Desk to Dinner

Most women today find themselves racing against the clock. So much to do and yet so little time to do it! And let's be honest, when you're always on the go the last thing have time to think about is a wardrobe change. When you're darting from your desk to drinks or dinner, you might need a few tips to help you transition from office appropriate to "dinner date chic" in an instant! So let's start with the basics. When you get dressed before work, pick a simple piece. Something with clean lines and a simple silhouette. This will be the "canvas" you'll add accessories and other clothing pieces to. For the office you'll add a jacket or cardigan to make your outfit office appropriate. You can pull it together by adding a belt, headband, tights and sensible shoes. Then take along a pair of heels or ankle boots, a clutch or small evening bag, lipstick, and a flashy or edgy jacket for the night's festivities. The bottom line is to pick a base item that you can interchange accessories and layers to create a new and more glamorous evening look - EASILY. If you plan ahead, pulling together your desk to dinner outfits is simple!

Red is Full of Personality

Wear reds for all of your personality traits. Reds tend to vary on the message they send across. Burgundy conveys sophistication, while "blue-reds" convey assertiveness. An orange-red would be worn by someone who is lively.

Soft, Friendly Pastels

Wear pastel colors to seem relaxed and friendly. Pastels are soft and everyone can wear them. Light green, watermelon, pink, lemon, and light purple are just a few of your choices. Think about pairing the pastel with a neutral color like beige, black or white. To really rock this trend, layer your pastels together for added impact.

Pretty in Pink

Wear shades of pink to convey an open heart. People who wear pink, regardless of gender, appear approachable and friendly. There’s a reason that the cells of some of the most dangerous criminals are painted pink—it’s been shown to calm aggression. This color is considered tranquil and warm.

What do Colors Convey?

Particularly in the working world, the colors you choose to wear can send a message about the type of you personality you have. Wear dark colors to convey authority and power. Some dark colors include black and navy blue.

How to Choose What Color to Wear

Color choices are a frequent topic of conversation in our business, yet so many of us don't know how to choose colors that look good on us or what "season" we are. Winters are often brunettes, with pale or olive skin and look good in deep, rich colors with jewel tones as accents. Summers have blonde hair and pale skin and look good in more muted colors. Autumns can be red-heads, or have black hair, or a combination of blonde and brunette. They usually have ruddy skin. Autumns can wear oranges, browns, and olive greens. Springs have pale skin, pale eyes and golden blonde or strawberry blonde hair. They look good in bright colors. Wear the colors that suit you close to your face. You can wear colors that don't suit you as well on your bottom half.

Complementary Colors

You shouldn't always be too matchy- matchy. Dress up and play with colors every now and then. It helps you to find more colors to wear everyday and which colors don't look good together. Colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel are considered to be complementary colors (example: red and green). The high contrast of complementary colors creates a vibrant look especially when used at full saturation. This color scheme must be managed well so it is not jarring. Complementary colors are tricky to use in large doses, but work well when you want something to stand out.

Triadic Color Scheme

There are sets of colors that work well together when you use a correct real color wheel. A triadic color scheme uses colors that are evenly spaced around the color wheel. Triadic color harmonies tend to be quite vibrant, even if you use pale or unsaturated versions of your hues. To use a triadic harmony successfully, the colors should be carefully balanced - let one color dominate and use the two others for accent.

Let's Talk About Color

Sometimes it can be difficult to know which colors you should wear with what. We're going to try to help you out by offering tips and tricks that you can use everyday. First of all: Know the basics. Start by categorizing your colors. The first category is neutrals including black, white and gray. The other category includes colors like red, green, yellow, etc. An easy start is knowing that neutrals can be paired with almost any color. That means that your black pants can go with just about any top, blouse, sweater or jacket that you have! Things are not that easy when you try to pair colors with other colors, though. Information on that is coming up next!

Sheer Fabrics are HERE and They're BIG!

As the weather starts to warm up a bit - you’re going to want to spruce up your wardrobe! You'll be getting tired of wearing sweaters and be itching for a change. So, think about about a sheer blouse. They are the perfect transition piece and are going to be HUGE! They'll add interest, color and probably even a little sexiness to your outfit -- WITHOUT adding bulk! Layer them now - and wear them on their own for the warmer months! Why not try a Willow Tree customer AND staff favorite by pairing a great sheer blouse with a "koochie kover" and leggings. Come in and let us show you how! Everyone loves the look and versatility!

