Hiatus Roundup

I hope to make this roundup a regular series on the blog. Here you'll be able to see what Crooked River Couture has been up to over the past week or month or so on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or even my personal Pinterest or Polyvore pages to see where my fashion head has been!

Since I've been a little absent on the blog for quite some time I'm officially calling it a hiatus. So what have the other facets of CRC had to say over the past several months? Find out below!


1. Small Box Cleveland

Quite possibly the most exciting thing to happen fashion and shopping wise in Cleveland during the last few months is the announcement and opening of the Small Boxes in the Warehouse District! Housed in old shipping containers, these mini shops were perhaps the most unique edition to downtown. Currently two boxes, the Banyan Box (a satellite Banyan Tree location) and the Wardrobe (non-moving location for the Wandering Wardrobe) are located at the corner of West 6th Street & St. Clair Avenue. A new shop will be opening soon called Blue Edge and will replace the Browns team shop that was there last season.

Here's what CRC had to say and post about this awesome new way to bring shopping to downtown:

Grand opening of the new @shopbanyantree & @wanderingwardrobe_cle Small Boxes! @smallboxcle #smallboxcle #cle

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 6, 2014 at 3:00pm PST

We can't wait for @SmallBoxCLE to open! http://t.co/eAKG9w7IDK #CLE #HappyinCLE #ThisIsCLE #ShopCLE
— CrookedRiverCouture (@CRiverCouture) September 9, 2014

Post by Crooked River Couture.

2. Small Business Saturday

Favorite day of the year for any avid local shopper! CRC rocked the west side for #ShopSmall 2014 and documented it all on Instagram:

First stop, @gvartwork in #Lakewood! #shopsmall #smallbusinesssaturday #westside #local #cle

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 29, 2014 at 9:48am PST

@lovelypaperieandgifts is the cutest! #shopsmall #smallbusinesssaturday @shopsmall #rockyriver #westside #local #cle

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 29, 2014 at 10:28am PST

Don't forget to shop sweet when you #shopsmall on #smallbusinesssaturday! #Cupcakes from @main_street_cupcakes and coffee from @erieislandcoffee! @shopsmall #cle #local #rockyriver #westside

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 29, 2014 at 12:16pm PST

Finished off #smallbusinesssaturday at @smallboxcle! #shopsmall @shopsmall #cle #downtown #local @wanderingwardrobe_cle @shopbanyantree

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 29, 2014 at 1:45pm PST

3. The Cleveland Flea

It was just about a year ago when the Flea was just a wee little thing. I remember the first time I read about it and promoted the monthly event as much as I could. I only got to attend one of the summer Fleas in addition to their big November pre-holiday show. But let me tell you, they are just going to get bigger and better!

Things are just about wrapping up at #TheFlea! #clevelandflea

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on May 10, 2014 at 12:51pm PDT

Made it to the Holiday Flea!!! @clevelandflea #cle #flea

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 22, 2014 at 12:25pm PST

Light up bike @clevelandflea!

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 22, 2014 at 1:38pm PST

More holiday goodness from the @clevelandflea!

A photo posted by Crooked River Couture (@crookedrivercouture) on Nov 22, 2014 at 3:22pm PST

Post by Crooked River Couture.

A New Beginning of Sorts

So, okay, it's been almost a year since the ol' blog has been updated. However, if you follow CRC on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook, you know that I've still been shining a light on all the fabulous, funky, and fashionable favorites our fair city has to offer. Keeping you updated on new shops, events, cool items, and more! As I do every year I celebrated Small Business Saturday in November and had fun shopping local for the holidays.

And as spring slowly makes its way to Cleveland, I've decided to try some new things to help keep this blog fresh and fun. I'm starting a series of posts spotlighting some of the wonderful things I've purchased at local businesses either recently or over the years. Those of you who are fans of Mindy Kaling may or may not remember her short-lived blog "Things I've Bought That I Love," and in a way, this will be the Cleveland version!

Of course I'll still be keeping you updated with new boutiques, shopping trips, or vendor events. Much of that will likely be happening through social media, whereas other focuses will be published here on the blog.

Crooked River Couture has been around for nearly four years and although there may have been some timeline gaps along the way, I've always believed in the creativity, artistry, and style of this city. Things like the Cleveland Flea, the 5th Street Arcade, and Fashion Week Cleveland prove that this is just as much a part of Cleveland's renaissance.

