After Christmas Sale

The best deals have now landed at Kateboggiano.com! Save up to 45% on our beautiful collection of blouses. Hurry, there isn't much left to begin with so get yours today!

Just a little preview...

Stilettos vs Ballet flats

So just in case you all have never met me, I'm short-like really short. I say 5'2" but my Dad likes to remind me "Kate you're 5'2" on a ladder-try 5'1 3/4". Am i really going to argue over that 1/4"? Have you ever heard of rounding up Dad??? I mean for cryin' out loud-his mother is the reason I am this short not that his 6'3" self would understand the annoyance of always looking up at people when they speak to you and having people address you like you are WAY younger than you are because of stature. But anyway, I digress....

To get the Kate Boggiano brand out there, me and my staff attend a lot of fashion and shopping events direct to the consumer. The vendors always laugh at me because I'm never without my stilettos. It doesn't matter how long the show is or what the surface is, I'm always wearing huge heels and i refuse to sit down-stilettos they just look way better to me than flats when you are short although very uncomfortable.

After many years of teasing and fending off dirty looks by older women as they reminisce about the times when they used to be able to wear heels, and the recent discovery of a small but noticeable bunion taking hold of my left foot, I decided to give these flat thingys a try.

I must admit-they are pretty comfy and cute! I have some big time opinions about what is ok in a flat however:
1. NO toe cleavage! It's gross and reminds me of seeing too much of someone's behind and who wants to see that-YUCK!
2. There must be some embellishment on the toe so that you don't look like you ran out of dance class.
3. Absolutely NO heel height-that looks ridiculous and like you are wearing isotoners or are considering wearing a heel but want to be practical-BARF.

SO I think I'm somewhat of a convert for long days on my feet and running errands around town. I must admit though, now that it's getting cold I have NO idea what to do. Absolutely under no situation do socks look ok with them and it's getting really cold and snowy in Chicago! I'm walking outside and getting snow and rain in my feet which might be more uncomfortable than walking around in heels. What do you do???

Totally confused in "flat" land - shoe questions are a little too much for me to comprehend. Oh well...back to shirting where it's safe:)

Upcoming Kate Boggiano Events

Happy Holidays! Hope everyone is staying warm. We've got a couple really great shopping events coming up. It's a great chance to do some Holiday shopping and have fun!
The first event is the Snow Ball at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel, starting December 10th at 6pm till December 13th at 7pm! Follow this link for more details http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e2n2i5jqf60197bd.
And be sure to stop by after work today or tomorrow or sometime this weekend when you're out-and-about shopping!
Also coming up next week, is the 3,2,1 Countdown to Christmas...A last minute Holiday shopping event with great Chicago designers. Join us on Thursday December 17th and Friday December 18th from 6-9pm at the Heidi Hess studio, 210 N. Halsted, for drinks and light hors d'oeurves, shopping, and good times . Receive 30% off your total purchase before 7pm, 20% off before 8pm, and save 10% before 9pm. Come by and bring all your girlfriends for a fun night out, featuring designers Kate Boggiano, Heidi Hess, Lara Miller, and Objets d'Envy. Have fun while you check out some of the best looks of the season!

In Style + Kate in New York

Even though she had to trudge around in the rain with all the Spring samples, and accidentally dyed her feet brown from her wet shoes, Kate's had a great trip to New York. Her desk-side with the fashion department of In Style Magazine turned out so well that they took most of the Spring 2010 samples and were super excited about them! Good news just keeps coming, wonder what's next? Perhaps a very public, picture or appearance by Michelle Obama looking amazing in a Kate Boggiano blouse...

Ikram

Really exciting happenings here! Kate just flew back from a successful trip to Dallas last week, and left for New York for more meetings with stores and a desk-side with In Style Magazine. Amongst all the madness, however, Kate recieved a very exciting phone call from Ikram, stylist to the stylish Michelle Obama. Ikram requested a bunch of samples to be sent for Michelle Obama to look through and hopefully wear! This is such an exciting possibility: to have the style icon, First Lady, wear a Kate Boggiano shirt. We'll keep you updated once we hear more!

Macy's Fashion Show

Hi guys,

Things have been crazier than usual around here. But we've had a lot of really exciting stuff happening. Amy and I attended the Macy's Fashion Show to kick off Fashion Focus last week. Kate was crazy busy in Dallas, having a big meeting at the Neiman Marcus headquarters with CUSP by Neiman Marcus and a couple other great Dallas boutiques. So, in her absence, Amy and I got to wear a couple pieces we love from the Spring 2010 Kate Boggiano line. In these pictures, I'm wearing the super cute Rosa Tank in white that I am now obsessed with and Amy is wearing the Issie blouse in white. We both got tons of compliments on our cute white shirts and had a lot of fun watching Chicago designers' Spring 2010 collections coming down the runway. It was really exciting to see what other designers are doing for Spring 2010.

