And then there's Cognac and Misted Yellow

Similar to Sangria, Cognac’s name alone leads to glamorous illusions. This classy and cultured brown takes a typical autumnal color to a sumptuous realm, making the shade unexpectedly ideal for evening wear. Adding a ray of sunlight and warmth, optimistic Misted Yellow alludes to the promise of spring to come. Both Cognac and Misted Yellow will also be prevalent in prints—a surprisingly popular trend this fall season.

For more than 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 fall 2014

More Pantone Fall 2014

The grown-up reds are followed by two extremes of the purple family that intrigue the eye and inspire the imagination. Mauve Mist, a romantic and elegant purple shade, reminds us of the deco era and stimulates a sense of femininity and empowerment, while Radiant Orchid, a captivating and adaptable shade, enchants the complete spectrum. Pair either with Cypress, a majestic and powerful green; indicative of its name, this shade has a towering presence and serves as a stunning perennial.

With its slightly green undertone, Bright Cobalt offers a subtle twist on the traditional cobalt blue, which unifies this season’s blues. Likewise, Royal Blue, which is both evocative and dignified, provides more complexity and excitement than the average navy, while still remaining versatile. Pair Bright Cobalt with Sangria and Cypress, or Royal Blue with Mauve Mist and Aluminum, a futuristic stainless steel shade that serves as a complex neutral.

Love Wyandotte's 3rd Annual Paint the Town Pink series is starting this Saturday

The 3rd Annual 3K Family Fun Run Walk & Roll 

takes place this Saturday at Silver Shores Waterfront

1 James DeSana Drive

Wyandotte, MI

Two Fabulous Colors of the Season are from the "RED Family" - Sangria and Aurora Red

Sangria, an exotic red that evokes a sense of glamorous adventures and faraway destinations is enhanced by Aurora Red, a more sophisticated shade that adds verve and spark.

The color red is the color of energy, passion and action.  It's a warm and positive color associated with our most physical needs and our will to survive. It exudes a strong and powerful masculine energy. Red is energizing. It excites the emotions and motivates us to take action. It signifies a pioneering spirit and leadership qualities, promoting ambition and determination. It is also strong-willed and can give confidence to those who are shy or lacking in will power.

Make a Fashion Statement in a Cape!

Capes are a fantastic alternatives for work, yet equally perfect and appropriate for evening wear – as long as the weather is not too cold. Capes protect you from the elements without "squashing", crushing or wrinkling the clothes you are wearing underneath.  These timeless outerwear pieces will work season after season, because this fashion will remain on the fashion scene for many years to come.  Come check them out.  We love them and know you will, too.

A Season of "Untypical Colors"

From Pantone Color Institute

Whether it was a particular decade or a trip to a special place, designers are fascinated with the beauty of the past and the spirit of the present—recreating it with color, fabric and style this fall season. Design and color were inspired by everything from books, artisan crafts, photography and retro architecture, to exotic landscapes and the children of rock legends. The diverse color palette takes us on an adventure spanning 100 years—a season roused by various vantage points from past and present.

“This is a season of untypical colors—more reflective of the imagination and ingenuity, which makes for an artful collection of colors and combinations not bound by the usual hues for fall,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute^®. "There is a feminine mystique that is reflected throughout the palette, inspired by the increasing need for women everywhere to create an individual imprint."

Willow Tree Has the BEST Coats in the Region!

This faux fur snow leopard swing coat is just fantastic and such a popular style. It's versatile, too.  Here you see it with pants - but it's perfect with dresses, too!  Such a sassy and fun way to stay warm and look great during these cold Michigan Winters!  This silhouette looks great on everyone from tall to short, small to large.  More than one color available.  Greys, Browns and solid Black.  

Fenini

Fenini is all about style and comfort. It's simple and clean, yet detail designs are added to make Fenini unique and interesting. The items are suitable for work or play.  They're versatile!  And, they're made in the USA!

It's a favorite brand of teachers.  Look great and yet it's comfortable enough for those moments spent on the floor with the kids!

The new Fall color palette is fantastic.

Washing "Dry Clean" Items at Home

Machine wash if you're certain it's o.k. to do so.  Check the labels.  To minimize agitation, turn the items inside out and place them in a mesh laundry bag. Use a shorter and delicate cycle.  Pay attention to water temperatures.  

Hand wash the items to prevent shrinkage and bleeding.  Use a mild detergent.

