Through the Looking Glass

I have a friend who is 25, and I’m not. She’s a fashionista, and I’m not.

Here I am living in the fashion Mecca of the Triangle, where sophisticated and passionately local shops are bringing an array of designers to North Hills, and not knowing quite where to start.

You’re probably like me and could use a fashion coach to discover what Park and Market brings to your doorstep. My friend was up for the job and so we headed out yesterday.

First stop, Uniquities, where Nicole Bruno welcomed us into her colorful store with such hospitality we nearly stayed all afternoon. Be sure to stop by this weekend for the Additional 50% Off Sale that ends Sunday at 6:00. What will you find there?

• Every kind of jeans imaginable from boot cut to denim leggings, with a variety of rises, as well as the latest in cargo pants (yes, they are back!)
• Susana Monaco dresses practically jumping off the racks with fresh stripes of color
• Trina Turk tank tops even prettier than her dresses, perfect with denim leggings
• Handbags by Chloe and The Marc by Marc Jacobs, along with Chapelier’s every day washable tote bags in lip smacking color combinations

My “did you know” for this store? Everyday price points, including private label and loads of accessories. My finds? A long clover necklace and a 525 America black cardigan marked down to $29. Nicole says don’t forget to fan them on Facebook for the latest news and special events.

Next stop, Elaine Miller Collection, where Jean Proctor showed us the possibilities for fun waiting inside their one-of-a-kind showcases. Jean’s sense of fun is a great match for the timeless sense of style that is unmistakably Elaine Miller’s own. What will you find there?

• Antique and estate jewelry blended seamlessly with today’s leading designers such as Elizabeth Locke (rarely seen in an independent store) and North Carolina’s own Slane and Slane
• Fashion jewelry from Belissima and Alexis Bittar
• Elegant designs made by Elaine herself, bringing vintage pieces – hers or your own – to new life

My “did you know” for this store? That antique mirrors and chandeliers are just part of the story waiting for you inside. My finds? The perfect fashion ring in their Sizzling Summer Sale where a wall of fun awaits you, all 25 – 70% off. Jean is working on fall selections now and invites you to stop by often to see what is new.

Whether you are looking through glass to see what is there, or in the glass to see how you look wearing it, it’s all sort of like living at Park and Market… the only way to know for sure it fits is to try it on.