We sat next to a girl from Fargo, North Dakota who was there supporting her designer friend Anna Hovet. Anna is in the Macy's Fashion Incubator like Kate was last year and her collection was so cute. It was also comforting for Amy and I to learn that Fargo's winter is much worse than Chicago's. Reassuring to know that there are worse winters in the continental U.S.

There's been so much hype about our Spring 2010 collection since it is a break-out season for us, with a few dresses and our first outerwear piece. However, there's still lots of excitement for Fall 2009. After our feature in the "Obama Work" story in In Style magazine, our white Isadora became more popular than ever. My mom decided she had to have one too after the In Style spread. With the holiday season fast approaching, consider the Isadora or one of our other Fall 2009 pieces as a gift for your mom, girlfriend, sister or friend. It looks so great on everyone and is a definite must-have of the season.

We really appreciate everyone's support as we keep expanding. And we'll keep you posted on exciting happenings here!

4 ways to wear our classic, extra-long oxford

This season is all about versatility, and what's more versatile than a tailored, great-fitting Kate Boggiano classic button-down? Here are 4 great ways to wear the extra-long, skinny oxford!

Wear our button-down as a jacket thrown over a dress. Using a button-down as a jacket is a great alternative for mild, fall days, and it looks so effortlessly cute! Add leggings and flats for a polished look.





Put a vest or short-sleeved sweater over an oxford and pair with a printed skirt. Wear with tights and ankle boots for the office.






Try a classic button-down under a jacket, like our Gathered Caroline, paired with brown leggings and riding boots! So cute and easy for the weekends






For a great going out, stylish look, pair the classic button-down with a leather jacket or shrug and black pants. Add spiky heels and a clutch to finish off this look!

5 ways to wear the Isadora

The Isadora is our most popular blouse, and was just featured in the October 2009 issue of In Style Magazine. So we thought it would be a great idea to show all of you 5 cute, different ways to style the Isadora.

First, try pairing the black Isadora with a cute leather jacket or shrug, and jeans. The look is simple but so put together with an edge, with the contrast of the leather and ruffles. This makes for a really great after-work or on the weekends look!




Another cute option for a casual weekend look is to pair the white Isadora with a tweed blazer and a pair of jodhpurs. This is such a great, classic look for anyone of any age to try.






For a cute work outfit that can easily transition to night, wear the Isadora blouse with a cute, ruffled skirt. Balance the ruffles with black tights and ankle or riding boots.






Tuck the Isadora into a high-waist, printed skirt for a day of shopping or a lunch date. Pair the skirt with tights and red heels to add a pop of color!






Last, for a really cute professional look wear the Isadora with a sweater or vest and a pair of gray slacks.



The Isadora comes in red, brown, black, navy, and white. Get yours today by visiting our website, and check us out in the October 2009 issue of In Style magazine!

Good Glam Gala Friday August 7th

sThis Friday, August 7th, Kate Boggiano is having our official Fall 2009 Fashion Show, called Good Glam Gala. Check out all the Fall 2009 Kate Boggiano looks up close at a hip fashion show. The event is to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago. There will be Hearty Boys cuisine, wine, beer, and deserts by Sugar Bliss cupcakes and World's Finest Chocolates. Tickets are $50 and can be bought by visiting kateboggiano.com. There will also be a raffle with some amazing prize: a one-night stay at the WIT Hotel and 15% off spa services; a two-night stay in a luxurious suite at the Affinia Hotel; 10 free haircuts for men by Guise Chic; and more! Raffle tickets will be $10 for one or 3 for $25. Don't miss this event which starts at 7pm on August 7th, at 2150 S. Canalport Ave. in Pilsen, Chicago, and features an exclusive shopping event after the fashion show. More Kate Boggiano news: our Fall 2009 clothing is up on the website for pre-sale at 10% off the regular prices. This is such a great deal and a perfect time to buy all the must-have Kate Boggiano clothing for Fall like the Elizabeth and the Anabel. Check out the website now and reserve your Fall clothing at 10% off! We're really excited for the fashion show Friday, and hope to see everyone there. Get your tickets today before they sell out!

