Fragrances in fashion are an interesting category. Some smell fabulous; others, not so much. Some invoke positive memories and emotions; others, not so much. Some are made with rare ingredients and are created with time-honored traditions; others, not so much. When it comes to fine fragrances, there is only one master. And his name is Tom Ford.
From years at Gucci and Yves St. Laurent, to his own brand for more than a decade, Mr. Ford gives 100% of his attention to every single detail. His demand for excellence and superior design are unrivaled. If his name is on the product, you are guaranteed to fall in love. From fragrance to footwear and everything in between, the quality and integrity of each product go above and beyond expectations.
This same commitment to exceeding expectations is found especially in the service you'll receive with Tom Ford employees. I've never seen a brand with so many dedicated, loyal, and knowledgeable staff. It's as if each associate is also an ambassador for Mr. Ford himself. Case in point: Kerin, Clarence, and Tonya at the Tom Ford Beauty boutique inside Nashville's Nordstrom. The love these beautiful people have for their brand, let alone their industry, is infectious. Before new product even arrives in store, I get phone calls and messages filled with excitement and anticipation, as if an old friend was calling to tell me the best news of their life. It's absolutely awesome to build a relationship with such fabulous people, especially when they share my love of looking good and feeling better.
A few weeks ago, I was introduced to the new Vert private blended fragrances. Even the descriptions of the fragrances go above and beyond, detailing the overall notes of the scents, plus specific emotional feelings and images. You don't just smell a fragrance; you're transported to an imaginary world of fabulosity and grandeur.
Bright. Ethereal. Divine. Sparking and infallible like a jewel gleaming in the sun, private blend Vert Boheme is Tom Ford's interpretation of green at its most free-spirited. Sicilian Mandarin and Magnolia exude bohemian femininity, exquisitely enhanced with Gustavia, also known as the tree of heaven, known for its spectacular single blooms that last for just one day. The fresh vibrancy awakens a divine first bloom, crystal-clear and exposed.
Expressive. Indelible. Deep. Private Blend Vert Des Bois introduces provocative woods at their most expressive. An inventive ingredient in modern perfumery, poplar bud extract infuses avant-garde edge to traditional green. The extract from the unopened buds is further driven by spiked ouzo, evoking the deepest thicket of snow-laden forest.
Aromatic. Distinguished. Wild. The unbridled nature of the Corsican coast, known as the "Perfumed Isle," inspires a distinguished scent at once sophisticated, aromatic and wild. Smoky incense, pine resin, and fir balsam evoke the dense forest and rugged peaks, while delectable heliotrope and woods heighten the grand atmosphere of sea and shadow.
I always joke that cosmetics brands can't hire ugly people, since the product they're selling is supposed to be beautiful. Kerin, Clarence, and Tonya aren't just physically beautiful, with flawless skin and gorgeous makeup - they exude beauty. Always gracious, happy to demonstrate products, and providing fabulous service, they are my one-stop-shop for all things beautiful. To place an order or book a consultation, phone +1.615.850.6700.
With these new Tom Ford private blend fragrances, Green is the new Black, and it's sexy as...
I am in love. Global glamour has taken a respectful turn, sprinkling a dash of style + class to religious freedom. Previously we've seen Scandinavian based H&M feature a model wearing a hijab, along with a handful of collections specially designed for and featured during the holy month of Ramadan. This time we're seeing a whole new level of options for the devout. Italian design duo Dolce & Gabbana have designed a capsule collection of super chic hijabs and abayas.
For those who don't know, a brief religious lesson: the حجاب or hijab is a veil or scarf. Muslim women choose to wear the hijab or other coverings for a variety
of reasons. Some women wear the hijab because they believe that God has
instructed women to wear it as a means of fulfilling His commandment
for modesty. For these women, wearing hijab is a personal choice that is
made after puberty and is intended to reflect one’s personal devotion
to God. In many cases, the wearing of a headscarf is often accompanied
by the wearing of loose-fitting, non-revealing clothing, also referred
to as hijab. Others choose to wear the hijab as a symbol of their religious affiliation or in pride of their country and ethnic origin.
