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April 2008 archive
April 19, 2008
Kayse Smith
Seriously Fashionable, Creative and One Business Savvy Hautemomma!
Croquis Boutique
www.croquisboutique.com
1201 Herr Lane, Suite 140 - Louisville, KY 40222
Kayse, daughter of a self-proclaimed fashion designer and seamstress, decided to take her love of clothing and fashion and turn it into a thriving business…enter….Croquis! This designer boutique carries lines such as Ali Ro, Eva Franco, Guy Baxter, Hera, Mint and many many others. And if you weren’t sure how to pronounce Croquis – it is [kroh-kee] – noun, plural -quis, a sketched silhouette of a fashion design.
Read on to find out more about Kayse and what she considers Haute specific to Louisville and Derby!
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Favorite Louisville restaurant?
For the atmosphere it would have to be Captain’s Quarter’s. Nothing’s better in the summer than sitting by the water and enjoying the beautiful Louisville weather. You feel like you’re on vacation every night! For the wine, food, and atmosphere it would have to be L & N Wine Bar and Bistro.
Favorite Louisville bar?
I’m not really a bar hoppin’ kind of gal, I usually go have a glass of wine at a local restaurant! But…I do love to go to Bearno’s for karaoke.
Favorite Louisville hotel?
My brother and sister in law had their engagement party at 21C downtown…All I have to say is that place is definitely an experience. Every step you take your walking into another realm of an artists’ crazy expression! You can actually walk through the halls of your hotel and never make it to wear you’re going b/c you get so caught up in all the wackiness. I love it!
Cocktail of choice?
I hardly go an evening without a glass of red wine. It has to be heavy and dry. I’ve slowly grown into a wine snob after being around my “wine-a-holic brother,” so it has to be something great or I won’t drink it! If it has to be hard…I’ll take a Cosmo! Any other time…Pina Colada, please!
Favorite pre-Derby Day event?
Thunder Over Louisville has to be my favorite! I love going down to the river on a gorgeous day with a crowd, throwing some franks and burgers on the grill, having some drinks and just enjoying the whole day kicking off the derby festivities with friends and family!
Going to Oaks / Derby 2008?
Yes, Derby, I’d only miss it if I had to! The infield tends to be the easiest, cheapest, and most fun! We definitely try and stay away from the craziness that always pursues, but for the most part it’s just lying back, betting and enjoying the races and people! The first year going I actually had the opportunity to go to Oaks and watch from Millionaires Row. There was a close Tom Cruise sighting, but it never happened. 
Who / What will you be wearing?
I wish I could wear something gorgeous to the infield, but I’d rather not ruin anything and just play it safe with a wife beater, sandals and jeans! Probably one of my favorite outfits of all time!:) For backup, if we get seats…I have a gorgeous Nicole Miller dress and hat from Croquis !
Where would you find the perfect Derby hat?
Believe it or not, we actually have the best Derby hat’s in town here at Croquis Boutique! We carry a plethora of hats by designers Eugenia Kim (gorgeous straw/fabric summer hats that are worth the money b/c you can wear them year round), Jane Tran (unique tiny box hats as well as feather headbands), and HeadCandi by B. Lynn Designs(A local Milliner who is fresh out of Chicago and works here at the boutique to custom design anything your heart desires)!
Favorite designer?
Michael Kors! Since I was little, he’s been the only man for me!” 
There is absolutely no one like him. I love clothing and designs that are classy and sophisticated with a little trendy twist to make them unique. His designs are timeless, inspiring and look fabulous on anyone. On top of that…he’s gorgeous and loves to wear Black. Who doesn’t look great in black!?
Style icon?
This might be a little cliché, but I have to mention Audrey Hepburn. She just had it all. You can’t deny her of that. She was such a class act and she always looked stunning. She had the confidence to pull off anything and the imagination to try something new. But…Drew Barrymore is my true icon! I love everything about her! Her style, presence, personality, humor, intelligence and her fervor for life! She doesn’t ever try to be anyone or anything…she just is. I grew up admiring everything about her. She has that confidence that one needs to express oneself. She knows how to live life to the fullest and she’s not afraid to make mistakes in fashion or in life. I strive to be more like her everyday!
