Tribal Beats

Do you hear that sound?  It's the tribal beats that are infused in this season's fashions.  It's time to take a walk on the wild side and spice up your wardrobe with tribal patterned clothing and accessories.  Tribal and ethnic inspired fashions have been spotted everywhere on the runway and are characterized with the use of fabrics that are printed and embellished with repeating shapes, colors, and beading.  These organic and earthy pieces bring us back to our roots with their rich materials and woven fabrics.  While tribal inspired garments are worn for their bold colors and complex designs they are also a cultural symbol.

Adding the right accessories can create a bohemian look when paired with tribal patterned clothes.  Jewelry that uses different shapes and patterns is great to mix and match with prints.  Shoppers can find everything from cuffs to necklaces this season that have been etched with aztec prints.  With the use of beaded bracelets, necklaces, and scarves it's easy to create an earthy look.

Some designers that have incorporated the use of tribal patterns into their lines are BCBG, Amanda Uprichard, Olive and Oak, Charlie Jade, Karlie, and Tory Burch.  Here's a look at some of our favorite tribal treasures that can be found at Monkee's of the Pines.  Happy shopping!

Eye Candy

Over the past few years designer sunglasses have gone from a luxury item to a must have accessory.  Celebrities such as Rachel Zoe, Kim Kardashian, and Nicole Richie are continually spotted wearing their eye candy of choice.  This season some of the big eyewear trends are cat-eye sunglasses, colorful and updated aviators, and of course oversized sunglasses.  Here's a look into the history of where these sunglasses originated and how they've changed over the years.

Cat-eye Sunglasses are an example of how fashion is constantly recycling old trends.  This retro look first became popular in the 50's and 60's and was worn by fashion icons such as Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe.  Cat-eye sunglasses are a simple way to look chic while creating a vintage inspired look.  With rich materials and colors, cat-eye sunglasses have evolved over the years to create a unique look.

Aviator sunglasses are a classic style that are seen everywhere and come in a variety of shapes and colors.  They were first created as a functional item rather than a fashion forward accessory.  Aviator sunglasses were originally created during World War II in order to help shield pilot's eyes from the harsh glare of the sun.  They were then seen in the 1980's when Tom Cruise wore them in the movie Top Gun. While still worn by pilots today, aviator sunglasses have evolved over the years to become more of a fashionable accessory with their iconic dark or mirrored lenses.

Oversized sunglasses made their popular debut when Jackie Kennedy was seen sporting a pair of her patented oversized shades in public.  Jackie Kennedy tried to cultivate a private life and would wear the oversized sunglasses to help keep her anonymity and hide her from the public eye.  Now referred to as the "Jackie O" sunglasses, they have become the must have accessory among many fashion cautious females.  Today many celebrities choose to wear the oversized sunnies to help shield them from the paparazzi.

Ever girl needs a good pair of designer sunglasses in her accessory wardrobe.  Designer sunglasses have clearly become a wardrobe staple and with so many different styles and colors it's easy to find the perfect pair of eye candy!  Which pair of sunnies will you be wearing this season?  With a selection of sunglasses from Tory Burch, Kate Spade, Gucci, and Tom Ford at Monkee's of Southern Pines, the options are endless.  Happy shopping!

Pedi Ready

Spring is officially here and as the weather starts to get warmer, it’s time to start thinking about breaking out the sandals and espadrilles!  This season’s flip flops, wedges, and sandals boast designs that will show off your perfectly pedicured toes.  Here’s a look at some of our top picks for spring and summer...

Tory Burch is known for her sandals and every year the girl doesn't disappoint!  The "Thora" is a great updated version of the flip flop and is a wardrobe staple.  Both Amy Smart and Amanda Bynes have been spotted wearing a pair!  For a way to look fashionable while still staying comfortable, try the “Miller” thong sandal by Tory Burch.  This classic sandal is made with padding to add a little extra support.  The "Miller" has been seen on celebrities like Erin Andrews, Jaime Pressly, and even Gretchen from the Real Housewives of Orange County!  The navajo sandal by Jack Rogers has been around for a while and isn't going anywhere.  Every girl needs a pair of these go to sandals in her closet.  With metallic colors like platinum and gold, this sandal can be dressed up or down.

In addition to sandals and flip flops, the runways are also flooded with sky high espadrilles.  The "Palm Beach" espadrille by Michael Kors comes in gold and silver and with a price point of $98, it won't break the bank.  For those of you looking for a lower wedge, try the "Fabree" by Andre Assous.  We love the feminine bow detail on this shoe and also the fact that it incorporates both brown and black so it is extremely versatile.  Tory Burch takes us to new heights in both her "Fabian" espadrille and "Ace" high wedge sandal.

With these top shoe picks, your feet will be ready for spring and summer.  But are your toes pedi ready?  With this seasons fresh new nail trends we are having a hard time picking just one!  Some of the hottest color contenders are pistachio, tangerine, glitter, neon, blue, and what kind of spring would it be without floral painted nails?

Now the only question is which sandal or espadrille will you be wearing first?  With these top picks its a tough call.  Happy shopping!