Business Casual Style: What is it?

Business Casual...the ever elusive term. Sure the concept seems simple and welcome in the workplace today, moving away from stuffy suits and leaving more room for personal style. But what exactly does "Business Casual" include?

Here are 4 tips to clear up some of the confusion on dressing professionally yet relaxed and stylish.

Tip #1: Always better to be over-dressed rather than under-dressed. No one wants to look like the office hoochie by wearing too short of a skirt or a skimpy camisole. Note Meredith from the Office on a business casual day. As a rule of thumb, if you're so scantily clad that your outfit can only cover either your top or bottom half but not both at the same time, it's not okay to wear to work...er...or ever for that matter.















Tip #2: A great pencil skirt is every girl's best friend. Wear it with a simple blouse and a bold necklace, with a cute cami and cardigan, or with a jacket and pumps. Take a clue from Stacy and Clinton: a pencil skirt is a must for looking polished. Accessorize with your own flair. Try this KBO pencil skirt in charcoal, brown or black with a flirty ruffle back and stretch for comfort. This pencil skirt with bow from Anthropologie is also a great option!
















Tip #3: Printed blouses or blouses with interesting details are a great way to add some pizazz to trousers or pencil skirts. Wear them to work with black pants and a cute sweater, out to dinner without the sweater, or on the weekends with jeans. The sale section of shopbop.com has some amazing blouses at great prices!




















So, to recap what we've learned: over-dress if you're confused--no one ever got in trouble for looking too good, buy a great pencil skirt (or two, or three) and have fun with the way you style it, and lastly invest in blouses with great details, colors, or prints and wear them to work under a jacket or sweater and then out after work.

Hope these tips were helpful. Most importantly, always remember to have fun with getting dressed, even if it's just to go to the office, if you look great, you'll feel great all day.

How to dress like...Reese Witherspoon!

Reese Witherspoon is beautiful, classy, and stylish. From the darling and sassy character Elle Woods to her great portrayal of June Carter in Walk the Line, Reese is definitely an American sweetheart and style icon.

No matter the occasion, Reese is always perfectly put together, using classic pieces that look amazing on her. What better way to re-create Reese's look than with classic, stylish pieces with amazing fits from Kate Boggiano!

1. A great black jacket is a necessary investment piece- you'll wear it over and over. Reese pairs hers with black pants and a bright top for a pop of color. Try KBO's Maggie Cropped Jacket with vegan leather trim...it's sure to be your go-to jacket for fall!












2. There's nothing cuter and cozier for Fall/Winter than a sweater dress. KBO's Ruffle Isabella sweater dress is super soft, comfy and flattering. Throw a belt around your waist like Reese for a more structured feel.












3. A classic button-down shirt is a wardrobe essential. Dress it up, dress it down, accessorize accessorize accessorize! KBO's Maggie tunic is the perfect button-down. Take a cue from Reese and throw a cardigan on top for fall days.












4. Every woman has a great "little black dress" or several...but a flattering gray dress is just as important. Reese looks stunning in her hip-hugging gray dress. KBO's Scarlet dress speaks for itself: beautiful ruffled neckline, exposed zipper back, pockets, slimming fit...a must-have and perfect for all occasions.













5. A great sweater is such a cute casual look for lazy fall and winter afternoons. Try KBO's Ruffle Veronica Sweater with comfy jeans and boots for effortless style. Add a belt, shades and a big bag to mimic Reese's style!











6. Jewel-toned clothes are so hot for fall, KBO's Issie ruffle blouse in crocus is a great way to stay on trend. Pair it with a pencil skirt and pumps a la Reese for instant office envy.

We Be Jammin'!

Special Chicago Event Tonight!

Looking for something fun and different for a Friday night? Check out Jammin' at the Zoo!

Date:	August 27, 2010
Time:	Gates at 6 p.m. | Music at 7:15 p.m. (Griffin House) and 8:55 p.m. (Guster)
Location:	Lincoln Park Zoo | Cannon Drive & Fullerton | Chicago
Beneficiary:	Lincoln Park Zoo's animals and conservation programs

Heading into its 17th season, Jammin' at the Zoo continues to expand its audience by providing top-notch entertainment in an unduplicated setting. The series of three concerts is held on the zoo's south lawn under huge, ancient trees. This concert series offers lawn seating on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Jammin' has a rich musical history, having hosted some of the industry's top performers, including: Sister Hazel, Five for Fighting, Brett Dennen, Matt Gunnerson, Josh Kelly, Blondie, Everclear, Toad the Wet Sproket and Los Lobos.

