Here's to a New Year

New Year's is a time to reflect, but more importantly it is a time to look forward to the coming year. What do you want to see change in your life? What can you do differently? Whether or not you're in the habit of making New Year's resolutions (or even like the idea of them for that matter), living a reflective life enables one to grow. So whether you celebrate the new year on the calendar date or a few months from now, enjoy your new year!
Embrace change.

Here's a short list of some of the most popular resolutions people make & our tips to accomplish them at the Troc:





Learn a new skill:What do you wish you knew how to do? Learn how to cook delicious recipes with Troc's New French Recipes by Eric Kayser or brush up on your second language with our Eeboo Spanish or French flash cards.

Keep a journal: Don't let keeping a journal become a chore for you. Enjoy writing down your thoughts and reflections in a notebook that is for your eyes only. And our handmade Attic Journals are made from recycled books and are so cute, you'll want to write in them! I carry one with me everywhere. Its a place where I can jot down a quick idea or where I can vent for pages and pages.

Get organized: Streamlining your life decreases your stress level oh-so-much. Our multifunctional MZ Wallace Kate bag is perfect for the job. With 6 exterior pockets and 10 interior pockets, organizing your your work/school life has never been easier. Plus, the Kate can also double as a diaper bag!

I SPY: Anya!

...Because we always get a thrill seeing items we sell at Trocadero make appearances on other people's blogs.

This week I spied Anya Hindmarch's Lips and Eyes pouch over on Cupcakes and Cashmere, a blog I make sure to visit daily. Emily of C&C seems like our kind of girl; she loves good food, fashion and elegant simplicity.Other Troc favorites she's showcased include Diptyque and Jonathan Adler.

This morning she featured Anya's pouch (in beige canvas) in her last minute holiday gift guide post. We sell this pouch in black, but whatever color, this is a great stocking stuffer for the beauty aficionado in your life. Both a stylish and practical gift any girl would love!


If you are in the market for a makeup pouch, be sure to take a peek at our array of other pouches from MZ Wallace and Harajuku Lovers. And if you are still searching for the perfect gift for that special someone, don't forget to check out our own holiday gift guide here.

Happy Holiday Shopping!

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(Image courtesy of Cupcakes and Cashmere blog)
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12 Days of Christmas

Check out our "12 Days of Christmas" holiday gift guide with picks for everyone on your gift list.

Be sure to stop in for these and many other great gift ideas from The Troc!

(Click to enlarge!)

HOLIDAY HOURS

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 11-6
Thursday 11-9
Friday, Saturday 11-7
Sunday 12-5
Christmas Eve we will be closing early at 3pm
Christmas we will be closed

Spring 2011 Sneak Peak: These Shoes Were Made for Walking

Cool Cut-Outs

Clockwise from top left: Proenza Schouler, Prada, Balenciaga, Chanel

Give your oxfords a break and your feet a breather!  Cut-outs offer a fresh alternative to the run-of-the-mill sandal but still expose some skin. 

 Ankle Attention

Clockwise from top left: Erdem, Missoni, Dior, Alberta Ferretti

All eyes were on ankle details this season. Wrap sandals keep your feet from slipping and add visual interest whether you're parading in heels or strolling in flats. 

Pretty Platforms

Clockwise from top left: Fendi, Chanel, Marc Jacobs, 3.1 Philip Lim

Take the high road and try one of spring's most popular trends. Platforms add height without the unnecesssary pain. Try a pair of wooden platforms styled with high-waisted trousers to channel the popular 70s vibe this season. 

Spring 2011 Sneak Peak: Lace of All Trades

The spring runways showed lace in many different fabrics and stylings. From revealing "lingerie" lace to precious cotton eyelets, the versatility of lace allows everyone to find a version of this romantic trend that suits their style.

Glamorous Lace

Sheer laces in silk and chiffon reference boudoir glamor. Even with temperatures dropping, this barely-there lace is the easiest to wear now. Pair a lacy frock with opaque tights and metallic pumps for a very of-the-moment holiday look. When warmer weather arrives, style this lace with bare legs and nude pumps for a fresh approach. 
 

