Mink

Rainy Day Outfit Inspiration!

2013-05-15T10:56:00.001-07:00

I just love mixing tough and soft! This ultra-feminine lightweight sweater is sassed up by edgy enzyme washed skinny jeans. These handmade statement earrings show that you love fashion and art! The patterned tote finishes the look off ( I'm not afraid to mix prints!)
1. Nic + Zoe Solstice Top
2. Zoe Comings Raw earrings. Coming to the shop in June! We are excited to be the only store in Portland to offer you this amazing new line from Austin, TX. Review her collection here. We are taking pre-orders.
3. Joe's Skinny Ankle Jeans in Salsa
4. Chewing the Cud tote in Tangerine Leaves from our good friends at Tilde

Make Mom Sparkle!

2013-05-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

We will be getting new jewelry arrivals all week long! New arrivals from Amy Olson, Amy Burgess, Cari Woods, Acanthus and more! Come buy mom a gift, or treat yourself! Everyone loves to sparkle :)

We love DESIGN Hisory!

2013-05-01T17:04:00.002-07:00

Check out a new line we LOVE at Mink! - DESIGN History

DESIGN History was established in 2001 and it has been recognized for it's knit and on-trend cashmere collections. Design History's apparel collection is fresh and unique with a modern stylings. Check out these tops that are in the store now - the Asymmetrical Chiffon Top

and the Jacquard Shoulder Top

This line caters to women that want to add unique statement-piece to their wardrobe. High quality mixes of yarns like luxe cashmere and viscose help capture sophistication and tailored looks. DESIGN History also uses playful embellishments and striking cuts. The Open Stitch Cardigan is a great example of fine detail and craft in making this piece from ribbon.

DESIGN History is successful in grasping the modern womens attention through flattering draping, unique buttons, and tailored fits. The look is effortless and chic; perfect for updating your wardrobe! Another good example is the Thick Thin Stripe Top shown below.

As you can see, all the tops look fantastic with denim, but you can easily be paired with with a pencil skirt, colored denim, or printed denim too! Have fun with it and be on the lookout for DESIGN History in the store now and tons of cashmere for fall!

Cheers!
Cari

Dreamy Denim in every wash!

2013-04-24T16:05:00.002-07:00

At Mink we LOVE denim! Over the last year we've majorly expanded our denim selection making us your denim destination.

Joe's Honey in Ryder

We officially have the most denim on Portland's east side! Why did we expand our denim? It was an easy decision. Portland's weather makes us the perfect place to feed a denim addiction. Our mild year-round temps make denim the perfect choice for almost any day!

Joe's Skinny Ankle Jeans in Salsa, Joe's Clean Cuffed Crop in Bonnie, Joe's Skinny Ankle in Neon Snake

You may be thinking, "Well, show me the goods! What do ya have?!" Well, we have just about everything! We're now carrying Paige, Joe's, Citizens of Humanity and Kut from the Kloth; and in each brand we have skinnys, straights, boyfriends, colors, crops and special cuts! So what's my favorite?

I personally LOVE a high-waisted skinny. It's kinda like wearing a denim girdle that not only sucks in, but shapes! The butt on the Rockets by Citizens of Humanity (pictured above) is perfection (not a long butt, but a round and perfect one). I can't wait to own these in every wash!

Another all time fav are these ultra-soft skinnys (above left) by Paige. The Skyline Ankle Peg jeans feel like your broken-in Sunday jeans while maintaining a fitted a leg and a sculpted bottom. The waistband is lined in super-soft cotton, which not only makes them extra soft, but ensures the waist will never stretch out! So feel the freedom of buying the size you love in our store and feeling just as fab wearing them on day 10 as you did on day 1!

The dark skinny Jimmy Jimmy Boyfriend Skinny on the right are a cool, classic dark wash. I love their slouchy waist and their comfy leg. But what I love most is that the dark denim allows me to dress them up! Almost unheard of in a boyfriend cut!

The Ava by Citizens is a much more structured denim. I feel like I could do some major damage to these suckers and they still would be looking good and making me look good. I also love that they maintain their shape. I basically never wash them (don't tell my mom), and they just keep looking better and better!

