We have all come to accept HUB Clothing as the go-to place for denim in Scottsdale. Carrying all the latest styles from brands so cool, you probably haven’t even heard of them yet, walking into the Fashion Square boutique is a style education as much as it is a shopping experience. So naturally, when we had questions on how to navigate Summer denim trends, we looked to co-owner, Jennifer Mumford, to tell us how to wear well.

DLT: Colored denim and printed denim have both been huge trends the past couple of seasons, how would you recommend women incorporate the newest styles into their wardrobes without being too trendy?

JM: White denim is the most classic way of going about it because you can actually wear white denim year-round now. People assume white is very “Spring/Summer”, but it also looks great in Fall as well if you pair it with more of the neutral tones like grey and brown. But what I really do love about colored denim is that it gives a pop of whimsy and a fun flair to your wardrobe and they just look great with a sun kissed glow. It adds a little playfulness to your wardrobe.  »READ MORE

Lady-like and ultra sweet, the peplum is an added flare of fabric attached to a skirt, jacket, dress or shirt that instantly adds the illusion of a waist and hides any kind undesired pooch that may be hiding underneath. In short, it’s fashion’s old school answer to spanx, but far more comfortable. Seen on everyone from Kate Middleton to Michelle Williams (in that amazing Louis Vuitton Oscar gown pictured to the left), this is one of those cyclical trends  you’ll be happy to try this time around. »READ MORE

Carey Mulligan looking gorgeous in Prada. Photo: Fashionologie

Last night was the 2012 Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in Manhattan (more commonly known as the Met Ball), which is arguably fashion’s biggest night next to the Academy Awards. It was a sea of beautiful celebrities clad in everything from Lanvin to Prada to Givenchy, oh my. Enjoy the full on fashion porn in the gallery after the jump.  »READ MORE

Isn’t is just the way of the world? You pine over sun dresses and pastels all winter long until you can finally bring them into daylight and then suddenly, all you can think of are fall sweaters and stylish jackets to put over them. Maybe it’s just us, but our fashion conscience is screaming that every piece of outerwear purchased from now until 2013 needs to have leather sleeves. The look is so genius. Perhaps it started with Alexander Wang’s faded denim jacket with goat skin sleeves (a knock off version can be found at Urban Outfitters currently for around $80) that was spotted on everyone from Rihanna to Lindsay Lohan, but now even Zara is getting in on the action with a military take that is to die for. Check out the street style inspirations and where you can get one for yourself in our gallery after the jump. »READ MORE

It’s hot. Already. The sweaty weather has arrived and it’s not even May. This is either a cruel joke played at the hands of our favorite frenemy, Mother Nature, or a climate controlled conspiracy that has us shopping for summer clothing for the benefit of both the fashion industry and every boy who doesn’t also like boys. Guess we’ll have to suck it up and shop for everyone’s favorite onesie: the perfect summer dress. We’re loving the look of above-the-knee silhouettes in bold prints this season, but the maxi still has a special place in our fashion-obsessed hearts.  »READ MORE

We stumbled upon this little gem on Nylon’s ever impressive website and couldn’t help but share the joy with you. Nail art continues to be a growing part of pop culture and it seems everyone is getting in on the decorating action (we see you, Heidi Klum), but where does one find inspiration for all those wacky tips? Answer: there’s a book for that. UK-based nail salon, WAH Nails, has released an actual book that contains all of  their best designs for just $20 (plus international shipping and handling). Nylon called it “the best nail art book ever” to which we can only reply, there’s more than one? Order your copy of The WAH Nails Book of Nail Art here.

How many of us actually keep track of when we purchased and started using certain types of makeup? Not as often as we’d like, though it would be a great idea, we admit. Keeping track of your makeup’s age keeps you at low risk for skin problems – on the other hand, letting that foundation sit around for an extra few months direly puts you on the line for developing breakouts, allergic reactions, discoloration and other unsightly horrors. Zethina’s to the rescue! Until May 5, the Westside cosmetic and skin care spa is accepting your old makeup, in return for which they will give you $5 for each old cosmetic item, which applies to the purchase of a new item.  Trade in as many old items as you like and stock up on new makeup that’s actually good for your skin. All they ask is for no sample-size products.

In addition, Zethina’s is providing the following Mother’s Day Specials, because it is just around the corner, remember?

• Give mom a brightening facial with eye treatment, mini make-up lesson and up-to-date spring/summer trends. Includes a new lip color and eye shadow of her choice.  Cost is $175 ($260 value).

• Treat Mom to a 75-min massage/reflexology combo, 45 minute enzyme facial for just $145 ($185 value)

For more information, click here.