So if you've been following CRC either in blog form or on social media or are just happening upon this post, I want to hear from you! This project started as a way to promote great local businesses that may not always get the recognition that the restaurants, bars, or other entities get. If there's a new boutique opening up on your block, let me know! If you just bought a rad new Cleveland tee shirt, show it off! Or if you know of a cool event coming up, share the details!

Again, be sure to keep up with Crooked River Couture on all of its social media platforms (which can be found on the right sidebar of the blog) for even more fabulous, funky, fashionable Cleveland love. Thanks so much for reading!

April showers bring local, handmade flowers

Courtesy: The Cleveland Flea

Seriously you guys, I know I always talk about the weather but it has been SUCH a nice week here in Northeast Ohio! And with the Indians season underway, two major motion pictures filmed here premiering, patio season around the corner, it's a good time to be in the CLE!

In case that's not enough excitement for you, there are some great local events going on this weekend, if shopping local is your thing (which it probably is since you're reading this blog). Check out the details and support your local artists and vendors!

Tremont ArtWalk
Friday April 11, 6-10pm
Tremont Neighborhood
www.tremontartwalk.com
Did you know this monthly event has been around since the early 90s? On the second Friday of every month over 20 Tremont galleries and businesses come together to showcase art and offer specials and discounts. Whether you're a Tremont lifer or have always wanted to check out the area, it's always a great time. Plus, this is the first really nice weather day they've had for the ArtWalk so you know it won't be one to miss! Check out their website for more details on what to do and where to go!

The Cleveland Flea: April Flea
Saturday April 12, 9am-4pm
Sterle's Slovenian Country House
(1401 E. 55th, Cleveland)
www.theclevelandflea.com
The Flea has really become the end-all be-all of Cleveland arts and craft shows. And to call it an arts and crafts show is an understatement! Over 100 vendors will be in attendance, selling just about everything from jewelry to vintage, photography to food. Located in the historic Sterle's Country House, the event basically has it's own campus complete with multiple bars, live music stages, and of course shopping areas! Be sure to check out the workshops being offered throughout the day including terrarium making and all-day open crafting. (The Flea also does a great job on social media --- be sure to like them on Facebook for more info and updates!)

2014 Summit County Spring Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show
Saturday April 12, 10am-5pm
Sunday April 13, 11am-5pm
St. George's Fellowship Centre
(3204 Ridgewood Rd., Fairlawn)
We love the Avant-Garde shows and are so glad they pop up so often and in so many locations around Northeast Ohio! Get unique gifts for Mom or pick up something to give your Easter brunch host from the nearly 100 artists and crafters who will be there. Also, check out their Facebook page because in the weeks leading up to one of their shows they will post photos and info about their vendors. It's $3 to get in and part of the proceeds to this event will benefit Drink Local. Drink Tap., a local non-profit focusing on bringing safe water to those in need.

Spring Crafting

At 12:57pm yesterday, SPRING arrived in Cleveland, Ohio! Okay, so we still have some snow and 30 degree days in our forecast but good things come to those who wait. We'll just have to make the most of the warm weather once it comes!

To help get you ready for said warm weather (which I promise WILL come!) I have a couple fun events going on around town this weekend where you can pick up some giftables for any upcoming birthdays, weddings, showers, holidays (Mother's Day will be here soon!) Or if you're just looking for something fun and unique for yourself to help get you in a springtime mood.

Third Friday @ 78th Street Studios
Friday, March 21, 5pm-9pm
1300 W. 78th St., Cleveland
I've blogged about a few events in the past that took place at the 78th Street Studios. However this event which happens on the 3rd Friday of every month (thus the name) is one every Clevelander should attend at some time in their life. This month has a slew of must-see art exhibits as well as some cool boutique areas including Earthminded Tote Bags in the Susie Frazier Showroom, Jewelry With a Twist in the Jeffrey Dubé Studio and Vintage Clothing in the Senjiva Studio!


