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!