Since I started working in fashion, I’ve been to Market in NYC about eight times, and never has a trip been quite as impactful as the trip I just had with my mother for my new store. Behind-the-scenes fashion is always a couple seasons forward, so this trip was spent seeing trends and lines for Summer/Spring 2016. When I arrived on Friday night, I immediately went to rest at my hotel in anticipation of the busy days ahead.

Day 1 - Saturday we started at the Coterie, which hosts dozens of contemporary vendors under one roof. My wishlist was far too long to complete in one day since I hadn’t shopped any of those lines before. A true fresh start! I was able to experiment with each brand I discovered, with every vendor more excitement than the other.

I noticed a definite trend of boho/70s flair for SS16, with high-waisted flare legged denim and off-the-shoulder ruffle tops dominating the racks. The exaggerated bell bottoms and bohemian silhouettes felt so luxurious and dramatic! The common fabric amongst all the designers was a pretty eyelet white cotton— so light and sweet for Spring. Chanel’s fringe tweed look is everywhere— shoes, handbags, jackets, even dresses. Sheer lace and elegant pastels in a range of ivories, lilacs, mints and yellows were everywhere, and tassels galore!

Day 2- A day of discovering and conquering, I visited shops like Isabel Marant, Sass and Bide, Kirna Zabete, Zimmerman, Scoop, Tommorowland and others for inspiration for my new store.The look and feel of the boutiques are aesthetically so similar to my own tastes, so I studied as many details as possible to infuse my own ideas on what El Paso is missing in a quality clothing boutique.

After a day of browsing, my mom and I dined at the cutest restaurant, where we chatted for hours. Feeling adventurous, we decided at the last minute to treat ourselves to Lion King on Broadway before returning to our hotel to rest up for day 3.

Day 3 - This day was spent taking in appointment after appointment, and although there was a lot to do and I felt physically tired, I’m always excited to learn new things. I loved seeing all the beautiful prints, Spring knits, and festive party dresses.— I can’t wait for Spring to arrive and we are barely in September! I wrapped up the day with an appointment with a notable designer whose line I’m thrilled to say we will carry exclusively! I won’t reveal who now, but never in my wildest dreams did I think such a high profile and beloved designer would be featured in my store! You will all be so proud to see the clothes hanging in El Paso racks—stay tuned for more details on this one.

Finally, we finished our day at Eataly, where we wined and dined, indulging in some exotic cheeses, wine, pasta and pizza. And of course, dessert and coffee to celebrate a another successful day at Market.

Day 4 - My favorite day! I’m keeping the lines under wraps for now (I promise it’s worth the wait), but let’s just say that El Paso will soon be home to a clothing boutique with an eclectic mix of well-known and emerging designers. I spent all day at Cheslea Market, an underground market jam packed with incredibly unique finds, and left more inspired than ever. I am thrilled by the prospect of what’s to come, and hope you are, too. Let the adventures begin!

-

It’s a common misconception that being a fashionista comes with a hefty price tag. While I am all about good deals, I’ll admit that bargain hunting and vintage shopping isn’t my favorite pastime, but I don’t mind hunting online for designer looks for less.

And although I wish I could afford all the major designer trends, I’m the first to admit that sometimes I cheat and buy an inexpensive iteration of a particular trend, especially when I know it may only be around for a season or two.

Given my new business venture, I am on a strict budget and I will have to cut out the luxury shopping and shop smarter, without losing my stylish edge. Lately I have been on the hunt for unique new lines and designers for my store I couldn’t help but to notice how many inexpensive versions of the same Fall trends there are! To my happy surprise, I came across several brands in the same vain as the higher end lines, but much more affordable.

On my search for designers, I found that Topshop, Zara and H and M replicate high end designers especially well. I giddily purchased two amazing items on Zara. The dress cost me $29.90 (As pictured above) the original version by Thakoon can be found on Intermix for $520. The second look (As seen on Tres _Gal Instagram) is a gorgeous white silk blouse that is even prettier in person, also from Zara. The top I scored looks exactly like my friend’s Jason Wu’s version that can be found at Neiman Marcus for $1295. The best part is, they are just as fabulous at a better price! Designer looks without the designer price tags! What a concept.

I do love quality and the luxury of high end things, but there is nothing wrong with mixing and matching. After all, a true fashionista knows how to rock things with any label.

-

Dear readers,

You may have noticed things have been quiet around here for some time. I haven’t forgotten about my beloved blog, or become less excited about it or you. The reason that I’ve not updated is because honestly, my future at Tres Mariposas was a bit uncertain as I considered new opportunities. Now, after a bit of perspective, head clearing and planning, it’s with bittersweet feelings that I share with you why I’ve decided to leave Tres Mariposas and well, spread my own wings.

After five fulfilling years working as a buyer/apparel manager at Tres Mariposas, I submitted my resignation a little over a week ago. I leave with a heart full of gratitude and respect for Nan, Tres’ owner, who gave me the chance to join their team with no retail experience. I truly became who I am today because of my time there, I developed my fashion and retail skills, and business savvy in that store. I credit many client relationships and friends, my knowledge of brands, fabrics and the buying process to my time with Tres. Not only did I become a true high-end retail expert, but I matured personally, my character developed exponentially, and I truly appreciate the way in which the store and everyone I met have changed me. However, after five years, I’ve been feeling a pull for a greater challenge, but didn’t know exactly what this meant for my career.

After several late night heart to hearts with my husband, we decided the time is right for me to take a professional risk. My time has come to a close with Tres Mariposas and I would welcome a new adventure. Recently while driving, I was listening to a podcast by Joel Osteen, who delivered a lecture called, “Freedom from Bad Thoughts.” I could have sworn he wrote the speech just for me. He spoke about the idea that my best days are ahead of me, and that there are seeds planted within each aspiration you have.

It is time to water that seed and grow it into something real: I’m overjoyed to share that I’ve decided to open my own clothing boutique.

That’s right! I’m finally on the path to realizing my lifelong desire of owning my own boutique. Opportunities have aligned in my favor, the right people have started coming into my life, and everything seems to be in place. My husband, Abel, has given me the courage to pursue my dream and although I could have stayed at Tres Mariposas for years to come, safely and securely, I have decided to take a leap of faith that I hope will push me into my true destiny.

My store (name to be revealed soon!) will be opening in 2016. My mom and I are flying to market in New York City next week, and I have never been more excited (or more scared!) about what the future holds. I invite you to join me on this new adventure and continue reading along as plans unfold for the grand opening.

Stay tuned, friends, there’s much more to come!

-