Behind the scenes of Kate Boggiano

Fall Transition Time

2011-09-30T09:00:00.001-05:00

Well I guess fall is actually officially here both date and weather wise in the Windy City. Time to stock up on fall and some great essential seamless tanks and leggings!

Our Napa Adventure for Geoff's 30th bday!

2011-08-15T09:15:00.000-05:00

Vacation is too short and infrequent when you own your own business. I always want to make sure I'm doing it right so here are my notes on Napa just in case there are other vacation deprived folks out there who are wondering how much is too much in Napa! Wish I could go back this week...

Stayed: Napa Westin, in Napa

What we liked about Napa: it’s the biggest town in the valley so there are plenty of things to do at night. We loved the Westin because if you didn’t want to do anything, it was quite and peaceful anyway and had a great pool, lounge, and hotel dining options.

July 28^th Day 1: Fly into San Fran and hang out downtown

Arrive at 2pm and upgrade rental car to a cheesy but awesome Mitsubishi convertible then struggle to stuff luggage into the backseat and non-existent trunk

Walk around and grab a snack in San Fran

Drinks at Zeitgeist-cool place but I think I got high off of second hand smoke at 5:30 on a Thursday afternoon – California J

Dinner at Chilango - great Mexican place within a 10 min walk

Drive to Napa around 8:30pm and pass out!

July 29^th Day 2 – Driving tour of Napa Valley

8:30am – workout at hotel

11:00 am Cake bread tasting and food pairing in Rutherford, CA (part of the napa valley

Lunch at the pizza part of Tra Vigne and walk around St. Helena, Ca

3:30pm – Olive oil tasting at Round Pound Rutherford CA

5:30 – Somerston Wine Co tasting and cheese plate (groupon), Yountville, CA

Dinner at Oxbow market

July 30^th Day 3 – Wine tasting on Bikes!

Sleep in!

Breakfast at Bouchon Bakery in Yountville, CA. Amazing – must visit!

10:00 – farmers market in Calistoga to pick up a picnic lunch

10:15am – check in at Calistoga bike shop to get itinerary and bikes for the day and our self guided wine tour!

10:45am – geoff rides around trying to get used to a non-competitive bike and we check out the real Calistoga

I'm already seeing double! Geoff can never do anything slowly :)

11:15am – Lava Vine – great small vineyard!

Noon – Dutch Henry – skip it!

12:45 – Frank Family – I had heard great things so we added this to the tour even though it wasn’t included in the price of the bike rental. It was one of my top 3 vineyards for sure! Amazing wine, amazing grounds. We had our picnic here and it was great! They let us share a tasting so it was $15/person for their fabulous reserve wines!

Our picnic lunch courtesy of the Calistoga Farmers Market! Hummus, wheat pita, Smoked Salmon, strawberries, raspberries, and white raspberries. Geoff is half bear!

Beautiful picnic grounds leading right up to the grapes at Frank Family!

Happy Geoff at Frank Family!

2pm-decide to try to get up one of the biggest hills just for fun at the “castle”. The winery was a tourist trap but we got up the hill!

I think the large hill wiped the smile off Geoff's face.

We had perfect weather the entire time we were there! Can I go back now?

3pm – Twomy. I swear I had heard of their wines and was incredibly disappointed by our tasting, the atmosphere and the women pouring the wine. They were not pleasant and quite bitter. The wine wasn’t much better I thought

3:45pm – biked by another vineyard and we discovered we were tipsy

4:15pm – back to Calistoga bike shop to turn in the bikes and get some ice cream.

4:45pm drove back on the parallel rd to 29 and flew home

5:30-7pm – pool time!

8:30 – drinks at Fish Story followed by dinner at Zuzu tapas – skip the tapas place-more fried food than needed!

July 31^st- spa day!

11:00am – spa date in Calistoga at Golden Haven Hot springs

This is their explanation…

At Calistoga’s Golden Haven Hot Springs Spa, couples can enjoy the mud baths together. Each of our treatment rooms accommodate two persons so you can share this wonderful Napa Valley spa experience in privacy with your companion only a few inches away. And, if there are 3 of you, and you all wish to do your mud baths together, we can also accomodate groups of 3 in a private treatment room.
Calistoga mud baths have been a tradition, a way of life since the time of the Mayacamas Indians. The combination of clay, peat and hot springs mineral waters in the mud bath relaxes muscles and joints, detoxifies, and leaves the skin soft and renewed.

STEP 1:

The treatment begins as you immerse yourself into your individual tub of warm mud. This is the premier Calistoga spa experience.

STEP 2:

Your mud bath includes a nourishing clay mask that cleanses and softens the skin.

STEP 3:

Relax as the mud treatment detoxifies, soothes aching muscles and leaves you feeling fresh and renewed.

STEP 4:

After your mud bath you enjoy a refreshing hot springs mineral water shower.

STEP 5:

Next is your private hot Jacuzzi using Calistoga hot springs mineral water.

STEP 6:

Your treatment ends in the blanket wrap room as you relax under the attentive care of our trained staff.

When your mud bath is over, you might be in the mood for a soothing massage or herbal facial. Or perhaps, a few laps in our pool. But no matter what you choose to do after your Calistoga mud bath, you will have known true relaxation by enjoying the premier natural and detoxifying Napa Valley spa treatment loved by thousands each year.

Might have been the grossest experience of my life and I still can’t believe we did it– skip it!

Tried to buy a picnic and have lunch at Via Sattui but it was swarming with people so I started to get cranky and geoff got the message. We went up the road instead and bought a picnic at dean and duluca and walked over to halls and bought a bottle of wine and enjoyed our picnic. Hall’s was very nice and had a cute little outdoor area although not the prettiest grounds we’d seen.

3pm-vincent arroyo- best wines! We called 20 minutes before we got there without a reservation and they let us in. 82 acre vineyard and the wines are outta this world!

4:15pm tried to stop by pima but they closed at 4 – sad- that was our friends favorite. I guess next time!

5-7pm pool/book/family phone call time

9pm birthday dinner at Morimoto – the iron chefs place

August 1^st – fly home – sad!

The Amazing Portrait collar Evie Blouse

2011-08-12T09:15:00.000-05:00

I don’t know if you’ve had a chance yet, but for fall, we have the most amazing button down, portrait collar blouse – the Evie.

Portrait collars are very flattering for every body type as it draws attention to the neck and face. A portrait collar typically allows for great jewelry which just adds to the interest in your neckline area. Another great detail on our Evie blouse is the beautiful lace placket detail. Lace is a big trend for Fall and I think by adding it in an interesting way that won’t over power the shirt, is a great way to follow a trend while still being appropriate and making a good investment in a garment that won’t go out of style when the trend leaves.

As always, our Evie blouse is made from the highest quality fabric and has beautiful French seams, shell buttons, and a three quarter sleeve that can be flipped up or left down.

I hope you enjoy!

Kate

Tonight is Pretty in Pilsen! Can’t make it? Save online instead!

2011-08-11T15:57:00.000-05:00

August Pretty in Pilsen Details:

What: Shop your favorites including: Kate Boggiano, Objets d’Envy jewelry, ColeHaddon Showroom, and Anna Hovet. Be there for the unveiling of the fall collections from these amazing designer studios!
Where: 2150 S. Canalport Ave., 3rd, 4th, and 5th Floors, in Pilsen, Chicago.
When: Thursday, August 11th 2010, 5:30pm-8pm

With the end of summer fast approaching, it’s time to fall forward with a first look at the new season trends! Think cozy knits, great jackets, beautiful dresses, and all the essentials to revamp your fall wardrobe. Enjoy a pleasantly peaceful shopping experience without the hustle and bustle of a big store. Meet the designers and receive their insider knowledge about the best looks this fall.

Not ready to bid summer fashions a temporary farewell? Indulge your inner warm-weather goddess by shopping the end of summer markdowns! With prices this great, you won’t be able to resist (all spring and summer is 40% off for Pretty in Pilsen attendees!

As an added bonus, many of the designer studios have secret sample racks with really great finds. Stop by early for the best selection, with prices as low as $30.

Whether you’re ready to wrap yourself in autumnal hued outfits or still searching for that perfect summer dress, “Pretty in Pilsen—Fall Forward” has something to love for everyone. Carpool with your girlfriends for a fun Thursday night shopping in the lofty Pilsen building that houses so much of Chicago’s amazing design talent!

Can’t make it to our studio? That’s ok! We just did our end of season markdowns online and things are flying out the door! Make sure to claim your favorites before they are gone forever!

Jackie Dress
Was: $219
Now: $120.45

Rosa Ruffle Tank
Was: $129
Now: $90.30

Sleeveless Diana
Was: $165.00
Now: $82.50

Have a good one and I hope to see you!

Kate

The Indie Shopping experience online!

2011-08-05T13:03:00.000-05:00

Being a smaller independent designer, I’m all for shopping local! If you can’t always make it to your favorite local boutique that’s ok – you can still shop great indie fashion in the comfort of your own home (or office). One of my favorite sites to find some of the best up and comers is called Smashing Darling.

Smashing Darling is all about emerging Desingers!

“Founded by Julie Rorrer and Trish Ginter, a fashion designer herself, SmashingDarling is the online destination for anything new and emerging fashion, bringing together independent fashion designers with individuals who seek a unique fashion edge. With over 300 designer boutiques and new and exciting fashion added daily, both designers and fashion lovers can find just what they need—what they always dreamed of—right here at SmashingDarling.com.”

Taken from their About Us section

Not only is Smashing Darling supporting and filling and important and needed gap in the marketplace online, they also have a great and easy to use website. You can shop by boutique or designer, clothing type (sweater, blouse etc), vintage, jewelry etc.

Our boutique on Smashing Darling

Lots of categories to choose from!

They also have a great blog that highlights some of their favorite designers, pieces, and local events that you should definitely check out to learn more about emerging fashion!

Click here to sign up to receive emails from them and show your darling side!

Have a Great Weekend. I’ll be in the studio pretty much all weekend fixing a production problem except for my 10 am free Cross Fit workout. More on production problems and how to fix them next week and you can sign up for the free Atlas Cross fit Work out of the day or (WOD) with me for Saturday at 10am by clicking here.

Kate

The quest for the perfect Women’s Tunic.

2011-08-04T09:15:00.000-05:00

So thanks to Tory Burch (and a small army of stylists, wardrobe consultants, and less successful designers before her) the women’s tunic is a known and needed staple in any woman’s wardrobe. But how and why did it get to be so needed?

According to Wikipedia, a Tunic is:

“A tunic is any of several types of clothing for the body, of various lengths reaching from the shoulders to somewhere between the hips and the ankles. The name derives from the Latin tunica commonly worn by both men and women in Ancient Rome, which in turn is based on earlier Greek garments.

The Roman tunica was worn by citizens and non-citizens alike; citizens, though, might wear it under the toga, especially at formal occasions. The length of the garment, the presence or lack of stripes, as well as their width and ornamentation, would indicate the wearer's status in Roman society. Soldiers, slaves and manual workers generally had tunics to a little above the knee; those in more sedentary occupations to about the ankle (unless they were expecting to ride a horse, when a shorter one would be worn).”

