Spring Break Packing Essentials

There's a lot of excitement with spring break quickly approaching! As you begin to put your bags together for a vacation in the sun, make sure you keep Flourish in mind for all the fun spring break shopping you want to do before you leave. Here's a quick list of essentials for the warm weather that you shouldn't leave home without:

Your Favorite Maxi

Maxis are trendy this season, so what better way to take advantage of them for the first time this spring on spring break? You can go with a maxi skirt, which will give you the perfect opportunity to wear a crop top or a fun tank with it, or you can choose to pack a maxi dress! Either one will bring out your best beach look. This new mint pleat maxi with an ivory and gold top is the best of both worlds! It gives off the illusion of a tank and skirt combo, but in reality is a one-piece maxi dress! This Spring Green Maxi Dress is another great option, especially for time spent by the sea!

A Great Pair of Denim

A comfortable and stylish pair of shorts is key for spring break! With a great pair of denim that can be worn with a couple of different tops, you'll have more room in your suitcase for more great outfits! You cant go wrong with a pair by Miss Me. These shorts can go with anything from the Meet Me In The Meadow Tank to something with more layers such as the new coral ivory fringe kimono. There are millions of other possibilities for this pair of denim shorts, so be sure not to leave them at home!

Something With Sparkle

For all the fun days and nights you'll be having this break, it never hurts to add a little sparkle. This new light pink tank with jewels or this sequined tribal print top will have you feeling great with a bit of extra shine. A pair of white jeans would look great with both but the choice is up to you!

A Go-To Dress 
 

Every girl needs a feel-good, go-to dress for vacation. Something cute and comfortable is the key to all the best shopping trips and lunch outings you'll make time for over spring break! The Sailing Away Dress is fun to accessorize, but can also be worn just on its own! Definitely consider finding that great-fitting dress for yourself before heading off.



Flourish is constantly adding new arrivals that are perfect for spring break to the website! Be sure to check out the spring looks before heading off on vacation at FlourishBoutique.com!

Spring 2014 Trends

Here it is. The New Year! 2014 has already been a memorable one. We are just on the 6th day of this year and already have had our first EVER adult snow day! Scoping out this next seasons fashion trends, it looks like this Spring will be memorable as well! So far we are looking at some trends that we know all too well (yay!), and some that are just making their entrance on the catwalk. Sneak peek? Aztec, pastels, black and white! OH MY!

Leggings

And you thought the leggings were just sticking around for the holidays! Nope! They are here to stay and we cannot complain! Adding more than just a pop of color and design to your wardrobe, this trend shows of your personality in any outfit. Some of our leggings are even fleece lined, so if you are always cold (like me), these will be perfect for you. Chances are, you will be cold until June, and we are pretty sure this trend will still be here then :) Spices up any tunic, dress, or long top with one of 2014's Spring trends!

Scotland Yard Patterned Leggings

Sea & Sky Patterned Leggings

Pastels

After a winter like the Midwest has had, we are looking forward to all things Spring! Sunny warm weather, blue skies, green grass. Color. We are looking forward to color. What can be more cheerful and bring more styles than an array of bright and girly colors? Beautiful pastels are making their way onto the catwalk and into our hearts. We are seeing them now in a few of our dresses and new PIKO tops, so get them now and be a trend setter! 

Mint Melody Dress

Pretty in Piko top in Lilac

Chevron

THANK GOODNESS chevron isn't going anywhere! We are seeing it on everything! Pants, shirts, dresses, leggings, you name it. Hopefully we all have something in chevron, but you can NEVER have enough, right? Knowing that this is a trend that isn't leaving with 2013, you know that you need more chevron! Here are some fun new styles that will take you into this 2014 Spring season on trend.

Natural Gemstones Top

Jump for Joy Patterned Leggings

Preppy Points Chevron Dress

Black and Whites

Although black and white may not be our first grab out of the closet coming into the Spring season, we can rest easy in knowing that we will always have something trendy this year! Add just a pop of color with a scarf and you will be right on trend. Or how about some black and white options that already have a bit of color or personality?!

          

Sequins and Stripes Top

Aztec Alamode Dress

Two if by Sea Top

You see? 2014 won't be too scary! We are continuing so many trends from the 2013 year as well as adding some great trends that will SO improve our closet! Didn't see anything you can't live without? No worries! We have so many more options to love on our website! Happy Shopping, Flourish ladies!

This Years BEST Christmas Presents!

Let's be honest, this blog post is for the husbands who don't have the first clue about what their wife wants for Christmas. This post is for the girls who have mom's that have exchanged more gifts than they've kept. This post is for the new wife who is frantically trying to get something for her now mother-in-law. This post is just for everyone who have better luck shopping for a stranger than one of their family members or loved ones. Raise your hand if you can't relate to ONE of those scenarios. Well..good thing I can't see through this computer screen ;)

Here is a look at this seasons hottest trends and outfits, and are guaranteed to put a smile on the face of the lady who receives it! 