Top of your wardrobe wish list?
Wish List? It would have to be a pair of Manolo’s. I just can’t resist a stunning pair of shoes!
Must have List? Jeans and a plain white fitted tank! It’s easy for me to feel like I look great if I’m casual, classic, yet put together. You can top that outfit off with any accessory and change the look dramatically.
How do you define style? Any style advice?
Define style?! I can’t. Style is you…your personality, your looks, your imagination, your confidence! It’s whatever you want it to be! As far as advice goes…I’d recommend stepping outside the box once in a while and trying something new and exciting. A lot of people think they can’t pull it off. With a little confidence, you can make anything look good! Being able to have more than one look and inspiration is a great thing. I love to kind of be a chameleon and change my look with my mood or the weather. It makes life a little more exciting!
What is in your beauty bag?
I’m a plain and simple kinda girl, so nothing too over the top. Revlon Concealer. It’s probably the one thing I can’t live without!Jergen’s natural glow moisturizer. I have plenty of freckles, so I have to watch my sun bakin’. This gives me a touch of bronze without that fake, cake-like sunless tanning look. And finally, Chapstick. It’s like clear lip gloss, but actually helps hydrate your lips!
What do you love best about owning a clothing boutique?
Probably just being able to be around great clothing and bring them to women who want or need them! I don’t love clothes just because they’re stunning material objects, I love clothes because they help you express who you are and make you feel like the woman you are or the woman you want to be. They really are like therapy.
Any advice for those wanting to start [create] their own venture?
Nike said it best… “Just Do It!” You’ll never accomplish any of your dreams if you just sit around hoping it will happen one day. If you really want something you have to turn it into a reality and build on it. It takes a lot of work and determination. All you have to do is be willing to take that first step and not worry about failing. No one said living out your dreams was easy. But…you only live once, so you might as well make it the best you can and have a passion for it!
April 19, 2008
Jacqueline and Julia
Seriously Fashionable, Business Savvy and Two Very Hautemommas!
Julep Boutique
www.julepaboutique.com
2420 Lime Kiln Lane Suite F – Louisville, KY 40222
Buckler sisters, Jacqueline and Julia, wanted a store that carried all the gorgeous fashions they saw in Vogue, Elle, Harper’s and many others…enter…Julep Boutique! Julep carries designer apparel and accessories from Alexander Wang, Cynthia Rowley, LaRok, Habitual and many, many more! Their website offers the Top Five link where Jacqueline and Julia offer their suggestions – love that link – haute idea!
Read our interview below with the Buckler sisters to find out what they love about Louisville and Derby…and of course who and what they love about fashion and beauty!
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Interview with Jacqueline:
Favorite Louisville restaurant?
Too hard to answer!
Favorite Louisville bar?
Stevie Ray’s
Favorite Louisville hotel?
21c
Cocktail of choice?
Cosmo or Manhattan-Extra cherries please!
Favorite pre-Derby event?
The Mint Jubilee
Attending Derby / Oaks 2008?
Derby
If so, who / what will you be wearing?
I am wearing: Bruce- it is an incredibly detailed and intricate design label. One of my favorites at the boutique!
Where do you find the perfect derby hat?
Julep Boutique of course!
Favorite designer?
Chloe or Louis Vuitton John Paul Gaultier is a favorite as well!
Style icon?
Jacqueline Kennedy
Top of your fashion wish list?
Louis Vuitton dog carrier because I just got a brand new pomeranean puppy Bianca!
On defining style
A woman can only carry herself as well as her clothes make her feel
Style advice
Be confident in what you were, because if you are not then everyone can see that.
What is in your beauty bag?
Bare minerals makeup, TART cheek stain, and MAC brown eye pencil, and chapstick.
Best thing about owning clothing boutique?
I am getting to live out my passion every day.
Advice for other wanting to pursue their own venture?
Make sure you love what you are doing because that will be the only thing able to get you through each day.
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Interview with Julia
Favorite Louisville restaurant?