So I guess Tory wasn’t responsible for the invention, merely the popularity of this ancient garment into modern times. Tunics are still found today in uniforms and among religious groups but why are they so popular now? It appears to me that women’s tunics became popular right around the same time that skinny jeans and leggings started to regain popularity. Tunics allow real women a reasonable option to pair with both skinny jeans and leggings as well as a fashionable top that is less restrictive and revealing as knit tops can be.

How do I find my perfect Women’s Tunic

Shape

a. Shape is always the most important piece to evaluate when choosing a tunic top or any top for that matter. Know what works for you best and follow these basic guidelines:

i. Apple- Undefined waist

1. You look great in: Tops and jackets with structured shoulders and/or shoulder pads, monochromatic outfits, tops with ornamental detail at the neckline, straight pants and skirts.

2. You should avoid: highly tailored clothing, high necklines, tapered pants and skirts, belts or anything attracting attention to the waist such as tucked in blouses, and large patterned fabrics.

ii. Inverted Triangle – Top heavy with broad shoulders, large bust, and narrow hips

1. You look great in: lower necklines, a- line skirts and dresses, bracelet length sleeves, and flowing fabric.

2. You should avoid: Big collars and high necklines, tops or dresses emphazing the shoulders.

iii. Hourglass – Hips and shoulders are about the same width and a well defined waist.

1. You look great in: well tailored clothing with defined waists, lower necklines, and straight or slightly flared pants, skirts and dresses.

2. You should avoid: Baggy or classic cut clothing, and tapered pants for the most part.

3. Perfect Women’sTunic:

iv. Pear – Narrower shoulders and wider hips.

1. You look great in: tops with ornamentation, structured shoulders or shoulder pads, and a hemline that is shorter than the widest part of your hips, high necklines, clothing with a well defined waist, skirts and dresses that are straight or slightly flared, and straight or slightly boot cut pants.

2. You should avoid: longer shirts that fall to your body’s widest point, baggy garments, tapered pants

3. Perfect Women’sTunic:

v. Straight and Narrow – bust and hips are about the same and an undefined waist with slim legs and arms.

1. You look great in: wrap dresses, a-line shirts and tops, short sleeves and sleeveless tops and dresses.

2. You should avoid: The extremes – super tailored clothing and baggy clothing.

3. Perfect Women’sTunic:

Fabric

Blouses with stretch wrinkle less and fit better.
Find a blouse that has stretch in it. I would advise keeping the other 1+ natural fibers for a nicer hand and a better wear/look to the blouse. Our light weight stretch fabric that makes up our Violet Women’s Tunic is 68% cotton, 28% nylon, and 4% spandex and has a great hand (soft not polyester feeling), comes in amazing colors (nylon holds dye the best of all fabrications), and best of all can be laundered at home in your washing machine and line dried with minimal wrinkling. Fabric that has stretch has give and is far more comfortable even if it’s worn a little tight to the body and wrinkles less then anything that is 100% fiber.

Length

Length is a size, shape, location, and age appropriate question. As a general rule, tunics should be longer when paired with tighter fitting bottoms and can be shorter when paired with looser fitting bottoms, a shorter tunic can be appropriate depending on shape and size. If you are choosing to wear a tunic with skinny jeans or leggings, we recommend the tunic length coming to at least your finger tips when standing with arms by your sides.

Accessorize

Making sure that your tunic is able to look different and be dressed up or down with jewelry or shoes is very important and should be considered when making the purchase. In order to make your tunic top as versatile as possible, ask yourself: Can I change the look and feel of the tunic with jewelry? How about a belt?

Although they are popular and for good reason, a well thought out purchase that is shape, length, and age appropriate in the right fabric and is easily accessorized will yield a perfect purchase, happy wearer, and a great cost per wear ratio (total cost of the item/estimated days worn = cost per wear)

Example our Violet Tunic is $249.00 if you wear it 1 time every 3 weeks for 3 years, the cost per wear is $4.88 per wear. Pretty affordable especially when considering our construction, fabric quality, and design aesthetic will last much longer than 3 years.

Happy Shopping!

Kate

Happy 30th Birthday Geoff!

2011-08-01T09:15:00.003-05:00

Me visiting Geoff in LA when he lived there circa 2007 (He looks so young!)

Geoff post completion of his 1st half Ironman in Ocenside in 2007

Making it to the summit of Mt. Shasta AND meeting my dad for the 1st time - he looks a little nervous :)

Me and Geoff with his Dad in 2007

Sumo Wrestlers for Halloween 2009

So today is Geoff’s 30^th birthday! He loves to make fun of me for being a whopping 6 weeks older but today, he enters his 4^th decade along with me. I can’t wait to see what the next decade has in store.

To celebrate, I planned a long weekend to Napa Valley (which we are still hopefully enjoying- I pre-wrote this post so I could avoid bringing a computer on our trip!). Details and a vacation recap coming soon.

Till then – Happy Birthday to the most patient man I’ve ever met. I’m glad you were born and couldn’t imagine life without you!

Love, Kate

Like jewelry? Who doesn’t?

2011-07-29T09:15:00.000-05:00

My husbands friends Amy and Daniella started Bauble Bar a few years back and have been doing a great job! Bauble Bar is a website that provides great jewelry at a fraction of the department store price. If you haven’t learned about it, you need to check it out but here are the basics and why they created Bauble Bar:

Selection: Boutiques had too narrow a selection while department stores had too much to sift through - the shopping experience was so overwhelming, and not at all fun. We also wanted access to a constantly refreshed selection, not new product just once per season.

Value: As hard as we tried, we couldn’t find a place to buy high quality pieces without a high price tag. We also couldn’t shake this nagging feeling that we weren’t getting great value for our dollar. Our intellectual curiosity got the best of us and we decided to do some digging, where we learned that retailers were marking up pieces as high as 20 times above cost!

It was then that we decided to create BaubleBar - a new concept in fashion jewelry retail that lets women create their ultimate jewelry box guilt-free.

We work hand-in-hand with leading jewelry designers who supply high-end retail stores, and curate a collection of pieces across different styles. Our web-based approach allows us to offer you unparalleled value, while our comprehensive product selection, editorial style tips and exceptional customer service establish us as your trusted go-to for all your jewelry needs.

Sounds great, right? Even better is how you get to shop. Choose from Fashion, Function or Fame! Cute! Fashion are those items that they group into specific categories like Marrakech Expresss for example:

Or, shop by Function and the normal filters apply such as bracelet, earring, necklace etc:

There is also shop by fame or your fav celeb sitings or magazine placements:

As if that isn’t cool enough, they’ve come up with the vault for their loyal fans:

The pricing, selection, and website layout is amazing and I highly suggest you check them out for all your jewelry needs!

www.baublebar.com

www.facebook.com/baublebar

http://twitter.com/#!/baublebar

The Portrait Collar Show Stopper - Introducing the Evie Blouse

2011-07-28T09:15:00.000-05:00

Finding a blouse that fits well and fits in to multiple parts of your life isn't the easiest shopping feat to accomplish. Our portrait collar Evie blouse is a great fit for the office, errands, and your nights out!

Ends approx at wearer's high hip to mid thigh (slightly longer in the back because of the peplum)
Slim Fit
Features include: lightweight stretch fabric that makes it a perfect fit and comfy to wear, flattering portrait collar that shows off your femininity and creates a nice display area for jewelry, a small peplum at the back that adds interest and an hourglass silhouette, lace detail on the front placket for a feminine touch, and 3/4 length sleeves that can flip up and become short sleeves or stay down creating an additional area for accessories but not get in your way throughout your busy day.
Click here for more info on our high quality craftsmanship

Kate Says: " The portrait collar Evie blouse runs true to size. This blouse looks as great with a pencil skirt as it does with jeans. MUST have of the season!"

Fabric: 68% Cotton, 28% Nylon, 4% Spandex, Chambray: 100% Cotton
Care Instructions: Machine wash cold delicate cycle. Tumble dry low or hang dry.

Price: $195.00

Dog days of summer were here!

2011-07-27T09:15:00.001-05:00

Intern Morgan with a bag of ice on her head to cool her down in the 115 degree heat!

Well another successful Chicago Sidewalk Sale is in the rear view mirror and a Warehouse sale complete with a regional disaster is all over. Thanks to those who came out for either or both (you know who you are!)

The sidewalk sale was a great time for us to get to know our downtown customers. We had a great booth and were featured on WGN news with Ana Belaval. Love her!

So when we go to these events, I load my Saturn Vue to the brim

Probably not the safest thing in the world especially with the ends of the rolling racks usually pointed directly at my head or neck in the drivers seat. Because of this, one of my worst fears is getting into a wreck coming or going from one of the events. Unfortuantely after spending all day in the heat (6am-4pm) on Tuesday, I was rear ended by a cab.

Fortunately we were going 2 mph and nobody was hurt but what a drag after a long day! I shouldn’t complain though, I only had to drop off and pick up for the second day which was HOT! We were in the middle of a heat wave and the poor KBO interns were out in for 2 days! On the second day, the temps were so high that the heat index made it to 112 F! Those are some great interns for sure

To top it off, we had our semi-annual warehouse sale on Saturday, July 23^rd. As always, I picked a date where there was a semi serious natural disaster – another flood! We got over 8 inches of rain in 2 HOURS! Unbelievable! I need to hand off picking the date to someone else for the January sale. Thanks for coming out if you braved the weather. There were also some great deals to be had and we saw a lot of great customers show up for the 60% off from 8am-9am. Way to get outta bed early AND brave the floods!


Studio all set for 8am'ers


Hourly Discounts starting at 60% were hard to pass up!


Kirsten from Objets d'envy setting up!

Amy prepping for our special day helpers!

Make sure you’re signed up on our email list. Not only will you get a coupon for free shipping, you will also learn about our great events around Chicago! Click here to sign up.

I’m off for a mini vacation- more on that later!

Have a great rest of your week – I’m incommunicado (and lovin it!)

Kate

PS-I just found a photo of our booth from the very 1st sidewalk sale - we've come a long way!

Move over LBD, this fall it’s all about the CBL (comfy black leggings!).

2011-07-26T09:15:00.000-05:00

As sad as it may sound, those BTS (back-to-school)ads are going to be blaring through your TV in the next couple weeks. Although as adults we miss out on the fun BTS shopping, we can take some time to take stake of our wardrobes and assess where we are vs where we want to be for fall. A good place to start are those basic items that you can’t live without like black leggings.

Black leggings are just as important for fall as that trusty pair of dark wash denim or a great fall coat. At Kate Boggiano, you have a few options for your must have black leggings so you might want to buy a few pairs of one or one of all the options depending on your preference. Let’s start with the basics.