Always, always, always skip the dryer.  Heat harms fibers.  Instead, push put the excess moisture (don't twist or wring) and lay the garment flat to dry on a white towel.  Or, let the garment air dry on top of a running dryer.  The moderate heat given off by the machine will speed up the process.

More on Interpreting Labels * Dry Clean vs Dry Clean Only

If the tag says DRY-CLEAN ONLY, follow those instructions.  But, if it says DRY CLEAN it means that is is the recommended method, not the only method.

How should you decide?

Consider the fabric. Unless the label suggests otherwise, silk, acetate, velvet, wool, and taffeta items should be taken to the dry cleaner.  But, cotton, linen, cashmere, polyester, acrylic, and nylon can usually be washed at home.   

You should check for colorfastness before washing though.  Simply moisten a cotton ball with mild detergent and dab it on a hidden seam to see if any dye comes off.

Evaluate the detailing, too.  Before you wash anything with beading, sequins, stones, etc., make sure they are sewn on (you’ll see stitches, not glue) and colorfast.

How Can You Tell If You Should Dry Clean Your Garments

The open circle means "DRY CLEAN"

The circle with an X through it means "DO NOT DRY CLEAN"

You may notice letters inside the dry cleaning symbols, but they're for the dry cleaning professionals.  They indicate the process, the solvent, the time, etc.  Do remember that if you see a circle on your label, that the manufacturer does recommend that you have it professionall dry clean it.

Ironing Has a Set of Symbols, Too!

Many of our customers don't like to iron, so they look carefully for garment care information related to ironing!  These symbols are actually quite easy to figure out.  Cool, warm and hot iron temperatures are indicated by number of dots. The more dots - the hotter the iron.

Of course the X through the iron means DO NOT IRON...and this is the one that some folks look for!

There is also an icon with an X through the steam which means that you should not iron the garment with steam.

Drying Instructions Part II

Line Dry, Hang Dry, Drip Dry, Dry Flat, Dry in the Shade, Line Dry in the Shade, Dry Flat in the Shade Drip Dry in the Shade and Do Not Wring,  Each of these has their own symbol and they can be confusing!

To make it easier on yourself, we recommend that you print out a copy of all washing instruction symbols and post them on your laundry room wall for reference.

Today's information has to do with drying garments outside the dryer.  This too is a square symbol - with some added details.

Though we don't see some of these very often, it's good to know what they mean.

This one is the "Do Not Wring" symbol.

Let's Move on to Learning How to Decipher Tumble Drying Symbols

So, we've moved on to another shape.  We had a "wash bucket" for the washer and a triangle for the bleach instructions and now we're moving on the square with an inside circle which symbolizes tumble dry.

They're straightforward and simple

Open circle = Any Heat Setting

 1 dot = low heat

2 dots = medium heat

3 dots - high heat

Solid/filled dot = NO HEAT

Of course today's dryers have more than temperature settings,
so more information is often needed.

Normal cycle = no additional lines below

Permanent Press - 1 additional line

Delicate/Gentle - 2 additional lines

And if there is an X through the "tumble dryer" symbol,
the manufacturer recommends that you 

do not dry the garment in a dryer at any temperature or cycle speed.

Let's Move on to BLEACH!

The triangle is the symbol for bleach.

The unfilled triangle indicates that bleach can be used when needed.

The solid/filled triangle with the x through it translates to "DO NOT BLEACH"

There is a third that is less used but also important.
It's a triangle with lines through it and 

indicates that the use of non-chlorine bleach is acceptable

Machine Wash Cycles - Part II

We've already reviewed the temperature symbols, so now we're talk about cycle speed next.

Here you see the "machine" symbol with none, one or two lines underneath.  No additional lines indicate that a normal wash is fine.  If there is a single line underneath, it's recommended that you use a permanent press wash cycle.  If there are 2 lines underneath the symbol, you should use a delicate/gentle cycle.

Of course there are two others that are quite important as well.  

If there is an X through the symbol, then you should not wash the item.

The hand indicates that the manufacturer recommends hand washing. 

Clothing Care Labels - They're Confusing!

The first one we'll talk about is the TEMPERATURE. Yes, there is one particular "Machine Wash" symbol, seen in all three examples here, that gives instruction on the temperature of the water.  The single dot signifies Cool or Cold Water Wash.

The 2 dot version of this symbol means that they recommend warm water.

The 3 dots indicate that a hot water wash is recommended.