Sidewalk Sale

Thanks to everyone for supporting us at the Sidewalk Sale this week, we were so thrilled with the turn-out! It was so great to see so many people there, and we had so much fun. Our best-seller on Tuesday was the Gathered Caroline, which is being marked down to $119.95 on Monday. So be sure to check out our website then! And, don't forget that this Saturday from 11am-5pm at the Kate Boggiano showroom, we're having our huge Pretty in Pilsen Warehouse Sale! We're really excited for a fun day with drinks, light appetizers, and great deals on all Kate Boggiano clothing. Stop by and check it out! Hope to see all of you there!

Style Guide: the Olivia

The Olivia is totally one of my favorites from Kate Boggiano. It's like a your favorite, comfy t-shirt and a stylish, ruffled blouse all in one! Try wearing it for the weekend with some cute boyfriend jeans and sandals, or some really high heels for night. And to carry the shirt over into fall, pair it with a pencil skirt, tights, and boots and a cute little blazer. The Olivia is such a great addition to your wardrobe, perfect for dressing up or dressing down. The search for the perfect white t-shirt, all dressed up, ends here, so head to kateboggiano.com to get yours!

Style Guide: the Elizabeth

At Kate Boggiano, we're getting ready to begin our Fall 2010 pre-orders, which is so exciting. I couldn't resist using this Style Guide for the Elizabeth jacket, which is so cute and a much needed staple for fall. With the intricately pleated collar cascading down the front, the velvet trim on the cuffs and back, and the way the back is slightly longer than the front this jacket is irresistible. The Elizabeth has the feel of a fabulous equestrian jacket that is always in style. This will be so cute in the fall with black leggings and black boots. Wear a comfy t-shirt underneath, or a button down blouse (I tried it on today with a flannel button-down and it was too cute!). Be sure to check out kateboggiano.com to place your fall 2010 pre-order for the Elizabeth. This jacket is hot for fall, so don't wait till the weather cools down to get yours!

Style Guide: Maddy

Today's style guide is for the Maddy blouse in white. This ruffled blouse is so so cute with a pair of Kate Boggiano leggings in black (the most comfortable leggings ever). A cute pair of ballet flats and an oversized pair of black sunglasses finishes off this classic, Audrey Hepburn inspired look. And, all you need to carry this look over to fall is a pair of gray or tan suede boots and a flowy sweater. You can NEVER have too many white blouses, especially when one is as cute and versatile as the ruffled Maddy blouse. Check out kateboggiano.com to get yours now!

Style Guide: Sleeveless Isadora Dress

So I know it seems early to be thinking about fall, which of course means colder weather, but as we all know summer has a way of slipping by all to quickly. And before you know it, you're trading in your bikinis and flip-flops for sweaters and boots. Since it is still summer, I thought it'd be appropriate to post a style guide for how to wear the sleeveless Isadora dress now, and how to carry it over into fall. For now, try pairing the pink sleeveless Isadora with funky sandals, lots of bracelets, and a boyfriend blazer for those cooler nights. This look is so cute and chic. I especially love the ruffled blouse effect, under a structured jacket. As for carrying the sleeveless Isadora dress into fall, cinch the waist with a chunky belt, wear opaque tights with riding boots, and throw a cozy chunky sweater on top for warmth. This dress is so versatile. I just love it! Try out this style guide for yourself, adding your own personal flair, today by checking out kateboggiano.com!

June 23-26 Free Shipping and 10% off!

This Tuesday, June 23, through Friday, kateboggiano.com will be having a special promotion of 10% off all orders plus free shipping! You can't beat this deal, so go ahead a purchase a super cute, of-the-moment ruffled blouse, like the Maddy or Isadora, or a perfect custom blouse like the Extra-Long Skinny Oxford. Also, stock up on the great tanks in fun colors for summer like rose and electric green, exclusive to kateboggiano.com. So hurry up and check out the site for all your favorite custom blouses and ruffled blouses, and enter the promocode SUMMRLUV at checkout for amazing savings.