Kate BoggianoSeamless Leggings

Our seamless leggings are great because they have a wider waistband ensuring the waist stays where you want it to and won’t roll down, they are made of 8% spandex which means the come back to shape after every where AND no baggy knees, and finally there is only one seam making them the most comfortable pair of leggings you will ever put on. We do have 2 different lengths available our full length (comes to the ankle) and our cropped or short legging which comes to the calf. Both lengths are available in Black, Gray, and Dark brown as well as a few other colors.

Shapewear Leggings

If you've tried our leggings and felt you could use a little more support, we were listening! These were discovered by accident on a trip to NYC and I just had to have them! MeMoi uses top quality fabrics, better than Spanx in my opinion, and well placed panels to provide comfort and shaping in one great legging!

Shapewear Leggings for Women

firms and supports your legs, thighs, and tummy without revealing panty lines

lifts the bum while shaping the thighs

special seamless fabric panel smoothes your tummy and makes for a great high waist legging!

Bamboo Footless Tights

Not quite a legging, but our new Bamboo footless tights are great for this fall! Super comfy, these Bamboo Footless Tights will not only look great with any outfit, they will quickly become your favorite pair because of the moisture absorption qualities and soft hand of bamboo. We call these footless tights instead of leggings because they are less opaque than Kate Boggiano Leggings or our Shapewear Leggings and we don't recommend wearing them on their own.

Bamboo Footless Tights are:

made from a renewable resource - bamboo.

dyed using mild vegetable dyes - no chemicals or pesticides.

extremely comfortable due to the high moisture absorption qualities of bamboo

luxurious organic fibers.

Special features include: 1 1/2" substantial waistband and 2" elastic cuff at the ankle ensuring they stay put.

So which of the 3 options will you choose? The best part of these 3 options are they are very affordable. From $24.95-29.95, you can’t go wrong! Get free shipping by signing up for our email list and stock up on us!

Have a good one!
Kate

Try our amazing women's tunic - the Stripe Violet!

2011-07-25T09:15:00.003-05:00

Finding an age and office appropriate women's tunic can be difficult. Our Violet Tunic fills this gap with its perfect length, appropriate and interesting neckline and collar, and tailored silhouette.

• Ends at mid thigh
• Slim fit
• Features include: double collar for interest (inner collar is a standing ruffle and outer is a flat shawl collar), long length that is great over leggings or jeans, functional side seam pockets, longer short sleeve that covers any trouble areas on the arm while elongating and slenderizing the arms, beautiful details such as a back belt, back tucks on the bodice, and double breasted closure that adds interest and attention to your outfit
• Click here for more info on our high quality craftsmanship.

Our Violet Tunic runs true to size. Try pairing with Kate Boggiano full length seamless leggings or shapewear leggings. I'm going to live in my Violet Tunic this Fall!!

Did you save 20% on your Violet Tunic at our Warehouse sale?
Email me if you didn't but you still want to - I think we can work something out.

Happy Monday!
Kate

Warehouse sale TODAY!

2011-07-23T05:36:00.001-05:00

Can’t make it? Call in your order after 11am to 866-388-3501. Leave a message with your name, phone number, and style, color and sizes of everything you want. You will receive a confirmation phone call before 5pm on Saturday with totals. All phoned in orders will ship Monday, 7/25/11.

Details
Current Collection and Clearance items:

60%off 8am-9am
50% off 9am-11am
40% off 11am-noon
30% off noon to 4pm

Samples as marked $30/$50/$75
Special Seamless pricing
20% off all fall preorders!

Click here for directions!

See you soon,
Kate

View Larger Map
Click here for directions

Warehouse Sale TOMORROW!

2011-07-22T09:15:00.001-05:00

Come join us bright and early for our BIGGEST sale of the year. Save 20% on all Fall 2011 preorders, up to 60% off our current collection and sale items, and buy our samples for as low as $30. We will have special pricing on our seamless collection and everything will go FAST!
-Current Collection and Clearance items:

60%off 8am-9am

50% off 9am-11am

40% off 11am-noon

30% off noon to 4pm

-Samples as marked $30/$50/$75
-Special Seamless pricing
-20% off all fall preorders!

See you there!
Kate

PS-can’t make it? Call in your order after 11am to 866-388-3501! Leave a message with your name, phone number, and style, color and sizes of everything you want. You will receive a confirmation phone call before 5pm on Saturday with totals. All phoned in orders will ship Monday, 7/25/11.

Christmas in July (kinda)

2011-07-20T09:15:00.001-05:00

Typically in retail, January and July are the slowest months of the year. When you are a wholesaler, however, these months pick up exponentially. Our biggest (in volume or units) month out of the year is July and we are in thick of it now.

Blouses waiting for buttons and buttonholes

Quality control being preformed on finished blouses before they go to pressing

From markdowns at retail to furiously producing our Fall season, we are moving at all times in July and in many different directions. Many of our stores ask for as early of a Fall delivery as they can get regardless of the weather. The do this so they can show more people their fall selections BEFORE it gets cold in hopes of enticing people with great and different items before they start spending their fall clothing budget hoping they will remember the item and come back to that store to purchase. It’s a tough spot for them as they are usual involved in markdowns or discounting and are trying to get some new life and styles into their stores but don’t have a lot of money to pay for it.

Additionally, in January and July, we have our semi annual warehouse sale where we mark down our inventory up to 60% depending on what time you choose to do your shopping. We start at 8am and every hour we decrease the discount 10% so at 9am, the discount goes from 60% to 50% etc etc. It’s fun and a great way for us to sell off some of our inventory to make way for fall. If you’re not busy, feel free to check it out and if you don’t live here, we are trying something a little new this year. You can call in your order to 866-388-3501 after 11am and qualify for the 11am-4pm pricing. If the line is busy, we are probably helping other customers and we encourage you to leave a message with your name, phone number, and items, colors and sizes you want and we will call you back by 5pm with your total, confirmation, and payment. All instock items will ship on Monday July 25th.

Don’t forget, today is the last day we are downtown in Daley Plaza. Make sure to stop by and say hi to Amy today on your lunch break – 30% off, samples for sale, and fashion trivia to save up to $5.00 off your order – tons of fun! She’ll be there until 3pm.

See you or talk to you on Saturday!

Kate

Our dramatic pleated blouse - the Anne

2011-07-19T09:15:00.002-05:00

A great alternative to a ruffle blouse, a pleated blouse like our dramatic Anne adds just the right amount of style and sophistication to any occasion.

• Ends at wearer’s hip

• Slim fit

• Features include: beautiful Japanese cotton for a luxurious look and feel, a high neck pleated collar that draws attention to your face, faux french cuffs that create the same great look without the hassle of cuff links, and a tailored fit helps to create a slim silhouette.

• Click here for more info on our high quality craftsmanship.
Our Anne blouse with pleats runs true to size. If you typically have trouble with blouses fitting in the chest, I suggest sizing up. I love my Anne belted or under a cardigan for different looks and I think I wear navy stripes the most!

Happy Shopping!

PS-don’t forget to stop by our booth on the north west area of Daley plaza today and tomorrow. We have 30% off our collection plus samples starting as low as $30! See you there!

Kate Boggiano location on Daley Plaza

Tomorrow is the big day!

2011-07-18T09:15:00.000-05:00

The Chicago Sidewalk Sale starts tomorrow and goes until Wednesday this week! Don't forget to stop by Daley Plaza on your lunch break to shop amazing local designers and boutiques. Kate will be there all day on Tuesday and Amy will be there on Wednesday.

Can't wait to see you!

Fall Trends we can't wait to try!

2011-07-15T09:15:00.002-05:00

Fall is coming up fast now that July 4th is over. We took some time and looked back through our favorite designers and runway shows to see what we’re excited to wear this fall!

Graphic Art (exaggerated stripes, plaids etc)

Lace

Fur

Long lengths (everything from coats to skirts to pants)

What are you looking forward to wearing for fall now that you’ve worn most of your summer clothing at least once?

Happy Weekend!
Kate

Suiting

Pretty in Pilsen - Tonight!

2011-07-14T09:15:00.001-05:00

What: Shop with Kate Boggiano, Objets d'Envy jewelry, ColeHaddon Showroom, Anna Hovet, and more!
Where: The studios at 2150 S. Canalport Ave, 3rd and 4th floors, Chicago, IL 60608
When: Thursday, July 14th, 5:30-8:30pm

Summer is a short season in Chicago. So we need to make the most of it. That means sleeveless tops, sundresses, flirty skirts, halters, cropped trousers, dangling earrings. Find all that and much more from the 5 designer studios at PrettyinPilsen.

Private shopping is a treat: no lines for the waiting room, no snippy sales girls, no parking hassles. Meet the designers and receive their personal recommendations. Bring your girlfriends for a fun Friday evening inPilsen.

Secret Sample Racks:
Many of the designer studios have sample racks with really great finds. Stop by early for the best selection. Prices as low as $40.

Save 25% on the current collection of Kate Boggiano and as a bonus...buy a Groupon NOW the day of the event and use it on anything in the Kate Boggiano studio including Anna Hovet and Objet d'Envy items! Purchase a $20 Groupon for $15. You may use it in addition to the 25% off for Kate Boggiano products. Groupon NOW is only good for the day you purchase it but we will be extending the deal until 8:30 pm that day.

The Secrets to finding (and wearing) a Tailored Blouse

2011-07-13T09:15:00.002-05:00

Tailored blouses can be tricky. They always look so nice when you leave the house in the morning but by the time you get to the office a few things happen: 1. the blouse is so wrinkled it looks like you slept in it, 2. finding a great fitting tailored blouse is hard so you are either swimming in it or it is so tight all day you feel a little self conscious raising your arms because of the funny way you have to contort your body to get them above your shoulders, 3. you are constantly fidgeting with the collar, the cuffs, and the sleeves that you end up giving up on the collar and rolling up the sleeves, 4. a combo of the above plus you hate ironing and have a stack of blouses in the “to be ironed” pile

Blouses with stretch wrinkle less and fit better.
I’m going to touch on points 1, 2, and 4 with the same tip – find a blouse that has stretch in it. I would advise keeping the other 1+ natural fibers for a nicer hand and a better wear/look to the blouse. Our light weight stretch fabric is 68% cotton, 28% nylon, and 4% spandex and has a great hand (soft not polyester feeling), comes in amazing colors (nylon holds dye the best of all fabrications), and best of all can be laundered at home in your washing machine and line dried with minimal wrinkling. Fabric that has stretch has give and is far more comfortable even if it’s worn a little tight to the body and wrinkles less then anything that is 100% fiber.

There is no standard sizing in women’s apparel.
Unfortunately, we are all aware of this statement. When you are a size 6 in one designer, you could be a size 2 in a mass merchant, and a size 10 in a high end European designer. It’s difficult to get this right let alone have to remember what you are in each brand you shop. Although there is no standardization, there is a method the fitting madness. First, when you try on blouses, fit to the widest part of your upper body which is typically the problem area. For example, if your shoulders are normally too wide for most blouses, choose a blouse that is a perfect fit on your shoulders but too big elsewhere. Second, find a good tailor in your home town. I know that this can get expensive but if you have better fitting quality clothing, you won’t need as much of it because you will want to wear your clothing over and over again.