2014 West Side Spring Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show
Saturday, March 22, 10am-5pm
Sunday, March 23, 11am-5pm
Rocky River Memorial Hall
(21016 Hilliard Blvd.)
I believe this is the third Avant-Garde event I've posted about, including the fall show, which I attended and had great success finding early Christmas presents. Make sure you like their Facebook page because in the weeks leading up to one of their shows they will post photos and info about their vendors, including some of the nearly 100 who will be at this show in River. This is one of the best craft/handmade shows I've ever been to and there are so many great vendors who will be there! $3 gets you in the door to browse the almost 100 local handmade vendors! Part of the proceeds to this event will benefit Drink Local. Drink Tap., a local non-profit focusing on bringing safe water to those in need.

Pre-Spring Shopping in River

Do my eyes deceive me? Is that a two digit number that starts with a FIVE on my dashboard thermometer? We've had quite the winter in NEO this year, and although cozying up in your scarves and boots I think I speak on behalf of all Clevelanders when I say that we've just about had it. So bring on the warmer temps! Sunny days! Daylight savings! Spring holidays! I've got a couple fun events going on in the lovely 'burb of Rocky River this weekend that will surely get you in the mood.

All-Irish Boutique
Friday, March 7, 10am-7pm
Saturday, March 8, 10am-5pm
Sunday, March 9, 11am-4pm
Rocky River Memorial Hall
(21016 Hilliard Blvd.)
As a proud West Side Irish Catholic Clevelander, the All-Irish Boutique is always a highlight of my St. Patrick's Day season. (And yes, that is a thing.) This is the 32nd year this event has been going on in Rocky River and it is always the perfect place to get you in the mood for St. Paddy's Day. Vendors will be there offering up their Celtic ware including jewelry, hand knits, and gifts of all sorts, not to mention the authentic Irish soda bread and scones that are to die for! Plus bands and dancers galore!

Lovely Paperie & Gifts Grand Opening Celebration
Saturday, March 8, 10am-6pm
19315 Detroit Rd., Rocky River
We always love it when a new small business opens in the CLE, especially when it's an adorable paper and gift shop! Lovely Paperie & Gifts just recently opened in Rocky River, a suburb that has always been populated with great local shops. Lovely has a prime location, right across from Beachcliff Market Square and just a block down from the Old River Shopping area. This special event to celebrate their grand opening will include a "Bubbly Bar," treats from local vendors, raffles throughout the day PLUS 10% all purchases!

Heart Happy in the CLE

You love it if you’re in love and hate it if you’re not. That’s right, Valentine’s Day 2014 is upon us! Whether you need a gift for your honey or just need to do something fun to cheer you up amidst this cray cray Cleveland winter we're having, we've got just what you're looking for. Check out the details on these two ultra-fab events going on this weekend and go get your local on!

Cleveland Bazaar Valentine's
Saturday, Feb. 8, 10am-8pm
Hedge Gallery, 78th Street Studios
1300 W. 78th St., Cleveland
We had a blast at Cleveland Bazaar's West Show in December. The 78th Street Studios were flooded with over 100 local vendors and I got some great Christmas gifts my friends and family loved. This show is a bit more intimate, with a select group of 25 vendors to be in attendance. It will be the perfect spot to find something unique for your significant other, or your lady friends if you happen to be celebrating Galentine's Day. Plus, we hear a few of our favs will be there, including Terra Verde Handmade and Salty Not Sweet!

Supafresh Wedding Event
Saturday, Feb. 8, 2pm-6pm
The Cleveland Flea
1401 E. 55th St., Cleveland
Nothing says, "it's a week before Valentine's Day" quite like a wedding show! The Cleveland Flea has joined forces with Borrow Rentals and With Love & Whimsy to bring you a modern wedding event unlike any other. Whether you're pending nuptials are coming soon or you think some bling is in your future, this event will answer all your questions, especially if you're thinking of going creative on your big day. If you really want to ramp up the fancy, purchase a Cocktail Reception ticket which gets you two signature drinks, plus you get your guy in free!

Vintage shake-up

After a much needed break after holiday craziness, Crooked River Couture is back in action! Hopefully everyone enjoyed our full coverage of Shop Local 2013. All of my Christmas gift recipients LOVED their all-local presents and I loved having a story behind each goodie.