Clockwise from top left: Marchesa, Zac Posen,  Francesco Scognamiglio, Nina Ricci

Candy Bright Lace
Lace wasn't limited to your typical black and tea-stained colors this season! From minty greens to electric pinks, this perfect match of texture and color will definitely draw attention. Focus on lady-like silhouettes to maintain a put-together look. 
 

Clockwise from top left: Erdem, Christopher Kane, Christian Dior, Christoppher Kane, Nina Ricci

Antique Lace
Chanel your inner bohemian with exagerated lace styles with crocheted and eyelet details. Style with plenty of fringe & your cowboy boots from seasons past or opt for a sweetheart look and pair with wooden wedges as seen at the Dolce & Gabbana show.

Clockwise from top left: Ralph Lauren, Dolce & Gabbana 

Let Me Introduce You to....TROCADERO VINTAGE!

Last year around this time, the Trocadero employee and intern team got together at Alice's house for a delightful dinner and exchange of gifts. The highlight of the evening, however, was unquestionably the moment Alice let us step into her closet. I made a bee-line for the baby blue quilted Chanel bag, while Cygne laid eyes on a pair of Jimmy Choo sandals. We were all starstruck for her collection of the most delectable designer duds and stunning accessories...I still remember having to physically restrain myself when she pulled out a limited-edition gold Chanel pill necklace.

Luckily for, well, everyone, this experience is no longer limited to the Trocadero holiday staff party. Now, you too can virtually step into Alice's closet, except now, these items are available to purchase!

We're all absolutely thrilled to introduce Trocadero Vintage, featuring a plethora of one-of-a-kind finds straight from Alice's personal collection. The store is filled with beloved, gently-used (or never worn!) items - everything from a Celine wallet and the most unbelievable Chloe boots to a stunning leather Tod's satchel and a silver Chanel bracelet.

Check out a few of my favorites: 

YSL Rive Gauche leather bag, $225

Celine wallet, $55

Burberry Chain Lizard Cuff, $75

Gerard Yosca earrings, $55

Chloe boots, $395

Our selection will be continually updated - check out our Facebook page for photos and prices, and remember that we do phone orders! 

Just keep in mind...if that baby blue Chanel somehow made its way down to the store, I WILL fight you for it. :)

Seriously, though, I will. 

Spring 2011 Sneak Peak: White Out

This spring's runways were flooded with bold colors and a lack there of. White was the single most embraced color between designers and can easily be paired with any style.

Chloe, Thakoon

 Carolina Herrera, Dolce & Gabbana

 Alexander Wang, Alexander McQueen

How to wear this trend? Don't be afraid to mix different shades of white and off white. Throw in some various textures to add visual interest or pop a bright accessory against your clean palette.

Collegiate Style

 

Who: Yenni 

Tell me about your outfit: "My coat is from Nordstrom. We don't have one of those in Omaha."  

I love Yenni's subdued look. This picture truly doesn't do her outfit justice-- hidden behind her arm is her chocolate Longchamp bag that complements her camel leather boots and ivory tweed lady coat. She finishes her look with pearl jewelry and champagne eye shadow. 

The muted color palette of this season-- oyster grays, dusty rose, champagne, porcelain and cream among others-- are sophisticated and not to mention easy to wear! Chances are you probably have a few neutral pieces hanging in your closet, but if not, now is the time to invest in some beauties. Black is obviously a great go-to color, but why not try a great pair of gray boots or camel coat?

I Spy: Vintage Paris Map

I always get a thrill seeing items we sell at Trocadero make appearances on other people's blogs. Welcome to our "I Spy" series.

Today's "I Spy" post is once again from La Dolce Vita. If Paloma ever visits Omaha, she will have to stop by Trocadero; we carry all of her favorite brands!

Paloma was recently interviewed on Pepper Design Blog and shared some of her design inspiration and guidelines:

Add personal touches. Your home should not look like a photo from a sterile catalog. It should have life and speak of you and your interests. If you like to travel, add a framed map.

To illustrate her point, Paloma featured a photograph of a room in her home, presumably her living room. I immediately noticed two things: that adorable dog and the vintage Paris map on the bottom left of the foursome of framed posters over her couch. Visitors of Trocadero will notice that we have the same map framed at the front of the store near the door and that we sell it unframed for $13.

