This versatile blouse can be worn desk to dinner and beyond! Chiffon blouses in prints are so hot this Fall. Pair it with your dress pants for work and jeans or shorts for the weekend and you’re good to go. These great chiffons are made to be worn with a tank or cami -- which allows you to change the look by changing the color you wear underneath! Believe it or not - the bows and ties at the neck are BACK in a big way, too!

Chiffon and Bohemian!

Chiffon is IN! This particular blouse gives you a casual look yet doesn't appear shabby. The bohemian vibe is still so popular and isn't going away.

Blouses are Going to be a HUGE TREND This Fall!

There is a HUGE trend for blouses this season. You'll see so many styles, so many colors, so many prints. Some have frills, lace, and ruffles. Others are in the extremely popular sheer fabrics. You'll see bold solids, unusual color block, and some in a more muted and soft color palette. There are INCREDIBLE prints, from florals to ethnic to animal to a mix of them all! We've even seen quite a few paisley prints reminiscent of the 1970's out there! Another BIG big trend leans toward blouses that are made to be left un-tucked, are comfortably fitted, can be worn with a jean, pant, skirt, or over one of our FAMOUS "koochie kovers"! That's probably the biggest trend out there! We love it and know you will, too! This year you will see so many blouse lengths, too. You'll see the more common "below the waist" length to the popular "boyfriend" tunic length...and everything in between. Color is all over the place...from vivid to muted. Check out this great blouse from Alberto Makali that we saw in Vegas last month. You'll see it at the Willow Tree this Fall! Wow, right?

Jeans to Live In!

We're SOLD on this denim pull-on jean by Second/Yoga Jeans. You'll discover that the "give" and the stretch on these jeans is phenomenal the minute you try them on! Our customers absolutely love the waist & hip-hugging W I D E waistband. It’s like built-in tummy control which does away with that unsightly muffin top! So what do we have here? A perfect 9″ rise, a wide and comfortable waistband, super-soft stretch denim and an amazingly flattering fit. Come in and try on a pair! They'll quickly become your "go to" jeans!

Liverpool Jeans at Willow Tree!

Liverpool Jean Company is inspired by the music of The Beatles and the women who influenced them. Their mission is to create exciting jeans in the most innovative denim fabrics, with lift and shape solutions that follow a woman's natural curves providing a long, sleek and slimming effect. Each pair of Liverpool jeans feature comfort stretch denim, fabulous washes and a front/back rise that is not too high, but not too low. Lining the inside of the pockets are lyrics from both John Lennon & Paul McCartney songs, further instilling the culture of that era. We design our denim for the confident, independent woman who craves fashion and expects comfort with the perfect fit. They're affordable, great-fitting, fabulous looking jeans! Come in and see them today!

Good Works at Willow Tree!

Good Works leather wrap bracelets are the hottest new addition to the accessories department at Willow Tree. Founded in 2005, this inspirational brand which has taken the USA by storm, has a simple yet powerful philosophy. Promising to bring ‘good will’ to fashion, Good Works’ aim is to provide fashionable, empowering bracelets to inspire and encourage doing good work to help those in need. This is reflected in their pledge of donating 25% of their net profits to international charities and worthwhile causes, helping the less fortunate to achieve what they thought was impossible. These donations have helped a variety of projects worldwide including helping fight poverty in Africa, providing support for victims of sexual and domestic abuse and helping make at-risk children’s dreams come true. Following their launch in the UK, Good Works have promised to support British charities as they continue their humanitarian mission Their unique collection of unisex wrap bracelets are made from the finest soft leather, with each one adorned with a meaningful, motivational message. Designed to be worn stacked or individually, with messages that are provocative and inspiring such as ‘speak kindness’, ‘sow love’ and ‘accept diversity’ Good Works bracelets are the perfect statement piece. Available in a selection of subtle or bold colors, there is a Good Works bracelet to suit any style, occasion or budget. In the US, the Good Works mission has been endorsed by a variety of A-list stars who have been seen showing their support in wearing the bracelets and helping with the ‘good work.’ Celebrities that have been involved in the cause include Demi Moore, Eva Longoria as well as Usher and Justin Bieber, showing they are also a stylish yet charitable addition to anyone’s accessory collection. We are proud to welcome Good Work(s) to Willow Tree and look forward to helping spread the work of their wonderful mission as it develops!