One local purchase that may have been overlooked with all the holiday shopping posts was my new, too-perfect cocktail shaker from Flower Child. I was on a mission to find a legit shaker for Thanksgiving as I decided to make an after-dinner dessert drink that consisted of pumpkin pie vodka and Baileys. (YUMS.) After finding less than impressive cocktail gear at the likes of Ikea and Target, I knew I had seen cool vintage shakers at my favorite Cleveland vintage shop. Little did I know I would find EXACTLY what I needed, and for a great price!

If you've ever been to Flower Child you know the store is packed inch to inch with fabulous vintage finds. After scanning the drinkware shelves for a few minutes I spotted it - the perfect shaker! The kit includes a stainless steel cup paired with a glass pint glass that is adorned with classic cocktail recipes and measurements - quite helpful for the rookie mixologist. Complete with a long mixing spoon and strainer the whole set cost just $15! I added a lone double jigger for $2 just to make it all complete.

The shaker was a hit at Thanksgiving and I loved telling my family the story behind it. And yes, the pumpkin pie martini was delicious, thanks to my new vintage kitchen addition. Although browsing Flower Child's rooms and rooms of vintage clothes is always a good time, they have such a great collection of housewares, from unique housewarming gifts to fresh fun additions to your own place.

Be Cool. Shop Local. (last minute!)

We are days away from Christmas and that means it's time to wrap up those Christmas lists and get the gifts for the stragglers on your list! We put together a guide of our favorite local shops and boutiques, complete with hours and locations, to help you on your final holiday shopping push!

These are obviously not even near all of the CLE's small businesses, so feel free to comment with your favorite place you think people should hit up this weekend or send us a message on Facebook or Twitter!

Banyan Tree
Mon-Fri, 11am-9pm
Saturday, 10am-9pm
Sunday, 11am-5pm
2242 Professor Ave., Tremont

City Buddha
Mon-Fri, 11am-9pm
Saturday, 10am-9pm
Sunday, 11am-7pm
1807 Coventry Rd., Cleveland Hts.

Cleveland Christmas Village Pop Up at Crocker Park
Mon-Sat, 10am-9pm
Sunday, 12pm-6pm
Next to Coach in Crocker Park, Westlake

CLE Clothing Co.
Mon-Sat, 11am-9pm
Sunday, 12pm-6pm
342 Euclid Ave. (E. 4th & Euclid), Downtown

Collective Upcycle
Thurs-Sat, 12pm-8pm
Sunday, 10am-4pm
6202 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland

Crafty Goodness
Friday, 1pm-7pm
Saturday, 12pm-6pm
Tuesday, 1pm-5pm
15729 Madison Ave., Lakewood

Deering Vintage
Mon-Sat, 12pm-8pm
1836 W. 25th, Ohio City

Flower Child
Mon-Thurs, 11am-7pm
Fri-Sat, 11am-8pm
Sunday, 11am-5pm
11508 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland

GV Art + Design

Friday, 11am-7pm
Saturday, 11am-5pm
Monday, 11am-7pm
Tuesday, 11am-3pm
17411 Detroit Ave., Lakewood

Lion and Blue
10am-6pm

15106 Detroit Ave., Lakewood

Native-Cleveland
Friday, 1pm-9pm
Saturday, 12pm-8pm
15813 Waterloo Road, Collinwood

One World Shop
Mon-Fri, 10am-7pm
Saturday, 10am-5pm
Sunday, 12pm-5pm
19321 Detroit Rd., Rocky River

Paper Trails
Mon-Wed, 10am-6pm
Thurs, 10am-8pm
Fri-Sat, 10am-5pm
19146 Old Detroit Rd., Rocky River

R/S Boutique & Made in the 216 Holiday Shoppe

Mon-Sat, 11am-8pm
Sunday, 11am-5pm

2078 W. 25th, Ohio City

Salty Not Sweet
Mon-Fri 11am-7pm
Saturday, 10am-7pm
Sunday, 11am-5pm
*Check Salty's Facebook and/or Twitter pages for up to date extended hours!
2074 W. 25th, Ohio City

Star Pop
Tues-Sat, 2pm-9pm
Sunday, 12pm-4pm
15813 Waterloo Rd., Collinwood

Holiday Shopping Events - Weekend of Dec. 7

We're 20 days away from Christmas people! We have three festive and FUN events going on around town this weekend that will make your holiday shopping experience one to remember!

