Enter Ana's Closet

From pretty pink, pale green and custom made to dramatic tones, artful flair and handmade cool, a girl's bedroom is her sanctuary - her closet a treasure chest!  If you haven't toured Ana's closet yet, take a spin by clicking on the photos below and let us know what you think.  

We've also found some videos of absolutely cool girl's rooms just for a little inspiration. Enjoy!

View from the Work Room: Fanciful Swag and Are Those Business Cards?

At events and meetings or simply bopping around town, I always have business cards with me.  You never know what opportunities to connect may present themselves!  But I was determined to have something beyond the basic business card, so thanks to our friends at Blink we came up with a pink button-like tag that has the Ana Louie logo on one side and my contact information on the other.  I can't tell you how great the response has been!  People love these things.

In working with Blink we've also had the opportunity to create some fanciful swag to support or front office marketing efforts: a pencil bag and sketch case, tote bag, key chains and more.  The coolest thing is that because Ana Louie was inspired by (and named after) the sketches of my 8 year old daughter, the pencil case makes total sense!  P.S.  It also works really well for storing mom's make-up.

If you're interested in receiving swag, press kits, or any other Ana Louie fun, please send me a note and let me know annmarie@analouieapparel.com

Fashion First Show-SODO with BLINK 9-16

How to Use a Pencil Case as an Evening Bag for Ladies Young and Old

Looking for a fun handbag alternative for ladies young and old?  May we suggest a pencil case.  That’s right!  Today there are so many beautiful, chic and stylish options meant for storing pencils but they can be used for special occasion bags too!  In her book Style, Kate Spade says “It probably seems a little unconventional, but I really do use PENCIL CASES as evening bags.  I like that they’re small and have such a compact design.”  We agree! 

Here are some very cute finds:

 

 

 Check Target and CoolPencilCase.com as well as your favorite designer's website for more options.

Did you know:  “While today most pencil cases are rectangular in shape, early pencil cases were round or cylindrical. In the mid-1800s, sterling silver pencil cases were made in London to house telescoping pencils. “ -eHow

View from the Work Room: Tresures of Lace and the Sash Say Party Dress

The first thing I see when I look at out Sash Say dress is the lace!  On this piece it's not simply a finish for textural element, the lace is the standout.  It starts at the neckline, flows over the shoulders, runs down the front and finally ties around the back.  I was not quite aware of the sheer number of options available when it comes to lace or the history of such a fine and detailed element - I did know however that nothing says a young ladies party dress like a lace!

"Lace is, by definition, an artefact without provenance. Many pieces were used and re-used by succeeding generations. In many cases it is possible to recognise the style of construction, although since many lace makers were copying each other’s techniques, one cannot be certain that for example a piece in the style of Bedfordshire was actually made there." -http://www.laceforstudy.org.uk/about/

The darker lace, used on the Sash Say, is Midland Lace made of viscose.

425 Magazine Features Ana Louie in its Fall Kid's Fashion Spread

We are thrilled that the Ana Louie Equestrian Jacket is included in 425 Magazine's fall feature on children's fall style. It is paired with Blu Pony Vintage Violet Clara B. Dress; Report Footwear "Tiffani" flats and Snoqualmie Valley Eyecare glasses. Pick up a copy of the September/October 2011 issue today!

Also check out this very cute behind the scenes video of the photo shoot:



Big THANK YOU to 425 Magazine for including Ana Louie.

Back to School Tips and Finds

It's that time of year again.  The time that many moms (and dads) look forward to - back to school is here!  There are so many things to think about this time of year:

School supply list √ 

Longer pants √ 

New lunchbox √

Haircut √

Besides getting the kids back on schedule and prepped for learning, I've been skimming the net and have assembled some tips, ticks and cool finds! 

Enjoy,
Ann Marie Louie

1.  Make a splash with the most used school accessory - the school bag!

Backpack Safety:*

• Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.
• Pack light. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of your child’s body weight.
• Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles.
• If your school allows, consider a rolling backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs, and they may be difficult to roll in snow.

2.  Create a space that makes homework fun!

About.com recommends a space to spread out and inspire.  That also has tools for organizing work, supplies and time.  Check out more tips here.

Developing Good Homework and Study Habits:*

• Create an environment that is conducive to doing homework. Youngsters need a permanent work space in their bedroom or another part of the home that offers privacy.
• Schedule ample time for homework.
• Establish a household rule that the TV set stays off during homework time.
• Supervise computer and internet use.
• Be available to answer questions and offer assistance, but never do a child's homework for her.
• Take steps to help alleviate eye fatigue, neck fatigue and brain fatigue while studying. It may be helpful to close the books for a few minutes, stretch, and take a break periodically when it will not be too disruptive.
• If your child is struggling with a particular subject, and you aren't able to help her yourself, a tutor can be a good solution. Talk it over with your child's teacher first.

3.  School Lunch Inspirations - Prepare and Carry with Style.
 

 

There are so many yummy options for creative lunches these days and talk about super cute lunchbox selections!  Real Simple Magazine has some great recipes and tips for making some healthy lunches that they'll love.

Eating During the School Day:*

• Most schools regularly send schedules of cafeteria menus home. With this advance information, you can plan on packing lunch on the days when the main course is one your child prefers not to eat.
• Try to get your child's school to stock healthy choices such as fresh fruit, low-fat dairy products, water and 100 percent fruit juice in the vending machines.
• Each 12-ounce soft drink contains approximately 10 teaspoons of sugar and 150 calories. Drinking just one can of soda a day increases a child's risk of obesity by 60%. Restrict your child's soft drink consumption.

*American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)