Fidget less and look better!
Classic collars, cuffs, and sleeves can be somewhat restrictive if you want to do something that interferes with them such as wear your hair down, wear chunky jewelry, or wear a watch. Look for blouses that have a more open neckline such as a portrait collar, ¾ sleeves, and flexible or multi purposed cuffs that are intended to be worn multiple ways.

Here are a few of my favorites that are coming soon to Kateboggiano.com!

Evie Blouse

Violet Tunic

Kate Blouse

Can it really almost be time to ship Fall Blouses?

2011-07-12T09:15:00.001-05:00

It seems to me that summer FINALLY just got here! At our offices however, we are busily trying to get out our fall orders for our wholesale accounts and update our website with the new blouses.

One of my favorite fall blouses, is our Bella Ruffle Top. The Bella is great for a few reasons, it has this super comfy knit that is a little bit thicker so it holds you in and smooths out any imperfections, it has a great longer short sleeve to cover the trouble spots on the arm while allowing you to stay cool in a hot office or under a jacket, and the half button placket in the front creates a slimmer silhouette while giving you the option to wear a belt or not.

Try our Bella Ruffle Top with jeans or with a pencil skirt to the office. The real question should be how many colors to get…

Kate Boggiano July Events in Chicago - You won't want to miss these!

2011-07-11T09:15:00.004-05:00

Pretty in Pilsen - Summer Style

What: The 2nd THURSDAY (NEW THIS YEAR!) of every month, shop your favorites including: Kate Boggiano, Objets d'Envy jewelry,ColeHaddon Showroom, Anna Hovet and new vendors, artists, and services located throughout the building on the 3rd, 4th, and 5th floors.
Where: 2150 S. Canalport Ave, 3rd, 4th, and 5th floors, Chicago, IL 60608

When: THURSDAY, July 14th 5:30-8pm

Please note that we moved Pretty in Pilsen to Thursday nights for 2011!!!

Kate Boggiano will be offering 25% off all apparel excluding samples. Come drink some wine and get a great deal.

See you THURSDAY!

RSVP not neccesary. Contact Kate Boggiano for questions: kate@kateboggiano.com

or (773)-474-7987

4th Annual Chicago Sidewalk Sale

Where: Daley Plaza 50 W. Washington Street, Chicago, IL
When: Tuesday July 19th and Wednesday July 20th from 9am-3pm each day. Fashion show at noon.

Shop local stores and designers on your lunch break! This fun and convenient event takes place every year in Daley Plaza for two days only. Don't miss the fashion show at noon both days for great style tips and tricks from some of the top Chicago designers. This is our first day of spring/summer markdowns so the product will be going fast! Don't miss out on your favorite Spring Kate Boggiano piece! See you there!

Semi Annual Warehouse SALE! 60/50/40/30 savings!

What: Kate Boggiano's semi-annual Warehouse Sale. Enjoy savings from 60-30% depending on your arrival time. Get there early for the best savings and best selection. Peruse sample racks for great finds as low as $30. And enjoy 20% off all Fall 2011 merchandise, all day long!

Where: 2150 S. Canalport Ave, Suite #3A3, Chicago, IL 60608

When: Saturday, July 23th, 8am-4pm

For current season merchandise, past seasons, and our famous seamless collection, prices are as follows:

60% off, 8am-9am

50% off, 9am-11am

40% off, 11am-12pm

30% off, 12pm-4pm

Line up early for the best deals!

Can't make it to the sale? This year we are allowing call in orders after 11am. All called in orders will receive the hourly discount starting at 11am (11am-12pm = 40% off, 12pm on =30% off). 866-388-3501.

Closet Organizing - not my favorite thing to do in the summer (but I definately need some of it)!

2011-07-08T09:15:00.000-05:00

I don’t know about where you live but in the Midwest, this was a CRAZY spring. It went from freezing to 90 back to 40 then 80 and I think the last week in June was the first week that we’ve had temperatures that were summer like for a full week. This made changing over the closets and organizing your wardrobe almost impossible. I definitely missed the 2 week period where temperatures are lingering between winter and spring to organize my winter wardrobe into keep for next season and donate piles and going through my spring/summer wardrobe to assess what I had and needed. Now that it’s July, I’m feeling like my closet is looking less than well organized and I’m in a bit of a panic – I hate organizing in summer! Summer is supposed to be reserved for fun and not for house work. I stumbled across this website today called getsetorganize.com and they had some great closet tips that I will be putting into effect as soon as I can clear my summer schedule for some time to organize.…

Organize Your Closet For Under $50 With Cheap Closet Organizers

We would all love a huge walk in customized closet to lose ourselves in as we linger over which one of our hundreds of beautiful outfits to wear today, but for those of us who are not quite there yet, we can still have an organized closet for less – a LOT LESS – using cheap closet organizers.

You don’t need to spend thousands on a major remodel to organize your closet. Don’t think that because you can’t afford an expensive solution, you can’t learn how to get organized cheaply.

With less than $50, you can create space out of nothing with easy to install cheap closet solutions.

So let’s fix those main problem areas in your closet now

Issue #1 Not enough shelves or drawers

The Honey Can Do 8 Shelf Hanging Organizer hangs on your closet rod and offers you 8 extra shelves of 12″x12″x6″. Made from ultra strong poly-cotton and available in four different colors, this organizer would be ideal for sweaters or folded t shirts.

==> COST – approx. $12 <==

Convert two of your 8 shelves into drawers with these Honey Can Do Drawers. Perfect to corral your accessories, such as scarves or belts, it can be handy to have a more enclosed space for certain items.

==> COST for 2 drawers – approx. $8 <==

Issue #2 Not enough hanging space

Double your hanging space with this closet rod doubler. Just hang it on your existing rail.

==> COST – approx. $12 <==

Issue #3 Messy shoes piled on the floor

Make use of that behind the closet door wasted space with this 24-pocket fabric shoe organizer. It is available in four colors and hangs over any standard door.

==> COST – approx. $13 <==

TOTAL COST – approx. $45

Why not spend the rest on a tie rack or jewelry organizer?

Why buy cheap closet organization systems?

Well apart from the obvious answer that a cheap closet organizer costs less money, they can also be appropriate if:

• you are renting a home so are either prohibited from making permanent modifications to the property or don’t want to spend money on something that you can’t take with you when you leave.

• you are a college student so you want something simple, portable and economical.

• your needs are likely to change quickly. These stand alone cheap closet systems can be combined and reconfigured at a whim. They are fluid so you can move them about to create the maximum amount of space to suit your changing requirements.

The great thing about cheap closet storage options is that when you invest in something more expensive, they can easily be repurposed in the laundry, kitchen or garage.

What to look for

Multi purpose solutions are the most cost effective closet organizers to buy. Look for something that will do double duty if your needs change. Plastic shoe boxes for example will hold shoes but also socks, gloves and scarves.

Other cheap closet organization ideas

Look to the economy ranges of the big brands for efficient and affordable closet organizers. This set up from ClosetMaid runs less than $40 for 10 feet of hanging space and 13 feet of shelf storage and fits into closets 5′-8′ wide.

Wire shelves and baskets can help divide up large drawers to maximize the space.

Shelf dividers allow for easier stacking of sweaters and the like into piles. They stop them all merging into one big chaotic mess.

Cheap plastic storage drawers are great to place under a hanging rail if that is all you have. It doesn’t matter they they don’t look overly beautiful as they will be hidden away in the closet, but they are very functional.

Hooks are probably the cheapest organizers you can buy but they are so versatile. Use them to hang jewelry, caps, hats, scarves, belts, fabric bags full of undies and much more.

Invest in small organizers that have a specific purpose, such as belt racks and tie spinners. Over the door multi pocket organizers can be used for any number of things.

Cascading hangers and ultra thin space saving hangers can double your hanging space instantly.

Make life simpler – buy some cheap closet organizers today

If your closet is an avalanche waiting to happen every time you peak inside the door, treat yourself to an organized closet. You will not only save time looking for things but also money from not buying duplicate items. You know it makes sense.

Have a good one!

Kate

PS-if you are on the money saving kick, check out our upcoming July events – I promise they won’t disappoint!
PPS-if you need some organizing and don't have time to do it yourself, check out a local organizer. They are worth their weight in gold!

Style it: Rosa Ruffle Tank - a must have for every woman's wardrobe

2011-07-07T09:15:00.002-05:00

As the summer is heating up and the wardrobe is starting to have a little less appeal than when you first took it out after the long winter, it is always important to keep adding special key pieces to it so it stays fresh and new to you.

One of my favorites for the summer and a must have piece is our Rosa Ruffle Tank. I love the Rosa Ruffle Tank because it is lightweight and cool due to the silk/cotton blend of fabric, fully lined making it office appropriate, it looks great on it's own or as a shell, and the ruffle detail at the neck and sleeves adds special interest and detail to any outfit.

To wear the Rosa Ruffle Tank as a casual piece, pair it with a great pair of white shorts, capris, or jeans.

To wear the Rose Ruffle Tank to the office, add a great bolero over it like our silk Victoria Bolero jacket and wear it with a great pair of linen pants.

For evening, try pairing our Rosa Ruffle Tank with a sexy pencil skirt and pumps.

Our Rosa Ruffle Tank is $129 and is fully lined. It comes in 3 great summer colors (turquoise, fuschia, and grass green - pictured above) and 3 must have neutral colors (black, white, and mushroom - pictured above).

I think I might wear my fuschia Rosa Ruffle Tank tomorrow with a pair of skinny jeans and some killer heels I got from Florodora Shoes (check them out if you haven't already - they are located at 348 S Dearborn St. in Chicago - tell them Kate sent you!).

Here's to it finally being warm!
Kate

Sidewalk Sale in less than 2 weeks!

2011-07-06T09:15:00.000-05:00

Come join us this Tuesday July 19th and Wednesday July 20th at the annual Chicago Sidewalk Sale at Daley plaza. We will be marking down our spring and summer collection to make way for new fall merchandise. Answer some of our fashion trivia for a chance to win $5 off your order and sign up for our email list to learn about our great upcoming events and sale. Stop by on your lunch break and enjoy a fashion show and some great deals.

Hope to see you there!

Kate

Final day to save 20% Sitewide!

2011-07-05T09:34:00.000-05:00

Today's the last day to save 20% sitewide! Don't forget to buy your favroite styles at the best price of the season.

Here are the ones I'd recommend picking up before they are gone forever:

Have a good 1st day back and don't forget to shop today!
Kate

PS - just in case you forgot, the code to get 20% off is HAPPY4TH and you want to enter that code at checkout to apply the 20% off to the whole cart. Happy shopping!

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T09:15:00.001-05:00

Happy Independence day! Hope you are enjoying a much deserved break. Tomorrow is the last day to save 20% sitewide so don't forget to shop.

Enjoy your day and eat some BBQ for us!
Kate

Who needs three lengths of tank tops anyway? (psst – YOU do!)

