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Community Corner

Tis' the Season for Bold Clutches, Bright Ponchos and Bling

Alixandra Collections offers a plethora of exciting fall, winter accessories that are anything but boring.

Every fashaholic, and, well, shopaholic like me, remembers that famous scene in the movie, Devil Wears Prada, when Miranda Priestly is concerned that an outfit in her run-through will look like last season’s Lacroix.

Thank goodness for her faithful servant, Nigel, who responds with, “I thought that, no, but with the right accessories, it should work.”

Well, God bless Nigel, and his keen open mind, because he’s absolutely correct: With the right accessories, almost anything can work.

Find out what's happening in Lake Forest-Lake Bluffwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

I have always been a true believer that accessories make the woman and that no one should be forced to wear the same designer from head to toe – where’s the fun in that? Well, thank goodness we have a quality store right around the corner with a variety of options to add a little oomph to your outfit, no matter what the occasion.

Whether it be an after work cocktail party or a holiday gathering with your family, Alixandra Collections has you covered. Check out our top three accessory picks, outlined below. Happy shopping this holiday season!

Find out what's happening in Lake Forest-Lake Bluffwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Sequin-ize your wardrobe

Ladies, I’m not saying I think it’s a good idea to look like you’ve been standing in line at Studio 54; however, a little bling can add a nice touch to your daytime and evening staples. Whether it’s this sequin, gold jacket by BB Dakota, paired over this Lola and Sohpie dress; this gorgeous sparkle stretch-belt by Coco Belle, or these glitter wallets by Deux Lux, be your own shining star this evening. Just remember: A little goes a long way.

Poncho up

I remember wearing a hideous poncho when I was in my awkward phase, shudder, so it should come as no surprise that when I heard ponchos were all the rage this season as the ultimate accessory, I was nauseated. Boy, was I wrong. Ralph Lauren based his collection on Native American and Western influences, namely this staple. Ponchos turned up in the collections of Rag and Bone, Alexander Wang and BCBG, to name a few. Found at Alixandra Collections, this cashmere, burgundy poncho by Minnie Rose adds its own sophisticated spin to the trend, so you won’t feel as though you’re stepping out in public wearing a toga.

Rock on

Studs and embellishments seem to be adorning everything this season, from jackets to purses…even the back of heels! Thankfully, if the rocker chick look isn’t your cup of tea, you can still sport the rocks without the edge. These breathtaking designs are comprised of Druzy Stones, crystals on top of rocks, and are a hit among celebrities like Blake Lively, Gisele Bundchen and Mary-Kate and Ashley Olson. These bracelets, necklaces and earrings are to die for and found exclusively at Alixandra Collections.

Alixandra Collections is located at 259 Market Square in Lake Forest. Store hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday; Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call (847) 234-1661.

Visit the website at www.shopalix.com and learn more about the store in Lake Forest from their Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002187311618&ref=ts

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