Cutting Edge Laser Cuts

Let's talk about some of the best, creative and clever uses of the laser cutter when it comes to fashion. Early adopters of the technology were mainly couture designers such as John Galliano in 2005. Fast forward eight years to 2013 and laser cut fashion is MAINSTREAM! You'll see it on tops, scarves, fly-away jackets and more...in a variety of textiles including ultra suede like you see here! Love it, don't you?

It's NOT Too Early to Think Spring with Accessories

O.K., so we've been experiencing frigid temperatures. We have had some snow -- BUT we ARE getting Spring items in! Spring is only about 50 days away...so it IS time to start building that transitional accessory wardrobe! The magnificent array of colors this season is irresistible! The colors range from soft neutrals and pastels to brights to electric neons! There is certainly a color for everyone! Keep your eyes open for some great bohemian and gypsy inspired necklaces and scarves. In addition to being perfect for that Winter to Spring time frame -- they can make an old outfit looks new! We love them!

The Bottom Line is......

Ankle length pants are going to be HOT HOT HOT! Narrow pants and Bermudas are very strong, too! Printed bottoms are such a great way to update your wardrobe, too. They're EVERYWHERE! Will they be well received in Wyandotte? We hope so!

Color Continues for Spring!

This season we continue our love affair with color along with a panoply of prints - as well as the tried and true black and white (which is ALWAYS popular). Old rules are going out the window and fashion is moving in an "anything goes" direction. More creative mixing and matching of fabrics, textures and color are combined to produce new and inventive combinations. Be prepared to be dazzled!

Spring Trends - 2013

This season, designers overwhelmingly address consumers' desire for self-expression, balance and the need to re-energize. The color direction for spring builds upon these compelling needs with a palette that mixes dynamic brights with novel neutrals to create a harmonious balance. This allows for unique combinations that offer practicality and versatility, but at the same time, demand attention and earn an appreciative glance. "The expression 'balancing act' is something we all relate to as we strive to find harmony in the frantic pace of our everyday lives," said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. "The same can be said for fashion as we look for balance between light and bright, classic and new. This season's color palette emphasizes this need for balance, while at the same time allowing for individuality, self-expression and excitement." The prevalence of green this spring is undeniable. Similar to the many shades in our natural surroundings, this season's greens offer a stunning foreground or the perfect backdrop for all other hues. Like the first signs of spring, Tender Shoots, a vibrant yellow-green, is invigorating, active and cheerful, while Grayed Jade, a subtle, hushed green with a gray undertone, brings about a mood of quiet reflection and repose. Sophisticated Emerald, a lively, radiant green, inspires insight and clarity while enhancing our sense of well-being. From one extreme to the other, combining all three greens presents an intriguing choice much like Mother Nature intended. Exotic African Violet is a statement color that brings a touch of intrigue to the palette, as purples often do, and can be incorporated into many unexpected combinations. Try pairing it with exuberant Poppy Red, a seductive, sensual and celebratory shade. Whether it's a knockout dress or a kiss on the lips, every woman's wardrobe and beauty essentials should include this spirited, true red. Nectarine, a bright, effervescent citrus orange with coral undertones, provides a tangy burst of flavor while cheerful Lemon Zest brings out a piquant taste with its refreshing, spritely greenish cast. Signifying the time of day when everything starts to wind down, Dusk Blue offers a calming sense of serenity akin to its green counterpart, Grayed Jade. Both of these colors act as the season's newest neutrals. For an unexpected mix, pair Dusk Blue with the intensity of Nectarine. A warm neutral, Linen is light and airy, providing a nudelike basic that is a must have for spring. Try pairing Linen with Grayed Jade or Dusk Blue. Anchoring Monaco Blue is a classic shade that offers both stability and depth to the entire palette. Combine Monaco Blue with Poppy Red and Linen, or Monaco Blue and Emerald for a fresh collegiate look. For over 20 years, Pantone, the global authority on color, has surveyed the designers of New York Fashion Week and beyond to bring you the season's most important color trends. This report previews the most prominent hues for spring 2013.