2011-06-30T09:15:00.003-05:00

So adding new products to our website is a little tricky from my perspective. It takes a chunk of change to buy the inventory and photograph it plus a ton of time for things you’d never think about (ex: creating an item number, populating all our systems with said new item number, issuing a PO, dealing with delivery dates, calling when said delievery dates aren’t met, writing the copy, creating all the pages, cropping all the photos etc. etc). Although I like to keep my customers happy and coming back for more, there are a lot of “others” to consider before I make the move to buy a new product. So if you’re wondering why I’ve invested all of the above “examples” into three different lengths of tank tops, I can understand why you would now be scratching your head at this point, but let me explain.
The best product I can invest in as a business owner is a product that I can sell to one of my existing customers. Although three different lengths of tank tops seems like a crazy investment of time and resources, all of our current tank top customers need to take a look at their wardrobe and think hard about what I’m about to say.

THERE IS NO PERFECT LENGTH TANK TOP!!!

Everybody who has ever worn a tank top knows this but maybe doesn’t realize it. How many times have you found yourself standing up from your desk and adjusting your tank top or fidgeting with it at some point in the day? If you find yourself doing that, it doesn’t mean you have a bad tank top, it really means that you are not wearing the correct length tank top that your particular outfit needs. Here’s how I decide which length of tank top to wear on any given day:

Regular Length Tank top

Perfect for:

tall women
long torsos
wearing under dress shirts that you are tucking into a skirt or pair of pants/trousers
wearing on their own untucked with shorts, pants or skirts

Short Tank Top

Perfect for:

petite women
short waisted
wearing under t-shirts and see thru tops
when wearing a belt and not wanting to tuck something in

Extra Long Tank Top

Perfect for:

tall women
long torsos
wearing under see thru tunics or dresses to act as a slip
the days I’m feeling lazy and only wear leggings but still want something to cover my behind.

Everybody fits into more than one of these categories which is why it is necessary to evaluate your wardrobe, find out when you like which length tank top, and make sure you are “covered”.
Here’s a visual way to keep the facts straight:

Just in case you want to give a new length tank top a try, shop today thru July 5th and save 20% by using code: HAPPY4TH at checkout at kateboggiano.com.

Happy Thursday!
Kate

4th of July Online Sale

2011-06-29T09:15:00.006-05:00

We want you…

To save on all Kate Boggiano merchandise!
Save 20% off sitewide today thru Tuesday 7/5 at 5pm in honor of Independence Day.

Use code HAPPY4TH at checkout.

Happy Shopping!
Kate

PS-Here's my favorite deal!

Women's Dresses

2011-06-28T09:15:00.000-05:00

Since the social acceptance of women wearing pants, it seems as though we have taken this to mean that we should ONLY wear pants. As you look around, the majority of women seem to be covering their legs rather than embracing them. Sure, pants are easy to throw on but guess what is easier? A dress! Instead of rummaging around in your close for a matching blouse or top why not try a dress.
Dresses are:

1. More form flattering for most women

2. Easier to wear and cuts down on decision/dressing time in the morning. NO more having to match a top and a bottom.

3. Cool and breezy in the summer
4. Super feminine
5. A way to stand apart from your male counterparts because unlike you who can wear pants, men can not wear a dress!

My three favorite Kate Boggiano Dresses that are totally office appropriate are the McKenzie Wrap Dress, the Jackie Shirt Dress, and the Sleeveless Ruffle Isadora Dress.

I’m not sure about you but wrap dresses always seem like a good idea to me until I actually try one on. I find them confusing to figure out and it seems to me that they never stay in the right place unless you tie the ties so tightly that you can’t breathe. I thought long and hard about this issue when I designed the McKenzie Wrap Dress. Instead of having to deal with a confusing extra flap of fabric, I designed the McKenzie Wrap Dress so that the pieces of fabric are actually stitched in place and it’s an easy over the head entry with help of a zipper. The only piece that is “movable” is the wrap around belt that is secured by two snaps. Our “faux” McKenzie Wrap Dress is office appropriate (in length and front neck drop) and secure so you feel confident in your outfit and able to face your busy day.

Finding a good dress with a short sleeve is a challenge that many women face. Short sleeve dresses are great for the summertime and they are very office appropriate. I love our Jackie Shirt Dress because it has a nice pleat detail on the sleeve and a full skirt with a waist wrap that visually makes the waist the narrowest point even if it isn’t normally that way on its own. Side seam pockets and a shirt dress style placket round off my favorite parts of this Shirt Dress that is great to wear at the office and beyond!

Every summer, my goal is to find 2 dresses: the dress I wear to every summer wedding (as long as each are with different groups of people) and a dress I can wear casually or spice up for dinner on vacation. Our Sleeveless Isadora dress happens to have been both for me during different years. I love this dress and even though it isn’t new this year, it’s longevity is amazing and I attribute it to it’s classic a-line shape, high ruffle neck collar, and fantastic fabric (that IS machine washable!). Honestly, I have belted this, thrown a cardigan over it and paired it with some cowboy boots, added a chucky sweater, worn it with flats, worn it with heels, and always feel comfortable and like I made the right choice for any occasion I wear it to. The Sleeveless Isadora Dress is really a go to dress for any event you might have.

A little birdie told me that we are having a sale on everything starting Wed so if these dresses sound like something you might want to try, I’d get on it first thing Wed morning.

Have a good one!

Kate

Announcing our Semi-Annual Warehouse Sale

2011-06-27T09:15:00.000-05:00

Live in the Chicagoland area? You might want to come check out our semi-annual warehouse sale on July 23rd. We'll have great hourly deals on current merchandise and 20% off Fall pre-orders as well as special pricing on our tank tops and seamless apparel. This is a sale NOT to be missed but as a warning, things tend to go fast early so if you really want the good stuff, you have to get here early!

For more info, visit us at Kate Boggiano.com!

Achieve your best look fast!

2011-06-24T09:15:00.029-05:00

As women, we have to do it all - work, family, home, friends etc. etc. Being nice to ourselves and our appearance is one of the first things sacrificed in order to make more time to do other things for others. Finding easy ways to maintain femininity in your everyday appearance will help you feel good about yourself and increase your mood when dealing with the outside world. Here are a few of the easiest ways to boost your confidence and to help embrace your femininity (bonus - these are all things that men can NOT do!)

Wear lipstick. Even if you don't have time for make up, wearing lipstick will instantly make your eyes pop and your skin look great.
Add interest around your neckline. By adding chunky jewelry or a pop of color to a slightly exaggerated neckline, you are dressing up an area that makes you different than any man.
Nail polish even if it's clear!
Wear dresses, skirts, or tights. These are some of the only types or categories of dress that women can wear and men cannot - take advantage!
High heels or lower heels with shape or interest (more negative space)

Try adding one or more of these into your life this week-it always makes me feel better about myself when I do!

A few of my favorite Feminine Pieces...

Tank tops are a great inexpensive way to add a pop of color to a neckline. I love our super stretchy tank tops and probably wear one 5 days a week.

Womens Tank Top

Short Tank Top

Extra Long Tank Top

Tights are another staple in my wardrobe. It helps extend the life of a dress as well as make it more practical and warm for cooler days. I love our new Bamboo Tights!

Spiral Optic Tights Bamboo Footless Tights

Dresses always sound like a hassle until you get in the habit of wearing them. They are simple to get on, they are cool, and the good ones make you more comfortable than anything else you could wear. These are my favorite picks for this summer:

McKenzie Wrap Dress Sleeveless Isadora Dress

Why racerback tanks make the perfect summer tank tops!

2011-06-23T09:15:00.002-05:00

Are you a loyal tank top wearer but find yourself a little bored with the spaghetti strap simple tanks from time to time? Check out our racerback tanks for the summer. We love them because:

Racerback tanks are sporty

You can wear a sports bra all day long!
If you are planning on being outside, racerback tanks give you ample opportunity to change up those tan lines.
Racerback tanks show off your sexy back in a fully clothed/appropriate kinda way.

Our racerback tanks are ribbed for her pleasure!

Ribbing holds you in more than non ribbing.
Ribbing adds texture and interest to an outfit.

Our racerback tanks are one size fits all

Buy some to make great birthday, wedding shower, bachelorette, hostess gifts or any other kind of gifts for all your summer functions.

92% Nylon, 8% Spandex

One Size Fits All

Available colors: White, Black

$19.95

Want to check them out? Sign up for our email lis t and receive a Free Shipping code so there is no risk! Click here to sign up.

Have a good one - the weekend is on it's way!!
Kate

One of my many other hats….

2011-06-22T09:15:00.009-05:00

Last week I had the pleasure of stepping away from my life as a designer and attended the Internet Retailer conference in beautiful San Diego, CA. Although I didn’t get a second out in the sun by the pool (well not really sun thanks to june gloom), the conference was amazing, helpful, and an incredible opportunity to focus on what I think is our most promising growth distribution strategy, the internet.

Some facts from the Internet Retailer website:

San Diego's convention center from a far (no june gloom in this photo!)

The main sessions were HUGE

The IRCE conference included 100 sessions with some 175 speakers. Keynoters included Christopher Payne, president of eBay North America; Sona Chawla, president of e-commerce at Walgreen Co.; and Arianna Huffington, president and editor-in-chief of The Huffington Post Media Group, now part of AOL.

The Internet Retailer Conference & Exhibition 2011, held last week in San Diego, attracted 7,318 participants, 14% more than the 6,432 who attended last year’s IRCE in Chicago. That 2010 show had been the largest event in e-commerce until now.

Currently, I am in the midst of developing a new website and a new concept. Details to follow shortly but for now, don’t forget to visit kateboggiano.com on occasion and sign up for our email list and get a coupon for free shipping, like our facebook page, and follow me on twitter! Isn’t technology fun?

Chicago - to rain or not to rain….

Kate

Leggings for one and all!

2011-06-21T14:16:00.000-05:00

We do a lot of retail events throughout the Chicagoland area which allows us great access to our customers. It’s always fun for me to hear what customers think about leggings for women and how to wear them. I’d say 25% of women refuse to wear any kind of leggings, 60% of women embrace them, and 15% of women are either trying to get used to the idea or have recently purchased an outfit that requires wearing leggings and they are trying to find the perfect pair/occasion to wear it.

Here are a few of my favorite issues we come across:

Leggings make me look fat

If you think Leggings make you look fat, you are not wearing them correctly. Leggings need to paired with a great tunic, skirt or dress that covers your hips and rear – period.
Petite women should take care when wearing leggings with a roomy top. Make sure your top is proportioned appropriately for your height. Additionally, your ensemble should be as monochromatic as possible for an elongating look.
Tall women should also select their tops with care. You want to wear a shirt that comes down far enough so that your rear isn't exposed.

Leggings are so 80’s

You are correct, leggings did make a HUGE appearance in the 80’s however there are modern ways to wear leggings such as

i. Wear leggings with tunics such as our Holly Tunic.

ii. Avoid wearing leggings with cropped tops

iii. Avoid wearing leggings with sweatshirts

iv. Try some fun shoes with the leggings. Anything goes now from flats to pumps to boots you choose your favorite!