Last, but certainly NOT least are the Hidden Hills High Rise boot cut from Paige. This jean sports a super-high waist and the leg has a nice trouser-esque flair. Not only do my thighs look a full size smaller, but no muffin top EVER!!

We of course have a ton more styles in the store! We love helping you find the perfect pair of jeans--it's a true game-changer in your closet! XO--Carla

Welcome Acanthus Jewelry

2013-04-22T10:50:00.000-07:00

Welcome Acanthus Jewelry!

We are happy to announce a beautiful new local jewelry line to the Mink family; Acanthus, started by Nichole McIver. Her goal is the hand craft elegant, feminine pieces that look and feel like they have a long history behind them.

From the delicate Gemma earring and pendant necklace pictured above left and center, to the Laurel leaf hoop, pictured below center, there is a beauty in this mix to fit just about every style and outfit.

With this wonderful jewelry line you can dress up your t-shirt and jeans or add a piece or two to your favorite dress and they work beautifully no matter what! We are absolutely loving this jewelry and once you try it on and see how the necklaces float on your neck, and the earrings dance in your ears, you will be a thrilled as we are!
And as an added bonus we will be running a Mother's day jewelry promotion from Thursday May 9th thru the 12th so you can get your favorites from Acanthus and so much more! More details coming soon!
If you have any questions contact us or come on in and check it out :)
-Jamie

Layer up with the Perfect Cardigan!

2013-04-16T10:27:00.000-07:00

It's cardigan weather! One day is warm and the next is cool; plus we always have a breeze that makes any bare arms prickle with goosebumps. Luckily, we have you covered! We've got a cardigan for every day of the week! I just love these Nic+Zoe cardigans below.

The This and That cardigan on the left is REVERSIBLE! That's two super-cute sweaters in one! The Oceanside cardy at the upper right is so light and breathable it will keep you warm now and transition seamlessly into summer (or vacation) weather. Lastly, the sheer Breeze cardy on the lower right has a fashionable dolman sleeve that keeps you covered without hiding your cute top.

Ash, Rain, and Oak, a super-small new (to us) designer specializes in knits and cutting-edge fashion and design. The Open Weave cardigan on the left merges fashion and function. I just love this classic body with this edgy texture! The Color Block cardy in the middle brings together color-blocking with a nubby slub fabric. Lastly, the Intarsia Cardigan on the right with its nuetral palette and cool Aztec-inpired design is just plain drool-worthy. We only have a medium and a large left so if you love it, come get it quick :)

There's nothing wrong with basics! These lightweight basic cardigans from Kerisma are a staple for any wardrobe. They're easy to wear and super-soft and comfy.

Last but certainly not least is this cool Open Stich cardigan from Design History. It's a ribbon-woven cardigan in a taupe (left). Yes, it's ribbons! It's the most amazing texture and is a piece worth a second look and lots of wear! We only have an extra small and a medium left, so if you love it come and try it on! The middle cardigan is simply a lovely basic. The Pretty Pointelle cardigan on the right pairs perfectly with a dress, or layers with a long cami underneath if you're into the cropped trend!

Layer up and enjoy our crazy spring weather! I personally always use this weather as a great excuse to SHOP! We are here to help you feel and look fabulous, so please let me know if you have any questions!

XO--Carla

The Many Shades of Green

2013-04-09T14:43:00.000-07:00

The Many Shades of Green

Green is the color for Spring 2013. The options are endless from emerald, sage, mint, teal, lime, moss, turquoise, apple, jade, evergreen and on and on and I love them all! Why do I love green? It's flattering on almost any skin type and makes any shade of eye stand out. For example this Velvet top in mint green (above left) is super-flattering and the soft minty shades near the face make everyone look pretty. You'll also love the Charlotte Tarantola sweater in a seafoam green stripe sweater (above right).

From left to right, Joe's jeans in tropical, Charlotte Tarantola sweater, Velvet tee

Pictured above you see a great pair of Joes Jeans in tropical, a standout Charlotte Tarantola sweater in a grass stripe and a minty Velvet top. We are loving the Joes Jeans, in their super soft denim & easy to wear style of an ankle skinny. The Charolette Tarantola top is fantastic with the wide green stripe and the barely there print of leopard that slims your torso. Our minty Velvet top elongates your frame with the exaggerated, longer right side and rouging in the center creates visual interests as well as slimming effects. All three green pieces can be paired with neutrals, prints, and textures that will accentuate their shade of green.

