DIY: Dip Dye

It's true. Long gone are the days when wild-colored hair and bleach-dyed denim were strictly synonymous with the grunge and rebellious street style of the past. Once popular in the '90s fashion scene, the resurgence of the light-to-dark effect has taken over. Also known as ombre, the dip dying trend has skyrocketed as more and more ways to rock the look are appearing everywhere.  

We've seen it on the runway and on celebs, on hair and nails, and even more shocking- dogs. (Google it, I swear). Even though it seems that anything and everything has found its way into this color-craze, one of my favorite ways to sport this style is denim. The best part- you can create the look yourself! I love how the simple steps of dip dye can add a little edge and funk to the classic blue jean with just bleach.  Taking an old pair of denim shorts, I gave the dip dye style a whirl and created my own pair of cutoffs! Want the look? Follow the easy steps below and try the trend too!

1.  Kate Bosworth 2. Kendra Scott Dahlia Earrings in Glow 3. Ombre Nails 4. Club Monaco Suvali Scarf  5. Dip-Dyed Hair 6. Carmar Denim at LF 7. Lucky Brand Top  

D.I.Y DIP DYE DENIM

1. Mix bleach solution with 1/3 Clorox bleach and 2/3 water in a bucket

2. Thread rulers through the belt loops so the shorts can hang while they soak in the bucket

3. Dip the shorts in the bucket however much you want to be dyed. You can let the rulers rest on the top of the bucket while the shorts soak for approximately 30 minutes. Time will vary depending on what you want- the longer you leave the shorts soaking, the stronger the bleach effect. 

4. When your shorts have reached the desired color- it could take a few dips- take them out and let them dry completely in the sink or bathtub. 

5. Finish it up! Once dry, cut to the desired length and/or shred the bottoms to create cutoffs like I did. 

*Make sure to wash and dry them alone for the first time. After that, they should be ready to wash with your regular loads of laundry!

What do you think about this trend? Personally, I dye.

West Village

3699 Mckinney Ave. 

Dallas, TX 75204

Posted by Meredith Williams, Marketing Intern.  

LOFT Style Event at West Village!

Shopping: check. Discount: check. Food and drink: double check. Need I say more? 

LOFT is have a style event with The Gables this Thursday, July 19th from 7-9pm for the residents of West Village! Lucky for you... I'm passing along the invite to you - even if you don't live in West Village!

As if the special discount being offered isn't enough to get excited about, drinks will be served and Union Bear is providing the pizza!  Shopping, pizza, and a drink in my hand? 

Well don't mind if I do....

*Event only at West Village location

 LOFT

3699 McKinney Ave #316

Dallas, TX 75204

The Gables West Village

3839 McKinney Ave #120

Dallas, TX 75204

 

Gables 3636 McKinney

3636 McKinney Ave #180

Dallas, TX 75204

Posted by Meredith Williams, Marketing Intern. 

Summer Vacation Essentials: What to Pack

Whenever the word 'summer' comes to mind, so does the word 'vacation'... like 'milk' and 'cookies.'  I mean lets face it -- adults need summer vacation too! I constantly find myself daydreaming of lounging by the pool, soaking in the sun, and feeling the cool ocean breeze somewhere exotic. My tropical paradise, however, is rudely interrupted by a dreadful realization: packing. 

We all know that along with the joys of any dream vacay comes the stressful planning of what to pack. Lucky for you, I just returned from sunny California last week and have the packing essentials fresh on my mind. So whether you are off yachting in the south of France or island-hopping in the Caribbean, (a girl can dream, can't she?) there are a few items that should be in every suitcase.
Here are my MUST-HAVES:

1. Maxi Dress: Always bring this. A maxi dress is always a good choice because you can easily take it from day to night. Dress it up and wear it out to dinner or you can dress it down and wear it to the pool. Fashionable and comfortable are always key, just like this Gypsy 05 little number from L.Bartlett. 

2: Denim Shorts: You can never go wrong with jean shorts, plain and simple. A pair like these from Lucky Brand should be in every girl's suitcase.

3. Summer Sweater: Even in the warmest of weather, a light sweater like this from Club Monaco is always good to have. Even if it just gets it's use in the frigid airport, you will be thankful. Plus, many places that are warm during the day can quicky turn cool at night. Trust me, you will be glad you brought it. 

4. Tote: A carry-all that you can throw everything in is super practical when you are taking a trip. Use it to store your passport, wallet, makeup- anything you want. Some can be bulky and a pain to take, I know. Try to find one that is easy to pack that can easily lay flat in your suitcase, like this leather travel tote from Gap.
5. Basic accessories: Once the issue of what clothes to bring is determined, you're still not quite done yet. I love bold statement pieces just like every other girl, but sticking to the basics is never a bad idea. Also, try to stick to one color- either silver or gold- to avoid overloading on jewelry. You can still accessorize and add some flare to your outfit with simple pieces, like these hoops or link necklace from Banana Republic. 
6. Flip-flops: Flip-flops are a definite must. They basically take up zero space and can just be thrown in your bag! I like these Yosi Samra flats because they are comfy and basic, but also can easily be dressed up. You can wear them daytime or night. Or shoot, because of the comfort factor, wear 'em all day and night!