Yes, It's Time To Jump on The Jumpsuit Bandwagon!

If you’ve been avoiding the jumpsuit trend for the past couple of years, it's time to re-think that strategy.  It might be time to "cave" and jump on the jumpsuit bandwagon!. This now-popular look shows no signs of showing down.  Jumpsuits are HOT!  Even Kathie Lee is wearing them on the Today Show!  She's actually wearing one that is scheduled to arrive at Willow Tree any day now!  

Jumpsuits can be paired with a great little denim jacket for a casual and relaxed weekend look or dressed up with a great shrug and jewelry for that guest of wedding outfit!  Wear it day to night!  Add a belt or some chunky jewelry.  Accessorize with red!  

Add a little pizzazz with some great strappy sandals.  Go glam by adding some bling and carrying one of our collectible Mary Frances Handbags!   They options are endless and the sky's the limit!  

Dansko Clogs. Why Are They So Popular?

Is it the allure of improved posture and less back pain?  Is it the fact that so many physicians, chiropractors and health experts recommend them to their patients and wear them themselves?

Is it the clean lines and the exceptional quality construction of the soles or maybe the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association?

Regardless of the reason that people come in to try them on - we know that once they get a pair on, stand up and "test walk" them in the store, they feel as if their spine "clicks into place". They're so comfortable.  They make you stand up straighter.  They support back health.  You can wear them all day without your feet killing you -- even if you are on your feet all day long! 

Do you have a job where you're standing more than sitting?  Are you a surgeon, physician, nurse, medical professional, hair stylist, food industry worker, retail staffer, teacher? If so, you owe it to yourself to give these amazing shoes a try. They're great for your feet and they're kitschy cute, too!

Willow Tree in Downtown Wyandotte is the ONLY place you'll find them in the area.  Come see us!

Soft Dressing

Soft dressing is exactly what it sounds like – easy, soft, chic pieces that make it possible to look stylish yet feel comfortable and relaxed. It’s one of the newest trends out there....and one that our customers LOVE. Soft dressing includes everything from pants, tops and tunics to dresses. Willow Tree carries so many lines that fall into the category. One of our favorites is Comfy USA. Fantastic and flattering.

Happy Mother's Day

Mother's Day is a celebration honoring one's own mother, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. In the U.S. it's celebrated on a Sunday in May. It began in the early 20th century and is such a nice way to say thanks to the moms in your life that do so much for you! Happy Mothers Day!

Wedding Season Is Approaching!

Figuring out what to wear to those weddings that are quickly approaching can be a challenge. An easy solution is to freshen up the look of your little black dress! That is one item that most of us have hanging in our closet already, right? So, if you don't feel like going out to get a dress in one of the trendy new colors of the season -- why not get some accessories in that color to add a pop of color to the little black dress? It's just ONE of the perfect solutions we'll offer at Willow Tree! Come see us!

Trend Alert - SOFT DRESSING!

Trend report: take note of the trend toward soft dressing. You can find so many pieces in this new category -- even jackets! Incredibly light, carefree and chic.

What is Your Style?

Boho? Girly/Feminine? Casual? Edgy? Classic? Or a combination of them all? We love it all and can help you choose the perfect look for your occasion or mood. We love to be your personal fashion consultants and are here 7 days a week to cater to you. Come see us soon.

Is Boho Chic Your Style? What Does It Mean?

Boho-chic is a style that draws on various bohemian or "hippie" influences. She'll wear maxi shirts with t-shirts, maybe a jean jacket. Her wardrobe will include ankle boots and gladiator sandals, too! She knows how to accessorize with scarves, earrings, bangles, headbands and the perfect bag.

Classic Style - Timeless and Basic

It’s actually pretty easy to create an awesome, classic style. It provides the building blocks of a well-rounded wardrobe. Included are some investment pieces but that is o.k. because they’re classics that you’ll have year years – maybe even decades! What you need: A basic black dress; a simple cardigan or two, a white shirt, a variety of simple v-neck t-shirts, a basic black blazer, khaki pants, black dress pants, dark wash boot cut jeans, lighter wash skinny jeans, a variety of scarves, trench and pea coats, ballet flats, black pumps, and knee high boots.

Edgy Chic Your Style?

What does it mean, anyhow? She loves black. She is into faux leather leggings and skinny jeans. She loves ankle boots with everything! Her jewelry is trendy and different. Her lipstick and nail polish make a statement. Think Rihanna - and you're there!