Volare
Favorite Louisville bar?
Stevie Ray’s
Favorite Louisville hotel?
21C
Cocktail of choice?
Cosmo
Favorite pre-Derby event?
The Mint Jubilee
Attending Oaks and / or Derby 2008?
Derby
Who / What will you be wearing?
Josh Goot, an international designer from Australia that we carry in the shop
Best place to find a Derby hat
Julep Boutique- We are offering privateappointments for custom hats by C.K. Noble Millinery Designs
Favorite Designer?
Yves Saint Laurent
Style icon?
Bianca Jagger
Top of your fashion wish list?
Hermes bag
On defining style
Fashion can be bought, Style one must possess
Style advice?
Always wear what you feel the most fabulous in
What is in your beauty bag?
Dior Black out mascara, bare minerals makeup, nars lip gloss
Best thing about owning a boutique?
I get to shop everyday!
Advice for those wanting to start a venture?
Be prepared, retail is hardwork!
April 19, 2008
Mary Beth O’Bryan
Business Savvy, Adventurous, Fashionable and Serious Hautemomma!
Luna Boutique
www.lunaboutique.net
1310 Bardstown Road – Louisville, KY 40204
Since 2003 Luna Boutique has provided Louisville with a comfortable and cozy yet very vibrant boutique atmosphere. Luna carries stylish hats for Derby, or that special occasion, casual wear, jewelry, ‘that perfect gift’, baby items, home accessories, spa products and much more! Vist the Luna’s website to view hats designed specificly for Derby!
Read on to find out more about Mary Beth, what she considers Haute during Derby season and of course what she loves best about Louisville!
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Favorite Louisville restaurant?
Avalon , right next to the Luna Boutique, on Bardstown Road. The outside patio and bar are especially great!
I usually do not go to bars unless they are associated with a restaurant. So, in addition to Avalon, I would say Porcini has my pick.
Favorite Louisville hotel?
The Brown hotel is a lovely and charming hotel in Louisville. For a more contemporary scene, 21c is a great place.
Cocktail of choice?
I do not drink alcohol, so I am constantly in search of an unusual drink when dining out. My choice is a virgin Mohito. I like the mint to be freshly muddled and I prefer only a bit of sour mix.
Favorite pre-Derby event?
Going out to the backside of the track, usually on Wednesday of Derby week, around 7am, with a group of my girlfriends. We eat breakfast out there and visit with some of the Derby horses and their trainers. The mood is fantastic with the horses walking around and the news media buzzing. A great way to get excited about the Derby. Since we have a catering business at the Kentucky Derby Museum, I usually attend the party given at the Museum and then make my way over to the track for a few races.
Going to Derby / Oaks 2008?
Yes
Who / what will you be wearing?
My friend has a clothing business, Juliana, and I usually select from her collection.
Where to find the perfect hat for Derby?
The perfect hat can be found at the Luna Boutique! Christine Moore comes in April 17-19 and then again Derby week, April 27-May 2nd. We rent a sewing machine and she can design a beautiful custom hat for any outfit. Christine has her studio in the fashion district of New York and has been coming to Luna Boutique for 4 years,. It is a lot of fun. I love seeing what everyone is wearing to the Derby and helping them to finish off their outfit (or in some cases, begin to put together their outfit) with a great hat.
Favorite designer?
Stella McCartney- I love the fact that she has great style and that she is focusing her work on sustainable fabrics and materials.
Style icon?
Angelina Jolie- I like her simple but classic and elegant style as well as the fact that she can be a little edgy.
Top of your fashion wish list
Since I travel a lot, I am looking for a large black classic leather carry-all.
On defining style
Style is a creative reflection of an individual personality. I think that people should wear what they want to wear without relying on the trend of the moment.
What is in your beauty bag?
I love Chanel and I have their cream foundation and most of their other beauty products. I also love Chantecaille and on a recent trip to Barney’s in Chicago, aquired their bronzer, compressed powder, lipsticks, foundation and under-eye concealor. My favorite is the bronzer in the tube.
What do you love best about owning a boutique?