PS: Framed or unframed, a vintage map of Paris makes a great gift for world travelers, history buffs and Francophiles alike.

(image via La Dolce Vita blog)

Spring 2011 Sneak Peak: Beauty Trends

LOUD MOUTH 

 Marc by Marc, Jil Sander, Fendi 

The key to this trend is having flawless skin as the backdrop to shocking lips. "It's about the contradiction of that one graphic element against an otherwise bare face," said makeup artist Peter Philips, backstage at the Jil Sander show. 

THE FAR SIDE

 Marc Jacobs, Rodarte, Chloe

This trend can be worn with sleek, slicked back hair or can tame down a curly mane. Try it alone or pair it with a eye catching barrette.

BRIGHT EYES

 Jason Wu, Derek Lam, Dior

This trend is something to pair with nude lips to avoid color overdose. Slather color over the lid for a fun evening look or keep it to a minimum by lining the lashes for day. 

COME UNDONE

 Proenza Schouler, Donna Karen 

Throw your hair back in whichever way suits your fancy- knots, buns, twists- this trend is limitless, easy, yet effortlessly chic

HONEY BUN

Oscar de la Renta, Marchesa, Versace

Worn high or low, this trend serves as a go-to put together look. It can take center stage with locks and barrettes piled atop the head, or wear it low and keep your mane minimal for other attention grabbing looks of the season.

Spring 2011 Sneak Peak: Cut Me Some Slack

I was thrilled to see the comeback of the wide leg pant on the spring 2011 runways after seasons of skinny pant domination. Don't get me wrong, I love my skinnies, but these 70s-inspired, flared duds are oh-so-flattering and offer a refreshing break from the ubiquitous silhouette of skinny jeans

 

To balance your look, pair this style with a body conscious top, such as a tucked in button up, a fitted tee, or this season's popular bow blouse to continue to channel that 70s vibe. If you're like me and have purged your closet of all things flared after ignoring them for seasons, now is the time to stock up! Take some notes from one of our interns, Jamie, on how to wear this style now: 

Jamie pairs her flared jeans with a sheer tee, an Urban Outfitters blazers, and a Megan Parks scarf from the Troc. These pants will be a great staple come spring and can easily be worn with wedges and a floral tank.

Alice's Shoe Pick of Fall 2010

I'm not a huge vintage clothing wearer but I'm definitely nostalgic when it comes to clothes and accessories from my past. One of the key items that I adore are these Bastad clogs from Sweden. They remind me of my youth -- from about age 5 on these wooden sole shoes were mainstays in my footwear wardrobe. Yeah, at first look, they might seem a tad "bowling shoe ugly," but it's really in the way that one wears them that the look can be "very preppy-chic, Ali MacGraw, stylish 70s."

About 7 years ago I came across the manufacturer of the Bastad clog at the WSA Shoe Show in Las Vegas. I couldn't believe my eyes! I hadn't seen them since the 70s when I was growing up in Buffalo, NY. I immediately asked them if I could personally order a pair for myself as I grew up in the shoes. They looked at me and said, "You must have grown up in Buffalo." Apparently the distribution of this particular clog wasn't very widespread and literally the only place that carried this style was Buffalo, NY!

Flash forward to about two weeks ago when on a whim I googled Bastad clogs and found them available once again on shoebuy.com. Already owning them in tan, I decided a navy pair was needed. I purchased them and waited with anticipation to receive my new clogs.

A few days later after they arrived, I was hooked. I loved the arch support, the way they alleviated my foot aches and most of all, the height they elevated me! It's about two inches of heel without the wobbliness of a stiletto. Plus, they looked fantastic with tights and mini skirts as well as cute socks, chunky knit sweaters and corduroys. Right then and there I decided, I NEED THEM IN BLACK TOO.

So now, another week later, I'm the proud owner of the Bastad Audubon clog in tan, navy and black. I feel armed (or legged?) to face the fall and winter season with some "vintage" footwear that's timeless (in my opinion) but coincidentally, very on point with what's going on in fashion right now: Check out Alexa Chung, SJP and Rachel Bilson in their own clogs of the season.