7. Clutch: When going out at night, have fun with your outfit and carry a  clutch or small purse. Usually I like to bring clothing in neutral colors that are easy to mix and match and add a colorful punch with accessories. I like this Rebecca Minkoff Mini M.A.C. from Demerara because the blue is a pop of color but it is dark enough to be chic and neutral enough to easily be worn with anything.

8. Nude Wedge: Let's face it- every girl loves a good shoe. That's sometimes the best part of an outfit! Unfortunately, they can also take up the most room in your suitcase. Luckily, good nude wedge will go with everything. The comfort of the platform of this pair from LOFT is an added bonus if you are going to be walking around a lot.
9. Travel-Size Toiletries: Once you made it this far packing, you can finally start to see the end of the tunnel! I always find it really useful to bring travel-size toiletries. It seems like an obvious essential, but it's also really easy to forget to bring (plus, sometimes even the nicest of hotels have the worst taste in shampoos).  I discovered the best shampoo, Kérestase, at Lure Salon and was so excited to find that the brand makes their products in travel-size!

Of course, I couldn't forget about the guys out there:

1. Shorts

2. Non-Iron Shirt

3. Passport Case

4. Leather Travel Kit

5. Graphic T

6. Ray-Ban Folding Aviator

Now, enough of this packing nonsense. Get going! Your adventure awaits you.

West Village
3699 McKinney Ave.
Dallas, TX 75204

Posted by Meredith Williams, Marketing Intern.

Asian Film Festival of Dallas Starts Tonight!

It's here, it's here! The 11th Annual Asian Film Festival of Dallas begins TODAY, July 12th through Thursday, July 19th at the Landmark's Magnolia Theatre.  Presented by returning sponsors McDonald's and Well Go USA Entertainment, the AFFD is your chance to see some of the most incredible films in all genres from some pretty amazing Asian and Asian-American filmmakers. 

The festival kicks off tonight with the Texas premiere of Ace Attorney from fabled director Takashi Miike. Director of Programming Steve Norwood said it is "filled with mystery, comedy and lots of fantastic hair!" Although the Opening Night Film is SOLD OUT, you can catch this crime drama again on July 19th. Throughout the week-long festival, enjoy more than 50 films, attend receptions, Q&A sessions, premieres, parties, and meet many of the filmmakers themselves. 

This year's non-competition highlights features many exclusive North American Premieres. Here's a glimpse of what the AFFD has in store for you:

Although this is just a tiny peek of what is to come, you can view all of the films and trailors as well as their show times on the schedule that's on the festival's website. And if the SOLD OUT Opening Night Film, Ace Attorney, is any indication, you will want to buy your tickets ASAP if you haven't already. 

Here's a quick low down on the different tickets you can buy:

• Special Event Ticket Price: $12.50 (includes screening and special event admission)
• Student Shorts Showcase: $5
• Regular Ticket Price: $10 at box office and $9 online
• Students with valid ID and Seniors over 65: $7 available at the box office only
• Special Offer: Pack of 4 vouchers for $32 (valid for all films except the Opening, Centerpiece, and Closing and can be purchased here

Although the early bird passes have now ended, you can still purchase VIP passes for $159 ($139 for AFFD members) and be a part of the fun. 

Besides all of the great films to watch, there will be some other fun events throughout the week for you to attend, including AFFD karaoke (count me in!), Centerpiece Reception, Filmaker Reception at Malai, Filmmaker Reception at Stoneleigh, and of course the Opening and Closing Night Parties. 

To add to the excitement, the AFFD announced their 2012 partnership with the Stoneleigh Hotel & Spa. The luxury hotel will play host to the filmmakers arriving from all over the world and will also be the location (the ultra-fab penthouse to be exact) of tonight's opening reception party. P.s.- I heard tonight's event is going to be the biggest party the AFFD has ever attempted so be sure to RSVP at rsvp@redidagency.com!  Furthermore, score an exclusive offer from the Stoneleigh Hotel for the film festival's fans and guests. Enjoy up to 25% off the best available rate at the luxe hotel. Call 214-871-7111 to book a room!

The AFFD has been sharing the vision of hundreds of Asian and Asian-American filmmakers and documentarians for over ten years. This is your chance to experience other lives and cultures without leaving your seat. Hope to see you there!