Luna Boutique is a lifestyle accessories store. I sell a few clothing designers, mostly eco-friendly and casual, such as Eco-Ganik and Sworn Virgins. I carry mostly jewelry, hats, handbags and gift items. I love to find new items when I travel. Right now , I am in Patagonia in Argentina and I find it interesting to learn about other countries and the local designers that live and work in these areas. I also love going to Market in the States. I tend to mostly buy in Los Angeles.
Any advice to those wanting to create or start their own venture?
If someone wanted to open a shop, I would say the number one requirement would be for them to differentiate themselves as much as possible. It is a very competitive market and everyone needs to find their niche.
April 19, 2008
Claire Drury and Jennifer Lee
Business Savvy, Seriously Fashionable and Two Hautemommas!
Peacock Boutique
www.shopthepeacock.com
2828 Frankfort Avenue – Louisville, KY 40206
The Peacock Boutique, owned and operated by Claire Drury and Jennifer Lee, offers a sophisticated shopping experience to serious about fashion! Designers such as Anna Sui, Betsey Johnson, Diego Di Lucca, Mimi & Coco and many more, line the walls of this must visit haute spot in Louisville.
Read on to find out more about Claire and Jennifer, who they love wearing, and what they love best about Louisville!
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Interview with Claire Drury
Favorite Louisville restaurant?
Jack Fry’s… hands down. I love the atmosphere, love the ahi tuna and LOVE the pomegranate martinis that Rebecca makes.
Favorite Louisville bar
This is a hard one. I don’t usually venture out to a typical bar, however, one of my all time favorite places to go have a drink is Bourbons Bistro. They have a great bar with a HUGE bourbon selection. It’s a huge after-dinner drink spot!
Favorite Louisville hotel?
21c. It’s a beautiful, contemporary hotel complete with an art museum in the lobby. The gift shop has great gift items, and the restaurant that’s attached, Proof, has the best hamburger in town. (bison burger to be more precise)
Cocktail of choice?
Maker’s Mark and Ginger
Favorite pre-Derby Day event?
I love the Steam Boat Race. It’s a very slow race, but a fun tradition. If the weather is nice it’s a great chance to hang out on the river.
Going to Oaks / Derby 2008?
I will be going to Derby, but will work on Oaks. We expect to have a lot of shoppers for those last-minute accessories! (Women always need a pashmina or wrap for the track… don’t forget!) It’s so much fun to work during the Derby season. It’s even more fun going to the track and seeing all of our customers looking gorgeous in their outfits. It makes me so happy!
Who / What will you be wearing?
Anna Sui dress, Purple Rose Hat, Jalda handbag, Sophia & Chloe Earrings and Stewart Weitzman shoes (Yes, I have it all planned out!)
Where would you find the perfect Derby hat?
Peacock Boutique! We carry hats from two local hat designers. We have pre-made hats in the store, but they also both create custom pieces to complement any outfit or taste – from understated to all-out glam. It’s all about the hat at Derby.
Favorite designer?
Paul & Joe. I dig his stuff… it’s feminine but not too frilly.
Style icon?
Diane von Furstenberg. She is a cool, elegant and beautiful woman who has successfully evolved her career over the course of several decades.
Top of your wardrobe wish list?
A light gray trench by Ardistia with architectural pleating and details. Gray is a huge color for spring and fall. You can’t ever go wrong purchasing a trench, and this one is exceptional!
How do you define style? Any style advice?
Style is a state of mind, and it has a lot to do with confidence. Shop for pieces that are special and fit perfectly. Those are the pieces that you will feel good in and wear for years.
What is in your beauty bag?
Christian Dior Dior Show mascara, Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, concealer from Amazing Cosmetics, a good quality flat-tipped eyeliner brush is a must, and Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb perfume.
What do you love best about owning a clothing boutique?
Being able to fill an entire store with all the clothes I could ever dream of for a season!
Any advice for those wanting to start [create] their own venture?