If you're not a fan of the Bastad "lace up" Audubon style, I also recommend the Bastad Wright which has a pretty braid up the center.

celeb photo source: Shefinds

Bastad "Wright" photo source: Shoebuy.com

Collegiate Style

Name: Libby MacCarthaigh

Fashion Inspiration: Audrey Hepburn, a la Breakfast at Tiffany's

What are you wearing? "Vintage Christian Dior jacket, Ray Bans & my new L.A.M.B. tote from Gilt"

Collegiate Style

This Creighton student isn't afraid to show some personal style on campus. We love her leopard print bag, studded flats, fringe necklace and of course her Ray Ban shades. Looking good!

Spring 2011 Sneak Peak: A Sheer Thing

Longer hemlines flooded the Spring 2011 runways, but that doesn't mean skin was off the radar. Gauzy layers of tulle and chiffon showcased skin while maintaining the mystery of it. Better yet, this trend comes in a wide variety of styles and knows no limit:

Ballerina

Chloe

Goth

Givenchy

Hippie

Alberta Ferretti 

Grunchy

Charlotte Ronson 

Ethereal

Thakoon 

Futuristic

Pedro Lourenço

With so many styles to work the trend, will you dare to bare it? 

I Spy: Carrot & Stick Press and Diptyque

I always get a thrill seeing items we sell at Trocadero make appearances on other people's blogs.

Once a week, Paloma from La Dolce Vita posts beautiful and inspirational quotes that she pairs with equally thought-provoking photos. The image above, which corresponds with this quote, caught my attention because it features two products we sell at Trocadero: Carrot & Stick Press notebooks and Diptyque candles.

We carry the striped Carrot & Stick Press notebook in red, green and brown, and it retails for only $7. The soft-covered notebook is blank inside, so you can write, sketch and doodle to your heart's content without having to worry about staying inside the lines. Keep yourself organized by buying one in each color and using them to keep your projects or To Do lists separate.

Diptyque candles have always been a bestseller for us, and we currently have 11 different scents in stock that retail at $65 each. While we don't have Roses, which is shown in the photograph, we do have Rose Geranium in stock. Isn't this description, from the company's website, just beautiful?

The citrus scented leaf of the queen of flowers in Provence gardens releases all its fervent glory.

What makes Diptyque candles so special? For starters, it's the care that's put into the production of each one. The wax is properly distributed so that the candle burns evenly for 50-60 hours and the wick is straightened by hand.

Do you have a favorite Diptyque scent?

Turn Over a New Leaf This Season With Your Nail Color

As the Autumn leaves change, don't let your nails fall behind. Bid farewell to the airy pastels, bright corals, and "Pepto" pinks of the spring and summer season and make way for more sultry, sophisticated shades of the fall.

1. Sophisticated Neutrals

From mauvey-browns to barely there nudes, neutrals were all over the runways: beigey-grey blends at Marc Jacobs and soft camel at Chanel. Neutrals like Rescue Beauty Lounge's "Grunge" or "Plie" pair well with Autumn's rich color story.



2. Sultry Grey

Cool slate and warm charcoal shades are definitely the "IT" shade of the season. A surprisingly flattering hue that is sure to compliment any skin tone. Spotted on celebrity fingers like Heidi Klum, you can't miss with this years most popular color. Try RBL's "Stormy" to get Klum's refreshing look.



3. Luxe Gemtones

You can finally pull out those dark, vampy shades you have been waiting to try out! With rich black, luscious plum, emerald and sapphire tones, you won't even need jewelry to make a statement. Sumptuous colors like "Under the Stars", and "Drifter" speak for themselves.



Hurry down to Trocadero to get started on your Fall nail collection! Get these hot shades before they're all gone.

Adventures and Revelations In The Big Apple

It has been about a month since I took my first adventure to The Big Apple with fellow intern and Troc employee Jamie. After my return to Omaha has unloaded nothing but nonstop school and work, I am finally getting the chance to sit down and share my New York experiences.

My two biggest concerns leading up to my first time in New York were "How am I going to make it around the city and not get lost?" and "What will I wear?" From the minute we stepped off of the plane, I was terrified that I would get lost somewhere due to my lack of direction and navigation skills. After we made it to the home of our host, Ms. Kim (after a slight detour), I felt a bit more at ease about roaming the streets of the city that never sleeps.