There are so many shades of green this spring... but don't forget a favorite, kelly green which is seen in our Akiko silk top and silk dress below. I love, love, love the Akiko line and especially this top and dress. Both pieces are flattering on all body shapes. They are easy everyday pieces that can be casual or jazzed up depending on your accessories.

Go green with accessories too! Scarfs are a must for this cooler, ever changing weather! Green jewelry can make an outfit go from drab to fab. Check out this jewelry from local jewelry artist's Amy Burgess and Amy Olson.

Have fun with color this spring!

-Cari

Color us Spring!

2013-03-28T16:24:00.000-07:00

This time of year it's easy to be inspired by all the beautiful blooms! The world is exploding with color and so is our store!I just love the Faded Flower top by Uttam. Slightly sheer and a tad edgy this top takes your outfit to a colorful new level. I also love that the black background is easy to outfit with!


Uttam Faded Flower Blouse

The Jemema Dress from Velvet is pretty much the perfect spring dress! It has a lovely neutral palette, and the print is super-wearable!


Jemema Dress by Velvet

Colorful slacks add just the right kick of color, making a hum-drum outfit unforgettable! We just love the Perfect Pant from Nic + Zoe. It has a 10" rise and cropped leg making it both work and weekend worthy. Bonus - we just got this pant in white too!

The Perfect Pant by Nic + Zoe

Lastly, a happy knit just makes me...well, happy! The Spring Garden knit top by Nic + Zoe is neutral enough to go with denim, slacks, or a skirt, but noteworthy enough to make a statement!

The Spring Garden top by Nic + Zoe

Let spring influence your mood and your wardrobe. Add some color and be happy!! And YES we are open on Easter :) XO- Carla

Win Free Denim, Our Party is Tomorrow!

2013-03-22T12:07:00.003-07:00

Deets for tomorrow (Saturday 3/23). It's our 6 year anniversary!

15% off denim. If we run out of your size, don't worry! We've checked with our vendors and we can order any sizes we sell out of. Web customers - your code is DENIMRULES & let us know what items you want to win in the comments. One entry per $100.

Raffle items: We are raffling 4 pair of premium denim! We'll custom-order them in your size/wash.

Joe's
Paige
Citizens of Humanity
Kut from the Kloth

Other amazing items:

3 silk blouses compliments of Language
1 silk blouse compliments of Weston Wear
Amy Olson sterling and gold fill necklace
Amy Burgess sterling and semi-precious gemstone necklace
Cari Woods semi-precious gemstone necklace

The more you buy, the better your odds for winning! Everyone who purchases earns a raffle ticket and additional tickets are earned in $100 increments of purchase.

Free gift with purchase on all purchases of $100 or more while supplies last!

Lastly, I was on vacation last week, so no new pics were posted on our website, but this week I took TONS and the website is being updated every 5 minutes--kinda like power shopping :) Here's a sneak peak:


From straight leg, skinny, cuffed cropped, colored, bootcut and more, we are your denim destination. We will custom fit you into great denim styles from our favorite designers--Paige, Joes Jeans, Citizens of Humanity, and Kut from the Kloth. Nothing is more fabulous then getting new denim in your wardrobe, right? :)

See you Saturday! XO--Carla

6-Year Anniversary Party!

2013-03-17T18:06:00.005-07:00

We're turning 6 years old!! Come in and help us celebrate! We'll be holding a denim raffle where you can win free, yes FREE, denim! We'll be giving away 4 free pairs of premium jeans throughout the day! And in honor of our new denim line Paige, we're having an awesome sale:15% off all denim!
But that's not all! All purchases over $100 will receive a FREE GIFT!

If you're a web customer use the code DENIMRULES to get your discount on Saturday:)

Here are just a few of the premium denim styles that we have right now. Check out more here.

And as usual we're packed with new arrivals, including some brand new designers like Design History.

