001-07:00

Everybody I know seems to have a common phrase: "Kiera, you look tired". Oh, as much as I hate to admit it, I'm exhausted! I have even been neglecting my poor blog!

It's time. Seriously. Je Suis Prest Boutique is now.... (drum roll PUH-LEASE!) HIRING!! Whooooo hoo!! Here we go folks:

Je Suis Prest Boutique is now hiring a fashionita!
Love what we're all about?
We're now looking for a part time key holder position!

We're looking for someone who:

Enjoys fashion
Loves the retail environment, specifically Je Suis Prest Boutique, but who's asking? ;)
Is available 20 hours a week
Is available to work at lunch time, Thursday and Friday evenings and Saturdays (flexiblilty is an asset!)
Feels comfortable open and close the store
Has some retail experience (a total plus, but not required!)
Would love to help us grow the store!

Interested? or know someone who might be?
Stop on in to apply with your resume!

Ok, now I need another coffee... I promise I'll update with a great, inspiring, meaningful blog soon!!!!

a quick little update- before I forget AGAIN!

2009-04-30T06:20:00.000-07:00

A bigger, BETTER, more exciting and super savings Grand Opening is coming soon!!

Don't worry, I'll keep you readers in the loop!!

Have a very happy thursday!

Glam Julz is here! In our little tiny town!

2009-04-30T05:45:00.000-07:00

HEY SHOPPERS!

Make sure to pop in to Prest Boutique this afternoon to say hi to our wonderful, fabulous, lovely, stylish jewelry designer- Monica Graves with Glam Julz!!

Check out her site to get what all the HYPE is about!

www.glamjulz.com

Let's talk a little about why Prest Boutique loves boyfriend jeans...

2009-04-27T08:09:00.001-07:00

Every girl is entitled to their favorite shape/style/cut/color of denim. And I'm sure that every woman who reads this blog has a pair of skinny, straight, boot cut, flares and destroyed jeans in their closet. However, my new favorite thing, that I really can't get enough of are these boyfriend jeans! So versatile, so comfy, so sexy but breathable at the same time... All the celebs have them on, so I decided to give them a shot- first by heading over to darling little Value Village and buying a pair of guy jeans for 3 bucks and destroying them myself... wouldn't wear them out in public as they do nothing for me, but can we just give a little hallelujah for freedom? Then, after deciding that my skinny jeans are more like denim leggings, I invested in a pair of Paige Premium Denim's "Jimmy Jimmy" Rebel wash (found conveniently at Prest Boutique), and don't have a single regret. I would live in them if I could... and wear them any chance I get!!

As far as how and what to wear them with, here's what I've discovered:
DO:

wear them with high heels- pointy toed give off a tres sexy look while wedges are subtly and cute (make sure to roll them up a bit to show off your killer legs!!)
wear them with a cute pair of flats/sandals and play up the relaxed look with a tank top and great belt.
Add feminine touches- cute jewelry, a girly shirt, pink nail polish... you get the idea.
wear them low on your hips, not boxer baring like your guy does, but keep 'em low and show it off with an awesome belt.

DON'T:

no running shoes or old navy flip flops- you risk being mistaken for your boyfriend.
no over sized sweat shirts or tops- you'll loose that sexy shape!
the key is to keep it classy, not overly comfortable, you'll look like a bum and people will start throwing change your way.

Currently in the store I have a couple types of boyfriend jeans-
JBrand's:

And the Paige Premium Denim pair:

More coming soon too! Divine Rights of Denim (a great line of jeans launched by Audrina Patridge from the Hills!) has a great pair of light boyfriend's coming to the boutique in May!

Some great tips and tricks to boyfriends:
http://www.denimblog.com/prps/how-to-wear-pegged-boyfriend-jeans.html
http://www.fashionising.com/trends/b--2009-Jeans-Trend-Boyfriend-Jeans-1253.html
http://www.thefabricofourlives.com/denim-rules/How-to-Wear-Boyfriend-Jeans/

Will YOU be sportin' the boyfriend look this summer??

A bit about my favorite SJ blogs...

2009-04-15T07:56:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I've had such a wonderful two weeks (ALREADY!). Time seriously flies when you're having a ball and doing something you love.

I'm finally settling into a routine and getting excited about summer buying, which means more dresses :)

Just wanted to mention a few great blogs from shoppers and friends alike who wrote amazing posts about my store:

Consumer SJ: http://consumersj.wordpress.com/
Uptown Girl SJ: http://uptowngirlsj.wordpress.com/

Thanks ladies, your thoughts and great comments are much appreciated!

