Get to Know Us! Meet Kelsey Coughlin.

Meet Kelsey Coughlin. Our fabulous new Assistant Manager has an arsenal of jewelry, chambray shirts and printed silks that would make any fashionista weak in the knees. Kelsey loves layering on accessories, her cats and baking our new favorite chocolate chip cookies.

 

1. Name three girls’ essentials.

The “perfect” pair of skinny jeans, ankle boots that look great with dresses and denim, and long necklaces for layering (okay, that’s technically more than one).

2. What are you favorite pieces in the store right now?

I’m totally an accessories girl. I don’t feel complete if I leave the house without earrings in, a necklace on, and a bracelet around my wrist. I’m obsessed with the accessories at Crush! Lately, I’ve been wearing my yellow gold skull earrings by Bing Bang almost every day. They give my outfits an edge, but are subtle enough to be classic. My other new favorite accessory is the studded coral bag by Street Level. I bought it to wear to a wedding and haven’t left the house without it since. I love that it’s feminine and super badass at the same time!

Bing Bang Skull Studs in Gold

Bing Bang Skull Studs in Gold

Kelsey loves the Street Level Spiked Coral Clutch.

Kelsey loves the Street Level Spiked Coral Clutch.

3. Who is your ultimate style icon?

Some sort of Jemima Kirke (during season 1 of Girls)/Jenny Lewis/Zooey Deschanel/Diane Keaton (circa the 1970s) hybrid. Is that possible? It’s too hard to pick just one!

 

Jemima Kirke, Girls
Jemima Kirke

 

Zooey Deschanel

 

Jenny Lewis

 

Diane Keaton

4. Fourth of July or New Year’s Eve?

Fourth of July! I love BBQs and Fireworks and outfits that rep Americana.

5. Back to your accessories… What is your all-time favorite/most used item?

Honestly, my hair ties that double as bracelets. I never leave the house with at least 2 on my wrists.

 

 

Kitsch Hair Ties available at Crush!

 

Catch Kelsey at Crush Newbury Street to build your look from head-to-toe, talk style icons and swap Summer BBQ secrets!

Posted in 2013 Spring Fashion Trends, Accessories, Bing Bang, FEATURED DESIGNERS, Seven for All Mankind, Street Level, Uncategorized, Wear Anything Well: "How To" Guides | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Get to Know Us! Meet Rebecca Penner Hall.

Meet Rebecca Penner Hall, co-owner of Crush Boutique, lover of sunshine and collector of white tees and sequined dresses. Her contagious mega-watt smile and confidence-building style expertise make every girl feel like she’s got a personal stylist when shopping at Crush.

Rebecca boating the British Virgin Islands in her favorite J Brand shorts.

1. What’s your favorite piece in the store right now?

I am lusting after the Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent shawl color blazer in the woven Zuni Print. I think it’s amazing! The fabric looks vintage and rich, but the cut and fit is sleek and modern. I want it to pair with a comfy white tee and distressed denim, or hopefully soon, some cut-off shorts. I would also rock it over a white maxi dress this summer.

The Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Shawl Collar Blazer in Woven Zuni

2. What movie do you always watch when it’s on TV?

Almost Famous – that movie just speaks to me. Who knows, maybe I was born to be a fashionable “Band Aid.”

3. Do you have a clothing item with sentimental value that you’ll never part with?

Absolutely! My rehearsal dinner dress from my wedding. It is the Alice + Olivia Bea Blouson Short Dress in Ivory (duh – I only wore white or some variation of white the year I was engaged). I think this dress is absolutely breath-taking. It is a Gatsby/Flapper inspired t-length lace dress with a pearl fringe hemline. To me it combines a very classic look with a sophisticated cut and fabric. It is both fashion forward and timeless at the same time. Alice + Olivia is one of my favorite designers and this dress will be in my closet for decades to come!  It also signifies the best weekend of my life to date, the weekend I got married to my soul mate. That baby is never going to Second Time Around.