Zethina Cosmetics and Skin Care|19420 N 59th Avenue E-510, Glendale, AZ |85308

With week one down and another fashion-packed three day extravaganza ahead, it’s only right that we highlight our favorite looks from the first round of desert’s most famous music festival. Lots of trends could be seen on the style-conscious crowd and the somewhat unpredictable weather made for a much more interesting mix. While we know Tupac’s hologram was obviously the hottest thing going, you can check out who we declared “fest dressed” in our gallery after the jump after scouring the blogs and fashion sites like Refinery 29, Fashion Toast, Song of Style, Pinterest and BLDG 25.  »READ MORE

Whether you like it or not, it will be 100 degrees this weekend, and while this means air-conditioning-everything season has officially begun, it is also the unofficial start of swimsuit season, and we want to be ready. Thankfully, swimsuit gurus Everything But Water has remembered that April pretty much means summer here in the Valley and has taken us into consideration. The largest specialty retailer of swim and resortwear in the U.S. will have a BECCA and BECCA ETC trunk show with designer Rebecca Virtue from 1 to 3 p.m. April 21 at Everything But Water’s Scottsdale Fashion Square store location. Customers will also enjoy sweet treats, personal fittings, and a chance to win a BECCA makeup basket, swimsuit and (sweet!) a cover-up of their choice – because, though it’s time to be poolside, we need at least a another month yet to go without a cover-up.

For information, click here.

East Valley full-service day spa Fuchsia is expanding! The Spa will celebrate their new amenities from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 18 with a Grand Opening Celebration featuring discounts on annual memberships, raffles and prizes. Fuchsia is expanding to provide new services, including the first blow dry bar in the East Valley, custom airbrush tanning, larger manicure and pedicure stations to accommodate groups, additional treatment rooms, a larger relaxation area and a couples’ massage suite. During the party, Fuchsia will also offer complimentary blow-out styles from its signature “look-book;” complimentary nail services, lip or chin waxing, chair massages and demonstrations of facial services. The event will also include food, drinks and dessert. Not to mention – the first 25 people in the door as well as all Fuchsia members will receive a luxury-packed goody bag. We’ll so be there! Free and open to the public. For more information, click here.

Village Square at Dana Park Shopping Center |1822 South Val Vista Drive, #103, Mesa, Arizona | 85204

Great makeup starts with great skin. But when we’re subjected to harsh weather, lots of sun and a dry climate like this all the time (not to mention those free radicals), maintaining perfect skin in Arizona can be a challenge. However, obtaining celebrity skin might be possible, at least with LATHER. Based on the recommendations of makeup artists from shows like Dancing with the Stars, How I Met Your Mother and Community, LATHER is launching a new Perfect Canvas Face Kit  for $59.00, a collection of travel-sized favorites packaged in a sleek zippered makeup bag available at LATHER in Scottsdale. Follow the jump to see which essentials are included.

»READ MORE

Perhaps it’s all this festival chatter, but the funky patterned carryalls we keep spotting in stores and slung over the shoulders of those effortlessly stylish “It” girls are really getting to us. A splash of color and a spattering of Southwestern influence is just what your wardrobe needs heading into the warmer months, not to mention it’s the perfect, worry-free accessory for wherever your travels may take you. A bevy of bags await your after the jump in all shapes, sizes and prices.  »READ MORE

Most of us just want our jeans to be comfortable and make our butts look good (admit it), but after two weeks of wearing the same pair (again, just admit it), the scent of our favorite denim can be a little off-putting. We’ll wash them, we promise, but before that happens we could use a little air-freshening. Thankfully, Naked and Famous has just released scented jeans, which is not anywhere close to the way they smell after pulling them out of the bottom of the hamper. Available at HUB Clothing in Scottsdale, these Scratch and Sniff jeans actually aren’t as crazy as they sound, having simply been coated with raspberry-scented micro capsules that Naked and Famous swears lasts even after five washes (so…like a year…ok, kidding about that one). Scented jeans that smell like raspberry candy without the calories? We’ll take two.

HUB Clothing at Scottsdale Fashion Square | 7014 East Camelback | Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Oops, they did it again. By “they” we are referring to those crazed fashion designers and buyers who rule our lives whether we like it or not, and by “it” we are referencing all those cropped t-shirts, tanks and bra tops that keep popping up like a bad dream. Thank goodness this go-around is a little different than the 90s version we all regret. Rather than pairing your pint-sized shirt with a pair of low-rise jeans or a mini skirt (gag), this trend looks best with a higher rise bottom. You can pair yours with a high-rise skinny, a pair of oh-so-forgiving high-waisted shorts or a pleated maxi that sits right at the waist to ensure the little skin showing is more Kelly Kapowski than B. Spears because, admit it, don’t we all secretly want to be Kelly?

