Goosalicious

Winter Essentials

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Thu, 24 Oct 2013 19:05:00 +0000

Are you feeling the squeeze? Our Fall transitional period is just about over and we're coming to the realization that Winter is just around the corner. Right around 30 degrees, I will officially convert to "winter mode". Okay, let's be honest. I've pretty much already made the switch. Maybe you have too.

If you're still wondering exactly what you need to stay warm, yet fashionable, let's take a look at this very simple list:

1) 3-4 pairs of skinny or straight leg bottoms: wide legs are still fine, they just aren't as warm:-(
2) 3-4 pairs of leggings: opt for black, grey, brown & a fun neutral print
3) 1-2 pairs of fun tights: yes, I said fun! --go floral, geometric or anything to jazz things up a bit
4) 4-5 tank tops: think layers people!! it's a cheap investment for staying warm
5) 4-5 long sleeve basic tees: another great layering must-have
6) 10-12 tops of varying lengths and colors: you'll be wearing these with denim and leggings, so change it up!
7) 5-6 sweaters: pullovers, cardigans, long & short; neutrals are great, but don't be afraid to throw in a green, mustard, ruby red or a crazy print; you'll be amazed how well they work back to your entire wardrobe.
8) 6-8 scarves: these are a life-saver! infinity, rectangle, solids, prints, thin, & cozy thick--they all have an essential place in your wardrobe.
9) 5-6 pairs of shoes/boots: shoes make the outfit...enough said.

Now here's the good news, you probably already have a lot of this in your closet. If not, here's a second piece of good news. We can help you get there pretty easily. Email us (halley@shopthepurplegoose.com) and we can make some very easy recommendations.

Introducing: The Vintage Nest!

noreply@blogger.com (Halley J) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 04:19:00 +0000

Delve into creativity mode with just a quick peak at the new upstairs of The Purple Goose. Affectionately named, The Vintage Nest is sure to inspire you to recreate a space of your own to "perch and ponder". Like this menu board...LOVE that idea. I think I'll go home and make space for it right now. Or how about a sunny new lamp as the finishing touch on a newly decorated bedroom? A moveable wine bar for holiday entertaining? Look how clever that is! And not only are these items super practical and fun, they are all priced to go, go, go! Each month, the space is re-invented by four talented local designers. Trust me, they don't want to be bringing this stuff back home.

So, stop in and take a peak. I'm pretty sure you'll be finding just the piece you've been looking for. Oh, and we'll happily take special requests too!

PG (HEARTS) Community

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 01:39:00 +0000

Photo Credit: 2012, Timothy Hughes, www.th-photo.net

The Purple Goose participated in the 2nd annual DAIS (Domestic Abuse Intervention Services) fashion show. It was a blast for everyone involved. Sometimes making a difference is a LOT of fun. We were able to be part of helping to raise nearly $12,000!!! Which feels great especially because it feels like all we had to do was look fantastic for an evening.

PG (HEARTS) Community. It's not simply because we share the same favorite color with DAIS that we strongly believe in helping our community. The fact that it is fashion does help, but that isn't entirely it either. The Purple Goose is a member of the community and all of us that work here believe in the difference that it can make.

But fashion shows aren't the only thing that we do for the community. We've been sponsoring raffle prizes & donations for local charities/schools since the beginning of The Purple Goose. And for a while we didn't toot our own horn or even let anyone know. Mostly because Halley thought that was just what a local business does- gives back to the community. And she is right, that is how it should be.

Photo Credit: 2012, Timothy Hughes, www.th-photo.net

Basically shopping at The Purple Goose = supporting your community. And you get some amazing clothes and gifts in the process. Here is a list of some of the local goodness we have sponsored in the past. We aren't Target so we aren't able to give back millions, but we feel pretty good about what we can do.

~Lauren

P.S. Do you have a cause close to your heart? Learn more about our Shop and Donate events on our community tab right here.

2nd Annual Goose's Garden Party

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Tue, 26 Jun 2012 18:38:00 +0000

It's that time again! The gardens at The Purple Goose are ready to feature some of our favorite local artists as well as some new ones. You get to see the artist's whole collection first hand- just like we do when buying for the store!

Some of the artists featured this year include:

Janet Marie Felted Goods

Cobalt Studios

Buzz Cards

Whimsey House Designs

Mim and Jules

See you there!

Style File Friday: Mad Rollin Dolls

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 22:02:00 +0000

Queens of the Damned is this, the second bout of the season, theme. And yes you do get bonus points for dressing as a vampire. Seriously there will be a prize awarded for the best vampire costume. If you have yet to go to a MRD (Mad Rollin Dolls) bout (ie match, game, fight) you are in for a real treat. The athletes- and yes they really are athletes are greatly entertaining even when the rules seem vague to the laymen. The fans and crowd are very involved which creates for some of the best people watching in Madison. If you have already been ordained by a MRD bout then why not bring a friend or two over to the dark side? It is a truly Madison pastime and it seems the weather will be perfect for being indoors.

