new year, new you: Chris Benz

We are getting lots of fun Spring items in at the boutique. Why not start the new year with a new you...even if it means a tweak here and there, or an addition...like a new designer or label that you've never tried before? I am in love with new designer Chris Benz and his Spring 08 collection which has been getting raves for its "reverent and ecclectic" take on American sportswear.

above: I love the pairing of these olive/chartreuse pieces. Fresh with a little vintage styling AND you can wear it to work!

The 25 year old designer is from Seattle and considers the "Great Gatsby" and "Addams Family" as inspiration.

studio sketch: I saw his one-shoulder silk charmeuse dress in Neiman's spring book and started to drool as I sketched it. If there is one new piece that you want to try this season, purchase an asymmetrical/one-shoulder dress...so elegant and fluid on the eyes!