Make sure you are passionate about what you want to do. Nothing will ever be more work, or be harder than owning your own business. You can’t go home and be “off” for the weekend. It will be a permanent part of your and your families’ life. It’s worth it. You make the decisions. You have the creative control, and you are the only one who can make it a success.
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Interview with Jennifer Lee
Favorite Louisville restaurant?
I have a lot of favorites: El Mundo for Mexican, Basa has the best prawns in the world, Bourbons almond-crusted salmon is delicious, and at Porcini, I love the shrimp pasta dish! I like to stick around the Frankfort Avenue area if you couldn’t tell.
Favorite Louisville bar
I don’t go to bars a lot, but I guess it seems like I always end up at Brendan’s. I usually like to stick to restaurants for drinks.
Favorite Louisville hotel?
21C—it feels hip and modern; very big-city.
Cocktail of choice?
Basil Hayden with a splash of Diet Coke
Favorite pre-Derby Day event?
Thunder, as long as it’s sunny and pretty warm. I stay away if it’s cold and rainy like this year. This time of year is so much fun because there are a ton of fun events always going on.
Going to Oaks / Derby 2008?
Derby and I can’t wait! I love seeing everyone’s outfits. I love to people watch!
Who / What will you be wearing?
A chic blue dress by Jay Godfrey, a very cool hipster hat made by Purple Rose Hats (one of our local hat designers), a Jalda clutch, hopefully Lauren K jewelry (a new line we just got in), and the shoes are still to be determined.
Where would you find the perfect Derby hat?
Our store of course!
Favorite designer?
Jay Godfrey
Style icon?
I love Betsey Johnson because she’s delightfully eccentric and always young at heart. Someone who’s wardrobe I envy is Katie Holmes; she always looks chic and she’s really establishing herself as one of the style icons of our generation.
Top of your wardrobe wish list?
A strapless black Jay Godfrey dress that we just got in, and a Jalda stingray clutch that teases me on a daily basis-I covet it!
How do you define style? Any style advice?
Your personality should be shown through what you wear. Your style is what makes you you. Never wear trends from head to toe, but pick and choose those trends that fit seamlessly into your already defined sense of style.
What is in your beauty bag?
I don’t wear a ton of make-up on a daily basis. I do love my mineralized MAC powder and Dior Show mascara, though.
What do you love best about owning a boutique?
Helping women find that outfit that makes them look and feel awesome and then seeing them out in it!
Any advice for those wanting to start [create] their own venture?
It’s more work, more time consuming, and more money than what you could ever predict! Don’t rush the process, but consider every step carefully along the way.
April 19, 2008
Kristen David and Katie Blair
Seriously Fashionable Hautemommas! Not to mention major business savvy!
General Eccentric
www.generaleccentric.com
535 S.Upper – Lexington, KY 40508
1600 Bardstown Road – Louisville, KY 40205
Spree Boutique
www.spreeboutique.com
490 E. High Street – Lexington, KY 40508
1561 Bardstown Road – Louisville, KY 40205
With not one - but two - fabulous places to shop, these hautemommas have plenty of great pieces to choose from. Read below to find out more about Katie and Kristen – find out their Louisville Haute spots and Derby favorites!
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Interview with Kristen David:
Favorite Louisville restaurant?
It is so hard to choose in Louisville! I have favorites for different meals/moods, but definitely Toast for Brunch and Havana Rumba for Mojitos & Empanadas!
Favorite Louisville bar?
The bar at Proof or Brendan’s
Favorite Louisville hotel?
21C
Cocktail of choice?
Tanqueray and Soda or Bourbon!
Favorite pre-Derby Day event?
Oaks!
Going to Oaks / Derby 2008?
Not sure yet. I have gotten tickets to the Oaks the past couple of years and that has been a blast! So, I’m thinking I will have to try to do that again this year.
Who / What will you be wearing?
Definitely something from Spree or General Eccentric (my other store). We both carry limited quantities ordering no more than 3-6 of an item so that is a plus. We also carry a great selection of affordable basic hats, so I always like to get one and then make it my own somehow with an added extra!
Where would you find the perfect Derby hat?
There are some great hat designers here in Louisville that always showcase their hats this time of year. So I always like to check out the new lines.