The Queens of the Damned Outfit:

Flower Cardigan: $58
Layered Necklace: $24

White Tee: $28
Mavi Denim: $98

~Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: Cyclocross Nationals!

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 21:47:00 +0000

You may have noticed the influx of bikers in Verona/Madison starting Wednesday and chalked it up getting people out on their bikes enjoy the record breaking temps. But you'd be mistaken, it's the Cyclcocross Nationals Championship that run thru Sunday and it is some seriously intense competition. Yes, they did mean to schedule an event in Wisconsin in January and outside of all places and no these record high temps were not part of the plan. Find out more about this mind blowing sport right here. *You will want to wear some waterproof boots you don't mind getting completely covered in mud (I know of some in a certain sale room that would be perfect). It looks like it is going to be the perfect weekend to get out of the house. So take advantage of it while we still have it. Also if you are there on Saturday stop in and say hi to Halley at the Chamber of Commerce tent/booth, she'll be there volunteering.

Cyclocross Nationals (spectator) Outfit:

Machu Picchu Sweater: $48

Purple Goose tee: $28

Nutty Necklace made locally: $36

Mavi denim: $98

~Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: A Christmas Carol

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 20:37:00 +0000

Plays are great. Plays with children actors in them are even better. I'm not talking about the middle school kind of production, as nice as those are, especially when the kid is yours. I'm talking about the real deal with kids that can act like no ones business. That's what you are in store for with productions put on by CTM. Like this weekend's A Christmas Carol. There will be actors of all ages but for me the kids steal the spotlight.

A Christmas Carol Outfit

Embellished Cardigan: $55

Black Alexa Skinny Denim by Mavi: $98

Belt by ED: $28

Printed Scarf: $24

~Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: Young St. Nick

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 21:48:00 +0000

Here at The Purple Goose, despite not having snow on the ground, it really is starting to feel like the holiday season. We started the giving season even sooner, more about that here and by joining our facebook page. If however you have yet to feel that holiday spirit, and are searching for a jump start, you should check out this weekend's Young St. Nick production at the Middleton Performing Arts Center. I certainly wish I didn't already have plans... If you go to the show promise you'll let me know all about it. Promise?

Young St. Nick Outfit:

Orange isn't a traditional holiday color and that makes it perfect in my eyes. It's fun, festive and has a touch of sparkly sheen (without being over the top). Pair with lacy tights, your favorite boots and a cardigan and you are ready for casual to dressy holiday parties and family gatherings. Since it isn't over the top holiday you'll still be wearing this outfit for the rest of the season and years to come. Plus that great belt comes with the dress.

Orange Shirt Dress: $50

Belt (included with above dress)

Knit Cardigan: $55

Local Necklace by Bridget: $22

Happy Holidays!

~Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: Madison Women's Expo

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 23:42:00 +0000

My husband is a hunter so I always find it laugh-out-loud hilarious that this is the weekend, opening weekend, that Thunder Down Under is in the area. It's almost like a bunch of the ladies in the state will be without husbands and spending time with their girl friends. :) But that isn't the event of the weekend, Madison Women's Expo is. There are a ton of entertaining, educational and just plain fun events planned. You really should check out the schedule, grab a friend and head out of the house. I'd love to hear what you liked the most!

Madison Women's Expo Outfit

Batwing Cardigan: $54

Purple Goose Button Sleeve Tee: $46

Mavi Skinnies: $78

Leather, wood and bead Necklace: $24

~ Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

DAIS Fashion Show

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 15:25:00 +0000


The Purple Goose's model Katie S. wearing Skunk Funk.

This past week The Purple Goose, along with other local boutiques, participated in the first ever Dress For DAIS Fashion Show. It was an incredible night of fashion, fun and friends. But more amazing was the fact that it was powered 100% by volunteers! Over $10,000 was raised for the new DAIS shelter.

The photographer, Timothy Hughes, has edited a few photos. More on the way...

Style File Friday: Halloween Frenzy

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:44:00 +0000

Too many spooky things to choose from for this weekend? Here are my top picks; the Historical Society has Halloween Week, there is a Haunted Woods Trail at DCHS, Beakers and Broomsticks is happening at the MCM and the ever a classic Horror In the Dark at Olin Park. Have a fun and spooky weekend!

Halloween Frenzy Outfit:

This ensemble is is sure to get you comfortably through the unpredictable temps of fall and all the spooks of this weekend!