Rebecca's Alice + Olivia dress was perfect for her Rehearsal Dinner.
Rebecca’s Alice + Olivia dress was perfect for her Rehearsal Dinner.

4. Describe your perfect date outfit?

I would say currently I adore a pair of well fitted skinny jeans, a silk tank (subtle color but sexy, over-sized fit), a blazer and heeled booties. I would also be sporting many bracelets and either a long necklace by HOH 1960 or dangle earrings by Uptown Girl.

The perfect dinner outfit.

5. Brunch: Sweet or savory?

Savory, hands down. The only time I ever order something sweet for brunch is if it is as an appetizer or dessert. I tend to have buyers remorse if I don’t go savory.

You’ll find Rebecca bustling between both Crush stores, gabbing about new designers and dressing girls for their first dates and happily ever afters!

Posted in Alice + Olivia, FEATURED DESIGNERS, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Get to Know Us! Meet Nicky Hatton.

Nicky Hatton’s been stocking up on cocktail dresses for prom and formals and chunky sweaters for “life” since we first opened. She loves dogs, the Bruins and coaching field hockey. Her effortless style, girl-next-door personality and ability to talk about anything and everything make Nicky the perfect shopping companion.

Meet Nicky!

1. What’s your favorite piece in the store right now?

My favorite pieces in the store right now are definitely the Show Me Your Mumu silk blouses. They are so easy to wear all day and even out at night.

 

Nicky rocks a Show Me Your Mumu top and a House of Harlow 1960 necklace.

Nicky rocks a Show Me Your Mumu top and a House of Harlow 1960 necklace.

2. Who’s the all-time best Boston Bruins player? (or your all-time favorite?)

My favorite Bruins player is definitely Patrice Bergeron. He’s a team player, and it doesn’t hurt that he is easy on the eyes.

Patrice Bergeron

Patrice Bergeron

3. Hot pink or ballerina pink?

Definitely hot pink, I love wearing bright colors to stand out. Plus, it looks great with a tan in the summertime.

Hot pink!

4. What’s your favorite trend for spring?

I love that leather is making its way into spring, it’s so fun to wear!

5. What are the three best books on your shelf?

The Art of Racing in the Rain, Gone Girl, and How to Win Friends and Influence People.

All of the Crush girls loved "Gone Girl"! Have you read it yet?

Visit Nicky in the store to talk books, Bruins stars and crushes and your favorite trends for Summer 2013!

Posted in 2013 Spring Fashion Trends, FEATURED DESIGNERS, Show Me Your Mumu | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Get to Know Us! Meet Katie Hayward.

Meet Katie Hayward.

Katie burst onto the scene this month with her high energy, contagious smile and knack for finding your perfect party dress.  As a seasoned Crush shopper herself, she brings with her a wide range of knowledge of our staple dress collections, like Parker and Akiko.

1. What is your favorite piece in the store right now?

The strapless tribal print dress by Parker. It’s so comfortable, and looks great with a jean jacket!

2. What’s next on your travel wish list?

I am going to be doing lots of traveling this summer and my next purchase is definitely going to be a Theodora and Callum scarf – perfect as a beach cover up, a plane blanket, or to dress up a casual outfit.

Katie can't wait to pick up one of these beauties!

3. Flats/sandals vs. heels/wedges?

Flats/Sandals – I know I’m short, but the comfort and versatility are to hard to resist.

 

Summer sandals we will live in!

4. Name three things that can take your look from day to night.

Transforming an outfit from day to night is essential with the busy schedules we keep.

- Add some big accessories! House of Harlow has some great statement necklaces, and the JoJo bling earrings are always an easy go-to!

 

This House of Harlow Marrakech Souk Pendant Necklace has us swooning...

Which pair is your favorite?

- Throw on a cute blazer! As excited as I am that spring is finally here, it’s still a little too cold for a cute tank by itself. Adding a sleek black blazer for an extra edge and layer of warmth, is the perfect solution.

