July is always a big sales month. For those who love to dig through racks and find treasures, it’s nirvana. For retailers, it’s a necessity, because fall is on the way. Not the meteorological season of course, but as we know, the fashion calendar cares little about the temperature.
And, because this is Houston, it also means new store openings. We are a city that shops after all, and are quite good at it, so read on for what’s new right now.
Boston Proper
Sofia Vergara has her own line of clothing at Kmart, but we think the bombshell should consider adding some curve-hugging dresses from Boston Proper, a new boutique opening in First Colony Mall on July 18. The second Texas location (the other boutique in the 10-store chain s in the Dallas area) brings bold, vibrant apparel, accessories and shoes. Don’t miss the Trend Tables for an opportunity to mix new looks with the help of store stylists.
Wardrobe Boutique
Claire Carmichael-Grant's new boutique blends her love of style and substance. The new store at 801 Waugh Dr. is stocked with small contemporary lines like Waverly Grey, LVR, Armour Vert and Yoana Baraschi. Most lines are made in the USA and all have some philanthropic focus ranging from CARE.org to environmental causes. Carmichael-Grant hopes to bring stylish new lines to Houston that cultivates modern fashion with a conscience. The store opens July 25.
Unlike many retailers who clear out spring and summer merchandise, the Nordstrom sale allows you to shop for fall at deeply discounted prices.
Mantra Tunics at Heights of Health
Conscientious shopping is also on tap at Heights of Health, home to Mantra Bazaar, an organic, fair trade clothing company specializing in embellished tunics and kaftans. The tunics are designed in Sante Fe, N.M., and then handmade in India; eachs comes with its unique mantra.
Kendra Scott Capsule Collection
Kendra Scott introduces a new limited edition capsule collection with Raven + Lily, a company that employs marginalized women in Ethiopia, India, Cambodia, Kenya and the United States. Scott and Raven + Lily creator designed a beaded necklace and bracelet which was then handmade by the Massai tribe women in Africa. The collection combines traditional Massai jewelry techniques with touches of Scott’s signature yellow. The limited edition collection is only available in Scott’s Texas boutiques. The Kirando Bracelet is $85 and the Salenyia Necklace is $95.
Tory Burch
Been by the newly remodeled Tory Burch store in The Galleria yet? The jewel box underwent an impressive remodel, expanding the space by more than 2,300 square feet. The pre-fall collection is an exploration of bold graphics and clean lines in black, white and subdued florals.
John Varvatos
While checking out the expanded Tory Burch space in The Galleria, don’t miss the first John Varvatos store in Texas. Varvatos designs for the well-dressed man who likes to flirt with edgier pieces while maintaining an air of modern sophistication. The menswear store is located in Galleria I on luxury row between Ralph Lauren and Ermenegildo Zegna.
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
When it comes to sales, Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale is a must-shop — to get a head start on fall. Unlike many retailers who clear out spring and summer merchandise, the Nordstrom sale allows you to shop for the upcoming cooler months at deeply discounted prices. Those Stuart Weitzman platform boots you will covet come October? They are less than $440 during the sale, but go back to $665 after it ends on Aug. 3. Every department features intense savings and with a little creativity, you can probably figure out how to incorporate a few pieces into your summer wardrobe right now.
Nordstrom cardholders have early access to the sale between now and July 17. The sale opens to the public on July 18.
Tootsies Takes Off Sale
Head straight to the tent on the Tootsies patio for first crack at racks loaded with items marked $99 and less during the Tootsies Takes Off sale through Sunday (July 13). Designer collections, dresses, contemporary sports, shoes, accessories, handbags and jewelry are marked up to 70 percent. Fans of Alice + Olivia, Parker, Clover Canyon, Haute Hippie, BCBG, Diane von Furstenberg, Lafayette 148, Nicole Miller and Milly will want to peruse the racks. If it’s denim you crave, don’t miss JBrand, Citizens of Humanity and Rag & Bone.
West Ave Specials
Looking for some stylish pick-me-ups for less? Various West Ave stores are offering seasonal specials for your shopping pleasure. Sam and Lilli is offering 50 percent off select merchandise on items throughout the store. On a recent visit, Houston heat-approved maxi dresses, plus hats and lightweight scarves caught our attention. Vanity Lounge is offering a free magnetic makeup palette when purchasing $50 or more of Kjaer Weis, Ellis Faas or Face Atelier, and 20 percent off makeup brushes. The Ainhoa and Mirenesse lines are 50 percent off. More easy, breezy finds are at Langford Market where if you buy one item, you get two items for free.
Boston Proper maxi dress. The new store in First Colony Mall opens on July 18.
Inspired by more than a century of Shiner brewing tradition, the collaboration celebrates Texas heritage with apparel designed for everything from brewery patios to dance halls.Photo courtesy of Texas Standard and Shiner