Rib knit Purple Goose Tee: $36

Knit Coat: $70

Mavi Denim: $98

Peace Necklace: $40

~ Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: Food For Thought Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 20:13:00 +0000

This years Food For Thought Festival promises fun for everyone with a potato sack race, organic garden exhibit, chef cooking competition, local food tent, all about apples, a chat about chickens and much more! This is going to be a day of fun staring this season's produce and will perhaps propel your inspiration for next year's garden.

Food For Thought Outfit:

Grab a pair of dark wash denim, an easy to wear loose tee and a stylish scarf of your choice and you are ready for this late summer transition into fall. My favorite time of year! I'm going to get out and enjoy it.

Scarf: $24

Flow Tee: $28

Mavi Denim: $98

~ Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: Taste of Madison

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 17:28:00 +0000

Schedules and routines have changed and just because you/the kids have homework doesn't mean you should stay indoors on this lovely weekend. Get outside enjoy the lovely weather (uh em while we still have it)! Complemented with free admission and food/beves ranging $1-$4 you can afford to bring the whole family and hangout for hours listening to the live music at Taste of Madison.

Taste of Madison Outfit:

Cascade Shell: $45

Mavi Denim: $98

Tote-It-All: $48

J.Jive Necklace: $32

~ Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: Community Gardens Bike Tour

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 19:42:00 +0000

The weather is suppose to be perfect and the gardens are in full swing. What better time to be out on your bike seeing what the different communities have been growing. Oh and the Mayor will be biking with the group too! 9th Annual CAC Community Gardens Bike Tour.

Bike Tour Outfit:

Flow-Ease Dress: $42
Drape Throw-on: $32
Bobble Necklace set: $24
Belt: $19

~ Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: Moving Days

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:35:00 +0000

The students are arriving! The students are arriving! The students are arriving! And that means many are moving, swapping apartments and leaving their things behind (or perhaps you, a student, are doing it too). Looking for the perfect chair? Organizers? Or perhaps a moped? Now is the perfect time to scrounge the streets and curbs for all that goodness that gets left behind. Of course be aware that bed bugs are also making a come back. Reliving college by visiting the places I once did is great but getting bed bugs again is not on my do-it-again list. Basically if you need a pair of gloves to feel comfortable taking it home-don't get it.

Much to my husbands delight (did he plan it this way?) I won't be around for all the curb goodies this weekend. But being the junk lover that I am I'd love to see/hear about what it is you found.

The Moving Days Outfit:

V-neck T: $24
Favorite Denim:$86
J.Jive Necklace: $36

~ Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: Wisconsin State Fair

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:33:00 +0000

It's going to be just another busy summer weekend. Weddings to attend (two for me this weekend), the State Fair, plays, live music, benefits.... And that's just the way summer should be. Remembering how tiring and jam packed this part the year is can be difficult to do in the middle of the snow covered months (notice I didn't use the "W" word). So this is my little prompt (for myself and I guess you if you need it) to suck it up, smile and enjoy it while you've got it. Oh and there is a beautiful weather forecast to boot!

My favorite part of any fair is the animals. Where else does one get to see supremely groomed, fed and taken care of animals of all different breeds, types and sizes in one place? Plus nothing is more cute than a young kid excited about all of the great work they did to get there.

My second favorite is fair food, especially WI fair food. One really must plan on eating at least three meals/day at the fair. There are simply too many choices to have just one food item. Then stock up on lettuce and fat free dressing on your way home as this will be the meals for the following week. ;)

The Wisconsin State Fair Outfit:

Butterfly Wing Tee: $28

Linen Blend Shorts by It!: $68

To Life Necklace: $15

~ Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: Blooming Butterflies

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 19:58:00 +0000

It is that time again! Butterflies abound at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. It's an event that makes for great photos as they flutter, land and just plain impress. You may remember my post last year about my fascination with them. I'm happy to report I still enjoy their abilities to make me imaginative. Enjoy! Also, I'd love to see your photos!

Blooming Butterflies Outfit

A lovely drape tunic dress with jersey knit cowl neck back. Faux leather belt is detachable for versatility.

Tunic Dress: $44

Locally made J.Jive Necklace: $32

~ Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: Rhythm and Booms

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 17:08:00 +0000

Is there really anything else to be doing this Saturday? I didn't think so. Plus when you live only two blocks away like myself you simply must have family and friends over to enjoy the day. It's either that or be gone for the whole weekend.

A strong Madison tradition, splendid weather, lots of food choices and games. Rhythm and Booms is all of that rolled into one great day of fun!

The Rhythm and Booms Outfit:

Blue and white stripes pair classically with a locally made red button necklace. You'll be a chic version of the usual 4th of July outfits. Oh and don't forget to wear your fav pair of broken in denim.