Favorite designer?
Chanel is my all time favorite.
Style icon?
Depends on my mood. There are always the classics like Grace Kelly and modern day I really like to see the red carpet looks of people like Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon and the everyday style of Kate Bosworth.
Top of your wardrobe wish list?
Day dresses in fun prints. I like classic cuts like a tube dress with a gathered waist or a strappy sun dress with an a-line.
How do you define style? Any style advice?
Confidence! Whatever you feel great in that gives you the confidence to be yourself and have fun, is what you should wear every day.
What is in your beauty bag?
I love playing with makup. I have fair skin so I always use a sunblock and I like bare minerals powder because it’s lightweight and has an spf. I also like to use Tarte cheek stain or Benefit Dandelion blush. Waterproof black eyeliner is a must too!
What do you love best about owning a clothing boutique?
Finding new lines for our customers and being able to stock the store with great finds from clothing, to jewelry, to handbags. I also love the display side of having a store. Moving fixtures and clothing around to create eye catching displays as well as doing the front windows. It’s just fun!
Any advice for those wanting to start [create] their own venture?
Be prepared for the long hours and be dedicated to your customer. You really have to know them and listen to what they want to guarantee any level of success.
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Interview with Katie Blair
Favorite Louisville restaurant?
Havana Rumba in St. Matthews thus far, but there are so many fabulous locally owned restaurants I’ve yet to try!
Favorite Louisville bar?
Brendan’s in St. Matthews
Favorite Louisville hotel?
21C
Cocktail of choice?
I’m more of a beer drinker (Bell’s Oberon or Miller Lite!) but I’ve been known to drink a Kettle One & Sprite on occasion!
Favorite pre-Derby Day event?
Thunder Over Louisville. I just like going downtown to people-watch!
Going to Oaks / Derby 2008?
TBD, but I’m only going this year if I have actual tickets, standing in the Paddock for 7 hours last year in 5 inch stilettos and not seeing one horse isn’t exactly my idea of Derby fun!
Who / What will you be wearing?
Whether I go to Churchill Downs or a friend’s Derby party, I’m sure I will be looking fabulous in something from Spree Boutique! Spree splits it’s size runs between our Louisville and Lexington stores, so that means there are only two or three of a given style in each city, greatly reducing the likelihood that you cross paths with (gasp!) someone wearing the same thing as you to Derby! I’m not one for dressing down, so I’m more than happy to throw on a dress whenever possible.
Where would you find the perfect Derby hat?
I would prefer something handmade by a local designer so it’s likely one of a kind. Several local boutique owners stock their own handmade hats this time of year, so its always fun to see what they’ve created.The owner of Stiletto Boutique on Frankfort Ave made some very classy Derby hats this year. The wonderful thing is that she made them to match her current stock of Derby shoes and handbags, so she’s taken the scavenger hunt out of coordinating your outfit!
Favorite designer?
My favorite designer I dream of wearing is Zac Posen, but unfortunately I’m on a Jovovich-Hawk for Target type of buget!
Style icon?
I was born in the 80′s, so anytime I get the chance to channel Madonna through dress I jump at the chance. But I’ve really admire Cate Blanchett and Gwen Stefani. I think style icon’s are people who dress ahead of the fashion curve, but look natural and effortless doing so. Their style doesn’t seem forced. If the “it” Hollywood stylist is dressing you head to toe in stuff from Kitson, you are NOT a style icon!
Top of your wardrobe wish list?
I really crave fabulous vintage finds the most, so I want fun vintage boots to wear with spring dresses, a unique full circle skirt wedding dress with petticoat (if I ever get married!) and little vintage shift dresses in fun, retro prints
How do you define style? Any style advice?
Style to me is wearing what makes you happy. It isn’t about fitting into a certain mold, or over doing it. Having a signature style that let’s your personality shine through is my best style advice.
What is in your beauty bag?
I don’t wear a lot of makeup or use too many beauty products, but I must have my eyelashes curled even if I’m not wearing any other makeup, so my shu uemura eyelash curler travels everywhere I go. I also use Clean & Clear Dual Action Moisturizer daily because it fights breakouts while moisturizing.