Cardigans

Cardigans are something that will never go out of style. You can throw them over a dress, top, anything. Cardigans can be worn by any lady, no matter the age, while still being super flattering. That makes this one of our best Christmas presents for the year! The tribal pattern has been especially popular this season, though the stripe and solid color will go with anything and be something they can wear for years to come!

Western Whims Cardigan
Sass N' Stripes Cardigan
Gotta Get it Cardigan in Grey

Sweaters
This time of year, more than any other, the ladies in your life are looking for simple ways to dress up without having to be freezing cold. Yes, we love dresses and WILL wear them even when it is a shocking 1 degree outside if we have to, but we love options! Sweaters add so much variety and cuteness without much effort, which is a breath of fresh air! Ponchos have very recently made a comeback (woo!) and we have a few color options here! Impress her with a gift like one of these sweaters below!

Slouchy Stylish Sweater
Draped and Dreamy Poncho Sweater
On the Spot Top

Anything Chevron
You can't go wrong with Chevron. It has stolen our hearts and doesn't appear to be going anywhere anytime soon. The Chevron pattern immediately makes any outfit fun, and it looks great on almost everyone. Because it isn't your typical horizontal straight stripe, it doesn't add inches to any waistline. It actually has the opposite affect! It is a bold and fun trend that you definitely can't miss.

Jolly Chevron Dress
Joyful Chevron Tunic
Mocha and Java Chevron Tunic
Bottoms
A girl can never have too many pairs of jeans. We have so many great options for putting your lady in something flattering and comfortable! Miss Me is famous for their embroidered and jeweled denim. With their elaborate detailing and embellishments, Miss Me jeans are perfect for those who love to stand out! Seven For All Mankind is also the best premium denim value for your money! The black pant shown below is known for being extremely flattering on any size, visually taking off one pant size! We also have a great variety of leggings that are fleece lined! So, those evenings where she just HAS to wear that dress in 1 degree weather, she will be feeling a little warmer with that extra layer :p 

Jet Set Bootcut Jeans by Miss Me
The Skinny in Black by Seven for All Mankind
The Perfect Legging in Black

Stocking Stuffers
And then there are the stocking stuffers. Ah, but this is the easy part! Did you know females love scarves?! "Oh but she has plenty of scarves, she won't want another." No! She will! Not only do we have scarves, we also have adorable headwraps and handmade hats! All of these would fit perfectly in her stocking :)

To Infinity Scarf in Ivory
Headed to Starbucks Hat
Touch of Turban Headwrap in Black

Fall into Chevron

Fall is just around the corner! And while chevron was this summer's BIGGEST trend, don't expect to see it take a backseat in the fall. Chevron will be making its way into many styles again this upcoming season. Unlike the summer though, it will be featured in slightly more muted chevron designs. Classic colors like black and white will be well represented, as well as smaller design elements in clothing.

So if you are a chevron fan, there is no need to worry. It will be transitioning well into the fall. Here are a few of our newest fall chevron pieces!

1. Cloaked In Chevron Cardigan

2. Weave Your Way Into Chevron Sweater

 

1. Can You Say Chevron Cardigan

2. Layer in Chevron Scarf in Blue

 

1. Fall Walk Chevron Sweater

2. Chevrons In The Wild Top

Fashion & Interior Design Inspiration

Have you ever noticed how trends tend to follow one another around? Take a look around at what is popular in design and you will likely notice how it trickles into multiple areas. One area where this is often very relevant is in fashion and home decor. The relationship between these two design avenues generally leads to them mimicking one another. Let's face it, if you are willing to wear a certain style on your body, you are most likely going to enjoy seeing it around your home. We've taken a look at three current trends and compared how they influence one another in the design world.

The first trend is one you have probably seen all over: chevron. This pattern really took off in the fashion world and has been a big influence in the recent spring and summer styles. Once the pattern caught on in all throughout fashion, it hit the world of home interior. Chevron is nothing new-- it has been around for quite some time. However, here are some new places you may see chevron around the home!

 

1. Chevron Bedding - Target 2. Chevron Stairs

3. Chevron Table Runner 4. Chevron Curtains - West Elm

1. Chevron in the City Dress 2. Cutie Chevron Top in Black and White

3. Sky Gazer Chevron Dress 4. Uncharted Chevron Dress

5.Candy Stripped Chevron Blouse

Unless you live on the coast, nautical design isn't as prevalent as other styles, especially here in the Midwest. However, every now and then it makes its way into the trendy category, which is where it currently exists. Nautical design is full of stripes, navy, red, white and gold. All of these can be seen as a strong trend in the fashion and interior design realms right now. Again, it is a classic, so most people tend to enjoy it.

