By
OCInSite Site Admin
on January 12, 2012 2:51 PM
By Kelly Shannon & NBM Staff
Photo Jody Tiongco
Emanating a breezy, low-maintenance style that has become quintessential California cool, the Merritt Charles clothing brand (merrittcharles.com) fuses high-end fashion with ultimate comfort in loose cuts and earthy colors. It’s founder, Lacey Horning, a Newport Beach native who is now based in L.A., says she aims to “create closet staples that [her] customer can hold onto for life,”—the same way she assembles her own personal wardrobe. NBM recently met up with the young entrepreneur at Zinc Café & Market in Corona del Mar to discuss her label. Donning one of her own creations—a European-inspired lace cardigan—the always-stylish designer glowed with excitement while recounting her journey into the clothing industry.
NBM: Where does the name Merritt Charles come from?
LH: It’s a family name that belonged to my grandfather and has since been passed down to my father, brother and nephew.
NBM: What type of woman is the Merritt Charles brand designed for?
LH: The sophisticated, classic and desired woman.
NBM: From what do you draw artistic inspiration?
LH: My affinity for travel and nature, as well as my coastal roots. The vibe is perfectly transcribed to my collections and the relaxed feel of the pieces.
NBM: Top travel spots?
LH: Sardinia, Barcelona and Croatia.
NBM: You went from no experience in the fashion industry to developing your own brand—how did you manage that?
LH: I researched and asked a lot of questions. I was passionate about what I was doing, so that was definitely a driving force.
NB: You’ve said you’re also inspired by the ‘60s and ’70s—what, specifically, about this time inspires you?
LH: The free expression of art and style that developed during those times. These two decades have always been most inspirational to me; however, I have recently grown a strong fascination with the ’30s and ’40s.
NBM: Who in history do you relate to most?
LH: Bridget Bardot and Leslie Lawson
NBM: If you weren’t in fashion, what would you be doing?
LH: I think about that almost everyday—there are so many things that I want to do, although, currently, this is my main focus.
NBM: What’s your favorite piece from your line?
LH: The Charcot Cardigan.
NBM: One staple you can’t live without?
LH: My Tom Ford Sunnies.
NBM: Three items you always travel with?
LH: My passport, sunglasses and cell phone.
NBM: Describe your personal style in one word.
LH: Classic.
NBM: One fashion trend that you refuse to follow?
LH: Bling-y things.
NBM: And one you most adore?
LH: Scrunchies.
NBM: An item every California girl should have?
LH: A good pair of classic Levis.
NBM: What’s next for M.C.?
LH:A greater focus on further East Coast and international expansion!
By
OCinSite At-Large
on December 16, 2011 10:52 AM
Whether you’re working on your tricks, riding in the backcountry or still conquering the bunny slopes, when it comes to ski and snowboard gear, the best pieces have just the right combination of quality, performance and style. And remember, besides a great attitude, perhaps the most important thing to bring on the mountain is a helmet. It will keep you safe and just might give you that extra confidence to test out a new run.
COVERT UTILITY RIDING JACKET, by Hurley, available at 225 Forest (225 Forest Ave.; 949-494-7907; 225forest.com).
SCHEYDEN HIGH-PERFORMANCE SUNGLASSES, available at Balboa Eyewear (710 E. Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach; 949-723-0783; balboaeyewear.lbu.com).
HELLY HANSEN WOMEN’S EIR 2 BOOT, available at Gear Coop (3315 Hyland Ave., Suites C&D, Costa Mesa; 714-902-9168;
www.gearcoop.com).
SALIX JACKET, available at REI (7777 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach; 714-379-1938; rei.com).
HELLY HANSEN AQUILIA RADAR HAT, available at Gear Coop (3315 Hyland Ave., Suites C&D, Costa Mesa; 714-902-9168; www.gearcoop.com).
MAZE JUNIOR HELMET BY SMITHOPTICS, available at Jack’s Surfboards (900 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach; 949-718-0001; jackssurfboards.com)
By
Ashley Breeding
on November 15, 2011 5:24 PM
NB sits down with A-list celebrity stylist, star of The Rachel Zoe Project (now in its fourth season) and new mom Rachel Zoe during an appearance at Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island, where she recently launched an eponymous collection of chic apparel, handbags and pumps.