What do you love best about owning a clothing boutique?
I love going to market and hand picking what we’ll be selling in our stores. It’s my way of directing the flow of fashion. I also feel warm and fuzzy inside when I’m out and about and I see women wearing items they purchased at our store.
Any advice for those wanting to start [create] their own venture?
I think now more than ever people are striving to shop locally, so its important to have a special niche that sets you apart from corporate chains. People really appreciate that.
April 19, 2008
Kristen Frey
One Creative, Fashionable and Business Savvy Hautemomma!
Stiletto Bouqitue
www.stilettoboutique.net
2846 Frankfort Ave – Louisville, KY 40206
From handbags to seriously haute shoes, and not to mention custom hat designs! – Stiletto Boutique is one serious Haute spot in Louisville. Read our interview with owner Kristen Frey and find out what she loves about Louisville Derby and much more!
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Favorite Louisville restaurant?
Napa River Grill
Favorite Louisville bar?
I have to be honest I really don’t like bars so it is rare if you find me in one!
Favorite Louisville hotel?
21C
Cocktail of choice?
It’s also a rare event when I drink alcohol-I don’t really like it! I do like pineapple martinis, as long as they aren’t strong.
Favorite pre-Derby Day event?
Fillies and Studs Derby fashion show April 17th with Stiletto, House of Denim and Peacock Boutique.
Going to Oaks / Derby 2008?
Oaks
Who / What will you be wearing?
All I know so far are a pair of fabulous Rickard Shah emerald green stilettos but I’ll probably find the dress at Spree Boutique on Bardstown Road.
Where would you find the perfect Derby hat?
Since I make them myself, I’d have to say at Stiletto! I’m not into the over the top derby hats.
Favorite designer?
I’m a shoe and handbag girl so my favorite shoe designer would be Pura Lopez and I can’t buy enough Alexis Hudson handbags.
Style icon?
Cameron Diaz. That magenta strapless gown she wore with the turquoise necklace-perfection!
Top of your wardrobe wish list?
The perfect pair of shoes for every occasion.
How do you define style? Any style advice?
Style is who you are expressed through dress. People can underestimate the impact wardrobe can have. When you improve your style, you improve your life! I believe in never going too trendy and if you have a classic style don’t be afraid to go outside your box-love black suits, well next time put a pair of purple stilettos with it!
What is in your beauty bag?
Philosophy lotion, concealer, Chanel lip gloss in about every pink shade, Mac powder, Bobbi Brown gel eye liner in brown and a nail file.
What do you love best about owning a clothing boutique?
I own a designer shoe, handbag and jewelry boutique and the best thing is selling items that I’m passionate about. My philosophy is “Shopping for shoes and handbags won’t make you feel like you need to lose 5 pounds!” Of course being my own boss is spectacular, it may come with more stress but it is worth it!
Any advice for those wanting to start [create] their own venture?
Absolutely go for it. We have one chance at life and I am determined to spend it doing the things I love and being with the ones I love. Make sure to do all the pain staking research and be prepared for negativity. I have learned through this process of opening my business that you hear a lot of negativity that can bring you down but believe in yourself and all that you are capable of-tune the negativity out!
April 15, 2008
Founded in 2005, a graduate of Transylvania University, artist, photographer and jewelry designer, Sally Billings, developed sallyb out of a love for art of all kinds and a need for creative outlet. Her jewelry designs are created for the woman who wants extraordinary accessories to match every ensemble at an affordable price. Each work is created with a healthy dose of passion, loads of enthusiasm and a touch of charm.
These locally designed pieces are a definite HAUTE find!!! Check out the Sally Billings collection here!
April 14, 2008
Some Derby Contenders…
Yoana Baraschi
Chetta B
Nicole Miller
Ali Ro
Catherine Malandrino
images from Catherine Malandrino.com, NeimanMarcus.com, NicoleMiller.com, Yoana Baraschi.com, and Bloomingdales.com
April 9, 2008
Back by popular demand…Hautemommas’ Night Out at Mod Boutique!