Here's a peek at some of the amazing new arrivals we've gotten recently:

So come see us and celebrate 6 wonderful years with bubbly, snacks and tons of FREE LOOT! To say this will be a blast would be an understatement!

Mix it up! The art of mixing patterns and textures.

2013-03-06T14:03:00.000-08:00

Mixing patterns and textures is HUGE right now and when it is done right you will look super stylish and fashionable. Just follow these rules and you are sure to be the best-dressed lady in your neighborhood!

* Mix patterns in the same color story. Your colors do not need to match perfectly, you can use varying tones of the colors. A good example of this is our Language V-neck top as see in photo 1 below.

*Think of some patterns as solids. If working with a houndstooth, small check, thin stripe, or polka dot, they are understated enough that they are just like a solid.

*Look for patterns that compliment each other. For example; floral and stripes, polka dots and stripes as well as stripes and leopard, as seen in the Charlotte Tarantola stripe animal mix pullover seen in photo 5 below.

*Combine patterns of different sizes and densities. For example, you can take a thin stripe with a bold floral or a small polka dot with a big geometric print.

*Mix with a textural pattern. This is a great way to rock this trend in a more subtle way. A good example is the Charlotte Tarantola stripes and lace pullover, as seen in photos 2 and 3 below. Another example is the Bailey 44 Trojan horse top, as seen below in photos 4 and 6, with the mesh panel in the back, stunning!

*Include a neutral in your outfit.

*Use accessories wisely. Since you have multiple patterns, you don't want to overwhelm your outfit, so keep the jewelry simple.

There you have it, how to mix it up and look like a fashionista. Have fun with it, but if you are ever questioning your outfit…email us or stop in! We're here to make you look and feel fabulous!

-Jamie

I Love Spring Fashion! Trends and Tips

2013-02-28T13:46:00.001-08:00

Spring, one of the happiest times of year! The temps start creeping up, the plants start budding and our closets beg us for an update!

This is Pantone's spring 13' color forecast. And I'm here to say, they got it

mostly right! As you can see the chart is dominated with variations of greens and blues with pops of yellow, red, and tangerine.

The other huge trend this spring is an actual lack of traditional color. There are a lot of neutral colors out there leaving brights to be added through accessories!

I think the best way to to shop is buying a mixture of pop colors and neutrals. This allows for color to always play a role in your wardrobe, but with variety. Either you're wearing it in your clothing OR your accessories!

Another huge trend is mixing prints. I LOVE this trend! These cardigans are just about the cutest!

Denim washes are light, and destroyed denim is a huge trend and one I personally love. I like pairing destroyed denim with a demure silk top. The ultimate hard and soft combination!

Other denim trends you will see in our store and around the world are printed denim, white denim, and soft color washes.

I've touched on just a few trends here. With every season you'll see new trends and a lot of recycled trends. Despite what the media feeds us, fashion doesn't really change that much from season to season.

I think we are all most concerned with being out of style! The most important way to look fresh and updated is to get rid of clothing when it's worn out or fits poorly, taking a few extra minutes to accessorize, and making sure you feel good in what you're wearing.

And of course if you have any questions please come see us! We are here to make you look and feel fabulous! XO--Carla

Akiko wrap dress as featured in Real Simple Magazine

2013-02-12T15:42:00.002-08:00

Yep, it's true. We have the Akiko wrap dress that was featured in March's issue of Real Simple Magazine. And it's true; this dress is easy, breezy and pretty much hits it out of the park. Dress it up or down, wear with bare legs or tights. This dress will be a workhorse!

Designer Akiko Cook was born and raised in San Diego, California. From the time she was nine years old she would spend hours drawing the clothes she wished she had, knowing her means to an end was to become a designer. After obtaining her Bachelor of Fine Arts in fashion design from Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles, Akiko began her career designing. Envisioning her own collection, Akiko debuted her own line in 2004 and was immediately recognized as a designer to watch. What started as a small t-shirt company in her apartment in Hollywood, quickly grew into a major contemporary label with distribution in over 200 specialty boutiques. Akiko has become well known for her great fit, beautiful colors and prints, and feminine chic. Inspired by art, vintage prints, and embroideries, her designs always flatter the female form and are on the cutting edge of fashion. Shop the whole Akiko collection!