  

 1. Bath Mat - West Elm 2. Bedding  

3. Wall Art 4.Throw Pillow - Etsy

 

1. Classic Shift Dress 2. Anchors Away Top

3. Perfectly Poised Dress 4. Maiden Voyage Cardigan

5. Coastal Chic Dress

This last one is my personal favorite. I have a big love for stripes and I know I am not the only one. Stripes are very trendy in fashion this summer. Ranging from vertical, horizontal to mismatched patterns, stripes can been seen in all sizes and colors. This is another great classic look which is sneaking into a more vital role in interior design. The great things about stripes is that you can go from dramatic to subtle with the size of the stripe. Thick, contrasting colors make a bit statement, while thin lines are less noticeable.

 

1. Shower Curtain - West Elm 2. Kitchen Canisters

3. Striped Wall 4. Office Desk

 

1. High-Low Gorgeous Dress 2. Proud to be Preppy Dress

3. Put Together Dress in Green 4. Mint Tear Drop Top

5.  Scalloped & Sweet Skirt

If you're not one to take big design risks with either your wardrobe or home, give one of these three looks a try. Not only are they right on trend, they're classic enough that you will enjoy them for more than one season. Next time you're out shopping, take a look around and you will see how these two facets have a big influence on one another. Happy Styling!

Five of our Fave Ways to Wear Chevron Dresses!

Here at Flourish Boutique we are WELL aware of the importance of Chevron this summer, and we want you to be FULLY prepared. To help you master this trend we have put together a blog post completely dedicated to the different styles of Chevron Dresses we recommend trying. Don't worry- there are PLENTY so we're positive you will find the perfect one for  you :)


Way #1: Maxis

Another major trend of the summer is maxi dresses, so combining the two just feels natural. Whether you want a little bit of chevron or a lot of it, these dresses can check two trends off of your summer shopping list. Paired with heels or flats, statement jewelry, or a fun bag, these dresses are as versatile as they are comfortable. Wear them to your next girls night and you are sure to receive a LOT of "oohs" and "aahs" from your best gals!

Top Left: Mint Mantra Maxi

Bottom Left: Walk This Way Maxi in Coral, Mint, and Lilac

Middle: Walk This Way Maxi II

Right: Coastal Living Dress

Way #2: Straight Up.

These dresses don't play games. They are all Chevron, all the time. The best things about them? The sleeves make them absolutely perfect for places like the office, where you should be a little more conservative and professional. Also, they make your life easier! They are grab-and-go: one piece to an entire outfit, and boom! your morning routine is 10 minutes shorter.  Add some statement jewelry to spice up your day or leave them alone to let the dresses speak for themselves. 

Top Left: Cute and Colorful Chevron Dress

Bottom Left: Cheeky Chevron Dress

Middle Left: Citrus Chevron Dress

Middle Right: All the Colors Chevron Dress

Top Right: Shimmee Into Chevron Dress

Bottom Left: Cream and Classic Black Chevron Dress

Way #3: Asymmetrical Chevron

Not all Chevrons are made alike, and these sleeve and skirt options will be sure to peak your interest. If you like to switch up your looks, these dresses are perfect for you! Whether you choose the one shoulder, no shoulder, or vertical options, you'll show everyone how fashion forward you really are!

Left: Vertical Jump Dress

Middle: Positive Energy Dress

Top Right: Lightening Crashes Dress in Blue

Bottom Right: Hey Shortie Dress (In Store Only)

Bottom Far Right: Shoulder Into Chevron Dress

Way #4: Chevron PLUS!

Don't want "just" a Chevron Dress? Add some more to it! Two of our favorite Chevrons have bows in the back for an extra girly feel. Perfect for the flirty look you wanted for your next date out with that special someone. Want to go edgy instead? This Chevron Dress mixes two Chevron patterns AND has a cut-out in the back.

Left: Missoni Mission Dress (In Store Only)

Top Right: Let Loose Chevron Dress (In Store Only)

Bottom Right: All A-Bow-T Chevron Dress

Last but not Least, #5: The "T's"- Tanks and Two Tones

One of our favorite Chevron dresses comes in tank form (and two colors!). This "Chevron Summer Dress" comes in Coral and Mint and can easily be dressed up with belts and statement jewelry. 

Don't want a dress that's entirely Chevron? Get one that is only half Chevron! Whether you like the top half or bottom half in Chevron, these two dresses give you the simplicity of a one-piece outfit, but the diversity of two. 

Top Left: So Pretty in Spearmint Dress

Bottom Left: Chevron Summer Dress in Coral

Middle: Summer Vacation Dress

Right: Chevron Summer Dress in Mint

With this many Chevron options, you'll surely be able to find one that fits your exact style. And with Chevron being such a hit this summer you won't want to miss out on this fun fashion trend!

Summer Trends-- Is your closet ready?

We are just 11 days away from Memorial Day-- which in our book, marks the beginning of summer! Everyone is ready for sunny weather, grilling out and Saturdays by the pool. But is your closet ready? If no, don't worry, we're prepared to fill you in on five of the big trends you'll see this summer! 

1. Cut Off Shorts -- Yep, they're coming back, which is awesome. How great is it that you can take all your old jeans, cut them off into shorts and be in trend. Great, huh! But if you're not into a DIY style, that's ok too. There are plenty of flattering and fashion friendly styles in stock,

1. Flower Child Cut Offs by Miss Me

2. Torn Between Two Lovers Shorts by KUT

2. Chevron Dresses -- Your not really surprised are you? Chevron has been in trend for awhile but this summer you'll see it come out full force in dresses-- sun dresses, maxis-- you name it and it'll be chevron. But let's be honest, these dresses are just too cute!

1. Crayola Chevron Dress

2. Summer Vacation Dress

3. Statement Necklaces -- Big and bold! That's the jewelry that will be worn this summer. Bright colors along with big statement necklaces will be the centerpiece of most outfits. Jewels, colored stones and bead bibs necklaces will certainly take center stage.

1. Drops of Jupiter Necklace Set

2. Bright and Beaded Necklace Set

4. White -- Clean, classic and chic! There will be lots of white popping out, which is especially good for days in the sun. White on white combinations are extra chic and definitely adorable. So load up on the white, while you can. Just be careful to carry extra napkins at the picnic, so your adorable white pants don't become polka-dotted!

1. Strips of Shimmer Tunic

2. Vintage Vixen Shorts

5. Gold Jewelry -- It went into hiding for a little while, but gold jewelry is coming back out. You will see gold adornments on clothing, and necklaces and bangles...the list goes on! It is no longer "your mothers color," soon you'll be asking her to borrow some of favorite gold pieces!

1. Gold Chain Necklace

2. Join the Crew Necklace in Gold

Happy Summer Styling!

 

Mother's Day 2013 Was A Big Hit!

Well, Mother's Day 2013 is a wrap and we have to say we had a lot of fun here at Flourish Boutique celebrating everything mom!  We had some huge sales on new cute clothes and great deals on our clearance items as well.  It was a blast seeing so many of our wonderful customers in person at the boutique, as well as shipping out lots of orders from the weekend to our fans from all over the US as well!  Our most popular items from this weekend seemed to be chevron dresses, funky statement necklaces, our new cutoff shorts, and Ali Oesch Jewelry.  Hopefully if you stopped in you scored some great loot yourself!

But, my favorite part of how we celebrated Mother's Day at Flourish, was the extra special photo shoot we did.  We normally have two photo sessions per week where we photograph our new inventory on our regular models.  We decided a while back though to ask several sets of Mothers and Daughters to guest model for us and feature images and looks together!  Not only was this a blast to do with these special women, but I think it's a great testimony to how Flourish clothes really do work for a wide variety of ages and shapes.  Everyone of these women looked stunning, and you can see how much fun they were having too!

So here are some of our favorite images from our Mother Daughter photo shoots!

Left to Right: Dakota, mom Jamie, and Payton model Flourish looks from Designers Including
Blu Pepper,  Ya Los Angeles, Mystree, and  NYDJ.

Left to Right" Payton, Jamie, and Dakota rock some looks from Flourish Boutique, featuring some of our fave designers including 7 For All Mankind and Double Zero....as well as some of springs best trends including ombre, crochet, and chevon patterns!

Amy and her daughter Emily look adorable in Tiffany Blue and Lots of Sparkle!.  Amy is a well known author and blogger!  Make sure to check out her tips on living the Good Life for Less and her site www.MomAdvice.com

Amy and Emily rocking spring florals and bold chevrons!  Dress can be purchased here: http://flourishboutique.com/dresses-1.html

Our Store manager Nicole is beautiful inside and out, so we were thrilled when she agreed to model with her stunning step daughter Salin!  Both of these women just glowed!  Check out Salin's cute dress by M-rena here: http://flourishboutique.com/comfy-soft-dress-in-tangerine.html

More gorgeousness from Nicole and Salin!  Love, love, love these stunning dresses by Minuet, who makes some of our cutest party and cocktail dresses for affordable prices at www.FlourishBoutique.com!