NB: When you came onto the style scene a decade ago, you stood out for your “boho chic” look. How would you describe your style now?
RZ: Like me, I think my style has grown up a bit. It’s more classic. I’m always on trend, but my [wardrobe] is a little more timeless. I’m not wearing now what I would wear in my 20s.
NB: How has becoming a mom influenced your style?
RZ: I have to think about what’s practical but still looks good. I think, “This can’t have too many zippers or buttons or anything sharp” because [son Skyler] puts his face on everything. Then at night I can wear my harmful, dangerous pieces [laughs].
NB: What type of woman is the Rachel Zoe collection designed for?
RZ: One who loves fashion but doesn’t want to look like a fashion victim. It’s on trend but not trendy. You won’t look at any of the pieces you buy in five years and think, “Oh my God, what was I thinking?” You’ll want to keep everything you buy.
NB: One item every woman should have in her closet?
RZ: A great black leather jacket. Definitely.
NB: Which celebrity client’s closet would you love to raid?
RZ: Kate Hudson. We’re like sisters in style. We love all of the same things.
NB: You can wear only one designer from now on. Who is it?
RZ: Chanel. There’s a timelessness about it, and it’s only going to appreciate in value.
NB: Most common fashion faux pas women make?
RZ: Too much at once—too many trends; too much animal print; too much makeup; too much hair—just too much.
NB: Are you a beach gal?
RZ: Totally. I don’t go in the ocean though. I like to sit on the beach and look at the ocean.
NB: Beach attire?
RZ: Kaftans. Anytime the temperature is above 80 degrees, I’m in a kaftan.
NB: Ever dressed a client in a surf brand?
RZ: [laughs] Yeah, for ad campaigns. I think I did one for coconut water, but I don’t remember which brands.
NB: You’re petite. What’s your best style advice for other petite women out there?
RZ: Don’t be scared of wearing a wide-leg pant or a maxi-length skirt. Those don’t make you look shorter; they actually make you look taller.
By
Ashley Breeding
on October 01, 2011 7:00 AM
Looking for stylish threads for your little ones that won’t break the piggy bank? Enter Totsie, a new children’s boutique on Old Newport Boulevard that offers the hippest brands and styles for youngsters at unpretentious prices. “No one wants to spend $60 on a onesie their infant is going to throw up on,” says owner and former Lu Lu Boutique + Gallery saleswoman Megan Marshall, who was inspired to open the shop when she saw a need for more funky, retro attire for tots. “I wanted to break away from the traditional baby pinks and blues,” she explains. In addition to a fabulous, ultra-soft onesie made from 100 percent bamboo ($30, Ever After), the shop’s shelves are stocked with other eco-friendly finds including Aden + Anais baby blankets; organic cotton clothing by Egg Baby and Kicky Pants; and recycled baby bottles and sippy cups. We’re also fond of the little Joe’s Jeans, locally made Fun•K swimsuits, Kaiya Eve pettiskirts (so stretchy, they can be worn from toddlerhood to 12 years), and handmade keepsakes by Little Bitz. It even carries Pee-Pee Teepees (a safeguard against sprinkling wee-wees) — a must-have for all parents of little boys. For fall, Marshall recommends her collection of trendy cardigan dresses for girls and plaid button-downs for boys: “These are both perfect for a beach town and very ‘in’ right now.” Totsie Boutique, 359 Old Newport Blvd. (across from Hoag Hospital); 949.300.7174; .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
For great finds for kidlets of all shapes, sizes and styles, visit some of our other favorite boutiques in the area:
Bassinets & Blueberries offers custom nursery options and design services for stylish moms-to-be. 283B East 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.650.2244; Open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, bassinetsnblueberries.com
Harper’s carries the latest trends for both moms and their little princesses. 2610 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.644.7467, shopharpers.com
Peek…Aren’t You Curious carries playfully inspired duds for little dudes and dudettes infant - 10 years. 273 Newport Center Dr., Fashion Island, Newport Beach, 949.719.7732; Open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, peekkids.com
The Red Balloon offers traditional and trendy threads, for moms and tykes. 1829 Westcliff Dr., Newport Beach, 949.631.3500; Open 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. weekdays; 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday; redballoonltd.com
