Spring and Summer to Fall!

We're in the middle of a great Spring and Summer season. We've had so many new and exciting fashions, fabrics and styles this season and are gearing up to start looking for our second "shot" of Fall items. We have heard that the designers have continued to include amazing textures, prints and colors for the Fall season. We're looking forward to rumored rich brights and reliable neutrals. We've heard that we'll see sumptuous teals, shades of plums, aubergine and wine, electric blue (MY favorite), navy, striking oranges and ginger hues. We'll see mustard yellows, a spectrum of greens including emerald, and robust reds! It promises to be an exciting transition!

Will This Make it to Wyandotte?

After Fashion Week in New York, the "experts" predicted that everyone will be wearing socks with pointy-toed heels this Spring. I've not seen it yet, have you? Would this work in Wyandotte? Do you even like the look? Another prediction for "loads of feminine dresses and skirts" is absolutely on target. We've got them - and you love them!

Joseph Ribkoff is a Willow Tree Favorite

The message from Mr. Ribkoff: "At Joseph Ribkoff, we have created a product that has global appeal. We make it our priority to know the retailers and by extension, the end-consumers needs. Our designs reflect an in-depth understanding of fashion trends and consumer preferences in key markets all over the world. We cater to the upper echelon of the fashion market and offer a unique style, which has given the name Joseph Ribkoff international recognition. We have created clothing to respond to the multi-dimensional needs of today’s woman: Versatile dresses for all occasions, day or evening. Strictly evening wear for all formal occasions. Separates and related sportswear line that offers our customers the trendy items not found elsewhere." Willow Tree has carried the brand for over 5 years now and has a huge following of Ribkoff fans. If you're not familiar with them, come in and find out why they're so popular! Their "silky knit" fabric is one they're famous for. The drape and flow is so flattering and unbelievably comfortable. They "edgy" styling of some of their signature pieces can be recognized from blocks away!

Who IS Frank Lyman? Is He Real? You Bet! Meet Him Now!

"LET'S BE PERFECTLY FRANK ... STYLE IS EVERYTHING!" is his "tag line". He says that the woman wearing his designs is sure of herself, a little bit rebel and wants to be unique. She is charming and audacious. To accentuate her femininity, she wears dresses and whether she wears a tunic and leggings, she'll always be seductive and exciting." All Frank Lyman collections are designed and produced in Canada. We love that! Frank Lyman started in the fashion industry at the age of 18, as a salesperson. His venture started throughout the provinces of Quebec and Ontario. The moment he met his first customer, Frank Lyman knew he had a passion for fashion and especially design. Frank Lyman Design has been a success story in itself but more importantly has become a well-known international brand. Willow Tree carries an amazing selection from Frank Lyman. We cordially invite you in to experience the fabulous fabrics and amazing prints that he's well known for! You'll fall in love!

A Little Bit of Info on Neon Buddha

Neon Buddha started with the idea of producing a lifestyle clothing collection for travel, home, work, yoga and you. The collection is Canadian designed and produced and managed by a team of 300 women in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The team and the environment inspired the production of garments for life’s adventures and are designed with a conscience. Excess fabric each season is donated to women’s groups where it is used in income generating projects. They're a very environmentally conscious company, currently using sustainable practices such as solar power in both locations. All paper, cardboard, plastic, glass and metal are recycled. At the warehouse in Chiang Mai, dozens of trees were planted for shade and green spaces and are used by staff to enjoy and to offset the carbon foot print. Their company goal this year is to lessen carbon emissions by shipping less product by air and more by sea. They are company that has passion for their product, their customers and staff. On top of all that - the clothes are darling!

Black and White is STILL Number One!

As you have seen with the colored denim posts recently, color is everywhere for spring/summer. However, you'll also see some incredible black and white fashions this season. Here you see just one example of a great looking tunic in black. PERFECT with white leggings or legging capris, or as you see here with a great "extender". ASK us about the extender next time you are in the store. It is a fashion MUST HAVE!

Lace is Back in a BIG WAY! Thanks Princess Catherine!

Chantilly, kenmare, bobbin, knotted or crocheted — lace by any name is wonderful. The versatile fabric takes on "sultry vibes" in black and a more bohemian feel in the muted and neutral tones. With inspiration straight from the runway, designers have introduced great feminine dresses, skirts, blouses, and more sophisticated tops this season. And we all know that there's nothing like a little lace to bring out your "inner lady". Come in and check out the latest trend at Willow Tree. We've got some pretty fantastic options just for you!