Check them out and tell us where you're hitting up on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Cleveland Handmade Market at Tower Press
Saturday, Dec. 7
10am-6pm
Artefino Cafe & Gallery
1900 Superior Ave., Cleveland
(Between E. 18th & E. 21st)
Cleveland Handmade is all about promoting local artists and bringing them to YOU! Their upcoming event is sure not to disappoint, featuring 20 local vendors including one of our very favorites, Ape Made Apparel. Plus enjoy the noms and super chill atmosphere of the Artefino Cafe & Gallery!

Holiday Market in Market Square Park
Saturday, Dec. 7
10am-5pm
Market Square Park, Ohio City
(Corner of W.25th & Lorain, across from the West Side Market)
Crooked River Couture spent Small Business Saturday in Ohio City, and now you can keep the #ShopSmall spirit alive! A part of the Ohio City Holiday Festival, this event is being put on by Cleveland Bazaar along with Ohio City Inc. and R/S Boutique! Browse the vendors in Market Square Park and stay for the many festive activities including carriage rides, Christmas tree sales, AND Great Lakes Christmas Ale!

Downtown River Holiday Walk
Saturday, Dec. 7
11am-4pm
Detroit Rd., Rocky River
(Between Wooster Rd. & Marion Ct.)
The Old River area of Rocky River has always been a great west side spot for holiday shopping. River is going all out for their 2013 Holiday Walk with live music, sleigh rides, food tastings, ice sculptures, and more! The best part is all the specials and deals available at nearly 50 Downtown River businesses. Check out the merchant map below for a complete list!

A Weekend in St. Clair

Forget everything you ever thought you knew about Flea Markets! The Cleveland Flea is a whole new ballgame. Once a month, vendors from all over come together in the St. Clair neighborhood to show off their goods to the fine people of Northeast Ohio. This weekend is "The Flea's" big holiday extravaganza, complete with a Sneak Peak Party on Friday night PLUS the grand opening of Collective Upcycle right down the street! We've got all the details for you right here, and remember to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for even more updates!

Holiday Flea Sneak Peek & Meet the Makers Party
Friday, November 22, 7-10pm
Slovenian National Home
6417 St. Clair Ave. Cleveland
(Between E. 64th & Addison Ave.)
www.theclevelandflea.com
Get a look at the Holiday Flea a day early! Enjoy complimentary refreshments (including BEER!) courtesy of Sterles Country House, Jeni's Ice Cream, and Piccadilly Artisan Frozen Yogurt. Tickets are $20 and shopping starts at 8pm.

Collective Upcycle Holiday Grand Opening Party
Friday, November 22, 5-8pm
6202 St. Clair Ave. Cleveland
(Between Norwood Rd. & E. 64th)
www.facebook.com/CollectiveUpcycle
You like local, you like handmade, how about adding a sprinkling of eco-friendliness? Collective Upcycle is a pop-up shop of Cleveland-area artists who specifically use recycled materials. The party Friday will feature live music from Ansambel Dvojčki, food from Impassioned Baking and Catering, and Slovenian cocktails!

The Cleveland Flea Holiday Show
Saturday, Nov. 23, 10am-6pm
Sunday, Nov. 24, 10am-6pm
6417 St. Clair Ave. Cleveland
(Between E. 64th & Addison Ave.)
www.theclevelandflea.com
The main event! Peruse the dozens of local vendors selling their handmade goodies including jewelry, clothing, food and more! The Flea also features a "Maker Center," that connects local talent and the community like never before. We also hear there will some of Cleveland fabulous food trucks in attendance at this most treasure hunt-esque show!

Map courtesy of The Cleveland Flea

West Side Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show Review

We warned you! Even though we're still a week away from Thanksgiving, Christmas is creeping its way into our psyche. Thankfully, we eased our way into it the best way we know how - with a good ol' fashioned craft show! The West Side Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show last weekend had vendors and shoppers from all over Northeast Ohio flocking to Rocky River Memorial Hall buying and selling goodies of all sorts. We had a blast on Saturday and are here to show you what we found!

Even though there were two entire huge rooms of vendors, we made purchases at the first three booths we hit! #1 was the hand-sewn originals of Aunt Jeannie's Attic. Brightly colored patterned purses caught our eye, but it was this black wristlet, made from vintage men's suits, that had us sold!