Pretty in Pilsen

Hi, I'm Sarah and I'm new at Kate Boggiano focusing on PR. I just moved from Atlanta to Chicago and recently graduated from Furman University in Greenville, SC. I'm super excited to be here. There are some really great events coming up here, starting with Thursday, June 18. We're hosting Pretty in Pilsen, an open house with complimentary wine and appetizers for the new Kate Boggiano studio from 5-9 pm at 2150 S Canalport Ave, Suite #3A3, on the third floor. It's a one stop shop for two great designers: Kate and Kristen Goede of Objets d'Envy. Get there early because the first 25 guests get a free gift! As if that's not reason enough, if you buy any Kate Boggiano item, you'll get 10% off, and 15% off Objets d'Envy. Spend $100 or more on our shirts and you'll receive a free tank top. And in this economy, we're all looking for great deals on the stuff we love. So come and check out your favorite designs with Kate herself. I have to say Kate has some super cute stuff for summer. My top three summer must-haves from Kate: the sleeveless Isadora dress in pink paired with some black ankle boots; the Madeline blouse with black leggings and sandals; and of course the Olivia with boyfriend jeans and funky flats. Join us fr a really fun, fashion-filled night. Hope to see all of you there!

Web buster of the week!

This week, our fabulous Web Buster is the beautiful Gathered Caroline. Great for the office and stylish enough to wear over a dress for a formal summer wedding, the Gathered Caroline has been one popular item this season. Made from beautiful English linen, this shirt jacket is so versatile, you'll find yourself wearing it a couple times a week!

This week, get the Gathered Caroline for $60.00 off its normal retail price-just $159.95. Hurry up! Sizes are limited!

It's our 2nd birthday - Let's Celebrate!

Who would have ever thought that 2 years online could fly by so quickly? I can barely believe that it's been 2 years! Amazing!

We couldn't have done it with out you-that's for sure! To celebrate, we are offering a 20% off discount on all orders over $100.00. Have you been holding out on your favorite Kate Boggiano shirt? Now is the time to get it for sure! Sizes and quantities are limited and once they are gone, they are GONE!

Thanks again for all your support!
Kate

New Summer Shirts/Shirtdresses (wha???)

Summer??? Really?? Hasn't felt like it yet in Chicago-that's for sure!

So maybe a better approach than WAITING for the weather to turn before we release styles online is to release the styles and INVOKE the weather gods to follow suit. I mean which weather goddess wouldn't want our fabulous new Olivia! I can't think of any :)

New this week:

Isadora Dress (in case you missed it!) $189.95 White, Pink (pictured on Kristin), and Navy (Black upon special request if you say pretty please!)


And the lovely Isabel....$69.99 Holy cow its a great price! Cool new summer t shirt in Electric Blue (pictured), Bright Pink, and Jet Black. I love it with white pants and for all you no white after labor day believers...order by Tuesday and get it by Memorial day which = the 1st official day you are ALLOWED to wear white IF you follow those totally antiquated rules....Mom?























And saving the best for last (can I really say that? I mean, these shirts are like my children-no favorites here folks, but if I had one I might consider Olivia to be in the running!)
Olivia $129.95

Ok, Ok, as usual FREE SHIPPING starts today and goes through Thursday at 5pm with the launch of a new season. Order your Shirts or Shirt Dresses (now that just seems wrong!) by Tuesday and get them for the long holiday weekend. Wow those friends at the BBQ with your fabulous fashion sense-I dare ya!

Leaving the Fashion Show?

Oh No! Kristin left the fashion show??? Why you ask-you'll have to ask her!

A little birdy told me that she is wearing our shirt on the show to say her goodbyes...so, for one last time, we're offering the 10% off the "Kristin" shirt....our Sleeveless Isadora shirt and dress discount!

10% off the shirt with code: FASHIONSHOW
10% off the NEW dress with code: FASHIONSHOW1

Hurry up! We are getting close to selling out on the dress and it's only been online for 1 week!

Bye Bye Kristin (see you next Thursday for Dinner-wink wink)

Go Kristin!

Final Day for Free ground shipping in time for Mother's Day!

 

 

Wine, Chocolate, AND Shopping-Oh My!

Kate Boggiano Chicago events
Got plans this Thursday night? Well now you do!

What: Chicago Designer Sale
Where: Chocolate Grape, Wicker Park, 2113 W. Division St., Chicago, IL 60622
When: Thursday, April 23rd 6pm-10pm
Tickets: $20.00 and may be purchased at the door. Tickets include all food and drink for 4 hours plus great shopping from 3 great local designers (Kate Boggiano, Lara Miller, and Erin Gallagher)!

Come shop great new spring styles and fantastic sale items for one night only. Have your custom measurements taken by Kate and choose from a great style to have customized. Have a woman on your list for mothers day? Try our tank tops-we'll have them in every color for this event! Call us for more details : 866-388-3501

The Name Game

So over the last couple years, I’ve received a few dozen questions asking me about my last name and the name of the company. In order to clear up the confusion, I thought I’d lay it out in black and white

Boggiano=company name and my paternal grandmother’s maiden name.
Coxworth=my maiden name and what I go by for business
Mikelsons=my married name and what I use in my personal life.