Spring Scarves - YES!

O.K., so we've already covered one of the Top Fashion Trends for 2012....colored denim. So, what's next? Scarves! Yes, that's right. They're here and better than ever! You'll see lots of color, wacky & wonderful prints, color blocking, mixed prints and great solids. Watch for fringe, texture, infinity scarves, rectangles and squares. This is one of the season's MUST HAVE fashion accessory! Wear one with a white t-shirt, a printed tank or solid cami. Pair it with your favorite pair of colored denim for a great fashion statement! We LOVE the look! Don't you?

Colored Denim with WHITE! Perfect!

Colored Denim. Hop on the Bandwagon at Willow Tree!

Colored denim has become the biggest trend - almost overnight! We really love the trend, too! What a great way to "switch up" your wardrobe. The bright, cheerful colors are fantastic! As with any trend, though, figuring out how to wear it, or what to wear WITH it, can be a problem. Well, come in and let our fashion consultants help! They'll probably tell you to wear a neutral top with them. You can never go wrong pairing any colored pants with a black, white, cream, brown, or tan top. Any pair of bright jeans will look perfect with a white button-down shirt, a sheer blouse, a black t-shirt, or maybe even an ivory sweater. We also know that when you use this technique - you'll have an easier time easing into this new trend. Of course, to finish off the outfit, you can't be afraid to add a few bold accessories, like a great cobalt colored bag by Hilary Radley, a necklace from Treska and a fun pair of wedges!

More From Amiba

Problem: Today, independent businesses face unprecedented competition from larger chain competitors, internet merchants and franchises that enjoy national or international branding power and major economies of scale. As a result, community-based businesses comprise a smaller portion of our economy than ever before. We’ll lose much more than places to shop, dine or do business if we allow current trends to continue.

Need More Reasons to Support Local Independent Businesses?

Think of your favorite shop, restaurant, farm or service provider. We'll bet it's a homegrown business. Independent locally-owned businesses are essential to a vital local economy and community character. They're where the locals go. They're owned by our friends and neighbors, or maybe even by you. Community-serving businesses are the backbone of local economies, civic life, local charities, and wealth creation for millions of citizens, as well as a training ground for future generations of entrepreneurs.



Taken from the AMIBA website!

Why Buy Local?

Independent local businesses employ a variety of supporting services, circulating money throughout and strengthening the local economy. They hire local architects, designers, cabinet shops, sign makers, and contractors, Local accountants, insurance brokers, computer consultants, attorneys, and advertising agencies help run them.


Dollars spent at community-based merchants create a multiplier effect in the local economy that typically amounts to three times that of a chain. Studies have shown that for every $100 spent at a chain, only $15 remains in the community while $45 remains when spent with home town businesses.

When people realize that they help their own local community when they choose Michaelangelos Italian Bistro over Olive Garden - or Total Health Food over GNC - or Chelsea Menswear and Tuxedos over Mens Wearhouse - or Willow Tree over Chicos - it seems like a "no brainer", right?

All it Takes is a Little Education!

Informing citizens of the value provided by locally owned businesses, including their importance to the local economy, culture, and social fabric is critical. If we don't tell them, how would they know?

Education is the number one goal of a core group of passionate Wyandotte IBA enthusiasts that spent time learning themselves! We came back ready to share our enthusiasm and encourage area residents (our customers) to view themselves as citizens -- as members of a community rather than merely as consumers. We can make a difference.

More soon!

What a Busy Time We've Had!

In addition to running a beautiful women's boutique, our family is obsessed with "all things local". We took it to a new high last month and attended the AMIBA (American Independent Business Alliance) Conference in Lousiville, Kentucky.

We were fortunate to spend a few days with other like-minded individuals that work hard in their communities to preserve the unique character of their cities and promote locally-owned businesses.

We returned to Wyandotte ready to help educate citizens on the value of purchasing locally.

Eco-Friendly Bags - a MUST Have!

Reusable bags seem to be an integral part of the way people live their lives today. These environmentally friendly bags are so responsible, versatile, and practical that their uses are truly endless.

For starters, grocery shopping is much easier and more convenient when you bring along a couple reusable bags with you to the market. Not only will you be able to carry all of your groceries home in just a couple of them, but some stores actually offers discounts at the register when you bring them along.

