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.