»READ MORE

The weather is warming up, but are you ready to show some skin? If you’re like us, you may need a little help. Liposonix, a revolutionary procedure from Susan Van Dyke, M.D. of Van Dyke Laser & Skin in Scottsdale. With ten years of developmental research, the FDA-approved, non-surgical, non-invasive procedure uses high-intensity focused ultrasound energy (HIFU) to permanently destroy fat cells, giving patients the ultimate convenience of one treatment, in one hour, becoming one size smaller. When the ultrasound is targeted on problem areas, it will permanently eradicate fat around the waistline without surgery or harm to the outer skin layer. The fat is removed through the body’s natural healing process. In approximately 8 to 12 weeks, the fat becomes completely metabolized, leaving you with a thinner, more contoured waistline without having to go under the knife.

For more information, click here.

It’s time to regularly buff and shine, gentlemen. And no, we’re not talking about your four-wheeled friend in the garage. We’re talking about your fingernails. Time to step it up for regular MANicures and we’ve got just the salon for you.

teres, a new nail bar concept in Scottsdale, is a relaxing manicure and pedicure oasis, suitable for those in suits and of course, ladies alike. The interiors of the salon are soothing, the essential oil add-ons for pedicure soaks are divine, and the private room for gentlemen (ladies too!) with a flat-screen TV to enjoy the game or the fight (or the latest chick-flick) during a proper buff and shine leaves little reason for men to opt out of a regular MANicure.

teres offers a pre-payment loyalty program for just $25 a month, which goes toward your monthly service, and promises to call and remind you if you haven’t used it. You can gift a service or roll your membership if you miss an appointment or for the commitment-phobes, you can forego the pre-payment plan all together and book services as usual. For the ladies, same great services and specials apply, including the latest baseball decals for your party nail to impress your man during spring and summer baseball season.

teres Nail Bar | 7120 E. Indian School Road | Scottsdale, AZ 85251 

I have spent my adult years with an aversion to every overly-cute form polka dots adopt. Too cute for me, I am enamored with prints and even stripes, but no dots. This was, of course, until recently, when I sauntered into Glendale retailer Pink House Boutique and encountered a breath of fresh (polka-dotted) air.

Glendale’s stylish storeroom sells vintage entities, clothing, accessories and furniture, much of it locally produced. My gem is a sheer, red-polka-dotted black blouse – an example of the shop’s modern take on classic womenswear. There is nothing saccharine about the blouse’s hot hues or sensuous fabric, and though it is rather formal, it is loose and relaxed. Flawless with pencil skirts as well as jeans, I am thrilled to wear this fashion-forward find out on the town. At a price of $22, Pink House’s feminine number is a charming local find.

Pink House Boutique | 7009 North 58th Avenue, Glendale, AZ | 85301

Obsession Confession: His name is Jon Hamm and he has captured our…. attention? for years as the adulterous, slightly sociopathic and entirely gorgeous Don Draper on Mad Men. Aside from the fact that it is a really great show, the wardrobe alone can be held responsible for the surge of 1960s fashion that has made its way back into our wardrobes over the past five years and now you can further your swinging style by following this Mad Men make-up tutorial from Refinery 29. Winged eyeliner and matte lipstick may seem like an easy enough thing to pull off, being a “Joan” requires a little more patience and a make-up kit from Reserve that has all the tools you need. Visit here to check out the video and here to pick up a kit for yourself which includes a lipstick that is ”the perfect shade of red” according to R29, a cheek stain and brush, an eyeshadow quad and liner brush for the perfect sultry eye. Joan swagger not included.

Via Refinery29

It’s about time the world caught on to the fact that logo-emblazoned bags are soooo twelve years ago. Granted, we’ll never relinquish the Louis Vuittons our moms gave us or the famous Fendi baguette, but for everyday toting, over-the-top-branded bags are just too flashy. This reasoning is exactly why we’re so excited that classic favorite Coach has gotten back to its roots. Adopting a (not-so) shiny new, traditional aesthetic, Coach is finally ditching those massive C’s and sending out a line of brightly-colored (oranges, purples, blues, and yellows) leather shoes and handbags in restrained but modern shapes. Focusing on a more fashion-forward clientele, these new handbags and footwear are flashy only in the “where’d you get that bag?!” kind of sense, and unlike the canvas fad that’s been happening the past few years, are constructed to last and for the price ($180 -$1000) we would hope so. There’s nothing better than an It-bag that endures.