How did I come to name my company Kate Boggiano? USA manufacturing and overall design feel was always a big part of the brand even before there was a “brand”. I felt that the name “Kate” is a very American name and does a great job at describing these points of Kate Boggiano. High quality materials and craftsmanship as well as classic styling and perfect fit was always the most important part of the brand. Italian craftsmanship was always viewed as the best there was in my family and “Boggiano” lent itself nicely to completing this vision.

And that’s how Kate Boggiano was named.

More Press!

march 24, 2009
chicago | a kate bloomer.
every girl's got that one piece of clothing she just had to buy in spite of an imperfect size issue. the result? an awesome item that looks fantastic in your closet, but never gets any air time due to its funky fit. you'll find your answer at newly opened kate boggiano where fit is king, and you get to be a princess.

designer kate coxworth (who's NY-trained and a chi-town native) got her start at polo ralph lauren, and debuted her own line at macy's in 2006. now, with a store to call her own, kate can feature all of her high-quality, custom designs in one spot. her clothes range from loungewear to business casual, in the form of blouses, leggings, tank tops and more. items have names as feminine as the styles they embody, like the "gathered caroline," the "maddy" and the "sleeveless isadora." and this hometown maven understands the plight of the everywoman. we can't all have gisele's measurements, after all. this means the main draw to kate's creations are the custom processes she employs. the "tailor it!" allows shoppers to check out clothing on models, then fill out their own dimensions for the right fit. more recently, the "create your own" option lets control freaks design, down to the last detail, a perfect-fitting bespoke blouse. their 10-business-day turnaround time can be attributed to the american manufacturing, which means this shop's a swell way to stimulate the economy.

if the shirt fits, work it. kate boggiano. 2150 canalport avenue. between morgan and peoria. 866.388.3501. now open. www.kateboggiano.com

Thank you for coming for Shop Chicago!

Thanks to all who made it INSIDE to Shop Chicago. It was a beautiful day in Chicago and thanks to those who braved the indoors even though it was sunny for once! It was great to see everybody and see what you had to say about our new merchandise.


Kate with Angie
Kate is wearing the sleeveless Isadora in white $139.95. Click here to purchase!

Baby business brain

So I'm not a mom per say but I have a lot of friends who are. They oftentimes talk about how their brains have turned to mush and they do silly things like send the wrong emails to the wrong people, forget things places, feel like they can't have a normal conversation etc. Since I have yet to be in their shoes, I can't exactly relate to their sleepless nights or lack of brain function, however, I would like to introduce a new concept-NEW BUSINESS BRAIN.

Equally as discombobulating, sleep depriving, and exhausting; new businesses can make you want to tear your hair out, scream, and pitch your computer out the window and then 5 minutes later jump up and down for pure joy for a new account you've just landed or some other remarkable feat you have successfully completed. I know it's not the same thing exactly, but I love my baby business.

However, Geoff, if you're reading this, I apologize for leaving waffles in the oven last weekend and then turning on the oven to make muffins last night, leaving because I forgot something at the office, and then coming back 45 minutes later to an odd smell. I'm chalking this one up to 14 days straight on the job for 10-15 hours per day-business brain-i'll tell ya!

Final day to save 10% off Sitewide!

Shop today and save 10% on everything at Kateboggiano.com. Enter code SPRNG09 at checkout to redeem this offer.

Three weeks of newness! EXCITING!

So, officially, I have graduated from CFI as of Feb 20th. CFI is a great program that the city of Chicago has put together to sponsor up and coming apparel designers in hopes that giving us a break will launch our businesses and careers. For 1 year, Kate Boggiano resided at Macy’s State Street store in downtown Chicago. It was a great experience, cheap rent, and unbelievable press and I’ll be forever grateful to the board members of CFI as well as the City of Chicago in believing in me and Kate Boggiano. Here are a few pictures of both the opening of CFI on March 10th 2008 with Mayor Daley and the closing ceremony on Feb 10th 2009. CFI, we’ll miss you!