- Put on a pair of heels! I don’t think anything screams a night on the town like a good pair of shoes.

The Dolce Vita Gwendolyn is the perfect transition heel!

5. You’re never fully dressed without?

Of course, a smile! I would also say the Kitsch hair ties we carry with the heart warming sayings like “I am beautiful” and “I am love”. Not only do they put a smile on my face, but they provide a bit of inspiration for others. So practical and cute!!

Katie is your cool, world traveler girly girl next door….with a lot of cheer. Visit her at both our Charles Street and Newbury Street boutiques for help building your party dress collection!

Posted in House of Harlow, Jo Jo Loves You, Parker, Wear Anything Well: "How To" Guides | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Emerald: The 2013 Color of the Year

Every year, we Crush girls look forward to watching the Pantone Color of the Year pop up all over the store. We were smitten with the sunniness of Tangerine Tango – the 2012 Color of the Year. It was friendly, exotic and energizing. We loved the chic femininity of 2011′s Honeysuckle. Said to have been chosen for it’s nostalgic, but encouraging spirit, it was the ultimate summer hue.

Imagine our excitement then when a cool-color counterpart that emits all of those feelings was chosen for 2013! In December, Pantone announced that Emerald would be the 2013 Color of the Year. We’ve been green with envy of anyone wearing it ever since.

Pantone emerald color of the year

As our Spring arrivals pour in, we love seeing nature’s most popular shade all over Crush. Emerald is lively, luminous and lush, but carries the sophistication of any jewel tone. It’s empowering to wear in clothing or make-up, but Mother Nature’s favorite color soothes us in our homes. Sure it’s the Color of the Year, but it’s a color you’ll surround yourself with forever! And it’s universally flattering — blonde or brunette, jet black hair or red, green looks good.

Here are some of our favorite Emerald things:

Emerald - Pantone Color of the Year - Amanda Uprichard, Parker

Clockwise from upper left: Jo Jo Loves You Blings, Amanda Uprichard Peplum Skirt, Amanda Uprichard Swingy Tie Front Dress, Amanda Uprichard Champagne Dress, Parker Keyhole Dress, Emerald accessories at Crush Charles Street, Dolce Vita Alaina Dress, Shoshanna Caroline Marinere Sweater.

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Jo Jo Loves You, and we love her.

Every girl loves a little sparkle.

Boston based designer Josie Hewitt is no different.

When she graduated from college in 2002, she had a degree in jewelry design, a flock of friends who loved to wear her pieces and a pink patent leather suitcase full of her creations. Ten years later, her necklaces, bracelets and famous “blings” — colorful costume stud earrings– have graced the pages of many magazines, the shelves of countless stores across the country, and the ears of just about every fashionable girl we know. And she continues to expand her collection. This fall, she launched our favorite style yet, a sophisticated Cushion Cut. I wear the Snowflake color every day. Laura’s smitten with the Pink Opal. Rebecca rocks the Peach. Dani’s a cool Blue Opal girl. Kacie loves the Flamingo. And new Crush girl Ashley likes the pop color of the Astro Pink.

Week after week, we re-order these candy-sized treasures for our two Boston stores and watch as best friends, brides and moms pick them up for themselves, and the fabulous gals in their lives. We share Josie’s cheery little story and smile as we send the sparkly studs off to their new homes across the country.

So if ever your feeling a little down, treat yourself to a little Bling and follow some advice from Josie: “Follow your heart. Do what you love.”

Posted in 2013 Spring Fashion Trends, FEATURED DESIGNERS, Jo Jo Loves You, Look of the Week | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Get to know us! Meet Brianne Dyke.

And another one is up. Meet Brianne Dyke; an energetic Emerson College graduate, Crush Manager, and Hill dweller. Bre floats back and forth between Beacon Hill and Newbury Street, taking funky pictures of new arrivals, and is always on top of upcoming trends. She is amazing with styling, and can turn any outfit from ‘meh’ to ‘maaarvelous.’