Leggings remind me of being pregnant

Although leggings are amazingly comfortable (which is the reason by the way that they never quite go out of style) they don’t have to remind you of being pregnant. Try a great tailored tunic or a dress and pair them with a great heel and I promise you won’t feel anything but sexy!

I don’t like my legs

The best part of wearing leggings is that you can show the shape of your legs without showing the skin AND since there is minimal fabric, your legs will actually appear thinner if done properly.

Leggings are too young for me

This is always my favorite comment. Leggings, especially those with a little more substance such as our Shapewear Leggings for Women, are great for older women as they give them the opportunity to wear something form-fitting without revealing too much skin.
Leggings are best used as an accessory to your outfit so choose your outfit first, then add the leggings. Your leggings color should match something else in your outfit for the most harmonious pairing. I love our charcoal grey leggings with black tops and dresses and a fun alternative to black leggings.

My favorite legging look of the season:

And finally, legging no-no’s

Leggings as pants (no short shirts please!)
Leggings with a sweatshirt

As you can see, the reason to wear leggings is far longer than how not to wear leggings. Try a pair today and if you are stuck, shoot me an email and I’ll be glad to help you out.

Have a good one!

Kate

And I'm officially an adult...

2011-06-20T18:41:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend, it was my 30^th birthday (just in case you missed the last posting!). I had a ton of fun and am still recovering from all the partying. Friday night, my cute and fabulous husband, threw a (somewhat) surprise dinner and drinks with our friends at Japonais and then the Roof top deck at Market Bar Chicago. Here are some of the fun photos.

Dinner at Japonais

The 2 smartest people I know (aka my besties!)

Geoff and Me mid sentence (wearing my scandalous RTR dress-and a tiara!)

The View from the rooftop at Market Bar Chicago

The dress is my first dress I’ve ever rented from rent therunway. It was an amazing service to use and I’ll definitely be using them again for many events in the future. My dresses (I picked a 2^nd dress for just $25 just in case my favorite didn’t feel the same about me) showed up to my doorstep the day of the event, they were clean, well pressed, and ready to rock! I returned them this morning in their stamped addressed prepaid envelope and dropped them off on my way to the office – how easy was that?!? LOVE them! (Check out my other blog posting for more info)

I definitely went for the more scandalous dress than I normally would wear out so to get ready for that, I “grouponed” it up and have been training with Crossfit Chicago’s Women’s Only Class. If you are looking for a GREAT workout and a new challenge to up your fitness routine, you HAVE to check out CrossfitChicago. AMAZING! The coaching is far superior to any trainer or regular health club class instructor and the workouts are always new and different. Crossfit combined with a “stricter” Paleo diet and I was ALMOST to my goal weight (I think I missed it because of all the new muscles I’ve been gaining from Crossfit!). I definitely recommend Crossfit Chicago and the Women’s Only class and can’t wait to head back there on Wednesday morning to start burning off the weekend excesses.

Just in case you have an event coming up and are looking for a faster fix than something like Crossfit, check out our new Shapewearleggings. I LOVE these and they really make a difference – it’s rather incredible! Sign up for our email list (or purchase 3 pairs) and receive free shipping.

Hope you all had a great weekend!

Kate

Cool website alert – Rent the Runway

2011-06-17T09:15:00.000-05:00

Ok so do you remember in Sex and the City (the movie) where they are talking about renting handbags? Awesome idea right? How about renting runway dreses? In theory sounds like a really good idea to spend a little money, get a great fashionable dress, then return it after the event is over. Lets face it, who wants to wear the same dress twice especially when you might see the same people. I admit, wearing a dress previously worn by someone else seems like it MAY be pushing that line a little bit (I envision this girl going to a Greek wedding and slamming plates on the floor when suddenly the air conditioning breaks and it’s 95 degrees in the Greek restaurant but everyone is having so much fun they all stay and sweat it out – ewww).

In my research of what’s going on online, I recently saw that renttherunway.com received $15mm in new investment money for their website. Although I was a little hesitant, I decided to peruse the site and see if I liked what I saw and if they did a good job with the gross sweaty messes that came back before they turned them around again.

Much to my joy the site is beautiful! It’s laid out perfectly with a section for the New stuff, designers, occasions, and the ever important weddings. Personally, I love the shop by occasion ability as well as the shop by body type (similar to swim spot, right?)

The suggestions for jewelry are pretty spot on too!

They have a done a great job tackling the size question by sending you an additional size at no charge and by providing great, honest and accurate reviews by their customers for each and every dress! If you aren’t sure about the size, there is an option to chat with a fit specialist or add something to your favorites so you can come back to it and figure out what your best option is.

SO….I did try it! At the end of May, I picked out my favorite Hervé Léger dress to wear to cocktails with my friends for my 30^th birthday party. I ordered 2 sizes and scheduled them to come in on Thursday (currently still traveling for business so I’m not sure if my package is waiting for me or not yet!) PLUS they let me add a 2^nd dress onto the order for just $25.00! How cool is that! Now I have a backup!!!

Some FAQ’s that I found helpful!

What if I accidentally stain or damage the dress?

Don’t worry! We understand that some wear and tear may be inevitable and beyond your control. Our dry cleaner can take care of most minor damage. And the $5 insurance charge on each dress you rent will cover these types of situations. Although very rare, significant destruction (the dress is torn apart at all the seams, you try to squeeze a size 10 body into a size 0 dress, the centerpiece catches fire and chars your dress) or theft is obviously not permitted and we hope to never run into this problem. Unfortunately if these situations occur, your credit card will be charged immediately for the full retail price of the dress. There are no payment plans.

How do I know my dress is clean?

All Rent the Runway dresses will ship to you directly from the RTR designer warehouse, where all dresses are cleaned, without any handling in between. We’ve partnered with a premier dress specialist in NYC and developed a process that ensures stringent quality control. We’ll only ship dresses that receive a 100% fresh seal of approval. Our dry cleaner is an expert in eco-friendly, luxury dry cleaning. They utilize an environmentally safe process that certifies that every garment is thoroughly cleaned and cared for, maintaining the impeccable quality of the garment while being kind to the environment (not to mention to your health!). Our packaging is also specially designed to fully protect the dresses during shipment.

Well I sure can’t wait for my first rent the runway dress for the big birthday bash! Photos to follow on Monday!

I highly suggest checking out this service when Kate Boggiano Dress just won’t fit the occasion.

Happy Weekend!

Kate

Cool new tank tops – Introducing our Metallic Tank Tops and our Long Sequin Tank Tops

2011-06-16T09:18:00.001-05:00

Looking for a new tank top to spice up your wardrobe this summer? Check out our new sparkly tank top options: Metallic Tank Tops and our Sequin Tank Top!

Our Metallic Tank Tops are made of a super soft and stretchy shiny material called butterfoil. Our Metallic Tanks are intentionally wrinkled as a design detail to create interest and easy laundering, they have spaghetti straps making them an easy and non-bulky layering option, and they are very sparkly making them a perfect addition to any outfit.

Wrinkled Metallic tank

- New for summer, try our super comfy Metallic Tank Tops

-We love these when you need the extra “wow” factor (dates, big meetings etc)

-Available in both metallic gold and metallic silver

-Try one under a Holly tunic

One of my personal favorites is our new silver sequin tank top. It’s extra long and perfect for layering, has spaghetti straps, and the back is all silver (also butterfoil) to make it more form fitting and comfortable to wear. I’ve tried a few different brands of sequin tank tops and I find that when I wear them all day, my arm gets a little irritated by the sequins. Our Long Sequin Tank Top only has sequins on the front preventing arm irritation and creating a more comfortable, great fitting tank top.

Long Sequin tank

-New for summer, try our super sexy Sequin Tank Top

-Great layering tank top as it is super long (2” longer than our Extra Long Tank Top)

-Great date night sparkly tank top

-We love it under our white Silk Victoria Bolero

Want to try one? I suggest you do - the quantities are limited!

Have a good rest of your day – the weekend is almost here!

Kate

Follow up on our How to lose 10lbs in 5 minutes workshop

2011-06-15T09:15:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone who came to our How to lose 10 lbs in 5 minutes workshop. Carolle Partington I don’t know about you, but I usually get overwhelmed by how much information there is in workshops and don’t know where to begin. For those of you like me as well as the people who weren’t able to attend, here’s what I took away from her workshop. was full of interesting facts, theories, and great tips as always!

The actual size or shape of the body is not important. The size and shape of the body when clothed IS important.
The perfect women’s silhouette is an hour glass figure. The shoulders and hips should appear to be the same width and the waist appear narrower.
The perfect shaped head is an oval.
Ideal body measurements:

The body should measure 7x’s the head (visually, the head measures from the crown to where the clothes begin).
Women’s shoulders should measure 1.5x’s the head.
The legs should be equal to or longer than the torso

If the silhouette looks shorter, it will appear wider and the body will look bulkier (it usually appears shorter because of horizontal lines or clothes that are too big).
The hair, regardless of length or quantity, should maintain the ideal oval shape.
Be careful not to add volume to the waist that changes the silhouette to oval or straight.
If wearing a skirt, legs measure from the hem to the shoe or strap so be careful not to visually shorten the legs.
If you are trying to appear more feminine, lipstick, an open cameo, nail polish, skirts and dresses, and higher heels are the easiest way to achieve that look.
Monochromatic makes the silhouette appear longer and narrower (the same color head to toe and not necessarily black!!).
Different colors or layers of clothes that form horizontal lines make the silhouette look shorter and wider.
The color that is lighter, brighter, stronger or pattern attracts the eye so DO NOT put those in places where you are trying to minimize or detract attention away from.
Lighter colors do actually make bulk appear “lighter”
Normally pattern adds volume but may be good if the body appears “solid”, “bulky”, or “heavy” to break things up.

The most important take away:

**Take photos of yourself (front, back, and profile) and analyze the photos when in doubt.

I hope you found these as helpful as I did. We will most likely have another seminar in October. Let us know if there is something or a topic you’d like covered.

Have a great day!

Kate

Women's Tank Tops - the good, the bad, and the ugly (well hopefully not the last two!).

2011-06-14T09:15:00.001-05:00

Tank Tops seem like a pretty easy and relatively simple category of clothing to get right. For the most part, tank tops go underneath your clothing or are worn in a casual situation. So what’s the big deal?

Since starting the company in 2006, a big part of our online business has been focused on creating and offering the most comfortable womens tank tops because a good tank top underneath a beautiful Kate Boggiano blouse makes the perfect office appropriate outfit. Now, almost 5 years later, our Kate Boggiano Tank Tops (made for us exclusively by Niki Biki) have become an important and well known brand of tank tops. Here’s a summary of all the great additions of styles to our original “regular length” tank top and what makes each special and unique.