**CFI designers in Chicago Magazine


**Me with Lindsay Boland owner of Habit Boutique, Chicago


Where did we move to you ask? The lovely neighborhood of Pilsen. Conveniently situated on the south side of downtown Chicago, Pilsen is an up and coming neighborhood filled with artists and small businesses trying to make it. The energy is great and I am in LOVE with our new space. The new home of Kate Boggiano is officially 2150 S. Canalport Ave. Suite #3A3, Chicago, IL 60608. The building is a brick and timber building that was constructed in 1900 and originally belonged to Vivano Macaroni company. We have beautiful exposed beams, interior brick walls, and views of downtown.


**View out my office window

**The holding pattern while we were waiting for some paint to dry-always fun and exciting!


**The new space


**A mess waiting to be organized!

**Marilyn setting up shop

Obviously, we still have some work to do, but I’m so excited for the final outcome-it’s going to be great. Invitations to our space warming party coming soon and check out Time Out’s coverage of Pilsen here to learn more about our new diggs: http://www.timeout.com/chicago/articles/features/71730/viva-pilsen


As if moving a business isn’t enough chaos for the time being, Geoff, my lovey dovey (haha), has left EGI (Equity Group International-Sam Zell’s private equity group-the one that bought the Chicago Tribune and the Cubs) and has come over to the dark side-now he really gets to see what us crazy entrepreneurs face everyday instead of advising us on things he’s never done-I’m pretty excited for him!

Geoff is the new Director of Finance for Argo Tea. Argo Tea is a fantastic Chicago chain (12 stores in the Chicagoland region and growing rapidly!) that sells specialty coffee and tea beverages. Similar to Starbucks, Argo Tea far exceeds the quality, service, and overall deliciousness of its main competitor. Need proof that something could possibly be better than Starbucks? Starbucks is very worried about Argo Tea…did you see the new national tea drinks they just rolled out? Talk about being high on Starbucks radar as the largest chain of successful tea companies-go ARGO TEA!

Arsen, the CEO of Argo Tea, requires that all his employees (even corporate execs like Geoff) go through barista training. Here’s my hot hubby this morning dressed up in his AWESOME Argo Tea barista uniform!

**Geoff in Argo Tea barista outfit**

Come see the new Spring Collection this weekend at Shop CHICago

What: Gen Art's Shop CHICago
Where: The Great Hall at Union Station, Chicago, IL. Click here for a map
When: Saturday, March 21, 2008
1:00-6pm
1:00 – 2:00pm VIP Pre-shopping Reception
2:00 – 6:00pm Main doors open to all ticket holders

Gen Art and Degree Fine Fragrance Collection invite you to the shopping event of the season! Taking place in Union Station's magnificent Great Hall, Shop Chicago will showcase designers' spring collections at discounted prices of up to 70% off retail in womenswear, menswear, and accessories, as well as designer collections from Gen Art Chicago's Fresh Faces in Fashion runway show. Attendees can purchase the latest trends and enjoy pampering in the Shop Chicago Beauty Lounge.

VIP ticket-holders receive exclusive access to the VIP Lounge with complimentary cocktails, wine and snacks from Chipotle. VIP tickets also include a private preview hour for access to the hottest designs at the deepest discounts.

VIP ticket-holders also take home the exclusive SHOP Chicago fashion and beauty gift bags worth over $200. There are a limited number of VIP tickets available, so reserve yours before they sell out!

Don't miss this opportunity to find great deals, meet fellow fashion enthusiasts, and enjoy pampering and cocktails - just in time for spring!
Check out the Gen Art website to purchase VIP tickets.



PRINT OUT THIS BLOG POST AND SAVE 15% ON ALL NEW SPRING ARRIVALS AND SEAMLESS ITEMS COUPON CODE SHOP09! (offer not valid on clearance merchandise)

I HEART Saturn!

Before last week, the official Kate Boggiano car was a 2000 VW Passat. I oftentimes haul racks of clothing to events, meetings with wholesale accounts (specialty boutiques), and to customers. I got really good at packing that old Passat but unfortunately, after 10 years, the repairs were more than then the car was worth and Geoff finally convinced me that it was time to buy a new car.

Since we do so much hauling and road tripping with rolling racks, samples, and boxes filled with god knows what, Geoff wanted to look into a crossover or small SUV. As a steward of the environment, I didn’t know how I felt about this choice.

We wanted a 1-2 year old car with low milage and great reliability-and one that looked cool wouldn’t hurt! We test drove and test drove and test drove. Initially our top 3 choices were the Nissan Murano, Toyota Highlander (hybrid I’ll add!), and the Saturn VUE. I hated the drive of the Nissan-it felt like driving a minivan-YUCK, the Toyota was HUGE, and the Saturn was just right. All I can say, is I HEART SATURN! Talk about a great car, driving it, I would never know it’s a crossover, it drives just like the Passat used to 6 years ago (but it does brake a little slower-oops!) AND it gets fantastic gas milage (although not a hybrid but I do think a Hybrd model is available although out of our budget).