Fit and Flare Dresses - Step Back in Time!

The sleek, slimming fit of a FIT & FLARE dress is a great look, don't you think? This style dress works perfectly with a great pair of sandals, wedges, or even ballet flats! Many of the current fit and flare styles come with a belt which can be easily changed for a completely different look with another color. Imagine a red patent leather belt with red shoes. Why is this so popular? It's the way the shape of the dress hangs on the body! It's just so flattering....a timeless look, reminiscent of the 1950s and 1960s. Perfectly suitable for casual events and work, yet equally perfect for a night out or guest of wedding outfit! Julie looks fantastic, doesn't she?

Cinda b is MADE in the USA - and WE LOVE THAT!

Willow Tree is excited to announce the arrival of Cinda b handbags, totes, travel bags, baby bags and accessories. Each of these great bags and organizers are custom-designed using the latest durable, poly/nylon fabrics and fashion-forward color schemes, patterns and silhouettes. With active lifestyles in mind, cinda b bags are practical & versatile, classy & chic. Each cinda b is personally designed by Cinda Boomershine herself, with the latest trends in style and color. And, they're MADE IN THE USA!

Cinda b Makes the Perfect Travel Companion

Duffel Bags in a variety of sizes - one to meet every need! Overnighters, Weekenders and Vacationers. Curling Iron Sleeves, Jewelry and Cosmetic Organizers, Totes, Carry-on Rolly Bags, Glasses Cases, Wallets, Coin and Camera Bags, Beach Bags, Baby Bags! They have it all! They even have Tennis Totes! 11 Colors/Prints. They're made from an amazing poly/nylon fabric so are washable, water-resistant and durable. It's a MUST SEE line and we're excited to have it for you. And, did we mention that they're MADE IN THE USA!??

Willow Tree Welcomes cinda b

Cinda b is a new brand for Willow Tree. We love the story behind the brand and the person! Cinda b partnered with one of the most experienced sewing companies in the United States after outgrowing her home space in Atlanta. She moved the cinda b offices and facilities to Fort Wayne, Indiana, taking over the abandoned Vera Bradley facility. (VB moved their production to China leaving behind many skilled workers and an empty factory). Now thousands of cinda bs are made each week by the experienced and skilled professionals that made Vera Bradley for years! Cinda still works and lives in Atlanta, but travels back and forth to her Fort Wayne facility regularly and often. Each and every cinda b bag is still designed with love and care personally by Cinda herself.

We Love Papaya and Know You Will Too

The items available from this line make the most unique and fun gifts. Girlfriends, sisters, daughters, wives, girlfriends, moms....co-workers, bosses. Everyone appreciates the great look and functionality. Totes, wallets, shoppers...and wall prints, too! They're fun and funky - and our customers LOVE them! Papaya Art was founded by creative geniuses, Anahata Katkin, Gina Katkin and Eli Katkin, and continues to delight us with regular new additions to their home decor and lifestyle accessory line. What makes Papaya Art so unique is the fabulous designs and inspirational quotes that grace most of their creations. Art Panels, Giclee Canvas Art, Arm Candy Luxe Tote Bags, Accessory Pouches and so much more. The artists at Papaya Art are truly masterful at creating their one of a kind designs and inspiring us with their quotes. We all have our favorite designs which change with each delivery.

Dansko = Good Foot Health

Many Dansko collections carry the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance. The APMA is the leading professional organization representing the nation’s podiatrists. The Seal of Acceptance is used to recognize footwear, hosiery and other foot related products that promote good foot health. This independent certification confirms that Dansko delivers shoes with the wearer’s comfort and long-term well-being in mind.

These shoes are so popular with anyone that spends hours each day on their feet. Hair dressers, retailers, restaurant personnel, medical staff, nurses, surgeons, etc. Willow Tree is the only retailer in the area that carries them, too! And, if we don't have the style or size you have in mind, we CAN and WILL get it for you! Come test walk a pair today.

Who Wears Dansko? Here's a Letter from One Fan

I am a school teacher and as a result I am on my feet for hours every day. Dansko shoes are the only footwear that keep me going all day. It is such a welcome end to the day when my feet don't hurt! Thank you for making the only shoes I want to wear. MEAGAN D., CHARLOTTE, NC This is a REAL testimonial -- but we've got lots of those inside the store! Janelle, Julie, Jude, Heidi, Arlene....the list goes on and on. We all wear the Dansko shoes. We all would be lost without them. There are many days that we are on our feet for 10+ hours so we rely on this great brand to keep our feet happy! Come in and chat with us about them!