In addition, I wanted to mention Bean Books, which opens at 122 Germain Street on Saturday (April 18). Stop by and say hello to Sarah! I can't wait to call it my new favorite book store! :)
follow her entrepreneurial adventures at: http://beanbooks.wordpress.com/

Have a fabulous Wednesday!

Oh and P.S.- grand opening dates have been officially announced: April 30- May 2. Keep checking back for updates.

New Arrivals.... Orb!

2009-04-11T11:16:00.000-07:00

Hiya!

I just got a HUGE shipment in of Orb... which is a super awesome line based out of Vancouver (which is becoming quite the fashionable place if I do say so myself!). It's young, and hip, and a great price point too. Very 'Bench' like, minus the labels all over them!! Great coats and sweatshirts too. OH and the purses are totally fab, very unique and GREAT colors :)

Great colors: Corals, blues, purples, yellows... very Summer-ish! It's coming. I promise. Even though it IS snowing out on April 11 :)

Have a super Easter weekend!

We really pulled it off... Opening Day!!

2009-04-01T17:11:00.000-07:00

Opening day was SO much fun and much much more than I expected... we were exhausted though! Mom and I finished up the store last night at 1:30am and it looks spectacular. I really didn't think we were going to be able to pull it off, but we did!

Yesterday is a total blur... woke up early... ran around a ton for last minute stuff... went to the store to finish odds and ends, hang and finish tagging clothes, merchandise all the clothes around the store... watch the Sign installers hang the sign... make the window display... washing the windows... taking out the garbage... wait for the countertop... making alternative arrangements for the lack of countertop...washing the floors... I still can't believe we got that all done in a day! But needless to say, we were exhausted when we left. And this morning too.

The day went super well. Lots of well wishes from all and overall it was very well received by Saint John. I hope the buzz is good outside the store as well :) People recognized and loved Paige Premium Denim (yesss!), the Canadian designers went over well like Guido and Mary and Lily + Jae, so did my Hunter boots that came in last minute... we're off to a great start! Hope you enjoy the pictures- they're a little off color (I was in a rush to take them and the camera's not great!!)

Thanks so much to EVERYONE who helped and complimented and made it perfect :) I'm just pleased as punch....

I am soooo looking forward to tomorrow, but more importantly, I'm looking forward to a good night sleep tonight!

OH! and PS- the verdict is NO harem pants... I'm getting the impression that no one likes them but me. You'll see though, they're cool...

A not so fun thing.. the POS system...

2009-03-25T18:50:00.000-07:00

SO the most current frustrating item on my list of store opening saga's is this darn Point of Sale system (the register software on my computer), which is very fancy and highly technical but doesn't make much sense to me. Basically I have to imput in every clothing item (thousands of pieces) into the system, including price, bar code (make one too), wholesale cost, quantity and all this other tricky stuff. Man, all I can say is that it's a long and boring process. I have a little, which is growing bigger and bigger, corner in my poor mother's living room devoted to my boxes and computer, where I input all the clothes deep into the night... sigh... I'll get the hang of it eventually :)

Hammer- I mean Harem- Pants

2009-03-24T06:47:00.000-07:00

I just want to settle a little fashion debacle in Spring O9's trends... Harem or Hammer pants are COOL folks... I fully intend on getting my hands on a pair... they're everywhere! and just look so deliciously comfortable, I really can't see how you could go wrong. Come on ladies, it's a cross between men's pants (ya know, roomier) and leggings... why stop it if they feel so right?!?!

This idea just sparked in my head as I was watching MC Hammer bust a move with Ellen DeGeneres. I saw harem pants all over Spain last winter, and all over Scandinavia this past Summer... I'm just giving everyone a heads-up, they're coming, and they're awesome. I've seen them on every body shape. They're almost like a modern day gaucho- wear them dressed up, or down. Both are cute and comfortable.

I don't have any lined up in the store yet (haven't found much out there YET!) but my eyes are open. Maybe I'll get some feedback on them before I stock 30 pairs in 12 different colors ;)

Here's a few site's that back me up on this debate:
http://style.la-mimi.com/fashion-trends/harem-pants-trend/
http://www.fashionmagazine.com/blogs/fashion/styled-west/2009/01/14/style-resolution/
(see number 3)
http://uk.fashion.popsugar.com/2663308

Anyways- the store's really coming together :) I can't wait to show it to you!!

the NEWSPAPER!