Regular tank top

-Extra long and stretchy spandex tank top

-Great layering tank top for underneath blouses and tops

-Neckline is adjustable and will stay put

-Lightweight

-Goes with everything

-27 colors and counting!

Short tank top

-Same great fabric as the regular tank top

-Good for a shorter torso

-Buy this if you don’t want to bother with extra material

-Great to use when you are tucking in shirt or blouse

-Makes legs look longer especially on a petite woman

Extra long tank top

-Same great fabric as the regular and cropped tank top

-Great for see thru dresses and tunics

Wide strap tank top

-Same great fabric as the regular and cropped tank top

-Designed for those waning to wear a tank top on its own or with a wider neckline shirt and don’t want bra straps showing.

Short sleeve

-Same great fabric as our signature tank top

-Great for summer on its own

-Cute layering piece under a summer weight vest

Racerback

-New ribbed fabric texture using the same yarns as our other tank tops.

-Perfect for the sporty girl

Maternity tank

-Same great fabric as our signature tank top

-We found that our customers were wearing our regular tank tops throughout their pregnancy and we just made them a little better by adding a little more fabric and more resilient spandex.

New this season from a new manufacturer:

Wrinkled Metallic tank

- New for summer, try our super comfy Metallic Tank Tops

-We love these when you need the extra “wow” factor (dates, big meetings etc)

-Available in both metallic gold and metallic silver

-Try one under a Holly tunic

Long Sequin tank

-New for summer, try our super sexy Sequin Tank Top

-Great layering tank top as it is super long (2” longer than our Extra Long Tank Top)

-Great date night sparkly tank top

-We love it under our white Silk Victoria Bolero

So after 5 years, we think we have a pretty good handle on women’s tank tops. However, if there is something that we are missing, let us know and we’ll do the best we can to source it, design it, or make it for you.

Have a good one and make sure your tank tops are looking good for the summer months and if not, check out kateboggiano.com to trade up!

Kate

Chambray - Summer's best denim substitute!

2011-06-13T09:30:00.004-05:00

Once summer hits, wearing denim can be difficult. It's hot, heavy, and not easy to get off after attending an all day BBQ. Although there can never be a TRUE denim replacement, cotton chambray makes a great substitute-it's lighter, cooler, and has the same denim effect if done correctly.

This season our very popular women's short sleeve tunic, the Holly and our faux wrap dress, the McKenzie both come in our fabulous new cotton chambray. Perfect for work or play either style in our beautiful chambray fabric will be your new favorite piece!

McKenzie Wrap Dress

Holly Tunic

Don't see you size? Email us!

Super cool website alert!

2011-06-10T15:00:00.004-05:00

If you are anything like me, you leave your swimming suit shopping to the last possible second hoping (praying really) to shed just a couple more lbs before its inevitably time for the GSP (general sweaty public) to judge you in less clothing than I remember wearing in my worst nightmares.

The other day I bought a living social deal for this super cool website called Swim Spot. They offer FREE shipping, returns, and exchanges so you are all clear to try a couple suits styles (and different sizes) in the safety of your own home. There are a few other great features on their website that stand them apart from the other swimming suit sites out there. Here were my favorites:

1. Shop by Body Type. Not only does Swim Spot allow the shopper to shop by color, price, designer, size etc, they also allow you to shop by body type. I loved having a swim suit expert recommend the right suit for my body!

2. Bikini Builder. Fun for people like me who have always wanted to try a non-match top and bottom but always too scared to do so.

3. Fit Specialist Program. Let the experts at Swim Spot come up with recommendation for your body type (apple, pear, athletic, full bust etc). Shoppers get personalized fit support through their concierge service and quick support via email.

I'm still deciding on which suits to try but I'll be placing my order this weekend. For my 30th party, my Mother decided to host a pool party at my Dad's house. NO pressure! Thank god I got another Groupon for CrossFit Chicago to whip my butt into shape a little faster than normal (more on Crossfit at a later date)!

Have a good weekend and hopefully you have time for a little shopping and beach or pool time!
Kate

New Must Have Arrivals for Summer!

2011-06-10T09:15:00.006-05:00

Now that it's finally warm outside (Chicago has been really cold except for the last couple weeks) we thought it would be appropriate to FINALLY highlight some of our amazing summer additions. Here are my favorites that are flying out the door as we speak:

Metallic Tank Tops Sequin Tank Top

Both of these tanks are great for layering and add something really special to your wardrobe. The Sequin Tank Top is an extra long tank top and good for date night while the Metallic Tank Top looks amazing underneath a jacket, sweater, or button down.

Even though these are our newest edition tank tops, they happen to be spaghetti straps. For those of you looking for tank tops to wear on their own and with a normal or standard bra, we have started to stock more colors of our wide strap tank tops. These wide strap tank tops are the same nylon spandex blend as our regular tank top that is so popular. Try one today!

Here are my favorite wide strap tank top colors for the season:

Happy Summer!
Kate

Today's the day - Pretty in Pilsen June Edition!

2011-06-09T09:15:00.001-05:00

What: Shop with Kate Boggiano, Objets d'Envy jewelry, ColeHaddon Showroom, Anna Hovet, and more!
Where: The studios at 2150 S. Canalport Ave, 3rd and 4th floors, Chicago, IL 60608
When: Thursday, June 9th, 5:30-8:30pm

Summer is a short season in Chicago. So we need to make the most of it. That means sleeveless tops, sundresses, flirty skirts, halters, cropped trousers, dangling earrings. Find all that and much more from the
5 designer studios at PrettyinPilsen.
Private shopping is a treat: no lines for the waiting room, no snippy sales girls, no parking hassles. Meet the designers and receive their personal recommendations. Bring your girlfriends for a fun Friday evening inPilsen.

Secret Sample Racks:
Many of the designer studios have sample racks with really great finds. Stop by early for the best selection. Prices as low as $40.

Save 15% on the current collection of Kate Boggiano and as a bonus...buy a Groupon NOW the day of the event and use it on anything in the Kate Boggiano studio including Anna Hovet and Objet d'Envy items! Click here to purchase a $20 Groupon for $15. You may use it in addition to the 15% off for Kate Boggiano products. Groupon NOW is only good for the day you purchase it but we will be extending the deal until 8:30 pm that day.

Lose 10 lbs in 5 minutes

2011-06-08T09:15:00.001-05:00

It's not what you wear but how you wear it that matters.

Come join us for a complimentary workshop on June 9th with guest image consultant and wardrobe magician, Carolle Partington and designer Kate Coxworth of Kate Boggiano. Learn the basics of color, proportion, and personality of dress and how all three should impact your wardrobe decisions and how to lose 10 lbs in 5 minutes! Even if you attended one of our March workshops, you need to be here for this as Carolle will have new information to share and who doesn't want to know how to lose 10 lbs in 5 minutes?

Workshops are complimentary and will be approximately 30-45 minutes with plenty of time for questions. Please join us at the Kate Boggiano Studio 2150 S. Canalport Ave #3A-3, Chicago, IL 60608 Times for the workshop are as follows:

12:00pm
3:00pm

Carolle and Kate will be on hand all day to answer questions, give advice and guidance. Please kindly RSVP to kate@kateboggiano.com or 866-388-3501.

To find out more about Carrolle, please click here.

RSVP is mandatory for these as sessions as Carolle has requested to keep each session at only 6 participants. Make sure to not miss out and RSVP today! The last sessions were a BIG hit and space will fill up very quickly. Please note that your spot will be confirmed in the order that we receive the request and all requests will be answered within 12 hours.

Save 15% on the current collection of Kate Boggiano and as a bonus...buy a Groupon NOW the day of the event and use it on anything in the Kate Boggiano studio! Click here to purchase a $20 Groupon for $15. You may use it in addition to the 15% off for Kate Boggiano products. Groupon NOW is only good for the day you purchase it but we will be extending the deal until 8:30 pm that day.

UPDATE
There are only 2 spots left for the noon time slot. Please email Kate at kate@kateboggiano.com to secure your spot!

The week between Christmas and New Years

2011-01-24T09:15:00.002-06:00

I was the only one in the office for the week between Christmas and New Years but I had a LONG list of projects that I wanted to complete before everyone else got back from "break". Mostly, I was interested in organizing the office . We have millions of buttons, trims, fabrics, samples etc that just pile up season after season. It's almost unbearable.

The first order of business was selling off our excess fabric to Fishman's fabrics. For those of you who know Chicago, you know that there is only one truly great fabric store for the fabric snob and that is Fishman's Fabrics.

View inside Fishman's fabrics

For anyone that knows about selling off fabric or in the industry we say "selling end of rolls" inferring that while producing your line, there is excess or the end of the roll of fabric that isn't needed for production. We are very happy that Fishman's agreed to buy our excess inventory of raw materials! If you are a designer and wondering how EXACTLY this works or percentages-email me for details!

The next phase of the project was putting up cubicles so me and Amy could get some serious work done when the place was full of interns. It's amazing how much more work you can get done when you have a place to go away from the chaos!

The final organizational item of business on my list was organizing our raw materials, shipping containers, and items such as our popluar tanks and leggings that we ship all the time. Amy found these awesome cardboard containers at Uline that fit everything perfectly. I'm happy to report that we are much more organized and shipping has sped up significantly since I organized everything. Check it out:
Consider it my ode to the creppy guy in American Beauty :)

Anyway, now I finally feel like we are ready to conquer the new year head on. Here's to your organizational projects for 2011!

Kate

WAREHOUSE SALE!!!

2011-01-20T18:35:00.007-06:00

So, not sure if you've heard by now or not, but our giant warehouse sale is this weekend. Hope you can make it! Here's the deal:

Come early and shop our twice yearly warehouse sale. Enjoy hourly discounts, samples starting at just $30, special pricing on our seamless collection, and 20% off Spring 2011 preorders. Our hourly discounts are as follows and include previous season merchandise and our clearance items:

8am-9am: 55% off
9am-10am: 45% off
10am-11am: 35% off
11am-4pm: 30% off

And for those of you that like previews...

Hourly Discount Preview

Seamless Collection Preview

Spring 2011 Preview

Need directions or more information? Contact us at sales@kateboggiano.com.

See you Saturday!

After Christmas SALE!

2010-12-26T09:00:00.000-06:00

Starting today , all collection pieces will be 25% off through January 20th, 2011.

Get ready...to make hot chocolate and curl up on the sofa with your computer and SHOP. Avoid after Christmas mayhem and casually browse great deals while snacking on leftover Christmas goodies!

Sizes and quantities are limited and will go quickly. So be a little self-indulgent, and treat yourself to a nice New Years present. Resolution? Dress cuter. Shop Kate Boggiano and you will not be mislead in to the terrible world of passing trends, and instead will always look amazing in styles that never go out of fashion.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T09:00:00.000-06:00

(via justbrubs)

Merry Christmas

from The Team at Kate Boggiano!

Thank you for all your amazing support.

Santa's Shopping Orders

2010-12-23T10:00:00.000-06:00

(via justbreathandbehappy)

Today is the last day at Kate Boggiano to buy one clearance item and get one half-off!