The عبايةor abaya is a long, cloak-like garment meant to cover the body from the neck to the ankles and is traditionally loose fitting. This is of massive religious significance, citing often the Quranic quote, "O Prophet, tell your wives and daughters, and
the believing women, to cover themselves with a loose garment. They will
thus be recognized and no harm will come to them" Qur'an 33:59
This special collection is available at Dolce & Gabbana stores throughout the Middle East, as well as shops in London, Paris, Munich, and Milano.
I love that the collection uses fabrics seen from other mainstream designs in the same spring/summer collection, including fabulous florals and perfect polka dots.
I'm only slightly amused that some of the designs feature sheer panels and revealing slits, but I won't be surprised if the not-so-strict believers and more modern interpreters of the religion snatch up a few of the not-so-modest options.
All in all, I'm thrilled. If Louis Vuitton can put Jaden Smith in their spring/summer dresses, at least Dolce & Gabbana can bring a bit of style + class to the fabulous Muslim women throughout the world.
I know, I know. It's been way too long. And the last time I posted, I promised I would try to post more often. It's not for a lack of trying. I hate to sound cliche, but time really does fly by when you're having fun.
Regardless, we're back together and I love this moment.
I wanted to start this post with "I was thinking about retail the other day..." but I think about retail all the time. When you work in retail, regardless of what goods or services you're selling, you're always thinking about retail. A trip to the local Target or Sainsbury's isn't just a quick trip, but an absorption of best practices. You're constantly looking at what others are looking at, what're they buying or not buying, the level of service, what are others doing.
Competition in the retail marketplace has never been more intense - when it comes down to it, anyone can get anything at any time. Whether online or in your local retailer, nothing is out of touch or off limits. This is where the brand loyalty and customer experience separate the professionals from the amateurs. Everyday elegance is key.
What is everyday elegance? That feeling you get when you know you're being paid attention to, with the right amount of care, where you accomplish your tasks, possibly more, and leave appreciated and excited.
As a retailer, I understand how frustrating it can be when customers are
shopping by themselves and have a Bluetooth earpiece - they may be
engrossed on a phone call, or listening to an important podcast or their
favorite song. You want to greet them and offer your services, but
don't want to interrupt - so when I'm shopping solo, I make sure to take
the most obvious headphones I have, so it's clear to the associate I'm
focused on something else. With eye contact, a quick wave or smile, and
a motion of the phone, the associate will get the message you don't
want to be bothered. When you've wrapped up your business, you can get
to business wherever you may be.
The other day I was visiting the local Nordstrom department store. I was shopping by myself, really just enjoying the day. I had nothing particular on my shopping list, and was happy to be enjoying the moment. Since I was by myself, I made sure my iPhone was fully charged and my headphones in hand. I was so pleased to wander - both mentally with the music, and physically in the store. Watching what people were gravitating towards, how the merchandise was displayed, traffic patterns, and how customers and associates interacted. The approach is most important to me - you want to be friendly, engaging, and offer your services, without being too pushy or persistent. You want to be genuine and professional, friendly and casual, good and poised. In "the rail" department, I believe her name was Caroline - such a fabulous interaction. She saw I was on the phone, made eye contact, waved a hello, and then went about her business. Once I concluded my conversation, she reapproached, introduced herself, and let me know she didn't want to interrupt while I was on the phone. She told me about some new products that I "just had to see" and offered her name, for any requests or assistance needed.
I was so impressed.
I went upstairs to the second floor and began to navigate the hustle and bustle of the cosmetics and fragrance department. I felt like I was in a train station - people everywhere, loud music, women getting primped, slathered, and pampered with the latest potions, lotions, and perfumes. I made my way to the Tom Ford Beauty counter, and casually smelled a few of the fragrances. Tonya, like Caroline, was spot-on. The most welcoming smile, genuine love of her brand, and passion for her craft - I was absolutely blown away. Product knowledge, tips and tricks, and ability to drive the business were so very obvious. The best part - Tonya's sales presentation and interaction appeared effortless.