Willow Tree Welcomes Denise Ilitch Designs

Local designer, Denise Ilitch is doing her part to highlight the city of Detroit with her new clothing company, Denise Ilitch Designs (DID). Her designs are inspired by graffiti art she's seen on the streets of Detroit. “Every aspect of the journey of my life has always been interspersed with Detroit, so it’s really a part of my fabric,” said Ilitch. “I want to be a strong advocate for our community; lifting people up and motivating them, all the while having a little fun with fashion.” Willow Tree is thrilled to introduce the line to our customers and delighted with their reaction to it! In true Ilitch form, the colors are perfect for any Lions, Tigers or Wings fan! There are also designs that are perfect for Breast Cancer patients, survivors, and supporters...with more designs being introduced to the line each season. Please stop by to check them out for yourself!

Suede vs. Faux Suede vs. Ultra Suede

These "fabrics" are not going anywhere. They were hugely popular in 2011 - and are even more so now! So, what is the difference between suede, faux suede and ultra suede? The word suede was originally coined by the French. The word comes from gants de Suede which roughly translates to gloves of Sweden. It's a type of leather made from the underside of an animal's skin, most often goat, cow, pig or lamb. It is less tough and durable than leather, harder to clean, not water resistant and susceptible to dirt. Many products have been made to protect suede but is still must be handled with great care.

Faux suede is a soft, synthetic, 100% polyester fabric. The material can come in many forms, including micro suede which is a microfiber. Faux suede is available in a variety of colors and patterns. In many ways, faux suede is a better alternative to the real thing. It feels the same as real suede, is easier to clean and more resistant to liquid than leather. It's also considerably cheaper than real suede, costing less than half the price of the real thing. Ultra Suede is just the "trade name" for Faux Suede...and no matter what it's called -- you'll see it in everyone's collection for the Fall Season.

Prints

Prints are still huge. They're here to stay, that's for sure. We have started to see more computer generated, digitized patterns or engineered prints. We've got a great one from Joseph Ribkoff right now and another from Cartise on the way. Reptile and Wild Animal prints are still strong in neutral combinations as well as a kaleidoscope of colors. It's been fascinating to watch the metamorphosis of animal prints! They've always been around - but were getting a little boring and generic. Not anymore! The combination of reptile, wild animal and color has resulted in so many fantastic prints! We've got them now and will continue to have them next season! We have also fallen in love with the great geometric prints that have "Jackson Pollack-like" splashes of color. Fantastic! Willow Tree gets new merchandise in daily...so please visit us often! It's a new experience each time you enter.

Lisette Pantalon

Willow Tree is the FIRST retailer in the country to have these pants. Our customers have been wearing them for years already - and now even Kathie Lee and Hoda love them! They fit like a dream. They're comfortable. They hold their shape. They look great under tops and tunics (no snaps, buttons, zippers or plackets). We've got them in a variety of colors, lengths and styles...and once you get one pair, you'll want them all! Their advertising shows the model with her blouse tucked in -- but that's really not how they're worn. The beauty of these pants is that they're so smooth-fitting that they look perfect under your tops. No bumps or lumps caused by the "hardware" on the waistband. They're the perfect pull-on!

More Great Scarves Just In!

These great scarves are perfect with any outfit! They work well with tanks, t-shirts, 3/4 sleeve tops, solids, prints, jackets...ANYTHING! We've even seen them worn with swim suits on cruise ships, resorts and the beach. Add a little personality to your wardrobe! They're amazing! Some have "baubles" in the center - others from the ends. They're so much more than scarves - they're "jewelry"! Our customers have gone crazy for them. You will, too!

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?