The Dansko Story

More than twenty years ago wife and husband team, Mandy Cabot and Peter Kjellerup, discovered their first product in a tiny store in Europe. They realized that a simple pair of clogs would not only change their lives, but that of everyone who might wear them. So, believing that when you have something great you share it, they gave pairs to friends. Then their friends told their friends. And just like that, a comfort legend was born! Today, their 100% employee owned company based in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, offers a complete line of footwear - heels, boots, sandals, wedges, flats and many, many types of clogs. Every pair is infused with legendary Dansko all-day comfort and support.

Willow Tree is happy to be able to provide such high quality and healthy footwear for our customers. If you've not worn them before, it's time to give them a try!

Lisette is EVERYWHERE! Style and Essence Magazines, too!

Did you know that Willow Tree was the first boutique in the United States to carry this line? Our customers have been fans of the "Flaterie Fit" and the "Magical Prada Pants" for years already! We knew long before Kathie Lee, Hoda, Oprah or Taylor Swift! The pants are amazing. These pants are the brainchild of a Canadian couple, Lisette Limoge and her husband, Neil Small. They're pull-ons with no buttons or zippers...but they are NOT "old lady pants". The fabric and a fit flattens and flatters, slims the abs, contours the hips and shapes the butt. No neef for Spanx under these fabulous pants because they shape you just fine! They have the weight and feel and look of slacks but fit like a glove. They fit and feel as though they've been tailored perfectly for you....but they're straight off the rack.

Lisette - as Seen in Marie Claire - AND at Willow Tree

As Seen In Marie Claire Magazine & at Willow Tree in Wyandotte, Lisette L Pants are the only pant with "Flaterie Fit". They're easy pull-on pants available in so many styles including boot cut, capri, ankle pant, bermuda and skirt! Truly a style, length, color, pattern & print for every taste. #1 Pant in our store. Come and see why! We are here EVERY DAY for your convenience!

"Flaterie Fit" - A Must Understand Concept!

Every woman wants to look slimmer and sexier in a great pair of pants. Look no further, Lisette L pants are here to streamline your waistline and compliment your shape with the one and only Flaterie Fit. 'Flaterie' will take you everywhere. Whether you are running to the market, or running a company, you deserve to look and feel your best. The fit and feel of Lisette L is so good, you'll want a closet full. Kathie Lee discovered Lisette L in a Florida boutique, and she and Hoda have been raving about Lisette L on The Today Show ever since, enthusiastically sharing with the audience, "they fit like a dream!" Now they're Oprah's "go to" pant, too! Never has there been a product so easy to slip on that delivers such gorgeous results. Lisette L pants address the body issues that most women struggle with. They slim the lower abdomen, contour the hips and shape the behind without the feeling of being bound in tight. Lisette L pants hold you close but they let you breathe, with comfort and mobility in incredibly soft stretchy fabric. Women love throwing them on like a favorite pair of leggings. The secret, their special rayon, nylon and spandex stretch fabric and uniquely constructed waistband. They are affectionately called "Magical Prada Pants". Come in and we'll tell you why! We're here for your convenience EVERY DAY!

Lisette L Pants: Oprah's Favorite and a Willow Tree Customer Favorite

Talk about a ringing endorsement. When one of the most famous people on the planet wears a pant - not once but several times, you've know you've got a home run. Looking chic and sporty, Oprah Winfrey graced two covers (October 2013 and March 2014) as well as several inside pages of O, The Oprah Magazine, rockin' pants by Lisette L. Lisette L has become a media darling with top fashion magazine editor's picks in Good Housekeeping, More, Marie Claire, Harper's Bazaar and Glamour. The pants hit the big time when NBC's The Today Show co-hosts Kathie Lee Gifford and Hota Kotb held a pair up saying that the pants "fit like a dream." "Well, now that Taylor Swift is said to love the pants, they're serving many generations from mothers to daughters and granddaughters. The tummy control waistline is a hit as it doesn't cut off your waist when you sit down. The pants wash and pack well, too," The pants, which go up to size 16, come in numerous styles (capri, boot cuts, skinnies, flairs and straight), colors and prints, including polka dots, gingham, medallions and leopard. You MUST come in and try on a pair!