Our Anabel dress would make an amazing New Years Eve party dress with sparkly stilettos and a perfect little clutch.

Dreaming of Somewhere Warm

2010-12-22T10:00:00.000-06:00

(via justbrubs)

If you're like me, and dreaming of somewhere warm, shopping warm weather clothes is a wonderful reminder that it will not be winter forever. There will come a day when I won't have to wear thick tights and puffy jackets and can frolic around bare legged in a great dress.

Like our Rosalie, which just looks like it's in full bloom. And if you purchase Rosalie or any of our other great clearance items TODAY or TOMORROW, you'll get your second clearance item half-off.

Talk about sunshine bringing happiness...great sales are sure a nice replacement when the sun is MIA.

KBO's Deal of the Day!

2010-12-17T10:00:00.000-06:00

Friday, December 17th - Sunday, December 19th!

Spend and Save at Kate Boggiano. Still looking for that perfect Holiday outfit? Try our Scarlet dress - perfect for all types of soirees.

Happy last minute holiday shopping! Be sure to check out the "Gifts" section of KateBoggiano.com for some great, easy options for the fashionista on you list. Plus, we've picked items where size is not an issue and can be figured out easily!

I'm getting started this Saturday...not at all last minute....

I've strategically created a "Shopping Route" with a buddy to keep me semi-focused and plenty of Peppermint Mocha stops.

New Seamless Styles!

2010-12-16T16:54:00.001-06:00

Our amazing seamless leggings, are now available in a great new dark purple color! Try pairing these leggings with a white tunic, like our Natalie blouse, and your favorite pair of brown or gray boots.

Our new favorite wide strap tank top is now available in more colors. Available colors include: black, white, dark brown, charcoal, and dark purple. Spaghetti straps aren't for everyone, and this tank top is a bra-friendly solution!

Looking for a sportier tank? Our ribbed racer back tank top is the perfect choice, in our amazing, super stretchy fabric, ribbed for even more support.

Today's daily deal:
Purchase a dress, blouse or jacket and receive a FREE white tank top! Don't miss out. Visit Kate Boggiano for more great offers and all your last minute shopping needs minus all the crowds. Happy shopping!

Today's Deal!

2010-12-16T10:00:00.000-06:00

Today through Sunday, Dress up! Receive a free pair of our seamless leggings, the perfect layering option for winter days under dresses and tunics.

Don't miss out on a great holiday dress, with free leggings today only!

Kate Boggiano Daily Deals!

2010-12-15T10:27:00.002-06:00

To make things wonderfully simple with last minute Holiday shopping, we thought we'd introduce AMAZING daily deals on KateBoggiano.com.

Here's the list of what you can get, just by shopping. What could be better?

Now through the end of the year, enjoy free shipping!

Happy Shopping :)

Tuesday, December 14 - Friday, December 31st

Wednesday, December 15

Thursday, December 16

Friday, December 17th - Sunday, December 19th

Monday, December 20th

Tuesday, December 21st-Thursday December 23rd

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS

FROM THE TEAM AT KATE BOGGIANO!

Holiday Party!

2010-12-08T10:00:00.002-06:00

Pretty in Pilsen - Share the Warmth is the go-to event for all your gifting needs and wishes.

This Holiday event on Friday, December 10th, features amazing deals for a fun filled night of holiday shopping from great Chicago studios. Our special promotions:

1. Share the warmth! Receive 25% off any single item for your donation of a gently worn sweater. For each additional sweater donated, receive $5 off your total order. Collected sweaters will be donated to Bridge to Success, the only city-wide appearance and interview preparation program serving men, women and youth in the Chicago area.

2. This holiday season, get the gifts you really want! We'll provide wish lists for you to fill out. And we'll photograph you in your "wish" gift. Then we'll email or mail your wish list to your favorite gift buyer.

3. Finally, help us give back to those in need in our community. We will have drop boxes for canned good donations. We are donating all collected items to Pilsen Wellness Center located at 2319 S. Damen Ave Chicago, IL 60608.

Join us at: 2150 S. Canalport Ave., 3rd and 4th floors, in the Pilsen neighborhood.

This is a great opportunity to make sure you get great gifts for everyone on your list including yourself! Bring your girlfriends for a fun holiday evening in Pilsen.

Homemade Oreos

2010-12-07T10:00:00.002-06:00

I love cookies, but Oreos have always been my favorite store bought variety. There's something so wonderfully delicious about a cookie that tastes better when twisted apart and dipped into a glass of milk.

Try making these for your next holiday party, or just for a yummy treat to have around the house.

Warning: Mine barely survived a few days. And I live alone.

This recipe (via smittenkitchen) is so heavenly delicious.

Makes 25 to 30 sandwich cookies.

Note: if you want the wafers closer to the original ones, cut out half a cup of sugar.

For the chocolate wafers:
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened Dutch process cocoa
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 to 1 1/2 cups sugar [see recipe note]
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) room-temperature, unsalted butter
1 large egg

For the filling:
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) room-temperature, unsalted butter
1/4 cup vegetable shortening
2 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Set two racks in the middle of the oven. Preheat to 375°F.
In a food processor, or bowl of an electric mixer, thoroughly mix the flour, cocoa, baking soda and powder, salt, and sugar. While pulsing, or on low speed, add the butter, and then the egg. Continue processing or mixing until dough comes together in a mass.
Take rounded teaspoons of batter and place on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet approximately two inches apart. With moistened hands, slightly flatten the dough. Bake for 9 minutes, rotating once for even baking. Set baking sheets on a rack to cool.
To make the cream, place butter and shortening in a mixing bowl, and at low speed, gradually beat in the sugar and vanilla. Turn the mixer on high and beat for 2 to 3 minutes until filling is light and fluffy.
To assemble the cookies, in a pastry bag with a 1/2 inch, round tip, pipe teaspoon-size blobs of cream into the center of one cookie. Place another cookie, equal in size to the first, on top of the cream. Lightly press, to work the filling evenly to the outsides of the cookie. Continue this process until all the cookies have been sandwiched with cream. Dunk generously in a large glass of milk.

Make sure you have plenty of milk and let the dunking begin!

When in doubt, wear red!

2010-12-06T10:01:00.000-06:00

We've all been there. Staring into the abyss of our wardrobes with absolutely nothing jumping out at us screaming "Ohh, wear me!"

Bill Blass so famously stated, "When in doubt, wear red."

It's so true. Red is one of those few pretty colors that actually looks good on everyone.

Kate Boggiano has your perfect, red blouse to save you from all of those nagging "But what should I wear?" moments.

Our Isadora in red is a standout piece with its amazing ruffled collar and beautiful shade of red that's perfectly not too bright.

So stress no more. Give this as a holiday gift to your best girlfriend or just treat yourself so that the next time you're standing at your "empty" closet, this blouse will jump out, immediately solving your temporary clothing fiasco.

Ahhh, crisis averted.

Shades of Gray

2010-12-03T10:01:00.000-06:00

I've always loved the incredible versatility of gray hued clothes. Gray is such a subtlety pretty alternative staple color for fall, from tights to dresses and cozy sweaters and knit hats, this color should be a new, fresh winter wardrobe staple.

Take a queue from gray winter weather and dress up in these must-have pieces!

1. Bid your boring t-shirts farewell and try our new favorite long-sleeve rose tee. So pretty and soft in this heather gray shade.

2. Our pleated Anne blouse in charcoal is such a great alternative to a traditional white blouse. I love it with slim black pants.

3. Oh, Isabella! There are no words for how much I love this dress! The amazing ruffles, the super comfy fabric, the perfect fit, the amazing shade of gray. Try it with a red belt for added interest.

4. The Veronica Ruffle Sweater is so simply pretty with an amazing fit that you cannot resist!

5. Gray leggings are an excellent alternative to black and can be worn in the exact same way. I love our seamless leggings in charcoal or metal gray.

5. This sparkly gray hat from jcrew is my obsession of the moment. If I must wear a hat to keep my ears from getting frost-bitten in this freezing Chicago weather, I might as well adorn my head with a glitzy shade of platinum.

Dress For December

2010-12-02T10:00:00.000-06:00

There is nothing I love more than an excuse to get all dressed up in beautiful party-worthy frocks. Whether it's an office soiree or a glitzy party, Kate Boggiano has the prettiest dresses around with amazing details that will make you perfect for any party!

1. The beautiful pleated neckline and textured pattern make our dress by Audey your PERFECT Party Dress!

2. The exquisite ruffle hem and neckline of the Rosalie make this simple black dress a stand-out piece for year-round, season to season wear.
3. The flattering ruffle neckline and cute ruffle pocket details plus a figure flattering silhouette ensure you'll be the belle of whenever you slip into our Scarlet dress.
4. The amazing red color, silk trim, and pleated neckline make our Anabel a must-have for the Holiday season.

Post Cyber Monday....

2010-12-01T10:24:00.010-06:00

Hope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving with friends and family!

Cyber Monday was quite the busy day here, as evident by this picture showing all the packages all ready to go into two big garbage bags with Kate and Amy to the post office.

Now that's a lot of orders. We're so excited about so many people taking advantage of our amazing weekend sale!

If you missed out, not to worry. Kate Boggiano has still got some great markdowns plus an amazing new holiday collection!

I'm loving the Holiday Rosalie Ruffle Dress with the new Holiday Purple Suede belt and a pair of cute booties! Such a stunning outfit for any Holiday occasion and will be a flawless and necessary addition to any wardrobe.

Website Makeover

2010-11-26T10:00:00.000-06:00

Have you checked out the "new look" of KateBoggiano.com?

Well, we have added some new goodies to make your online shopping experience even easier!

Everything is now sorted in to easy categories at the top: "Collection," "Holiday," "Gifts," and "Seamless." So you can find what you're looking for with no hassle or confusion!

Along with that, we've added new belts to our collection. A staple for every day style, whether being worn with a simple LBD out to dinner or with an easy sweater dress, these belts are a necessity and make great gifts for girlfriends *hint hint.*

Let us know what you think of the site. Hope everyone is recovering from Thanksgiving food coma and burning some calories doing Black Friday shopping.

Don't forget, everything on KateBoggiano.com through Monday is 25% off with code THANKS25.

My favorite part of Thanksgiving...besides great shopping deals...the leftovers that I enjoy while watching "A Charlie Brown Christmas" every year to get in the Christmas spirit.

Perfect Outfit: Comfy Cute

2010-11-25T10:00:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

The temptation when one is dressing "Comfy Cute" is always to veer a little too close to the side of comfy, and thus neglecting the necessary cute factor.

But with the Holidays around the corner, there will be a lot of entertaining out-of-town guests at home or visiting relatives and friends, and better to be comfortable and look great while you're lounging around the house all day than be embarrassed of your ratty, old pajamas.

Our seamless leggings are a staple for everyday style and just as cozy as lounge pants. Pair them with our Veronica ruffle sweater for a casual look that looks and feels just as great when sitting on the sofa and watching a movie or out having lunch with friends.

What more could you ask for?