Yes, It's Already That Time Again - Time to Think Pink!

We've been seeing commercials on television lately about the 2013 3-Day. What is the 3-Day, you may ask? Their explanation is that it's a life-changing journey - and many things to many people. We do know that Michigan's event is scheduled from August 16 - 18, 2013. The suburban Detroit metro area will surely offer an eclectic change of scenery that will help create a meaningful 3-Day experience. The first step on the 60 mile journey is to register. At least request more information and see if it's for you! Then, start putting your team together. Willow Tree was so humbled and blessed to have met so many survivors, patients going through chemo and radiation, and those that lost loved ones to breast cancer, during our Paint the Town Pink events in 2012. We hope that we'll be able to act as a resource and support for those folks that will walk this year. Perhaps we can help sponsor a team? We're certainly willing to do whatever we can! Please get in touch with us if you have ideas! One thing we HAVE done is commit to our customers to have the flannel pants, sweatshirts, hoodies, t-shirts, hats, etc., that they have requested we have on hand. We've promised to do this NOT just in May or October - but always!

Vests are IN IN IN!

Not only have vests come back into fashion, but they're back in a HUGE way! There are so many choices including "vest tops", quilted, fur and faux fur - and so many other styles that will complement your current wardrobe! You've got zip front and open vests for all of Michigan's seasons. Wear them with jeans, tailored dress pants, casual pants, your favorite dress or pencil skirt and blouse! Grab a knit or puffer vest when you need a little warmth; or a more feminine crochet vest when you only need a lighter layer! And, talk about luxurious! You'll not only look but feel fantastic in the great selection of both faux and real fur vests in so many great colors! Let's not forget those popular denim vests or leather vests, either! Sophisticated and chic! Come on ladies, we've got a great selection for you at Willow Tree -- and a lot of them are ON SALE for our Annual January Clearance Sale! You can't go wrong! Come in and talk with one of our personal shoppers to find the vest that suits your needs!

2013 = Growth, Renewal, Prosperity & Healing!

Every December, Pantone chooses one color that they deem the “Color of the Year” for the upcoming year. This year it seems as though the "green movement" has taken on a new fashion hue: EMERALD GREEN. That's right, the very popular color for precious gemstones and fine jewelry will grace so much more! Emerald green was chosen because it symbolizes growth, renewal, prosperity and healing, according to Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of Pantone. “As it has throughout history, multifaceted emerald continues to sparkle and fascinate,” Eiseman said in a news release. “Symbolically, emerald brings a sense of clarity, renewal and rejuvenation, which is so important in today’s complex world. This powerful and universally appealing tone translates easily to both fashion and home interiors.” “It's the most abundant hue in nature...and the human eye sees more green than any other color.” In fashion, Pantone predicts it will be popular in formal and everyday wear as well as accessories. The color was all over the runways for Spring! Will it end up in YOUR closet?

Glittens are ALWAYS a Popular Gift Item!

A hybrid of glove and mitten exists, which contains "channels" for each of the four fingers encapsulated by a leather mitten. These hybrids are called glittens, a combination of "gloves" and "mittens".

Swarovski Jewelry by Eric Andrew

Eric Andrew is a family owned jewelry design and manufacturing company based in Las Vegas specializing in fine, high quality fashion jewelry. Their pieces are made with Crystallized - Swarovski Elements direct from Austria, sterling silver from Italy, and high quality, hand selected gemstones from around the globe. Designs by Eric Andrew's first high profile store, Corsa Collections@The Forum Shops in Caesars Palace, was a giant stepping stone into having the company's line viewed by visitors from all over the world. Currently with locations in high profile venues such as St. Mark's Square at the Venetian, and wonderful boutiques like Willow Tree in Wyandotte, the Eric Andrew Collection has become a premiere brand across the country.

Help Her Keep Her Tablet Safe

Come and check out our selection of iPad and Tablet cases. You can be tech savvy and stylish! So many details make up the whimsical full-color artwork on both sides of the sleeve. Constructed of highly water resistant oil cloth material, this tablet case fits the iPad, iPad2 and all others. Plush lining adds extra protection for your tablet’s glass body and screen. We love the pocket on the inside for keeping USB and charger cords! Zips shut with the two heavy metal double tabbed zipper pulls. Gold hardware. Airport security friendly. Measures 8.5 inches wide by 10.5 inches high with 1 inch depth. Yet ANOTHER great holiday gift option!