Stripes Tank: $68

Button and Brass Necklace: $30

Boyfriend Denim: $80

Have a fun and safe holiday!

~ Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: Capital Lakes DragonFest

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 16:40:00 +0000

I'm wishing I didn't already have plans for this evening... Otherwise I would certainly be heading to Adult Swim at the Children's Museum. If you do go I'd love to hear all about it. I hope they have it again so I can attend. On with SFF...

I'm sure you have seen the rowing teams out on the Madison lakes before. Stealth, determined and FAST are a few words that come to mind when I see them. But I have yet to see a Dragon Boat in person and I'm sure it will be an equally fascinating experience. It should be an exciting day of culture, Bucky sightings, and team spirit!

The DragonFest Outift:

Bow Racer Back Tank: $35

It! Denim: $86

Vintage Button Necklace-Made by Bridget: $30

~ Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

Style File Friday: Strawberry Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 17:34:00 +0000

Sheesh! It's getting difficult to pick which event to feature. This weekend alone there is the Madison Blues Festival, awesome music on the terrace, a great print exhibit opening, the Parade of Homes (is a house really ever finished- I ~~wonder~~ hope) oh and NOT to forget Sunday is Father's Day. Once again my love of food, especially seasonal food, has helped me in my decision. That's not to say beer on the terrace sounds like a bad meal, 'cause it sounds great right about now.

The Strawberry Festival it is! It's strawberries and strawberry treats, people dressed as a strawberry, wine tasting, a 5k/10k run, craft fair, book sale, plant sale....all rolled into one delicious day.

A side note about me: One of my summer jobs growing up was at a strawberry patch. What you picked was weighted and that was how your payment was calculated. That said while picking you could eat all the strawberries you wanted. It would mean you weren't paid as much at the end of the shift because those eaten of course didn't make it into your basket. Three things I learned: 1. You can eat TOO many strawberries. 2. It's worth it unless you have to bike 3 miles home afterwards-which I often did. 3. It was one of the best jobs ever: paid to eat-almost.

So I guess what I am saying is if you plan on running that 5k/10k or taking the Zumba class, eat the strawberries, treats and wine AFTER. Same goes for the kids, inflatable games first and food later. You WILL have a fantastic time!*

The Strawberry Festival Outfit:

Dress by Scrapbook (now made in the USA!!!): $68

Bejeweled Necklace/Earring set: $24

See you at the strawberry patch!

~Lauren

{Know of an event I should feature? E-mail me with the details lauren(at)shopthepurplegoose(dot)com}

Can't get enough of Style File Fridays? Check out more here!

* Unless you do the daily events in the opposite order as prescribed.

2011 Goose's Garden Party Participants

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 02:41:00 +0000

The Complete list of this year's 2011 Goose's Garden Party participants with links to their featured blogpost.

Belts by ED
Bookbolas
Evelyn Torrez: Paper Violet Studio
Found Object Fashion
SL Furniture
Jack and Ella Paper Press
Janet Marie Felted Products
JJive
Mim and Jules
Modish Life

Scrapbugs
Tuniebird
Wise Owl Designs

Janet Marie @ The Goose's Garden Party

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 02:18:00 +0000

Colorful, natural or ohh so luxurious Janet Marie's felted products are a gift that keeps on giving. Felted soap balls make the perfect lather to entice little ones to clean up as well as pamper those of us that made it a habit years ago. Her coin purses are patterned, pretty and the utmost touchable. For the full list of tidbits about the artists at The 2011 Goose's Garden Party click here.

Tuniebird @ The Goose's Garden Party

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 02:04:00 +0000

A sure fire favorite Tuniebird (Tonya) has been exploring the sewing world with one hit after another. You probably know her best for her much sought after scrunchy headbands. She also makes the classic tie headbands and colorful wristlets. Her handbags will be debuting this Saturday at The Goose's Garden Party and I can't wait!

J Jive Jewelry @ The Goose's Garden Party

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 01:54:00 +0000

Earthy yet athletic, modern yet traditional, detailed yet simplistic. A piece of jewelry by JJive can be paired with nearly any outfit and fit in perfectly. The beauty in each unique piece is simply splendid. The pictures really do not do these pieces justice. A true must see.

Belts by ED @ The Goose's Garden Party

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 01:47:00 +0000

You may already have a collection of your own. If not, be prepared you may be tempted to start one after seeing these fantastic fabric belts. The colors and patterns are fresh and modern and there is one to fit every personality. As a special bonus ED will also have birp cloths available at The Goose's Garden Party. A sampling of what she creates can been seen on her website, Facebook page, or Etsy store.