As a stylist, I’m always on the lookout for new stores that I can rely on as a shopping resource for clients (and of course, myself!). In this post, I’m going to reveal one recent discovery of mine that’s truly a hidden gem.
Back in August, I had the pleasure of being featured as influencer of the month in CS Magazine, which fatefully lead me to come across an Oak Street boutique named Carlisle that has a style history of over 30 years.
The Carlisle brand has been around since the 80s, previously selling their collections exclusively through trunk shows and independent distributors.
Now with their first ever storefront located in the heart of Chicago’s famous shopping district, the brand has expanded, making it so easy to go shopping with their incredibly spacious and comfortable location.
Not only is the retail space lovely, the staff, lead by store manager, Jane Cassano, all have an incredible sense of style and on-point styling tips, making shopping at Carlisle a first class experience.
From the moment I walked into Carlisle, I could instantly see the difference such a legacy can make on a brand’s collection. With Carlisle, no detail is spared when it comes their collection, using only high-quality fabrics and a close attention to fine details.
And another thing I absolutely love about Carlisle’s inventory is how easy it is to mix-and-match different pieces from the collection. They offer a wonderful selection of wardrobe staples, like white shirts and other layering pieces, in addition to trendy items.
I already fell in love with so much of their current store collection, so styling outfits with Carlisle was a ball.
Carlisle Look #1: Statement Jacket
This season, a statement jacket or coat is a must, and Carlisle has quite a few gorgeous options. I fell in love with this pink one.
What I love about this particular jacket is the grey-pink combo, which takes the pink pop of color effortlessly into outerwear. For this look I paired it with this asymmetrical sweater tunic from the Carlisle collection, which not only looks great on it’s own as a dress but pairs nicely with leggings, too.
By the way, this jacket pretty much sold out within a week, in fact, sizes 0-8 are no longer available online! I’ve been told that the Chicago store has just a few left in stock. If you love, don’t sleep on this one!
Carlisle Look #2: Fall Sweaters
With autumn just around the corner, I of course was dying to try some the sweaters from Carlisle’s collection. You know how much I love styling a good oversized sweater dress for fall and winter for that go-to versatile cold-weather look.
One of my favorite styling hacks with a piece like this one is to layer a bodysuit or fitted shirt underneath the dress for an elevated and chic look.
Here, I splashed in a pop of color with this stunning blue turtleneck, completing the look with a color blocking pink belt to add just a little more shape.
Carlisle Look #3: Metallic Skirt
Metallic is a huge trend this fall season, making it easy to add an edgy twist to any basic look.
Here, I paired this metallic skirt with a white button down blouse. The classic aire of the button down with the flashy glitz of the skirt make for a perfect combo.
Now you probably already know how much I wholeheartedly adore a good, classic white shirt. Well, just when I thought I had seen it all, the selection of options Carlisle has just blew me away.
Their shirts have gorgeous details on the sleeves and collars, upgrading the classic piece to unique, one-of-a-kind.
To pull the look together, I threw this scarf over the shirt. I love layering scarves like this one for fall because they’re so easy to wear and make for a sophisticated look every time.
Carlisle Look #4: Day to Night Tunic Style Sweater
I couldn’t leave the store without playing around with this last look – the tunic style sweater. This particular Carlisle item is perfect for an easy on-the-go look in the fall when you pair it with leggings.
If you want to dress it up, style it like I did with over-the-knee boots and a Carlisle detailed shirt and vest, and complete the look with your favorite red lipstick and a fun beret.
Honestly, I could stay in the Carlisle store all day long styling different looks with the various pieces from their extensive collection of clothing and accessories. (By the way, all the belts featured in these looks are from Carlisle, too, and you can find them in so many difference sizes and styles!)
If you haven’t heard of Carlisle, checked out their site, or stopped into the Oak Street store, I highly recommend doing so, and fast if you want to make it in time to enjoy their fall collection. Every piece is high-quality, well-designed, and limited in quantity. Browsing and placing an order is easy as pie with their great online store, and if you’re a serious fashionista, you can even call the store to schedule appointment.
Carlisle’s pieces are both unique and classic, it’s hard to pick a favorite! Which one of these looks is yours? Let me know in the comments!
All jewelry featured in these looks is by Rachel Lynn Chicago. Tel Aviv Couture readers get 25% off an order by using coupon code TALI at checkout. 🙂