Treat yo self!

2013-02-02T07:00:00.000-08:00

If you don't watch Parks and Rec you may not get this reference, but since Valentines Day is a great excuse to "treat yo self", it made me think of one of my favorite Parks and Rec skits!

So, come and treat yourself to 20% off all jewelry and accessories and get what you really want for V-day! XO, Carla

Go Commando on Valentines Day!

2013-01-30T10:37:00.001-08:00

Wondering what your honey should get your for Valentines day? Well, we have the perfect idea. It's both sexy and practical. Those words are not used together often, so let me explain. Commando undies have irresistible prints, are super-flattering, and feel like you're wearing nothing at all. That means NO PANTY LINES! Even when you're wearing your tight workout pants, you'll look like you're going Commando !

Even Oprah agrees! We also carry the b ikini in both nude and black!

Trunk show pics!

2013-01-24T11:58:00.001-08:00

This morning we shot some more of our trunk show pieces! These are just 4 of so many amazing styles! We also just found out that Weston Wear is over-nighting gift with purchases for the first 30 customers who purchase from the trunk show. How awesome is that?!

The trunk show is Saturday 1/26/13-- 10am-7pm and we will keep whatever we have left over through the weekend. It's gonna be a blast! Come early for best selection :)

Weston Wear Trunk Show and Huge Sale!!

2013-01-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

Come join us to celebrate one of our favorite designer's spring collection! Plus save big on sale items! Shop our sale section here, and on Saturday take and additional 20% off of prices that already have been marked down an insane amount! See you soon! XO--Carla

Go Glamcas!

2013-01-10T17:47:00.001-08:00

Glamcas AKA a combination of glamorous and casual (yes I made that word up) is one of my favorite daytime looks. Here's one of my favorite glamcas outfits:

Let's break it down, shall we?
1. Yes I AM wearing jeans, but they are amazing watercolor printed denim. Joe's Jeans The Skinny in Mountain Rose
2. My, "oh, this old thing!" top has spectacular mesh arms. Bailey 44 Centercourt Top.
3. And these understated-yet-statement earrings I'm wearing are all hand wrought sterling.Sahlia Michelle Whisper with Blade earrings
Yep, I've done it! I'm Glamcastic!

The return of the PEPLUM!

2013-01-08T19:11:00.003-08:00

The peplum has been seen in fashion for a very long time but it has returned with style and flare. A peplum is a short overskirt or ruffle that is usually attached to a fitted jacket, blouse, or dress.
This style dates back to ancient Greek fashion. In this time it was worn by both men and women equally, as seen in this image.

The peplum started to come back in the 30's and was very popular through the 40's and into the early 50's. It was often used to emphasize a small waist or to suggest a greater curve to the hip. You can see the evolution of the peplum in the image below.

We saw the resurgence again in the 80's. This was often seen with shoulder pads or puffy sleeves, like the image below of an eighties pattern. Let's just say this was not the peplum's finest hour :)

That brings us to now, and the peplum has made a rather grand return and it is more stylish and fashionable than ever. It has come back in it's finest silhouette, in my opinion.

Want to try out this style? We have some great tops that are a perfect way to bring this "old" style back in a new way. Paired with a pencil skirt or slim denim you are going to be one stylish lady.

Here is a great peplum top from Weston Wear that we sell here in the store. It is shown with a straight, dark wash denim from Joes.

Hope you have enjoyed this little history of fashion! We have the peplum piece shown above plus more in the store and on order:). XO--Jamie

Transition your style!

2013-01-04T16:22:00.000-08:00

Yes ladies, it may still be blustery outside, but in the fashion world we're ready for you to update your look and lighten your wardrobe palette. For a long time in fashion, this time of year has been referred to as "resort." Well, in P-town we're definitely not going to see the sun for a long time, and we usually have some barely worn summer clothes we can pull out of a box for a beach-y vacation. So, I lovingly refer to this time of year as "transition." Lighten up, layer up, and buy some pieces that work now and well into spring.

All 3 of these pieces are Weston Wear from their "transition" collection.

Maybe in rebellion to all the crazy color from last spring, this year's colors are a bit more subdued. You'll see a lot of monochromatic looks.