All I can suggest is, BUY AMERICAN and test drive a Saturn for sure! It’s amazing how great the VUE handles. I can’t wait for American car maintenance as well, VW maintenance killed our budget! YEAH American cars-great job! You have my vote from now on and I vow to never drive another foreign car as long as you keep producing such a great product like the Saturn VUE. Oh yeah, one final note….our VUE is bad ASS looking-not only will I be able to fit all the Kate Boggiano shirts in the back, I’ll also feel proud rolling up in it to any event that Kate Boggiano is attending.

Happy 55th Birthday Dad!

My Dad and my brother Ted on a ski trip



The Mikelsons Wedding



Happy birthday to a man that gave me the courage to believe in myself and who forever will be my partner in crime! The world is a better place having you in it and you will forever be my best friend, mentor, and hero. Happy 55th birthday Dad!

Finishing spring and wearing some shades!

We are counting down the hours until spring is revealed. Appropriate then that today is the first day in what seems like a week that it's sunny! YESSS! No more rain por favor!

In other news...if you live in Chicago and stay up for the 10pm news, check out Leah Hope on Channel 7 tonight at 10pm. She's sporting the Isadora blouse in her special segment. GO LEAH! In case you want to grab one of the last of our inventory, they are still available on our website and on super sale (originally $189.95, now $70.00) Get them while you still can.

50 degrees in the forecast today? You know what I’m thinking…Spring is just around the corner!

And so are the new Kate Boggiano arrivals. We’ve been hauling our new shirts up to our new space, folding, tagging, and getting ready for the BIG Spring launch set for Monday, March 9th. Can you believe it? Here are a few teasers to help you out!

Outtakes from Kate Boggiano Spring 2009 photoshoot



**Me with model and French Classic (Ships with cufflinks for the Spring!)























**Gathered Caroline (very funny Alex! I think Sarah looks like 1 of Charlie's Angels though now that you mention it!)

My favorite CFI designer (other than me, that is!)

I am sure someone out there was wondering how CFI went with 6 designers all in the same space. I’m not going to lie, there was definitely some tension between certain people (one Russian in particular rubbed EVERYONE the wrong way-but I won’t name names ). My most favorite person I met at the Incubator was the lovely and talented Kristin Hassan. She is the greatest person and has become a very dear friend. She is in the middle of getting her brand, organiK Revolution, up online and available for e-commerce. She is such a doll and I would like to introduce her to you!

Interview with Kristin Hassan from organiK Revolution

How/when did you get into fashion?
I graduated from the Illinois institute of art - Chicago with a BFA in fashion design in 2006. I got into fashion at an early age as my mother and grandmother were very crafty and taught me everything from sewing to making jewelry.

Where are you from and where do you currently live?
I was raised in Midlothian Illinois, about 30 south of the city. I currently live in Orland Park.

Who/what inspires you the most when you're working?
I'm inspired by everything really. Music, art, billboards, toilet seats covered with stickers (found in the dressing room backstage at the metro). I love to travel and can draw on that always - I'm very fortunate to have been able to see places like Italy and Barbados and that always gets my creative wheels turning.

Do you think that Chicago is a good city to live in for your work, or would you rather be somewhere like New York?
I love Chicago and I would never chose to relocate. Ok maybe to Paris! (I studied French for 7 years and fell in love with the city on my honeymoon)
Chicago has an amazing underground spirit. I love that we aren't looked at a fashion capital yet. We bring such a unique vibe to the table and the talent here is really underestimated. It's definitely a small design community but I find that to be more comforting than being in the midst of a huge city like NYC.

Do you work from home, or do you have a separate studio?
For the last year I proudly had my office at the Chicago Fashion Incubator (CFI) at Macys on state street. CFI is a city initiative to keep emerging designers in Chicago and provide great resources when starting a business. It was a great space with office space, workspace, and a showroom but My term as part of the first class of designers in residence officially ended today, Feb 20th. For the mean time I've moved back into my studio at home. But with my husbands recording studio also in the basement (he's a musician) it's become pretty packed. So organiK revolution is in the process of researching a great studio space in the city.