While resort is a season in the fashion world stuck between fall and spring of which many of us don’t have the time (or the means) to take advantage, resort shopping is a whole different story…especially when it’s shopping – at a resort – not too far from where we live. Giving us another reason to adore its plethora of high-end offerings, the Montelucia Resort & Spa is unveiling its newest venture with Dulcinea, a luxury women’s fashion boutique. As a destination, trend-centered boutique, Dulcinea will showcase designer dresses, tops, jeans and accessories from designers like as Diane Von Furstenberg, Trina Turk, Nicole Miller, Susana Monaco, Black Halo and Tory Burch. The boutique will also sell lines from Hudson Jeans, Tart and Michelle Jonas.

The elegant, old-world design on Dulcinea easily blends into the Montelucia’s Andalusian style, with a balance of subtle, sophisticated taupes, rich browns and creams accented with touches of Moroccan Blue. Traditional textures and architectural elements from the region are noticeable throughout the store. The addition of Moroccan lights, pottery, lutes and other regional influences complete the boutique’s look.

Dulcinea will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. every day. For more information, click here.

Forget that old Timex you have on your wrist: Oliver Smith Jeweler at The Shops at Gainey Village in Scottsdale will soon be sharing with the world an extremely stylish way to tell time. Near the end of the month, the high-end jeweler will be carrying Adrian Wilson’s favorite watch line, Hublot, for which Wilson will host a private launch party next week at The Mint. Currently, for ourselves and all the dashing gents in our lives, we’ve got our eyes set on this beautiful Formula One King Power Ceramic Chronograph timepiece. However, at a price point that requires a little patience, this will have to remain (for now) DLT’s Number One Object of Desire.

Newly engaged couples, take note! North Scottsdale Restaurant SASSI will host a Wedding Open House from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. Sunday, April 15 to help couples figure out the big day in style. Couples will be able to see the venue, taste signature appetizers, pasta, wedding cake, gelato and specialty drinks as well as meet with the staff. Preferred vendors will also be on hand, including florists, photographers, linens specialists, invitation designers, entertainers, transportation companies and more! The event is free. To RSVP or for more information, email [email protected], call 480.502.3335 or click here.

SASSI | 10455 East Pinnacle Peak Parkway | Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Glamour, anyone? The 1920s were roaring for many reasons and, as far as we’re concerned, the fashion takes the number one spot. Beautiful art deco jewelry, more commonly referred to as “costume jewelry” by modern day retail standards, has been popping up everywhere and the vintage look is the perfect addition to any evening look in need of a statement or just a little sparkle. The best pieces can be found after scouring vintage stores for hours, but inexpensive options can be found at places like Forever 21, Macy’s or online at Bloomingdales. Check out some inspiring pieces, some for sale and some just pretty to look at,  that encapsulate this trend in our gallery after the jump.  »READ MORE

Biltmore Fashion Park is getting UNION-ized: beginning in November 2012, Phoenix’s retail “crown- jewel” will add a diverse mix of local and independent retail in a new shopping experience called UNION. Planned for the east end of the shopping center between Stingray Sushi and Seasons 52, the 7200-square-foot platform for independent businesses will be a modern yet traditional shopping experience; the center will be in a contemporary, industrial atmosphere mixed with the warmth of various woods and romantic chandeliers. The space will be designed by architectural firm Plus/Minus Studio and will provide each retailer with two-to-five-hundred square feet of space with sliding doors and glass panels that allow for growth and change with the retailer’s needs. UNION is an opportunity to bring small, independent entrepreneurs and artists to Biltmore, replicating the unique retail mix historically found at Biltmore Fashion Park.

“This exciting new concept will give 11-13 shops and eateries an easy entry into an established marketplace while embracing the community and enhancing the retail mix of Biltmore Fashion Park,” said Mary Boyd-Williams, Senior Manager of Leasing for Macerich.

Biltmore Fashion Park has also partnered with a well-established local business owner and talented artistic designer, Lew Gallo, to help define the space and cultivate the essence of UNION.

“When I was an independent retailer, I always wanted to have my shop nestled among other like-minded merchants and still be able to benefit from a high-profile shopping center like Biltmore Fashion Park and that’s what UNION is,” said Gallo.

Biltmore Fashion Park | 2502 East Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ | 85016

We know that you will probably only wear these once a year here in the Valley and you’re probably wishing we told you about the new Ilse Jacobsen lace-up boots before today. But we feel it would be disservice if continue to keep these Scandanavian-inspired boots to ourselves, even with sunny skies ahead. These simple, yet stunning boots come in a variety of colors and are handmade using natural rubber, extracted from Malaysian Rubber trees, so that makes them both sustainable and fashionable, right? The water-proof boots have a cotton fleece lining and a lightweight sole, plus plenty of design soul as well. At $199, you’ll be praying for another rainy Phoenix day.