Spoil Her - Get Her Something She'd Not Get For Herself!

Dr. Martens is an British footwear brand. In addition to Dr. Martens, they are known as Doctor Martens, Doc Martens, Docs or DMs. The footwear is popular and distinguished by its air-cushioned sole (dubbed Bouncing Soles), upper shape, welted construction and yellow stitching.

Comfortable, adorable, long lasting. Super-cute, too! Come check out the patterns and styles.

Get Organized and Stay Stylish

The Coupon Cubby is a stylish, organizing purse with a removable/adjustable strap and 30 dividers with labels. The pre-printed labels include A-Z tabs as well as specifics like Dairy, etc. There are blank labels for your own customization, too. With an inside zipper for money and room for cell phones and keys, it's so versatile. Use it to organize your coupons or INSTEAD of a handbag when you don't need a big purse. Available in lots of colors, too!

Measurements: 7 1/2" across x 4" High x 2" Deep

Great Handbags!

Come check out our unique handbags. Quality crafted with great attention to detail. They're more "snazzy" than your ordinary handbags. They have the whimsy and personality that our customers love and they, too, make great holiday gifts! You DON'T need to know her size.

Help Her Get Organized!

Another great gift option is this alphabetized wallet that holds approximately 40 Plastic Cards or 80 Business Cards. It measures 5x3x2" and is made of a wipe-able and durable material that stands up to all the use it will get! The alphabetized cards inside are color coordinated with the external color. There is even an inside zipper for money and change and an outside window for identification. Use it for your reward cards (like your Willow Tree Power Pass Card). Store your gift cards and Kroger card in it! Use it to organize those cards that are too big and bulky and plentiful to keep your wallet! Available in lots of colors and textures.

Brighton Quality Leather Handbags are the BEST in the Industry!

Brighton was launched in 1991 with a single collection of belts. Over the years, Brighton become an accessory company with something for everyone. Handbags and purses were added to the line in 1993, followed by small leather goods, watches, jewelry, charms, home accessories, eyewear and most recently, luggage. Willow Tree has it all, too! A silver heart dangles from all Brighton handbags and purses and adorns many of the jewelry pieces and other products in the collection. "The heart logo is so appropriate because we put our heart and soul into everything we do ... from the attention to detail in the designs to the sales associates who sell our product ... to the way we stand behind our products" said Laura Young, Brighton Director of Sales & Marketing

Come in to see our Brighton Shop in Shop - showcasing wallets, small leathers, handbags, totes, travel, home gifts, and of course jewelry! Become a Brighton lover! It's so easy!

What is Rhodium and Why Does John Mederios Use It?

Rhodium is a rare element, silvery-white, hard, and a member of the platinum group. It is one of the rarest precious metals. Rhodium is tarnish resistant. So many items are plated with a thin rhodium layer to improve its optical impression.

John Medeiros uses Rhodium because it has all of the attributes of platinum with the added benefit of being harder, lasting longer, with a whiter tone. He uses man-made Cubic Zirconium which will not chip, crack, cloud or fade. Cubic Zirconium is virtually indistinguishable to the eye by diamond experts, can scratch glass like natural diamonds, and is tougher than a sapphire. GORGEOUS and the perfect gift!

Personalize Your Pen!

A new idea. A fun idea with "personality". The pen comes with a bead that you can switch as you please with other Brighton beads. Who can't use a pen? Yet another amazing stocking stuffer available at Willow Tree!

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words!

Another perfect stocking stuffer! Perfect for Grandma to wear to show off her precious grandbaby! An ideal place for a newly engaged bride-to-be to keep a photo of her groom. A thoughtful way to keep a lost loved one close at all times.

Brighton Goes GOLD! Amazing Options!

Another perfect gift option is a personalized charm bracelet! Choose the charms that reflect her personality, favorite past times, hobbies and colors! Start it for Christmas - and add a charm at each special day throughout the year. Birthday, Anniversary, Engagement, Graduation, Promotion, Valentines Day, Easter, Mothers Day, etc.! Thoughtful and personal.