Red Sail, located in the quaint village of Balboa Island, offers a wide array of upscale clothing including hard-to-find European collections for children. 301 Marine Ave., Newport Beach, 949.673.9300; Open daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., theredsail.com
This Little Piggy Wears Cotton carries hip organic cotton clothing for infants, toddlers, girls and boys. 929 Newport Center Dr., Fashion Island, Newport Beach, 949.718.0533; Open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday
By
Ashley Breeding
on September 20, 2011 10:36 AM
From Surfer Chick to Sophisticated Chic: Quiksilver Redefines its Ladies’ Lines
First there was Roxy by Quiksilver, a collection of fashionable, sporty beachwear for the girl who loves to play in the surf and snow. In 2008, the surf company launched QSW, a more contemporary and sophisticated sub-brand for older girls rooted in the California coast, which gets an even more rootsy makeover this fall. “Roxy was made for the girl in the water, while this collection was designed more for the girlfriend of the guy in the water,” says Roxy McKnight, the surfer chick (and now Quik’s public relations rep) who inspired the eponymous label. “She’s a beach lover who’s a little more put together.” A third line for women under the Quiksilver label, added earlier this year, offers beach gal essentials like timeless denim, vintage tees and cozy knits. This fall, both women’s collections go “coastal classic,” says John Moore, who designed the garments for both labels.
Heavily inspired by San Francisco’s Outer Sunset neighborhood—a tight-knit, coastal community of artists, surfers and other creative types, where there is an an immense respect for nature, music and art—Moore says he created playfully sophisticated styles in soft, wearable fabrics for Quiksilver Women: ultra-light tees; colorful jersey knits; airy dresses for those last days beneath the late summer rays; and boyfriend blazers to keep warm in autumn’s evening chill. Located just two hours from Tahoe and home to ocean and mountain lovers alike, the vibe of the town also inspired styles like the cozy Snow Blanket cardigan, and classic flannels and button-downs.
For the more sophisticated QSW line, Moore collaborated with Outer Sunset resident, artist and curator Serena Mitnik-Miller, whose watercolor paintings and use of geometric shapes, earthy nature and affinity for vintage and handcrafted design lent a rootsy and artsy vibe to the current collection. Her influence is reflected in Moore’s use of muted watercolor-like hues; bold geometric ocean and petal prints; hand-embroidered wave patterns; patchwork denim; silk; leather; and wool blends.
“The fluidity and color of Serena’s artwork parallels the QSW brand,” Moore explains. “Clothes blend with who a girl is—they don’t define her. It’s an effortless look, top to bottom.” We’re especially fond of The Catch button-downs, Marled Henley tops and Nouveau Deco and Coastal Stripe prints. Try the collection at a Quiksilver store or visit quiksilver.com.
By
Ashley Breeding
on September 08, 2011 9:19 AM
It’s time to break out those Balenciaga handbags and Chanel coin purses: Fashion’s Night Out returns to South Coast Plaza and Fashion Island for the third year in a row on Sept. 8, celebrating the hip global event with in-store fashion shows, luxury beauty bars and delectable dining opportunities. Get fall fashion tips and celebrity style secrets, learn insider techniques from hairstylists and makeup artists, and enter for a chance to score gift cards and gourmet giveaways. South Coast Plaza will roll out the red carpet at 6 p.m., when guests can pose for photos before visiting more than 100 stores and boutiques, including Bloomingdale’s, Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent for runway shows, designer showcases and makeovers (or make-unders). A kickoff celebration will begin at 5 p.m. at Fashion Island, where celebrity stylist Melis Kuris, who has dressed A-listers like Anna Paquin, Joss Stone and Helen Mirren, will share her favorite fall fashion tips. Throughout the evening, shoppers will also enjoy sweet treats across the Island at participating stores including Neiman Marcus, American Rag Cie and Anthropologie. Guests who make a purchase might win a custom F.I. tote. Launched in New York City in 2009 to encourage consumer spending during the economic downturn, the event, sponsored by Vogue and the Council of Fashion Designers of America, has expanded to 16 countries and occurs over a span of eight days.
