Falling for Dillard's designs: Gianni Bini

In a couple of days, I am flying off to Little Rock to visit my mom and to (hopefully) go shopping with her. In preparation for this, I decided to google department stores in the Little Rock area to determine the best spots to hit up for dresses. As a Chicagoan, I am massively spoiled when it comes to the number of department stores in a 5 mile radius of my apartment (Macy's, Lord & Taylor, Nordstrom, etc). Umm, no Macy's in Little Rock? No Nordstrom? Where do people shop?? Dillard's. With a bit of disdain, I perused the Dillard's website...and fell in love with Gianni Bini designs.

In August 2001, Vince Camuto (co-founder of Nine West) launched several footwear brands for Dillard's, including Gianni Bini.  Gianni Bini has now expanded to include a clothing line and handbags. Overall, Gianni Bini dresses have received high points for style and versatility and the shoes are considered to be edgy, yet remarkably comfortable. Not to mention the fun colors in the new Spring and Summer collections! 

I almost couldn't stop myself from purchasing the following dresses and shoes online, but managed a little bit of self-restraint with the thought that I could try them on in just a couple of days. And yes, in case you're wondering, the shoes are placed strategically below the dresses to match!

(From left to right) Gianni Bini Bogan Dress - $119, Gianni Bini Della Strapless Dress - $139, Gianni Bini Cabrina Sheer-Overlay Maxi Dress - $109, Gianni Bini Greta Dress - $77.40

(From left to right) Gianni Bini Torrie Patent Flats - $59.99, Gianni Bini Twinkle Jeweled T-Strap Pumps - $89.99, Gianni Bini Traci T-Strap Sandals - $79.99, Gianni Bini Lizzie Wedges - $59.99

Adoring Axara and American Rag

Alliteration anyone (almost!)? On a recent trip to New Jersey, my mother-in-law and I visited a wonderful little boutique named Angel Hearts in New Hope, PA. There I discovered the French designer Axara and all I can say is: J'adore Axara. Axara mixes lace and embroidered pieces with French elegance and feminine allure creating silhouettes that are flattering for any figure type. 

At the same time that I fell in love with Axara, I received my first pair of American Rag wedges. American Rag is a relatively new brand being sold exclusively at Macy's. Not only are the Gracii espadrille heels flirty with a vintage feel, but incredibly comfortable despite their 4-1/2" wedge height. And they complement the Summer/Spring 2013 Axara clothing line theme to an "A"!

Axara meet American Rag - love at first pairing!

Axara & American Rag in Black

(Left) Axara Robe Bimatiere Noir, 245 Euros (Middle) American Rag in Black, $59 (Right) Short Effet Tweed Dore, 135 Euros

Axara & American Rag in Natural/Ecru

(Left) Axara Robe Dentelle Ecru, 252 Euros (Middle) American Rag in Natural, $59 (Right) Veste Courte Blanc, 290 Euros

And in case you were wondering whether the Gracii wedges are as cute as they are made out to be in Macy's online images, the answer is a resounding 'Yes'!