Pendant Scarves - HUGELY Popular!

These are one of the latest fashion trends and give that extra bit of style to any outfit. They're perfect from desk to dinner. They're great with t-shirts and jeans. They can be worn casual or with business attire. So many colors and charms to choose from. They are an easy but thoughtful gift! And yes, we will wrap them for you!

Kringle Candles! We Are Excited!

The Kringle Candle Company is a new candle company that was started by Michael ‘Mick’ Kittredge III, who just happens to be the son of Yankee Candle company founder Michael Kittredge II! The Kringle Candle Company officially opened its doors in October and the candles are already the talk of celebrities like Kathie Lee Gifford! Kathie Lee spoke about the company on the Today show in her ‘Kathie Lee and Hoda’s Favourite Things’ segment and revealed that the great part of The Kringle Candle company is that all of the candles, regardless of their scents, are white.

Those of us who have ever tried to coordinate a color with a certain room as well as a scent that we like can appreciate that these candle are white! Scents such as peppermint twist, Nantucket rose, gingerbread and frosted cake as well as holiday themed items are all available. Kathie Lee also revealed on this morning’s Today show that she had long been friends with the Kittredge family and that her children grew up with Mick and his sisters and that her family have been long time fans of Yankee candle, and now of Kringle Candle. We love them. They're affordable and perfect gifts for teachers, friends and family members!

Twist & Pout is a one-of-a-kind lip moisturizer that is equal parts fashion statement and sun protection confection. Packed with the latest and greatest in pucker protection technology, this lip moisturizer delivers a crucial combination of oils, butters and full spectrum UVA/UVB lip armor. Best of all, Twist & Pout can be clipped to your bag or keys for moisturized lips at your fingertips! SPF of 20, perfect from the slopes to the boat. No petroleum used. Dermatologist recommended. And, can you say stocking stuffer?

Let's Talk About Teacher Gifts!

Express your teacher appreciation through cute, thoughtful gifts - like this great charm! Most of us have a charm bracelet, necklace or other piece that would accommodate this thoughtful and affordable option! It's a huge favorite!

Willow Tree Has it All!

We've even got great options for those hostess gifts that are such an important part of the season! A simple and well loved option includes a bottle of their favorite wine. There's an amazing selection of wine available at Discount Drinks on Fort! BUT, make your gift special (like the hostess) by including a new stemless wine glass. It's the perfect THANK YOU! Colorful and the perfect complement to the wine! Come check out Willow Tree's great selection!.

What, GREAT LOOKING Christmas Sweaters? Yup, That's Right!

BEREK sweaters were introduced in 1977 and immediately generated a "revolution in fashion". After all these years the name BEREK continues to be held in the highest esteem of those who know and collect "art you can wear" sweaters....especially at Christmas.

Let's Talk About Choosing the Perfect Gift!

Finding the ideal gift isn’t always easy. Even the most imaginative gift givers may need some help. At Willow Tree we work hard to help you choose the ideal gift for the recipient, occasion, age, relationship, category and of course, price. In so many cases, we know who you're buying for PERSONALLY so we know what she likes! We also have an amazing program that gives us access to past purchase information, size, color preference, etc. Some of our customers have even given us a wish list! Come on in and let us take the stress out of your holiday shopping! We'll even gift wrap for FREE!

Fur Vests are a Hot Trend This Season and We've Got 'Em!

The trend for this Winter is fur, fur and more fur. Sure, a fur coat is a bit too much and a little "old-fashioned" for many of us, but vests are really HUGE this season. Many fashion designers have added fur trim to coats, wraps and shawls, too. Many brands feature fur designs in their collections, using variations of furs with other fabrics. The combinations are almost endless – fur with a contrast of color or fur with animal print. We know that whatever it is paired with fur adds a glamorous element to the item. We've got great colors, too! A soft blush with brown, black, brown, rust....all fabulous. Come see!

Yee Hah!