2009-03-17T15:41:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I was hooked up with Erin Dwyer, a writer for the Telegraph Journal, Saint John's local newspaper. She writes a weekly column in 'The City' section of the paper and wanted to write a little somethin' on the store! So of course, free press for me!, I said yes :) I was a little nervous and caught of guard when she called, but the article turned out great! I'm even pretty thrilled with the picture that came along with it, which was much bigger than I anticipated and in color!!

Here's the article:
http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/city/article/605419

... I'm still on the search for store fixtures! What a pain in the butt. Putting more orders in for Spring too! The store is going to look great, but no sooner than April 1. 2 weeks from tomorrow! AHHHHH!!!

Mannequins, painted ceilings and harwood flooring... oh and clothes!

2009-03-10T11:48:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update with the store-

Whew, so things are STILL crazy and getting crazier. BUT the good news is: the store is lookin' pretty dannnng sweet if I do say so myself. I'm down to a good size list of things to get accomplished before opening, but it's no longer overwhelming which is a slight relief.

So the floors are officially done, now its the trim, the countertop and a few odds and ends. And last minute we decided to have the ceiling painted, so that's another big project. The contractor and all of his workers should be out by the end of the week/early next week! Then it's cleaning, and more cleaning and a mad dash to get everything in, arranged and perfect.

OH! and the logo's all done, oh it's so good! Dawn at INK Graphic Design has done such a fabulous job, I'm lovin' everything she comes up with! Here's a peek at my logo:

Cool, huh?

T-minus one month to opening!

2009-03-01T18:37:00.000-08:00

SO! I figured I'd fill you in on my slowly-getting-more-awesome-never-ending-project- store!! Whooo! It used to be a men's clothing store, titled 'Nagles' for all you SJ'ers. It's on the second level of Brunswick Square, a shopping center in the heart of uptown. It's a pretty awesome location considering that the majority of the stores in the mall are individually owned and operated. So I fit right in!

Previously it was covered in hunter green, sail boats, and more green. yuuuuck! Would defiantly not work for a fashionable woman's clothing store. Here's a picture of the before shot:

Now, we're going through a ton of rennovations. I already have the space painted (not by me of course... ugh that would've been a disaster area!) and it turned out completely different than I imagined, BUT it's so growing on me and coming together. Today I (yes me, the first handy work I've done in ages...) painted the stockroom, it turned out cool, I'm very proud, but it's not well done, so not that proud. Mom doesn't trust me to hang up my fun wallpaper on the backwall, so we're going to get that accomplished this week as well. Now the space is getting its floors redone to a really cool hardwood, tres rustic look to it. And the contracter, after patiently waiting, should be done in 2 weeks! Then it's madness until opening on April 1st! Here's a picture mid-way through the fun! Oh and that's me :)

I'm getting so excited about decorating the store, but man, it's a lot of work! The walls (you can't really tell in the picture above) but are a mauve-ish, taupe-ish, grey-ish color. And the wallpaper is SO cool! It's just against the backwall, just to make a little statement. It's a WEIRD color, sometimes its taupe, then its silver, but it all blends really well! Here's a little swatch of the wallpaper:
Now it's all about finding fun stuff to put in the store. I have some here and there, and my poor car's trunk is almost full! Oh man! I have so much more to do!

My first buying trip and the start of something beautiful...

2009-02-25T17:54:00.000-08:00

I've been meaning to start this for a few weeks now, and as I procrastinate it, I get more and more ideas to post!

So just a quick update tonight- got home late last night from visiting Toronto on Monday, and Montreal on Tuesday for a buying trip. It was the first real experience I've had in the buying world, and oh my goodness, this is FUN! It was like an enormous shopping spree! And I'm so convinced that things are going to turn out amazing after seeing the lines in person. Monday was NUTS. Mom (the experienced one!) and I woke up at the crack of dawn on Monday and visited five different agencies and saw tons of lines... I booked a lot of Spring merchandise, to open the store with, and also pre-booked Fall already. Hard to believe that the fashion world is already for next Fall when we're still digging ourselves out of this crazy snow here in NB... ugh! Spring is around the corner though, which means so is opening date :)

One line that I'm so thrilled to carry and I really think you're going to love is Noa Noa. It's straight from Denmark and there are only a few places in Canada that carry it, including me :) Check out noanoa.com I just got my first box delivered to the house from them and it's aaaamazing stuff! Can't wait to show it to you...

Another post soon- about the progress on the store (some pictures too)!