It didn't stop there. I wanted to pass along the positive compliments to management. In less than the blink of an eye, Alyssa was there to tend my needs. Kind, compassionate, and concerned, I shared my thanks and praise. The look on her face was absolutely priceless. You could tell instantly that everyday elegance was a corporate culture prioritized at Nordstrom. It takes a lot of work, but very clearly pays off. I told her I wouldn't mind putting my thoughts onto paper, so she shared the details of her supervisor. The very next day, director Trevor phoned me to thank me in person, and invited me to say hello in person on my next visit. From the top down, this is everyday elegance in action.
That's exactly what everyday elegance is - the ability to meet and exceed your clients' expectations, while gifting them with an experience like none other. You're confident. You're competent. You're an expert in your products and services, friendly and approachable in demeanor, and value the client more than the immediate sale. It's not what you sell, but how you sell it. It's the relationships that matter most.
You don't have to be in a traditional brick-and-mortar store to experience this everyday elegance. B.Brooks is my floral authority - and I've only ever ordered online or over the phone. The customer service is beyond. Once you've created a profile, you're greeted by name every time you phone. They remember who you send flowers to, your preferences, billing/paying details, and important dates. Imagine a consortium of the best florists worldwide, all linked by one best friend. This best friend ensures the best quality, design, and service every single time, no matter where you may be sending flowers to. Want to send Dutch tulips to Tokyo? No problem. On a budget, but still expect a wonderful bouquet? No problem. The friends on the phone at B.Brooks will make it happen, with the freshest, most fragrant flowers you could ever imagine.
Everyday elegance can't be manufactured. It must be genuine, practiced at all levels of the organization, and be a priority. This culture is in the DNA at Christian Dior. Each boutique leaves you not just with a shopping trip, but instills in clients an air of elegance and passion for craftsmanship and iconic codes. Even the fashion shows present this culture - like an unexpected mountain of flowers. Monsieur Dior adored flowers, especially the lily of the valley, so to see Raf Simons honor this at his most recent Parisian presentation, not only gives nod to the fashion founder, but thrusts the brand even more into the state of everyday elegance, a floral fantasy for all.
For me, it's all about that experience. As a customer, you want to know that your places of business prioritize this focus. Show care in the way you display merchandise; provide the right amount of attention and service to your clients; listen; respond accordingly and react with fervor. Smile, say thank you, and follow up.
Everyday elegance isn't reserved for exclusive boutiques and high end shops. You can be warmly greeted anywhere. Happy employees make for happy customers. As a manager, constant coaching and communication in-the-moment are the name of the game. Do you have any upcoming special events? New product launches? Limited releases? Arming your associates with a timely hook, something new and exciting to share, are the perfect ice-breakers. Imagine walking around your local general store and being greeted mid-aisle by an employee. They ensure you're finding everything alright, welcome you again to the store, and point your attention to an end-cap display of seasonal products. That is everyday elegance. Something a little extra, showing you're valued and appreciated. Or at the checkout counter, having the associate look you in the eye and telling you "thank you for shopping here; we really appreciate your business" and concluding with a smile. Those little touches, that extra effort, that is everyday elegance.
Inspired by classic English cricket boots, this handcrafted shoe is designed with singular attention to detail. Rich Italian calf-skin leather and signature stanped leather materials cleverly combine with a one-of-a-kind, 7-eyelet design, waxed laces and chiseled, richly burnished toe to evoke a distinguished yet powerful feel. Finished with antique hardware and hand washed for slightly pre-worn texture.Printed Calf Skin Leather.
A few bags I'm loving from the House of Dior. So chic. So classic. So amazing.
Love the floral print. The color, the execution, so spot on. Land the burgundy crocodile?! Beyond.
The Lady Dior bag was created by John Galliano in 1996 at the request of Madame Chirac as a symbol of France to give to Princess Diana. The quilted pattern is called Cannage, and is a Louis XVI pattern. It subsequently was the pattern on the gold gilded chairs in the salon of the original House of Dior. Absolutely fabulous.
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