I recognized the nautical pillowcases from Avant-Garde's blog when we came by IndoDesign's booth. Our second stop had even more fun patterned fabric goods but we couldn't help but fall in love with these wooden Christmas trees! So unique, this will definitely be a conversation piece hanging at the house around the holidays. Gives off a beachy vibe even amidst the cold Cleveland November/December temps, thanks especially to the starfish tree topper!

Nestled by a window was the soothing smells of Peripeti Home. Also sold at one of our favorite spots, Salty Not Sweet, these handmade soy candles and wax melts have the most unique yet satisfying scents we've ever come across! Orchard Picnic will be great to have wafting around the house on Thanksgiving and Sherwood Forest was too calming to pass up. These layered fragrances are also available in large tins and crackling wooden wicks.

I'm a sucker for fun and unique jewelry - anything that has a story and makes people ask, "where did you get those?" I could have bought every ring, necklace, pendant, and pair of earrings displayed at Diella Jewelry's booth! Her handmade, handpainted, mixed media pieces are not only to die for, they're very reasonably priced! I picked these sparkly earrings for myself along with a few other Christmas presents that I'll have to keep hidden for now...two words: rhinestones and chevrons.

Last but not least, we have to give it up to Colleen Smith and her amazing mixed media, Cleveland pride art! I would totally be down to furnishing my home with Colleen's large scale collage prints but let's start with what we bought from her at the show... we went with the coolest Cleveland Christmas cards EVER and a Browns inspired ornament! Hard to say if we'll be gifting these or maybe even framing them for decorations at the house!

Needless to say by our fabulous finds, the West Side Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show was a success! If you missed out on the fun, fear not, there's an East Side show coming up in December! More details on that to come...

Be cool. Shop local.

The temps are dropping (consistently), decorations are sprouting up everywhere, and Starbucks' red cups are back. It's time to face the facts - Christmas is coming, and that means so is the holiday shopping season! It may seem like a burden when your idea of Christmas shopping is trudging to the mall or busy shopping plaza and facing the insanity.

Believe it or not, it doesn't have to be that way. If you take a page from our book, shopping local is where it's at! Skip out on all the craziness, support independent businesses and vendors, AND chances are, your friends and family will truly appreciate something unique for Christmas this year!

If you're at a loss for where to start, fear not, Crooked River Couture is here! We are all about shining a light on all the fabulously awesome small businesses in the Cleveland area! Keep up with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and of course the ol' blog here for great places to shop as well as shows and events that will help you with your all-local holiday to-do list!

Here are some upcoming November events to kick off the season right...

Beachwood Arts Council Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
Saturday, Nov. 9, 10am-5pm
Beachwood Community Center (25225 Fairmount Blvd.)
www.beachwoodarts.org
Get your arts & crafts on at this free event! Browse the over 50 vendors selling their handmade jewelry, soaps, ceramics, photography, fiber art, handblown glass and more! Plus the Beachwood Arts Council will be accepting canned good donation for the Heights Emergency Food Center to help the hungry during the holidays! It's a win-win!


2013 West Side Fall Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show
Saturday, Nov. 16, 10am-5pm 
Sunday, Nov. 17, 10am-5pm
Rocky River Memorial Hall (21016 Hilliard Blvd.)
www.avantgardeshows.com
We are so excited about this two-day craftastic extravaganza! $3 gets you in the door to browse the almost 100 local handmade vendors! Part of the proceeds to this event will benefit Drink Local. Drink Tap., a local non-profit focusing on bringing safe water to those in need. Plus on top of all that you can treat yo self at the on-site concession stand!

Calling all vendors!

One of our favorite local boutiques, Ohio City's Salty Not Sweet, is looking for new vendors! If you or anyone you know has artsy, fun handmades or other items to sell, send an email over to saltycleveland@gmail.com to be considered.

The holiday shopping season is right around the corner, now is the time to get your name and goodies out there!


To learn more about Salty, check out our blog post from their grand opening in 2011.

Fall Funky Prep

Well Cleveland, today's high temperature was right around 50°, which that means summer is officially over and we will likely not see warmer temps until March. Maybe April. All right, probably May. But hey, with all the positives we have in this town, we have to accept some negatives right?