By
OCinSite At-Large
on August 10, 2011 9:27 AM
Photographer: James Cant | Fashion Director: Julie French
Swimsuit top, $285; bottom, $81, both available at Beach Candy. Sunglasses by Chanel, $460, available at Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island. Hat by San
Diego Hat Co., available at Bikini, Corona Del Mar Plaza.
Vitamin A white bikini, top, $88, bottom $77, available at Aris. Alexis Bittar gold cuff, $295; Jose Barrera gold earrings, $240, both available at Neiman Marcus, Fashion island.
Trina Turk print bikini: top and bottom, $73 each. Necklace, $248, and ring, $120. All available at Trina Turk, Fashion Island. Ray Ban Sunglasses, $129, available at Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island.
Mikoh Swimwear lime green and white print bikini: top and bottom $94 each, both available at Molly Brown’s, Newport Beach.
Poko Pano polka dot bikini, $136, available at Laguna Beachwear.Miriam Salat crystal bangles, $175 each, available at neiman Marcus, Fashion Island.
Robin Piccone bikini, top $105, bottom $118, available at Everything But Water, South Coast Plaza. Oscar de la Renta necklace, $995, available at Oscar de la Renta, South Coast Plaza.
Vix snake print bikini: top and bottom $82 each, available at Bikini, Corona Del Mar Plaza. The Woods necklace, $1,400, available at Aris. Tory Burch sunglasses, $165, available at Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island.
Roberto Cavalli denim print bikini, $345, and pant, $950, available at Roberto Cavalli, South Coast Plaza. Diane Cotton necklace, $810, available at Aris, Laguna Beach.
WHERE TO SHOP:
Aris, arisonthecoast.com | Beach Candy, beachcandyswimwear.com | Bikini, 949-640-7855 | Laguna Beachwear, lbbeachwear.com | Molly Brown’s, mollybrownsswimwear.com | Neiman Marcus Fashion Island, neimanmarcus.com | Trina Turk, trinaturk.com
Model: Juliea Lescova, LA Models | Hair & Makeup: Craig Beaglehole, Solo Artist | Digital Tech: John Cizams | Photo Assistant: Julie Sadowski | Fashion Assistant: Crystal Janke | Shot on location at Woods Cove in Laguna Beach. Special thanks to Jeanie Ranney for allowing the use of her home.
By
OCinSite At-Large
on June 01, 2011 11:33 AM
HARRY WINSTON PREMIER EXCENTER PERPETUAL CALENDAR PLATINUM WATCH Available at Harry Winston, South Coast Plaza
Skeleton watches show the world you’re primed and ready. Here are four to get you to where you’re going—on time.
ARIMIN STROM BLUE CHIP SKELETON WATCH Available at South Coast Plaza
CHOPARD’S L.U.C. TOURBILLON ESPRIT DE FLEURIER WATCH Available at Chopard, South Coast Plaza
STEEL OPENWORKED SELF-WINDING ROYAL OAK WATCH BY AUDEMARS PIGUET Available at Traditional Jewelers, Fashion Island
By
OCinSite At-Large
on
Inspired by “The Dream” by Henri Rousseau; dress by Roberto Cavalli, South Coast Plaza; shoes by Prada, available at Saks Fifth Avenue, South Coast Plaza; earrings by Ranjana Khan, available at Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island
Photographer: David Jakle | Fashion Director: Julie French
Shot on location at The Pageant of the Masters featuring tableaus in this season’s program. A dream within a dream might come true when you wear this spring’s artful gowns.