Guster will begin playing at 7:15 pm! (Anyone at the Guster concert in Indianapolis February of 2007?! You probably saw me in front row then!)

This is a great event for all! Bring the kids or some friends for one last end of the summer hurrah!

Must Haves.

Things every girl should have in her closet.

There are times when we make the most ridiculous purchases, and times when we buy something classical that we know we'll keep forever. Here's my list of what I think every girl should have in her closet.

1. Not one, or two, but 3 sexy black dresses. How could someone only own one "little black dress"!? No no no. There are more events than I can think of that a black dress is appropriate for. Weddings, funerals, dinners, parties, plays, you name it! And one you should definitely own is the Kate Boggiano Scarlet Dress in black. Pair it with a cute pair of heels and some fun tights and you're ready to go!

2. Sky High Red Heels. There's nothing more you can stand out in than strapping on a pair of sexy red heels. You'll turn heads no matter where you are. Try this great pair from Aldo, on sale for just $44! Tell me about it...stud.

3. A few pieces of chunky jewelry. Whether its a necklace or an over-sized ring, everyone should have at least one accessory that REALLY stands out! I found a great cuff bracelet for only $34 on ShopStyle.com!

4. A perfect fitting white button-up dress shirt. Don't even think of looking anywhere besides kateboggiano.com! We specialize in this!! Try the Natalie or custom make your own!

5. Last but not least: A fun and flirty floral print dress. Our favorite of the summer is the Jackie Bloom. Get yours on sale at kateboggiano.com today! Hurry, sizes are limited!

Labor Day Delight!

Having friends or family over for Labor Day weekend? Visiting a friend's lake house? Here's a little piece of heaven you can make that everyone will enjoy...

Introducing the Blueberry Coffee Cake III...woah!

This dessert is a simple coffee cake studded with blueberries and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel. How delightful.

Whip this up in no time and take it as a gift, or make it for your family that's coming in town! You might want to make two, just in case...!

Here's how

2 Testimonials from our Customers!

"I just wore my Bethany shirt out for the first time and got so many compliments! The fit is so flattering and the material is gorgeous! I can't wait for this blouse to come out in different colors and I also can't wait for new fall garments!"

Erin- New York, NY

"I just received my Niki Biki tank top. It is the softest, stretchiest tank top I have every tried on. It is great to wear underneath anything low cut or sheer. I am throwing away all of my old tank tops and replacing them with Niki Biki's. "

Beth- Miami, FL

You know you love us

Spotted!

Kate trying on her new pieces for Spring! You won't believe what we have in store for you! More ruffles and frills, but we're turning up the heat! A to die for one shoulder blouse, and some serious detailed sleeve action are just some hints!

Prepare yourself because before you know it, Spring 2011 will be here!

But wait! We have one more season before that! Our Resortwear is in production and you'll never look hotter on your vacation than in our new peices!

Keep your eyes peeled on our website and twitter for updates!

Have a great week!

Fun Chicago Event This Weekend!

Gold Coast Art Fair

Looking for something fun to do in the city this weekend? The Gold Coast Art Fair is happening August 20-22!

The 53rd annual fair, billed as the third oldest event of its kind in Chicago, moves from its former home along neighborhood streets to Grant Park, where more than 450 juried artists from around the world set up. Also features live music from Cirrus Falcon, vendors selling smoothies, coffee, lemonade, Greek food and more and kids' activities.

Check out this link for more details.

Back 2 School

Just because you may not be in school anymore DOESN'T mean you get left out of the back to school shopping!! We have everything you need for fall at kateboggiano.com or at our authorized stores!

For the perfect fall jacket, try the Maggie in tweed, $319.00. All of our products are machine washable. You can dress this jacket up or down, wear to work or wear to a party! It really is perfect for any occasion!

Also try our long button up shirt in black or white! The Natalie looks adorable under any jacket or with a cute belt! Price: $239

For everything else, check out our website and put your order in today!

Make Your own Deep Dish!

It's no secret that us Chicagoans love our deep dish style pizza. Whether it's from Giordano's or Gino's East, we can't resist the urge to visit at LEAST once a month! However, if you've been there, you know how long the lines can be at ANY time during the day!