And the grocery store is just one of many places that you can bring them. Take them with you to the mall, park, library, airport, beach, work, daycare center, school -- just about anywhere. Talk about practical!

Also, because they’re made so well, Donna Sharp eco friendly bags really can be used time and time again! To be truly effective in reducing waste, reusable bags must be extremely durable to hold up to multiple uses and these do! Take a look and you’ll see that they’re strong, affordable and look great, too!

We've got them in three great sizes. Come in and grab a few.

Missoni? YES!

After being in the market over the course of the last months, there’s no doubt in our minds that the "Missoni-inspired" chevron patterns, rich textures, and bright colors are an absolute must-have this season -- AND next!

As always, Willow Tree offers a sophisticated mix of contemporary clothing AND accessories for every budget....and that includes the great new trends for Spring! You can easily find a great outfit for your "girls night out", a sassy and sexy dress for a hot date with your honey, and awesome accessories to complete the look.

We still stay open each weeknight until 9 p.m. (and we're the only ones that do)! We are here from 10 - 6 on Saturday and 12-4 on Sunday.

Come in and let us introduce you to SPRING 2012!

Scarf Prints!

The colorful prints seen wrapped around the necks of sophisticated women for years have now taken their rightful place on everything from dresses to blouses to skirts!

Thankfully, the prices are nothing like what you'd pay for an Hermes scarf - yet they sure look like it!

Versace was known for his scarf prints, as were designers like Givenchy and Gucci - who all introduced scarf prints last Fall. Their collections included a kaleidoscope of colors with a lot of paisley and floral patterns!

This trend has carried right into spring 2012 and we saw so many great prints we're sure you will love as much as we did!

Merrell Encore Ice

When the mercury drops, cozy up with the Merrell Encore Ice mule, a slip-on shoe that offers slipper-like comfort indoors and out.

An update to the popular Encore Chill, this clog has a suede upper and is lined in genuine sheepskin. A slightly raised back adds just a touch of coverage at the heel. Beneath the wool fleece-covered footbed you'll find not only a molded nylon arch shank but Merrell's Q-Form® material and an Air Cushioned heel which means lots of support, shock absorption and comfort in every step.

The Merrell Encore Ice clog also has a sticky rubber outsole to keep footing secure making it a perfect choice for our Michigan Winters!

We have it in black and brown, too! Come in a "test walk" a pair today!

Don't Miss the Opportunity!

This was sent to our Power Pass customers -- but we wanted to make it available to all of you!

Simply print out the "mailer" and bring it in to take advantage of some SUPER SAVINGS!

The offer allows you to deduct and ADDITIONAL $25.00 off any sale purchase of $100 or more! Some of our items are already marked down 75%, too!

The offer expires on March 4, 2012 and cannot be combined with any other offer. Details available at the store!

Surplice Necklines

A surplice is a diagonally crossed neckline or bodice. It is sometimes thought of as a "faux wrap" style and creates a deep "V".

You'll see it in t-shirts, sweaters, knit tops, blouses AND dresses. It's similar to the v-neckline which is flattering on many body styles.

The Sweetheart Neckline

Popping up on runways here and there, sweetheart necklines are a perfect mix of sweet and sultry.

This style is typical for wedding and prom dresses, but is also seen on everything from little black dresses and blouses to cute tank tops.

The sweetheart neckline distinguishes itself from the classic squared neck, v-neck and scooped-neck looks by the way it curves over the bustline, culminating in a "v" and appearing to look like the top of a heart. This look is ultra-flattering, provides modest coverage, but still shows a subtle yet sexy "glimpse" of skin.

Best of all, this romantic look works for any body type. For those busty gals who want both support and fashion, sweetheart necklines do the trick. Then for the small-busted women, sweetheart necklines draw attention to your bust and accentuate the cleavage you do have!

Turtle Necks

The tried and true turtle neck elongates the torso, accentuates the bust, and shortens the neck. It's also a popular choice for those women that complain about "turkey neck".

The look is best for short waists, oval faces, and small busts. For other body types or face shapes, a short haircut or updo will provide counter-balance.

Cowl Necks -- Still Really Popular!

A cowl neck is somewhat similar to a scoop because it highlights the collarbones and hollow of the throat.