Join us!
When: Thursday, April 17th from 6:30-9:30pm
Where: Mod Boutique – 828 E. Hight Street
859.335.6631
Exlusive HMS discount applies to the entire store, including sale items!
Cocktails, snacks, and the HMS Goodie Bag!
RSVP TODAY: hautemommas@hautemommastuff.com
April 9, 2008
Jennifer Yen
Actress, Model, Entrepreneur, Skin Care Specialist, Fashionista and One HauteMomma!
pur~lisse
www.purlisse.com
Jennifer Yen started pur~lisse after failing to find the pur-fect skin care line to meet her needs. As a working actress and model, Jennifer experienced frequent break-outs due to spending many hours under bright lights and wearing heavy make up. Jennifer has very delicate skin and nothing seemed to be working to keep it glowing / healthy. What she really wanted was an effective skin-care line free of synthetic fragrances, dyes, animal products, known allergens, petrochemicals, and parabens.
Enter…pur~lisse!! These products are formulated without harsh ingredients, created from ingredients that contribute to consistently healthy and beautiful skin. Pur-lisse is based on centuries of Chinese beauty secrets and a combination of advanced skin science to provide a unique foundation for your complexion.
We recently had the chance to get to know Jennifer better and she is as refreshing and interesting as her skin care line! Jennifer is truly and amazing woman who took a chance at creating something of her own – something HMS loves!!!! Jennifer’s products were featured in this year’s Sundance Festival’s “Sundance Survival Kits” for top celebrities!
Read on to find out more about Jennifer and what she considers to be HAUTE!
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Favorite vacation spot?
Bali, Indonesia
Favorite restaurant?
A little Vietnamese restaurant called Le Saigon down the street from my house in LA.
Favorite hotel?
The Beverly Hills Hotel
Cocktail of choice?
Room temperature flat water and tea—I don’t drink alcohol
Favorite gift to give?
A journal and photo albums with photos of friends.
Your favorite personal item?
My journal is a great way to write my thoughts and goals and I always feel better after I write in it.
Style Icon?
Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Onassis
Favorite designer?
Vintage clothes, Diane Von Furstenberg, Catherine Maladrino, LuLu Lemon
How do you define style? Any style Advice?
Style should be unique and individualistic. A person who is confident, comfortable and intelligent and doesn’t feel the need to follow “trends of the moment” has true style. Find your unique style by discovering what makes you most comfortable, what silhouettes and colors flatter you and smile!
Top of your style / wardrobe wish list?
Vintage clothes (for going out to dinners and fun), LuLu Lemon (for casual days and walking my dogs), Diane Von Furstenberg (for work)
Wish list:
CHANEL handbags. I love them because they are elegant, sophisticated, timeless and never go out of style.
What is in your beauty bag?
Pur~lisse pur~lip comfort, pur~moist, shisheido eye lash curler, Giorgio Armani #2 blush, Giorgio Armani Star Lash, Giorgio Armani #21 Sheer/transparent lipstick.
How do you define true luxury?
True luxury is enjoying life without stress, being comfortable, being happy and living within your means.
Favorite mantra?
One of my favorite quotes that I live by (Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe 1749): “Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it. Begin it now.”
What motivates you the most? Owning your own skincare line is completely different than being an actor, what did you love most about being an actor and what do you love most about owning your own business?
Doing what I love naturally motivates me! I didn’t really LOVE acting as there was a lot of waiting around and useless auditions. But what I did love most about acting was meeting all the interesting characters in acting classes, auditions and on set. What I love most about owning my own business is watching my vision and creation becoming a reality! When people tell me pur~lisse has helped with their skin and they love pur~lisse, it just brings me so much pride!
Any advice for those wanting to start [create] their own venture?
Don’t do it unless you ABSOLUTELY love it! Have a clear vision of where you want to be in 3, 5, 7 and 10 years from now and be prepared to work 24 hours a day! There are people who have dreams and daydream all day and there are people who actually get up and do it. Don’t wait–Be bold, relentless, and passionate!