So if you're looking for something fun to do with your hunny or you don't want to wait for those long lines, I have a fabulous idea for you! Make your own Chicago Deep Dish Style Pizza....yes, at your own home.

Buy a bottle of wine (or two) and plan an evening to dedicate to making your own pizza. With these instructions right here, it's quite simple!

So make a night out of this and kick back and enjoy! Let us know if you try this on our Facebook FanPage- Kate Boggiano.

Check Out These Testimonials

See What our Customers Have to Say...

"Today I am wearing the black Amelia blouse I purchased from you, and I have received so many compliments on it. It feels great on. Thank you for designing a beautiful and perfect fitting blouse. I look forward to seeing new styles"

Violet- Chicago, IL

"I ordered the Classic blouse in the blue stripe and I love it! It is very well made and fits beautifully."

Kathy- Ann Arbor, MI

Just another week!

Style-It!

Keep a look out on our website, kateboggiano.com, for our "Style-It" tool for Fall 2010! Learn how to style your KBO piece for three different situations- Casual, At Work, and Evening. We're here to be your personal stylist!

Got a special event to attend this week or weekend? Look no further than kateboggiano.com to find a perfect outfit! You won't be sorry once you see our fabulous looks for fall!

Remember! We do custom fitting! If you see something you like but it's not the right size, set up an appointment with us! Call our office (866)388-3501 or email us at contactus@kateboggiano.com

Don't Forget!

Here's our special promo of the month! Wear anything KBO to an event or to work during the week, snap a picture of yourself, and upload it to our Facebook FanPage! (Kate Boggiano)

If you do this, we'll send you a $25 gift certificate good towards your next purchase!

Don't miss out on this opportunity!!

This weekend

Visit the Chicago Air and Water Show going on this weekend!! The Chicago Air & Water Show happens each summer for one weekend in August, and over 2 million people flock to the shores of Lake Michigan for the event. It is the oldest and largest free show of its kind in the United States. Take the kids or your friends!

Happy Birthday to you...

It's always a struggle trying to find the perfect gift...for anyone! Boyfriend, best friend, dad, sister...you name it. You want to give them something special with lots of meaning. The key to giving a gift is that it has to be special so they'll always remember it's from YOU. Something that is creative and shows something special about your relationship. I promise it will be more meaningful to them than splurging on the latest piece of technology! Follow this advice:

For the Boyfriend: Recent studies have shown that individuals will be happier in the long run if they spend their money on experiences rather than material things. The memories will last forever while the new iPod or Louis Vuitton bag will not. For this special man, my suggestion would be to plan something for the two of you for his special day. A full day of little surprises that you two can experience together will ensure that he'll remember this day forever. Set up an appointment for a couples massage, go camping together, or go wine tasting! Anything spontaneous and adventurous will put both of you in the mood..!

For the Best Friend: You laugh together, you cry together, and you know everything about each other. Make a collage of pictures, tickets, inside jokes, etc of memories of you too to hang in her room. Go to Michaels and pick up some supplies and go all out. If you want to buy her something too, go to a vintage store and pick out some funky jewelry or a jacket that you know she'll love. Lastly, write her a card telling her how much your friendship means to you. You can never go wrong there.

For the Parents: Your parents are probably not as tech savvy as you are, and chances are they probably don't want to mess with how to use an iPod touch or iPhone. Something nice and meaningful for them would be to plan something for them to do together. If it's your dad's birthday, give them tickets to a cool concert you know they'd enjoy. Or hire a chef to come to their house to cook a full course meal for them for a night. (Let them think you put a lot of thought into this!)

Just remember, keep it from the heart and make it meaningful to your relationship!

Make your own Sushi!

These days, who's not in love with Sushi!? What ever city I'm in, I always want to try the local sushi restaurants. However, how many people do you know that make this delectable food at home?? Not many, I'm sure...

But now, you can! Click on this link for a full "How to" on sushi making!

Here's a little sneak peak...

"Not far away from this page, you will find a detailed sushi guide, with animated flash illustrations to show you how to make sushi for the first time. Also available is a wide variety of recipes for those whom the flavor of simple classic sushi no longer satisfies..."

ENJOY!

KBO Testimonials

See What our Customers Have to Say!

"My roommate and I both own a pair of these, and they are the most amazing leggings I have ever owned. Very flattering on every shape and size! I preach about them and convinced two of my coworkers to also purchase a pair. Thanks for making such a great product."