It really looks great on just about everyone.

If you are big-busted or broad-shouldered, choose a "deeper" cowl. Too much fabric up near the throat just adds bulk.

Boat Necks!

This neckline also shows off the collarbones, makes the shoulders appear broader, accentuates the bust, gives roundness to the face, elongates the torso, and shortens the appearance of the neck.

If you have a long necks, oval face, are small busted, or have a short torso, this is a good neckline for you.

The Halter

This look really shows off the shoulders and also highlights the collarbones and hollow of the throat. It draws attention to a strong, shapely area.

It works for pretty much everyone except the very small-chested—simply because it is hard to get the right fit through the chest.

You should make sure the halter isn't too tight through the abdomen though, which ruins the look.

Square Necks

This look makes the torso appear broader, and shows off the collarbones and throat.

It's a style that is best for fine-boned women who want the illusion of a little more width.

The "Scoop" on Scoop Necks

It's really quite similar to the V-neck in that it lengthens the neck, and accentuates the collarbones.

This neckline is good for all body types, although those with very broad shoulders should avoid really W I D E scoop necks because they create the illusion of more width.

The V-Neck

This neckline lengthens the neck and shows off the collarbones. A wide V makes shoulders look broader, a narrow V does the opposite.

This is really the most universally flattering neckline, particularly for the big-chested gals. A V-neck is the best way to counterbalance a big bust as long as it's not too plunging.

The Crew Neck

This neckline accentuates the bust, elongates the torso, makes your face appear rounder.

This style is best for small busted women, those with long or oval-shaped faces and long necks. It's also a good choice for someone short in stature or with a shorter torso.

Let's Talk Necklines

One of the most important ways to look your best is to wear the neckline that works best for you.

The "right" neckline flatters your face and figure. It can slim a full face, widen narrow shoulders, balance a big bust, or make you appear taller.

On the flip side, the wrong neckline can ruin a perfectly good outfit and make you look frumpy or disproportionate. Nobody wants that!

So, after you read today's blog, take a few minutes and stand in front of the mirror and assess your face shape, shoulder size, breast size.

Then tomorrow, we'll start with a series (one a day) that reviews different necklines! Let's have some fun, shall we?

Uneven, Hi-Low, Asymmetrical or Mullet?

Uneven hems are being seen all over the runway. Some call them asymmetrical, others refer to them as hi-low, and still others affectionately call them "mullet skirts". No matter what you call them, they certainly seem to be popular again!

If you’ve ever been conflicted between a maxi and a mini, then you’ll probably be smitten with them. A little kicky and fun in the front and a little more formal and dressy looking in the back. Some look a little more sweet and simple, others are more full and flared. We remember them from the 80's. What do you think? Are we ready for them again?

Flutter Sleeves

Spring fashion trends on the catwalk show a return to femininity and glamor.

Expect to see romantic, feminine and flirty elements like the flutter sleeve you see here. It's loose, flowing, fresh and provides just a little coverage for those customers that want it.

Kimono Sleeves -- Just ONE of the Great New Sleeve Trends

The sleeveless look has and continues to be popular and in fashion but we're also seeing the return of some great new looks!

For example -- Kimono sleeves are showing up everywhere, on every style of clothing from dresses to shrugs, sweaters and even coats. They have transformed from the traditional long kimono sleeve to three-quarter-length and even short sleeves.

Celebrities are embracing the kimono sleeve and rockin' this new trend inspired from an old, respected look -- and you can, too.

Color Blocking

Well, it's no surprise that Color-Blocking is one of the hottest fashion trends for Spring 2012.

What is it? Color blocking combines the use of two or more "blocks" of color in a garment, an item or "outfit". It may include a top, pant and accessories or a single dress. Simply put it's creating an outfit by putting areas or blocks of muliple solid colors next to each other. Think bright or muted or contrasting or complimentary colors! The sky is the limit!

Everything is Come Up Roses! (I HAD To Say It!)

Bold, bright, happy color will make a strong statement on the Spring runways and prints, prints and more prints.

Everything's coming up roses (and daffodils, and orchids, and daisies). Head to toe floral prints are all over the runways. That's right, flower power prints and tropical abstract patterns are all over for "Resort 2012".

For Spring 2012 we will see this theme really explode — more, brighter, bolder! It's fresh to see the prints in new silhouettes.