Bailey 44 new arrivals

But don't worry ladies, as you know at Mink I LOVE color. So, I couldn't only bring in black, white and tan! There is SOME variation!! The colors you'll see predominately this spring are cool blues, mint greens, and emeralds.

Nic + Zoe new arrivals

Yes, it's time to embrace a new fashion-season! Personally I think retail therapy is the best way to beat the winter blues!
See you soon. XO--Carla

Gifts Under $50

2012-12-18T14:38:00.000-08:00

Need an idea for a great gift under $50? We have got you covered!

(Listing from left to right, top to bottom)

1. Commando Undies, say goodbye to panty lines forever!

2. Beautiful jewelry from Amy Burgess

3. Touch gloves from Echo

4.Fun bracelets

5.Lightweight sheer tops from Kerisma

6. State pride necklace in gold and silver

7. Lovely candles and diffusers

8. If you can't decide, a gift certificate is always a wonderful gift!

HAPPY SHOPPING :)

Mink's Gone Commando!

2012-12-09T14:12:00.001-08:00

We've just picked up a new line of underwear, tights, and slips! We'd like to introduce Commando intimates--they're the next best thing to...well, going without!

If you've tried on a form-fitting dress or bottoms at Mink, then chances are you've heard us preach about seamless underwear. We're not kidding ladies, seamless will change your life. Imagine no more bumps, lines, or unsightly seams from your intimates. Commando saves you from all those fatal fashion faux pas. Plus, the prints are oh-so-sassy and fun!

Hot Tip: All the undies come in a cute little box that would make a perfect stocking stuffer. ; )

Gift Guide for the Accessory Lover

2012-12-04T14:15:00.000-08:00

Have someone on your list with great style, but you just don't know her size? Cute accessories are sure to please! The iTouch gloves are always a winner--they work with all touch screen devices, so your lady won't get chilly fingers when she texts you! Match a thick, cozy neck warmer or an infinity scarf and you're set.

If she likes her gifts with a little more glam, jewelry and perfume have just the right amount of feminine flair. We carry local jewelry designers, including Amy Olson, Amy Burgess, Favor, and Cari Woods. Pair one of the gorgeous perfumes from Lollia with some sparkly jewelry and you have a swoon-worthy gift!

XOXO
Jan

Gift Guide to Relax

2012-12-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

We love Lollia at Mink. Their scents are fabulous and their products feel wonderful on. Hate that greasy residue some lotions can leave? No such thing with Lollia hand creams! They are made primarily with Shea butter, so they go on soft and smooth and leave only a light, pretty scent.
Along with the lotions, we also have Lollia's super yummy bath salts, soaps, and perfumes!

Have a lady in your life who needs a little pampering? This Lollia gift set in the scent "Relax" will be perfect for her. Fresh floral infusions of lavender and honey blossom impart a whisper of delicate fragrance to these products. Because after a stressful day at work or with the kids, who couldn't use a little help relaxing? Pair with a pretty necklace and a fragrant candle and she'll be tickled pink!

XOXO
Jan

Hawthorne Holiday Stroll and Mink's Holiday Party!

2012-11-29T12:42:00.000-08:00

We are sooooo excited about the Holiday Stroll this year! We decided to throw our holiday party on the same day! Here at Mink we will be serving mimosas in the morning and champagne in the afternoon along with some sweet treats. We also will be giving away free gift with purchase for anyone spending $100 or more!! Plus everyone who purchases will be entered into our holiday wreath raffle. The wreath is filled with goodies and a $50 gift certificate!!

There will be sales and parties up and down the Blvd. and all participating businesses will be raffling wreaths with goodies and gift certificates! There will be a main event tent at Fred Meyer. The line up is as follows: Main Stage Performances
Location: Fred Meyer's Upper Parking Lot
11 AM - Centennial Middle School
1 PM - Buckman School
2 PM - Laurelhurst School
2:30 PM - School of Rock
Plus, the ultimate feel-good icing on the cake, a portion of all sales will be donated to Habitat for Humanity. WIN!! Read more about the event at Thinkhawthorne.com/events/

Hope to see you on Saturday, December 1st! It's gonna be a blast!!