Although we may be hesitant to accept the cooler weather, at least we have fall fashion (and pumpkin spice lattes!) to keep us happy and warm inside. Let's take a look at my #OOTD...

I am all about the infinity scarf. Even scarves I've bought recently that aren't of the never ending variety I tie up the ends to make them that way! H&M has perfected this trend with their jersey tube scarves. The best part about this scarf is that there is so much material bunched up around your neck, you could, hypothetically, make it a blanket, a lap warmer or even a seat cushion!

Denim shirts have been in for a few seasons now which means they're easier and cheaper to find than ever. Old Navy has a wide variety from your basic light wash denim oxford to cute patterned ones, including always irresistible polka dots.

Fashion is nothing without comfort, especially here in the midwest. Comfy pants and jeans are now as accessible as ever. I have two pairs of these Jennifer Lopez pants and the black are a perfect pair for any denim shirt. Plus they fit like a dream and feel like a second skin on top of being cute, flattering and on-trend!

I resisted the oxford shoe for long enough before I spotted a pair for a cool $15 at Marshalls with hot pink accents. You have to commit to these and accept that they're a little masculine and a little preppy but their super cool and make you feel like a hipster (even if you're not into that whole scene ;).

Although this outfit may be fun and funky, color wise it could use a bit of a pick-me-up, and that's always where accessories come in! Multi-colored jewels are very in and easy to come by. Pair any denim/black/grey/brown ensemble with eye popping color jewelry to brighten up the cloudiest of fall days!

Stay tuned for more fall fashion #OOTD (Outfits Of The Day) all season long! The best way to honor the beautiful Ohio fall foliage is to suit up with fabulous fall fashion!

Fall is in the air...

It'll be here before you know it. The most wonderful time of the year. Not Christmas, AUTUMN. If the weather continues as it has been here in Northeast Ohio, Fall 2012 looks to be absolutely, perfectly gorgeous! And with the lovely weather of my favorite season comes, of course, the fall fashions! During the next few weeks I plan on previewing some great fall looks you can get for cheap right here in the 216! (Or 440. Or 330.)

There's nothing quite like a good day of shopping. Amidst viewing the new movie "Sparkle" and getting some hilarious and awesome goodies for the Jersey Shore-themed bachelorette party I'll be attending in Columbus this weekend, I got a chance to soak up some fall fashion.

Last year, I miraculously found my favorite pants. It was at Southpark Mall during a half-off everything sale at the Gap. While looking for a new pair of jeans, I came across one single pair of black pants in my size. They were soft and stretchy and fit like a glove and gave made my bottom half look like Kim Kardashian's. I was thrilled and definitely got my money's worth wearing them this year.

Fast forward about 12 months and colored jeans are all the rage! Bright blues, greens, reds and even patterned pantalon are must haves. Jeans are fine but I wish all my pants were as comfy as my favorite black Gap ones. Well my friends, I got lucky. On quick trip to the Westgate Kohl's I found them! BRIGHT, SOFT, STRETCHY Lauren Conrad Skinny French Terry Pants! I simply had to buy two pairs, one in trendy cobalt blue and another in fall friendly faded red.

Lakeside Labor Day

These both looked adorable with a black and white striped Elle peplum top and my new $11 silver boat shoes. Top it off with my favorite Target fedora and voilà! A great outfit for the end of summer and start of fall with a touch of nautical. This would be a great Labor Day weekend outfit, perfect for chilling at Voinovich Park watching the Air Show.

"Cock your hat, angles are attitudes."

As I tweeted last week, I got to go shopping the past two weekends! A rarity these days, on account of my shallow bank... account. But I had some spare change and thought I'd have a little me time at Great Northern Mall and Crocker Park. I even got into a kind of "what the hell, I'll buy it!" kind of mood. Don't worry I didn't go too crazy, just crazy enough. And by crazy enough I mean crazy enough to buy THIS hat!