What is your process of designing a new piece for organiK Revolution?
I'm involved in everything from sketching the idea out to sourcing the fabric, I make the first draft pattern, sew the sample, do the fittings, adjust patterns, sew another sample, do another fitting, cut production, hand it off to my factory for production sewing, get it back to tag it and hang it and sell it. Of course I have help with most of these steps but I'm involved in every aspect.

How would you describe your personal style (is it similar to your designs)?
My design philosophy is to always design what I want to wear. My style is a wonderful mix of girly dresses mixed with menswear pieces like vests and suspenders, a big touch of rock and roll and some cowboy boots for good measure. I love experimenting with layers (big fan of dresses over jeans) and find delight in crossing over styles which all results in a weird preppy girly rocker hippy kinda vibe.

What makes your clothes eco-friendly? Does this particular line of yours have a specific name?
organiK Revolution is an earth positive company because of a number of initiatives. Not only do we use sustainable fabrics like soy jersey (soybean and spandex) and organic cotton (cotton grown without pesticides) but we seek out better processes like screen printing organic cotton t-shirts with water based non chemical inks. We produce most of our apparel locally in Chicago which cuts down on carbon emissions release during travel. We're even working on replacing the lighting at our factory with energy efficient bulbs. I outsource t-shirts from a factory that is run entirely on solar and wind power. And of course we do the obvious things like using recycled paper and soy inks for all printing, etc.

How old are you (sorry, have to ask this one), and do you ever get flack for being so young and successful?
I'm 23. I always get asked if being young bothers me/sets me back... And the answer is always no. I think part of it is that I don't notice my age... I've always done what I wanted, good and bad, regardless of the age limitations. I think being young is an advantage... I'm not too scared and I've got a lot of energy right now. Besides if I screw this up, I'm tough enough to reinvent myself and no one would notice!

What do you think of shows like Project Runway?
I think that it's a great opportunity to showcase oneself on a national level.

Final Markdowns on Kate Boggiano.com!

Yes, Spring is in the air which not only means we are closer to the famed Chicago summer, running on the lakefront, laying out on the beach, my summer volleyball sand league Clash of the Cavemen (defending champs of Coed 4’s Wed night league-wahoo!), but it also means RIDICULOUS sales on the old stuff!

Check it out this week at kateboggiano.com. Hurry, we are hopping that there is nothing left very soon.

Introducing Marilyn...our newest addition to the team!

Intern turned employee, Marilyn is joining us this year part-time until she finishes school. Marilyn is learning the in's and out's of our custom shirting production and she does all of the sketching for Kate Boggiano. Without further adieu, here's Marilyn!

Marilyn Eason
Where did you grow up - Tinley Pk.,IL
Why fashion? - I love designing and constructing ensembles. My philosophy is if you do what you love you never haave to work a day in your life; so I choose not to work.
What are you majoring in? Fashion Design
What do you want to do after school? I want to work under a designer when I first get out of college and eventually start my own line.
Why Kate Boggiano? Everytime I go to the internship I learn something I didn't know the day before. School can only teach you so much but experience is what really makes you learn. Kate gives us work that not only needs to be done but will prepare us for the future in our own endeavors. I love working for her because you really get to see how much time and effort it takes in running your own business. Everyone says that they want to have their own line one day; but whats cool about Kate is she is doing it and actually succeed in doing so.

What are the top 5 fashion mistakes you can't stand?

#1 I hate when people still where goucho pants.
#2 I don't like when people where knits that should not be showing every curve of their body. Whatever happened to leaving some for the imagination.
#3 Belly shirts, even if you are very skinny let's face it they have been out for years.
#4 Denim skirts in summer or those Hollister and Ambercrombie jeans that have rips all over. The grunch look has come and gone. They are so out of style.
#5 I don't like when people still wear shouldier pads or have a mullet hair cut. Leave business in the front party on the sides to your new eye glasses.

Kate Boggiano Closed Door sale

Well if you've been waiting to get your hands on a Fall Kate Boggiano piece, this is it! We are happy to announce that on Saturday, January 16th, 2010 from 8am-4pm we are having a Closed Door Sale. Our current merchandise will be up to 55% off retail prices. There will be a rack of samples that aren't quite right (but pretty darn good) on sale for $30.00 each. You can pre-order spring styles for 15% off. Heck, our seamless tanks, leggings and other styles will also be the lowest price of the season!

It's going to be an awesome sale and prices are good for one day only. You must have a ticket to enter the sale and we are expecting a crowd. Once the sizes and styles are gone, they are gone forever to make way for Spring! Oh boy, springs sounds REALLY nice right about now...

Anyway see you there!
Kate