The days to follow were filled with many shopping excursions, as I killed time waiting for my partner in crime to return from interning. Block after block and store after store, I soon realized that New York retail is a lot harder to resist than what I am challenged with back in the "Big O".

The most important thing I learned during my time away is that I prefer a simpler setting to the busy, fast-paced city. As my wallet lightened and my shopping bag collection increased, I contemplated whether the endless commotion and dense crowds were really for me. While the many people, places and happenings are attractive, it can quickly become overwhelming and wearisome, especially for someone like myself. But I haven't given up on NYC just yet. I still have a lot of the city left to explore, and (I am proud to say) I was just getting the hang of making my way around town on the subway.

All in all, it was a great trip and a worthwhile experience. I may not have gotten a copy of Vogue signed by Anna Wintour (as Jamie and Susan did), but I think my souvenirs: an interview on the Fashion At Lincoln Center website and AOL Style are just as neat.

http://new.lincolncenter.org/live/media/fashion/2010-falc-daily/falc-daily-091310-2.html

http://www.stylelist.com/2010/09/14/mercedes-benz-spring-2010-fashion-week-street-style-at-lincoln-c/

Seasonal Staples!

fall staples by shoptrocadero

My favorite fashion season is officially here, and I am completely ill-prepared for it! I spend so much time hunting for bold and beautiful pieces that I've overlooked the basic staples that will truly turn my wardrobe into a cohesive closet. Luckily, I work in an AMAZING accessories boutique (wink wink), so it won't be long until I'm fully stocked for fall.

If there is only one 'trendy' piece I pick up this season, it has to be an olive green field jacket. It's my new favorite neutral, if only because it's the perfect compliment to my red hair! This one by Marc Jacobs is my personal must-have...I love the oversized fit and almost-too-big chest pockets. 

I currently am battling an unhealthy addiction to printed silk shirts, and this Moschino Cheap & Chic blouse is the perfect way to add that 70s vibe that everyone is feeling for fall (without being too literal). Paired with a great pair of J Brand skinny jeans, it's a fashionable foundation that would quickly become my autumn uniform. 

Of course, we all know the accessories are what makes the outfit, so I sat and pondered on my Troc favorites before narrowing it down to the most practical pieces for my personal style. (The below are ALL available now - send an email to shoptrocadero@mac.com if interested.)

fall staples 2 by shoptrocadero featuring wire bracelets

I am easily seduced by a platform pump, but for everyday wear I gravitate towards shoes I can stomp around in. These Dolce Vita "Brody" boots are in a completely wearable taupe color and are crafted in the softest, slouchiest suede. I can see myself sporting them with everything from cozy cardigans and jeggings to floral dresses and thigh-high socks.

I've also been in dire need for a new bag, and this MZ Wallace "Jane" in storm grey is the only one I'd even consider. Every Trocadero employee could talk about this brand until they're blue in the face, so I'll spare you the rant by saying that YOU NEED MZ WALLACE IN YOUR LIFE. And on that note, so do I. 

My taste in jewelry has taken a 180-degree turn this season, and instead of searching for statement pieces, I'm looking for smaller staples I can wear every day. Alex & Ani bracelets are a no-brainer in that department, and a cute Kara Ross enamel ring can easily join my current rotation. I'd top it off with an Ileana Makri evil eye pendant strung on a leather cord, which would be virtually impossible (and unlucky!) to ever take off. 

I'll be toting a few often-purchased personal favorites in my new bag, as well. I can see my favorite little Let's Hang zipper pull dangling from the 'Jane,' and I always carry a pocket-sized JPT notebook to keep my scattered thoughts all in one place. A tube of Archipelago's grapefruit lip gloss will give me a friendly reminder of simpler summer times while still fighting chapped winter lips...and you can bet I'll be carrying around a sample size of Bond No. 9's Nuits de Noho (the warmest, most comforting vanilla scent) while the bigger bottle stays safely on my dresser at home. 

Let us know what staples are you looking to purchase this season in the comments, and we'd be happy to help you find them!