Ohhh yeah. Here's the story... Remember when I went to LA last month? My friend and I did a little shopping in Old Town Pasadena and took a pit stop at H&M. There was this GREAT maroon fedora kind of hat with a black band and feathers on the side. It looked fun so I put it on and kept it on for the remainder of our browsing. When it was time to leave, bestie said to me, "aren't you getting that?" I told her I didn't think so, it was $17 and I didn't really need it. Turns out it didn't matter that I didn't need it because I totally bought it when I saw it here back home. I wore it the rest of the day at the mall and I felt so baller. It fits so nicely and honestly feels down right lovely on my head! I have thusly dubbed it my new fall hat and will be really mad at myself if I do not wear this thing OUT. I hope to be known as the maroon hat girl all around Northeast Ohio.

Speaking of hats, I also bought a new straw hat at Kohl's. It's replacing one I got there a few years ago that was actually from Guinness and had a fun shamrocky patterned band around it. But due to excessive wear and tear, my good ol' chapeau has just about run its course and it was time for a new one. This one is a bit more structured and has a very nautical red and navy band. I've already worn it on a few bad hair days this week!

Back at H&M, I also bought a great new bag. Remember my white lace bag I bought on eBay? Don't get me wrong, I love that purse but it's a bit small and honestly a little too springy/summery, so when I saw this Givenchy look-a-like in a nice rose tan I had to snag it. 

The other thing I fawned over at the Pasadena H&M was this feather-patterned scarf. The past two autumns I've bought a new scarf there and I absolutely love them. I usually get a really fun and colorful one, big and comfy that I can throw on with any outfit between now and March! Keeping with this tradition when I saw the feather scarf I did not buy in Pasadena I, you guessed it, bought it here. Can't wait when it gets really fall-y and I can wear it with my trench coat and drink pumpkin spice lattes. And wear my maroon hat, of course.

Skip a week to a quick outing at Crocker Park. I hadn't been in the new Anthropologie yet, which is probably a good thing because that place is down right dangerous. I want EVERYTHING but can afford NOTHING, with one wonderful exception - SALE ITEMS! This blue striped dolman sleeved top was marked down twice - from $78 (ridiculous) to $39 (obnoxious) to $19.99 (fairly reasonable). And now it's mine!  It's kinda funky but also kinda awesome and I can't wait to wear it.

I hope I didn't bore you with my shopping sagas. I just really haven't really been for a while. And honestly, even if I hadn't bought anything it would have been fun. Just being around fashion when I haven't for so long was plenty to tide me over! So here's to retail therapy, or, giving that whole "I'll go window shopping without my wallet" thing a go :)

*Title quote by Frank Sinatra

Hot at Beachcliff event

If you follow this blog on Twitter, you may have read my tweet mentioning that I wanted to change it up a bit.  I still want to focus on Cleveland fashion and exploring all the great independent, classic boutiques and shops around town, but I thought I'd try a little diversifying.  Having said that, I'd like to introduce a new facet of the blog, giving you a heads up on fashion related events going on around town.

Beachcliff Market Square is the once old school movie theater turned mini mall and now turned bar and shopping center right on Detroit Rd. in Rocky River. Living close by, I was a bit skeptical when this transition occurred a few short years ago but it really has become a nice low key plaza versus the nearby shopping circus that is Westgate.

A day spent at the Beachcliff plaza might start with a tasty breakfast at First Watch, browsing the fabulously adorable threads and accessories at Francesca's, coffee within the fresh atmosphere at Erie Island Coffee Co., a mani/pedi at the Brown Aveda Institute, dinner at the area favorite Pearl of the Orient and a beer at the Pub.
Phew! Sounds like a pretty full and fun day all within a few steps from each other and your parking spot.

If you haven't hung around much at Beachcliff or want to really see all it has to offer, now's your time. Tomorrow, Thursday May 19 they are holding a "Hot at Beachcliff" event from 5-9:30 p.m. (a la TV Land's hit show "Hot in Cleveland").

This "night of fun and fashion" will feature a valet red carpet entrance for all attendees, refreshment tables, appearances by a Betty White impersonator and Andrea Vecchio from Channel 3's morning show "Good Company," and info tables focusing on fashion, hair and skin care. Fellow area blogger OhioFashionista.com will MC a fashion show previewing new summer styles in clothes and hair.

The entire night will be full of specials, sales and more plus a chance to win a $500 Beachcliff shopping spree so you can come back and get your summer fashion on!

I'm hoping to check out the event myself and it sounds like a great one to get you in a summery mood, despite the recent crummy weather. Hope to see you there!