Life Changing Questions:

1. Tribal or Floral? Tribal

2. What is your favorite dish in Boston? Oysters and French fries at the Beehive.

3. What is your favorite trend for Spring? Black & White.

4.  A signature scent? I’ve been consciously working on this for awhile. I just picked up the Chloe perfume though, and I’m obsessed.

5. What is your favorite piece in Crush right now? I’d have to say the Parker Bayou strapless maxi dress. I love blushy pink shades and long dresses.

So… there you have it. Another fabulous advice holder. Come in anytime and have Brianne style you for Spring.

Parker Bayou Maxi Dress, Available at Newbury & Charles

 

Posted in 2013 Spring Fashion Trends, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Get to know us! Meet Madeleine Coleman.

There’s only so many of us here at Crush Boutique, some undergrads, some officially off the market, and some in-betweeners if you will. Whether platinum blonde, or an avid follower of the Timberfakes, we are here to help. Each one of us has a unique style, from body-con dresses to boyfriend tee’s we all create everyday looks with our pieces here at Crush. So, come on in and get to know us better.

Meet Madeleine Coleman.

1. Big Mac or Whoppers?

Neither. In-N-Out double double

2. Angelina or Jennifer?

Jennifer [HELLLLLO DO U HAVE A SOUL]

3. What is your favorite look for the Spring?

Mismatched prints, I recently rocked some nautical stripes and animal print it went pretty well.

4.Who is your ultimate style-icon ?

Sienna Miller/Edie Sedgwick/ Jessica Stein/Cher from Clueless, a hybrid creature

5. What is your favorite piece in the store RIGHT now?

Greylin chevron print pants

Well, there you have it. A little platinum blonde, with a precious dog named Stanley.  You can find Maddie at both stores, usually in Yumi Kim, and describing pieces as ‘billowy.’

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Going Somewhere? Last Minute List!

 

Going somewhere and in a hurry? Stop by our both stores for those last minute fashion emergencies!  We’re talking shape wear, statement necklaces, clutches, and earrings.

The Essentials

1. Fashion Tape: A double-sided adhesive strip perfect for that too-low dress, or pest-y hemline that doesn’t stay. These strips are magical.

2. Tights by Spanx. A shape wear influenced tight that comes in sheer nude, black, charcoal or grey. Perfect for any special occasion, or replacing that old pair. With the shape wear element, you will feel comfortable and seamless underneath that dress!

3. Compact clutch by Urban Expressions. Both stores have a large selection of clutches perfect for any formal outfit! Sequins, patent leather, woven patterns and vegan styles.

4. JoJo Blings: An outfit transforming staple! With so many colors and cuts, you are bound to find something that reflects just as much light as your smile.

5. The Nu Bra. The best invention possible for those backless, strapless, low-cut dresses that are too stubborn for a normal bra. Reusable and stays in place, the Nu Bra should live in every closet!

 

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Look of the Week: Pastels

When pastels come to mind, I think of sidewalk chalk, the Easter bunny, lilacs and of course candy. I’m not sure why, but I instantly crave Jordan almonds and hope for the sun to finally melt away those stained snow piles. With Spring almost here (let’s pray) soft pastels like mint greens, lilacs and muted yellows have been arriving in our doorsteps on a weekly basis. These colors are showcased in every fabric possible; thick tweeds, leather, silks, and of course our go-to cotton.

So, now the question is: With February still being so cold and gloomy out, how can one wear a pastel appropriateley without looking like a cotton candy puff walking down the street? It’s easy! For now, I reccomend throwing in little hints of pastel colors such as a scarf, muted orange lipstick, thin leather belt or go for a statement piece, and drape yourself in layers.

Here are a few of our favorites:

La Mer Collections Pastel Friendship Bracelet Wrap in Grey

Parker Ruched Front Tank Dress in Jigsaw

Amanda Uprichard Cabana Shell in New Mint

Belle Noel Color Blocking Amulet Necklace

Posted in Accessories, Apparel, Look of the Week, Rory Beca | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment