I’ve known David Frankel for several years.

When we first met he was awaiting the patent for his invention, The Perky Collar.

This piece holds men’s collars at attention all day because nobody wants a droopy collar!

He started as a vendor at fashion shows and I’ve supported him ever since.

He received his patent and soon moved up to a kiosk at Southpark Mall. He recently relocated to a full store at Carolina Place Mall.

In addition to his own invention, he sells everything a man could want or need to be well dressed.

He has a huge selection of hats.

Bow ties in every color.

Including unique designs made from feathers and some that light up.

You’re greeted by one of his best sellers, the wooden bow tie.

There’s cufflinks!

He has a unique collection of lapel pins and jewelry.

Colorful belts with a selection of buckles.

And let’s not forget the watches!

If you’re looking for the perfect item to complete your outfit or a gift for the dapper guy in your life, stop by Perky, LLC- The Clothing Innovation Co., at Carolina Place Mall.

Perky, LLC- The Clothing Innovation Co.,

One of my favorite events Charlotte holds each year is Charlotte Shout.

This year, my favorite part of the Shout Festival was Fashion Row at the Shout Lounge.

Some of my favorite designers were a part of it.

And I even met some new Favs!

As if the fashions weren’t exceptional enough, they also personalized their mannequins!

They even held workshops. One of which I happened upon and was exited to meet four of the designers.

From old Hollywood to Out Of This World looks, I loved them all.

Seeing the creativity and materials used in each design was such a moment for me.

The colors were so vibrant.

Fashion is art. And art is Fashion. They go hand in hand. And I’m thankful to live in a city that celebrates that.

Last week I had the honor of attending the Pre Fall ‘24 Trunk Show at St. John Knits at Southpark Mall.

It was hosted by Wardrobe by Whitney and moderated by my OHmazing friend Ohavia Phillips.

Whitney describes their Pre Fall ’24 Collection as Western Meets Graceland.

Old west with a touch of Elvis bling.

Exaggerated collars with piping, fringe and beading are predominate in this collection.

As well as leather and grommets.

Caplets are also huge this coming season.

The details on this dress are captivating!

And we’re mad for this plaid. This dress can be dressed up with a pair of heels or dressed down for a hoedown with a pair of western boots.

Versatile pieces are also hot for the Pre Fall season this year.

These core pieces can be interchanged to get many different looks.

Whether they’re matching sets or simply compliment the other pieces, they are basics that should be invested in.

They can take you from the boardroom to brunch with the girls.

Now let’s talk color!

The mesmerizing magentas complimented by other jewel tones make for some stylish transition pieces.

This flowy piece is perfect as a bathing suit coverup or for a dinner on the beach.

As well as this fun lace dress.

I spoke with Whitney after the presentation.

“The brand has been growing and attracting a more modern IT girl. The room was full of Charlotte IT girls and top tier energy curated by myself collaborating with my client Ohavia Phillips .” She said.

“Western Americana is obviously the mood board of the year. We discussed the many tailored signature elements offered in the new Pre-Fall 24 collection, adding a chic take to the trend and of course how to bring it back to a sustainable wearability using season-less styling tips.” Whitney stated.

You can schedule your own consultation with Wardrobe With Whitney at St. John at Southpark and start building your wardrobe.

This ain’t Texas, but you can carry off the Classy Cowgirl look with St. John.

A couple of weeks ago I brought you the top five bag trends for the upcoming season.

Today we’re talking shoes.

Here is my top five picks I think we will be buying this Spring.

1. Metallic:

Metallics have been hot for some time now. However, we normally don’t associate them with Spring.

Pumps, mules, loafers and more are shining in the sunshine this season.

2. The Mary Jane:

Not since Carrie Bradshaw exclaimed “Oh my God! Do you know what these are? Manolo Blahnik Mary Janes! I thought these were an urban shoe myth!” have we been this excited about this style.

Combined with funky socks or worn alone, these shoes are carrying us into warmer weather.

3. Kitten Heels:

Rebranded as ‘micro heels’ these tiny heels are making a big impression this season.

4. Ballet Flats:

Not your average Swan Lake slippers.

Mesh, embroidered or bedazzled, this shoe is on everyone’s wish list.

5. Western Boots:

Every southern girl has a pair. And now Beyoncé has made this last shoe a trend for the rest of the world.

This ain’t Texas, but we’re sure wearing the boots!!

What’s your favorite shoe trend this season?