Last week I took a quick stroll down the main street of our beautiful city, Saratoga Springs. This is something I only wish I had more time to do. With the four littlemonsters, it’s so hard to find time to shop (the old-fashioned way, like in a store), nevertheless “stroll”. Whether it’s track season or the middle of a frigid winter, I ALWAYS find some gems in my downtown travels, even if I only have a few minutes to spare. Our local shops never disappoint and for THAT reason, are my GO-TOs for gifts throughout the year. Below are a few snapshots (have patience with me fashionistas, I’m not a photographer) of some things I encountered and would love in my personal summer wardrobe.
My first stop was at Caroline & Main. With its washed wood decor and coastal feel, this store screams summer. I immediately fell in love with this navy, floral fit-and-flare dress (1). From your summer wedding to a day at the racetrack, this lightweight, peter-pan collared dress topped my “favorites” list. In addition to cocktail dresses, Caroline & Main is full of fabulous casual wear, including some GREAT sandals and hats. I loved this unique beaded sandal paired with this super versatile straw hat (2) … a combination that I would wear with just about anything casual, from sundress to denim. Next, I headed to Lola Saratoga. Lola has it all in terms of accessories, and at all price points. They have a great collection of very reasonably priced statement jewelry, including colorful Baublebar tassel earrings which I frequently wear to add instant pop to any summer outfit. They also have a great selection of mid-priced handbags from Tory Burch, Kate Spade and Rebecca Minkoff (many which you’ve seen featured on my Insta feed). Lastly, and what makes Lola unique is their AMAZING selection of designer vintage pieces (might I add the ONLY place to find such luxury items locally). From Chanel bags in great condition to fun costume jewelry pieces, you’re bound to fall madly in love with something in their drool-worthy vintage cases (3). Next, I popped into Alexis Aida. The first thing that jumped out at me was their “Cupcakes and Cashmere” section, which included several items from the style blogger’s line. This navy maxi dress (4), with a colorful embroidered design and trim would get a TON of use in my closet. I could envision wearing this out and about to run errands or paired with a neutral wedge or block heel to an evening event. Next, I stopped into Violet’s of Saratoga, which also has a great mix of event dresses, casual wear and a GREAT shoe selection. These two Sam Edelman block heeled designs (5 and 6) would be perfect for your summer wedding or day at the racetrack. (And who doesn’t love a cute scallop or pale pink suede?) A few doors down is Encounter Boutique. From edgy accessories to a fabulous denim selection, Encounter never disappoints. But it was these sunglasses… I just LOVE these sunglasses (7). Tom Ford has a lot of great shaped frames, but this plastic- rimmed pilot frame (plastic = a must for moms managing little hands) are a perfect “go anywhere” sunnie. Here are some snapshots, with details to follow, of the favorites mentioned above:
- Unique Vintage Dress ($110) from Caroline & Main
- JOY Hat ($28) and Blowfish Sandal ($50) from Caroline & Main
- One of the vintage cases at Lola Saratoga. Prices Upon Request.
- Cupcakes and Cashmere Maxi Dress ($140) from Alexis Aida
- Sam Edelman Yaro Block Heel ($120) at Violet’s of Saratoga
- Sam Edelman Odila Scalloped Block Heel ($120) at Violet’s of Saratoga
- Tom Ford Plastic Rimmed Pilot Sunnies ($395) at Encounter
Most of our local shops will happily ship so don’t hesitate to contact them if something strikes your fancy! And as I’m always telling my out-of-town friends… downtown Saratoga Springs seems to get better by the day. If you haven’t taken your stroll down Broadway recently, it’s time! I promise you’ll find some gems too.
THE STYLE FILE SARATOGA 