Think dodging puddles in the wet and murky weather couldn’t possibly look good? Well, think again. We’ve thought ahead and brought in some essential MUST HAVE items for those damp, wet, and snowy days that are ahead. We’ve "rounded up" some great rain boots that are chic, functional and multi-seasonal when worn with the warm boot liners. That's right - these nifty boots can get you through our Michigan Winter! Whether you’re stuck in a drizzle, downpour or blizzard, we’ve got what you need.

John Mederios - NEW Collections!

•

John Medeiros Jewelry has become a fast favorite of many Willow Tree customers. Hand made in the United States, all designs are original, registered, and copyrighted. Each piece is intricately hand carved with detailing on the front, sides, and back. A signature feature is the original closure which blends into the overall design motif. The John Medeiros (JM) trademark logo is on every piece and adds to the rich look of every single style. New collections are introduced throughout the year -- and are here in perfect time for your charity gala, black tie event or holiday celebration. Each one seems more gorgeous than the next!

Skirt or Pants? Is One Better Than the Other?

Find flattering skirts and pants. For a more professional look, a skirt suit really IS ideal, but pant suits are very slimming and add height. Remember, to increase your wardrobe options, you should look for a suit that features a jacket, pants AND a skirt that you can wear with existing blouses, tops, or sweaters you already own.

Let's Talk about Suits!

The search for professional women's suits depend on many things including style, comfort, fit and versatility. Women's suits generally come in basic colors, but you'll also find more designers including more stylish options. Tip Number One -- When shopping for suitings, keep your existing wardrobe pieces in mind to increase outfit options.

For example, if you have a lot of great blouses, choosing a suit that includes a nice pencil skirt is the perfect option. Wear the blouse with OR without the jacket!

Be Sure to Take Your Guardian Angel With You!

The gorgeous Guardian Angel collection comes in dozens of colors - and are really perfect for any occasion! From Birthday to Anniversary, Christmas to a "Get Well Soon" give - they are so meaningful! They're gorgeous, too!

Treska Is a Customer Favorite!

Treska Jewelry works hard to design quality handmade products. While some items are imported, each piece is made by hand and will enjoy the slight variations of the human processes. The Treska “look” is one of weathered or antiqued pieces that have that “one of a kind handmade” feel, which are not perfect by nature. They go to great lengths to ensure that their jewelry is as unique as its owner. Their creations are colorful, whimsical, interesting and seem like works of art for your ears, wrist, and neck. Each season they introduce new styles and colors - and this Fall won't disappoint!

Why John Medeiros?

Each piece is made from a strong and lightweight lead-free base metal alloy including some silver. Each piece is finished or plated in Rhodium and 14Kt gold which has a permanent non-tarnish, easy to care for finish. John Medeiros uses rhodium, a derivative of platinum. Rhodium has all of the attributes of platinum with the added benefit of being harder, lasting longer, and having a whiter tone. Stones: Man-made Cubic Zirconium which will not chip, crack, cloud or fade. Cubic Zirconium is virtually indistinguishable to the eye by diamond experts, can scratch glass like natural diamonds, and is tougher than a sapphire. The earring posts are made with surgical steel, so they're ideal for sensitive ears. John Medeiros Jewelry Key Attributes •Hand made in the United States •All designs are original, registered, and copyrighted •Intricate hand carved detailing on the front, sides, and back •Advanced product engineering and solid construction for durability •Original closures, some hidden, which blend into the overall design motif •Multiple strands are frequently used on bracelets and necklaces •Chains and ends are joined in the casting process •Two-tone effect is achieved through multiple masking and stripping operations •The John Medeiros (JM) trademark logo is on every piece •Cubic Zirconium stones are often prong set, not glued In this photo is one color in the Briolette collection. Gorgeous purple, which is one of the top colors this season! Great Christmas gift....and NO, it's not too early to start that shopping!

Jillbeads are Here!

Jillbeads jewelry is designed by Jill Pfefer and has been sold through boutiques, galleries and gift shops for over 10 years. Willow Tree introduced it just today! This lead and nickel free jewelry features a creative assortment of crystals, rhinestones, glass, enamels and resins. The versatility of the jewelry has enhanced its popularity as these items can be worn with both dressy and casual fashions. Jillbeads creations are known for their whimsical color combinations and unique shapes....which is exactly why it fits so well into our mix at the Willow Tree!