Inspired by “Dragon from the Grotto” by Warwick Goble: dress by Mandalay, earrings by Sparkles, shoes by Versani, available at Novecento
Inspired by “The Fairy Wood” by Henry Meynell Rheam; dress by Jorge Manual, available at The White Dress; pearl necklace by Alexis Bittar, earrings by Nadri, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Inspired by “Meeting of Oberon and Titania” by Arthur Rackha; dress and necklace by Oscar de la Renta, available at Oscar de la Renta, South Coast Plaza
Quick silver dress by Etro, available at Saks Fifth Avenue, South Coast Plaza
Inspired by the Venus Pendant by Alphonse Fouquet.; white dress by Donna Karan New York, available at Donna Karan New York, South Coast Plaza
Inspired by Arabian Nights illustrations by Virginia Sterrett; dress by Akris, earrings and gold cuff by Herve Van Der Straten, ring by Ranjana Khan, available at Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island
Inspired by “Paramount Pictures” by Reginald Marsh; coat, blouse and skirt by Chanel, shoes by Prada, available at Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island
Inspired by “Flight of Europa” by Paul Manship; dress and shoes by Oscar de la Renta, available at Oscar de la Renta, South Coast Plaza
Model: Laurel Stovall; LA Models
Hair and Makeup: Jeffrey Paul; Exclusive Artist
Hair and Makeup assistant; Nong Tumsutipong
Photo assistant: John Teichert
Fashion assistant: Crystal Janke
Knight in St. George and the Dragon: Katie Moore
WHERE TO SHOP
Roberto Cavalli, South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa; 714-850-1400; robertocavalli.com | Saks Fifth Avenue, South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa; 714-540-3233; saksfifthavenue.com | The White Dress, 2853 E. Coast Hwy., 949-723-0121, thewhitedress.com | Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island, 601 Newport Center Dr.; 949-759-1900; neimanmarcus.com | Novecento Boutique, 8002 E. Coast Hwyl., 949-715-1700, novecentofashion.com | Donna Karan New York, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714-549-1053, connakaran.com
By
OCinSite At-Large
on May 11, 2011 10:35 AM
Photography by David Jakle | Fashion Director: Julie French | Newport Beach Magazine, April/May 2011
From the beach to the courts, the pool to the gym, cool and casual summer wear make this the perfect time of year to get out and play.
Red swimsuit by L Space from Diane’s Beachwear, Corona del Mar Plaza.
Dress by L’Agence and necklace by Diane Cotton; available at Aris, Laguna Beach.
Swimsuit by Vitamin A; available at Molly Browne’s Swimwear, Newport Beach. Necklace by Diane Cotton; available at Aris, Laguna Beach.
Top and shorts by Lucy Activewear; available at Lucy Activewear, Corona Del Mar Plaza.
Leopard-print jacket, shorts, sunglasses and shoes by Gucci. Necklace and pendant by Ashley Pittman; all available at Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island.
Jumper by Roberto Cavalli; available at Roberto Cavalli, South Coast Plaza.
Dress by L’Agence, necklace by Diane Cotton; both available at Aris. Shoes by Vans, available (along with the skateboard) at Thalia Surf Shop, Laguna.
Top and pants by Donna Kara; available at Saks Fifth Avenue, South Coast Plaza.
Dress by Tory Burch, fedora hat by Lola, necklace by Elizabeth and James; all available at Neiman Marcus.
Model: Veronica Taylor - LA Models
Hair and Makeup: Juanita Lyons - Celestine Agency
Photo Assistant: John Teichert
Fashion Assistant: Crystal Janke
Shot on location at The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel.
WHERE TO SHOP
Aris, 1155 N. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach; 949-497-8300; arisonthecoast.com | Diane’s Beachwear, Corona Del Mar Plaza, 920 Avocado Ave.; 949-759-6880; dianesbeachwear.com | Lucy Activewear, Corona Del Mar Plaza, 912 Avocado Ave.; 949-717-6751; lucy.com | Molly Browne’s Swimwear, 2116 Newport Blvd.; 949-673-9004; mollybrownsswimwear.com | Neiman Marcus, Fashion Island, 601 Newport Center Dr.; 949-759-1900; neimanmarcus.com | Roberto Cavalli, South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa; 714-850-1400; robertocavalli.com | Saks Fifth Avenue, South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa; 714-540-3233; saksfifthavenue.com | Thalia Surf Shop, 915 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach; 949-497-3292; thaliasurf.com
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