LOST? Guidance and Inspiration Await You…

I don’t know about the rest of you, but I am still reeling from last night’s series finale of LOST! Some fans were completely satisfied with the closing of this epic series, while others are left with questions and confusion. Despite anyone’s feelings about how the show’s ending, at least one message sings loud and true: there comes a time when we must all simply let go, pay tribute to the people and places we love, embrace life’s little surprises, and appreciate the beauty around us. And let’s be honest, that island was pretty darn gorgeous when you look past the polar bear, smoke monster, and endless mysteries…

So, why not turn our attention from “the island” to the idea of a fun island-inspired summer wardrobe?!

I know, I know, it sounds like a petty or materialistic jump. However, I’ve been thinking recently about the ease of dress that comes with pretty much any island lifestyle as well getting very excited to don some summer colors straight from the palette created by nature on a tropical island, so somehow this seems like the right time to discuss summer wardrobe inspirations.

My visions of bright, fresh and easy looks expanded even more after talking with one of our loyal Fly Girls, Andrea. Always striving for the fun and unique, Andrea told me that each summer she picks a theme for her wardrobe; last year was “Mermaid” and this year is “Miami” (the runner-up was “1930s”). I couldn’t agree more with her that summer is a great time to really have fun and create a new signature look! And what better way to pay tribute to someone or some place than developing a style in their honor? Sounds like fun to me! Just pick an appropriate color palette, fabric, and/or texture and thread it throughout your summer pieces and I promise you’ll quickly be able to evoke your inspired theme.

So, Andrea’s theme is “Miami,” mine is looking like it will be "Island," and others have said theirs will be everything from “English garden” or “Leather & Lace” to “Southwest,” “80s” or “Butterfly.” What will yours be? What person, place, era or object will you weave into your summer look? Stop by and see our ever-expanding and changing summer stock, we’ll help you find your inspiration… and without any confusion or crises of faith, like some of our friends from Oceanic Flight 815.

Namaste,
Naomi

"Deep (and Fun) Thoughts"

"If someone told me it wasn't 'fashionable' to talk about freedom, I think I'd just have to look him square in the eye and say, 'Okay, YOU TELL ME what's `fashionable'.' But he won't. And you know why? Because you can't ask someone what's fashionable in a smart-alecky way like that. You have to be friendly and say, 'By the way, what's fashionable?'" ~ Jack Handey

Well, you can ask us, however you'd like, and we'll share our newest arrivals with you! In addition to jewelry and handbags from some of everyone's favorite designers, we're psyched to show you what just popped up on our racks...

First up, and the root of this weeks' Musings title, four styles from newcomer to the Fly, By Deep Los Angeles. I was totally stoked to see these pieces when they arrived a few days ago. Each one combines the comfort of a jersey fabric with the pizazz of great embellishments like beading, sequins, and chains (I've included detail shots below). And, at such a great price point (all are under $65), how can you say no to a fun and easy addition to your 'going out' wardrobe?!? I know I can't!

Next, if your inner hippie is calling and you want to expand your bohemian repertoire, you must check out the latest from Angie. These prints and styles are a great hybrid of boho and girly with a bit of an edge - right up our alley (and hopefully yours too). I love them! Again, most of these are under $65; perfect for the girl with lots of events and a strict budget. Whether you've got a rehearsal dinner, a shower, an afternoon luncheon, or just want to add some funk to your weekend wears, come try them soon... the last round of Angie styles flew out the door!

Keep your eyes peeled, ladies, we've got more Spring and Summer arrivals coming in almost every week.

Oh, and, on a parting note, don't forget our Moving Celebration shindig this Friday, May 21st, from 5-9PM!!! Come see our new space, if you haven't already, and enjoy drinks & discounts :)

Happy Monday!

Naomi

FLY at any age!

Welcome to the first dose of Monday Musings from the Fly! Now that we're settling into our new digs and reopened for Mondays, the goal is to kick off each with an anecdote or update to relieve any case of the "Mondays" that might be out there and to keep everyone's creative fashion juices flowing... This week I've got a lil story that I hope will warm your hearts despite the chilly temps that have descended on Boston. Enjoy!

Last week, one of our new neighbors came in to check us out and I immediately thought to myself, “What a FLY elderly lady?!”

She was dressed in a chic ensemble that was absolutely on point – a layered look in a neutral color palette of ecru and cream that was both age and weather appropriate. She oozed sophisticated in her perfectly tailored blazer, adorned with a great rhinestone broach (and you know how much we love broaches around here - see examlpes below), and subtly textured gauchos.

I quickly introduced myself, feeling that this was a special woman. Francesca, now 90 years old, I learned, was born and raised right here in the North End and was full of great stories. When she spotted one of our fave vintage clutches, a gold mesh fold-over (see below), she started telling me the history behind some of the treasures she has in her own personal collection.

Since her teenage years, in the late 1930s, Francesca’s mother always told her “If you’ve got a piece of clothing that cannot be repaired, you may as well make it a rag, but if there’s nothing wrong with it, you KEEP it!” Preach it, mama! Francesca took the message to heart and the rule of thumb stuck with her…

The pieces Francesca has kept for years include the handbag she brought on her honeymoon, the mink stole she wore to the theater, and sequined & bejeweled tops that made her a standout at cocktail parties (one of which she recently broke out for her birthday party!). As she described the details of her own - now vintage - items, I found myself wishing I could raid her closet!

Her sage advice is right on the money; she spoke of integrating treasured, fabulous pieces into a signature style that evolves over time and helps you age gracefully. Remember her gauchos? Those were originally long trousers that, after a few years, she decided just weren’t right for her and “They just HAD to be altered… Now they fit my lifestyle the way they should and I wear them all the time.” Francesca proves that women can be FLY at any age! We should all aspire to follow Francesca words of wisdom!

So, hang on to the pieces that define your style and can stand the test of time. And, if your collection could use some more highlights, modern or vintage, come visit us in our new location!

Peace & Love, Naomi