West Village

3699 McKinney Ave

Dallas, TX 75204

Posted by Meredith Williams, Marketing Intern

A peek into Indigo!

Authenticity is what John Tracy strives for (and is quite good at might I add) in his home goods store, Indigo. Full of unique and handmade treasures, each item has a back story- and he knows each and every one.

Indigo is the place to find that unique treasure for your home from across the globe right here in West Village. All of the beautiful textiles (that range from $59-$600) are handmade in India, but it doesn't stop there. Tracy also designs all of his rugs ($110 sq.ft) before being hand-spun by Afghan refugees with some of the best wool from the mountains. If the Moroccan inspired look isn't your aesthetic, you'll want to check out his selection of cowhide rugs - they're absolutely stunning! (I've got my eye on the all white one below..) Tracy has a couple in the store, and if you have a specific color, size, or even hide in mind, he has great access to the selection. 

  

The store definitely gives off a cool and global vibe, but also has some local flare. Tracy has now begun to carry some new local jewelry designers with great price points - starting at just $25! 

 When searching for a gift for someone, I like to find little gifts that are unique and different, but still well thought of. The selection of candles, soaps, and picture frames are all beautiful and start at $5. AND you can kill two birds with one stone because the store is now carrying greeting and birthday cards! (Sorry Hallmark...)

Aside from specializing in jewelry design, rugs, apholstery, interior design, and custom tables, he can also find you pieces for your home. Indigo is both timeless and fresh, modern and traditional... a step into another place and time. 

Indigo

3699 McKinney Ave #102

Dallas, TX 75204

208-390-5889

Posted by Meredith Williams, Marketing Intern. 

Playing With Prints

There's something about slipping on a good 'ole pair of blue jeans that screams simple, yet oh-so-chic. Ever since 1853 when Levi Strauss manufactured the very first blue jeans, denim has been an American classic and fashion go-to that's found in closets nation-wide. However, we all know that the ever-fickle fashion world always wants change. What would fashion be if it always stayed the same? That is why they have staged a revolution... a denim revolution, that is. 

Throughout the years we have seen denim evolve into different shapes, styles, and colors that I guarantee you Mr. Strauss never dared dream of. There is the boot cut, the flare, the skinny, the boyfriend ...and now PRINT. Let's just say this takes the color denim craze to a whole new level.

Last week I was loving all of the patriotic gear to represent the USA on Independence Day, but amid all of the stars and stripes I couldn't help but fall in love with the rest of the prints out there- floral, tie-dye, feathers... I'm obsessed. Take a que from your favorite celeb style and find the right print for you! Or choose them all, like me...

West Village

3699 McKinney Ave. 

Dallas, TX 75204

Posted by Meredith Williams, Marketing Intern.

Seeing Stars and Stripes

Lezbionest. Independence Day has become some sort of Fashion Holiday it seems... alongside the sea of green on St. Patrick's Day and the hippie-outbreak at Coachella. Gone are the days of throwing on your red bikini from 5 years ago underneath a ratty t-shirt you picked up on Spring Break 1999 in Key West. Oh no. It seems our style expectations of the red, white and blue have gone up... along with our American pride. Whatever your style may be, it's all about individuality and freedom - which is what this country is all about! Whether you're beachside, lakeside, poolside or even grillside... We've got something for you to show off your patriotic spirit!

From flirty dresses and cute tops to casual cutoffs and swimwear, the options are endless this 4th of July! I love how the American flag is incorporated onto just about anything- even denim vests (I want to wear the one pictured below year-round!).

Column 1: Banana Republic Paige wristlet $47.50 ; Gap Asymmetrical Striped Dress $64.95 ; J Brand Vintage Star Cut Off Shorts at L. Bartlett $169 Column 2:  American Flag Denim Vest at LF $208 ; Ray-Ban sunglasses $189.95 ; Wildfox Seeing Stars Sweater at L. Bartlett $225 ; Flag Sports Bra from LF $48 Column 3: Club Monaco Sara Phoncho Dress $98.50 ; Lucky Brand Riley Laser-Print Striped shorts  $79.50; Blue Swimsuit at y&i clothing boutique ; Kendra Scott Danielle Earrings $60 Column 4: Pitaya American Flag Tank $24 / Bracelets $12-$15 each ; Gap Striped Straw Tote $59.95 ; Accents Blue Top $34

1. Red T-Rex Tank at Demerara $44 2. Gap Camo Floral Board Shorts $29.99 3. Brooks Brothers Faded Cotton Baseball Cap $13.50 4. Banana Republic Vintage v-neck tee $24.99 5. Rainbow Flip Flops at Lucky Brand $49 6. Gap Flat Front Shorts $29.99

Happy 4th, everyone! BE SAFE!

West Village

3699 McKinney Ave.

Dallas, TX 75204

Graphics by Meredith Williams, Marketing Intern.