Stripes and Dots -- Still Hot!

We are excited to see this season's take on stripes and polka dots and know that you will be, too! This is not the time for wallflowers, either!

The bold stripes and dots that we're seeing have very little in common with the classics. Instead, be prepared for stripes "painted with a bold brush" and variously-sized polka dots head-to-toe.

The key is to break every rule your mother taught you. Mix and match patterns. Select contrasting stripes, pair the polka dots with stripes and spice up florals with either!

Ikat Prints

We've been noticing Ikat prints a lot lately. We've seen it on dresses, jackets, skirts (even chairs and pillows)!

Ikat is a weaving technique where the threads are dyed before the fabric is woven, which is why the woven pattern looks slightly "uneven". It has a soft and sophisticated look that you'll see a lot of this season!

It's NOT Too Early To Think Spring!

What will set this Spring apart from the past seasons are the amazing color combinations.

The adventurous fashionista will love the unexpected combinations of pink & orange, turquoise & yellow or lime & emerald. Don't worry, though. You'll also see a more conservative pallet of neutrals paired with brights.

Other trends for Spring 2012 will include shades of vibrant oranges, tangerine, melon, and coral....yes CORAL! We've seen it everywhere! Also prepare yourselves for fabrics in fuchsia, magenta, violet and purple, navy, royal, sunshine yellow and a plethora of greens. They're all sure to brighten your Spring 2012.

It promises to be the season to take chances.

From Our "WILLOW TREE FAMILY" to yours! Enjoy your holiday! See you NEXT YEAR!

Don't Be a Victim of Identity Theft!

A great number of travelers and consumers end up being victimized by electronic pickpockets and in most cases never even know it. Credit card companies have started embedding RFID (radio frequency identification) chips in credit cards and the U. S. Government also uses this technology in passports. The reason is that the cards can hold more data than the cards with magnetic stripes and they also can be read much faster.

Electronic pickpocketers can pick up information from RFID-enabled cards in your pocket or purse. The eavesderopping thieves can glean this information using relatively cheap equipment. Just by passing on the street, thieves using a card reader and netbook computer can steal your personal information. Card skimming works especially if you are only carrying one contactless card. It is possible that your card could be read from up to 3 feet away.

To combat this threat, credit card companies use powerful encryption techniques to make it harder for your information to be stolen. However encryption requires extra processing time and some companies who value speed may choose not to use the encryption. Regardless, the thieves eventually develop their own technology to offset whatever protections are implemented. As fast as credit card companies come up with new ideas, the bad guys find some new way to steal from you.

Even if the electronic pickpocketers find they can’t use the card account, they often are able to find outlets for other stolen card information. With the right know-how and the correct information the thief can view all the information on the front page of your passport.

The credit card number and expiration date are all we need to pick up a phone, call an 800 number and make an purchase. A Visa representative calls the risk associated with certain RFID cards a major concern.

So, what can you do? One way to protect yourself from identity theft is by blocking the radio frequency tags that are embedded in the credit dards. This can be accomplished by using one of the new Aluminum wallets to carry your credit cards. These indestructible aluminum wallets are safe from elctronic pickpockets and we have the best avaialable at Willow Tree.

These aluminum wallets offer a great alternative to the traditional leather wallet. The are sleek and will fit easily into a back pocket or purse. They are available in different colors and make great gifts.

Don’t be a victim. Do whatever is necessary for peace of mind and protection from electronic pickpocket thieves

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

We'd like to wish all of our customers a very Merry Christmas, and a happy and healthy 2012.

We sincerely thank you for your support over the last year, and hope for many more opportunities to work with you in 2012!

Think Local and Buy Local When You Can!

Think local first + Buy local when you can = Being a local!

Willow Tree and Chelsea are locally-owned independent businesses that are committed to improving the quality of life in our region. We support our Wyandotte community businesses and collaborate to benefit the common good.

When you support your local independently-owned businesses, you support good business for a great community.

Thank you for choosing to do business with us. Friends and neighbors depend on each other to keep our community strong.

Wyandotte is One of a Kind!

10.Encourage local prosperity: A growing body of economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character.

We Try to Get to Know You!

9.Buy what you want, not what someone wants you to buy: A marketplace of tens of thousands of small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long-term. A multitude of small businesses, each selecting products based not on a national sales plan but on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, guarantees a much broader range of product choices.