Hadley- Chicago, IL

"I ordered the Lauren and love it. It's a great fit and I can tell it's very well made - better than some of the much more expensive designer blouses I've purchased! Got lots of compliments the first time I wore it. Washes well, too -no need to dry clean."

Angie- Chicago, IL

Happy Monday!

It's the start of a new week! For those of you who went to Lollapalooza, I hope you've recovered and are having a great start to the week!

Are you following us on Twitter yet? If not, shame on you! Just kidding. @kateboggiano

Remember, if you know a store you want to see KBO items in, send us the name and location of the store, and we'll try and get in there!

Have a good day!
PeaceLove&Ruffles

Looky here...

Receive a KBO gift certificate!

For August, upload any picture of yourself in KBO attire of something fun you did during the week! Post it on our Facebook fan page and you'll receive a $25 gift certificate good towards your next purchase!

SALE!

Summer's creeping to an end, but there's still time to get some great summer deals online at kateboggiano.com! Check out the adorable Issie Ruffle Blouse, on sale for only $126.75! The soft and breathable silk cotton is so comfortable and lightweight that if it wasn't for all the compliments you'll receive when you wear the blouse, you'd forget you had it on! Buy yours today, they're going fast!

Have a fun and fashionable weekend!

Fall Shipment!

The first Fall shipment is
underway!

Meghan and Erin are working hard to get everything ready to send out to boutiques around the U.S. and Mark Shale! The next batch goes out on August 30th! Look at more pictures on Facebook on our fan page, Kate Boggiano!

What to Wear for a Summer Wedding

In light of our lovely assistant designer Amy's wedding coming up in just a few weeks, I thought I'd write a piece on what to wear to a summer wedding. It's summer, and even if it's not in the air around you, love is in the air. More likely than not, you're going to be on the guest list for a friend's or family member's wedding. It's important to look nice at every wedding (but don't show up the bride...it's her day!)

Time of the wedding is a factor that needs to be considered when deciding what you're going to wear on this special occasion. If the wedding is in the morning or afternoon, people typically dress more casually than if the wedding is in the evening. For these more casual weddings, go for bright colors and floral prints and a cute pair of flats. Something like the KBO Jackie Shirtdress Bloom would be perfect for this type of wedding, paired with cute red flats.



For an evening wedding, formalwear is more appropriate. Stick to dark colors, long dresses, and a great pair of heels.

If you're still unsure about what to wear, remember these two things: moderately conservative is always a safe way to go and only the bride gets to wear white. Follow this advice and you’ll be good to go!

Check out 2 KBO Testimonials!

"Just wanted to say, I met you at the Randolph street fair this weekend and was impressed enough to checkout your website. I ordered the Alexi in black and just got it (in 1 day!) and LOVE it! The tailoring is exquisite, the fit is perfect, and the fabric is to die for. I can't wait to wear it. I'll definitely be back--thanks!"

Laura-Chicago, IL

"Thanks so much for carrying them (leggings). I've searched and searched for these after the ones I bought in Santa Monica started to come loose (I wore them ALOT). And thank you for being so quick in responding. You are providing such GREAT customer service. I completely acknowledge it and appreciate it. I've already told all of my girlfirends about it."

Cathy-Seattle, WA

Cupcakes Galore!

So last week I was on my way to a rooftop party at Vertigo for Execulife with a few friends. When we walked out of our dorm and were turned down State, we were greeted by a lovely vehicle that was giving out FREE cupcakes. We generously accepted the offer and picked our flavor. Options included red velvet, carrot, chocolate with dark chocolate icing and chocolate with white icing. Let me tell you...I have never tasted something so delicious in my entire life. The ladies giving them out told us that their new store, Sprinkles, was opening in a few days at 50 East Walton St., right in our lovely city of Chicago.

Sprinkles originated in Beverly Hills and has since opened in major cities like NYC, Dallas, Houston, and now our very own. It's said to be the world's first cupcake bakery. This is easily added to the list of one of my new favorite Chicago attractions! Check out more information here on their website, Sprinkles.com

Go get yours today or give them as a gift!

This week at KBO

For interns Erin and Alyssa, it's their last week here at KBO! Now that we've had our first shipment of Fall Production, things are a little less hectic..but don't worry, that never lasts long! Stay tuned for news about our Cruisewear line and sneak peaks at Spring 2011!