Happy Tuesday!
So last week I decided to do our very first on camera Breaking into Fashion interview with boutique owner Blake Scotland.
The young Georgetown graduate is the proprietor of her eponymous men’s and women’s contemporary boutique located at 62 Clinton Street on the Lower East Side.
I tapped her to offer a few tips to you aspiring store owners out there.
Take a look:
What do you think?
For my on camera moment, I decided to embrace this season’s neon trend with a flat chiffon top by Mara Hoffman, accented by Rag & Bone colorblock skinnies (previously worn by Ashanti here), and my Kurt Geiger Greek Sandals (I also wore them to Essence’s Women in Hollywood Luncheon).
I toned down all my patterns with an H&M conscious white denim jacket, and a pop of bright pink MAC Impassioned lipstick.
As far as jewelry, I wore a few of my faves, including bling hoops from Shop Loveys, a Melody Ehsani I’m Fly ring, and a Noisegirl bracelet I copped at Blake Scotland.
And there you have it!
Thoughts?
*Because you made it to the end of this post, Blake and I decided to collabo and give away an item carried in her store: these funky glasses by designer Samantha Smikle (retail value $145).
I’m still unsure if I can pull those off, but I’m sure one of you can!
Leave a comment and we’ll pick a winner at random. If you don’t want to win, please indicate so in your comment! The contest ends Wednesday May, 2nd at 12pm EST. And in the meantime, you should also check out more of Samantha’s work at shoptnemnroda.com. She’s offering Fashion Bomb readers 20% off until May 15th with the code “FashionBombMay.”
Smootches!
*Photos by Marta McAdams. Video by Sam Centore.
*Outfit Info: Mara Hoffman Flat Chiffon Top. Rag & Bone colorblock skinnies. Kurt Geiger Greek Sandals. H&M white denim jacket. Shop Loveys Hoops. Melody Ehsani I’m Fly Ring. Noisegirl bracelet. Necklace from PB & Caviar.
May 1, 2012 10:50 am
I want those shades! Fierce darling. Love your site Claire, I’m hooked!
May 1, 2012 10:51 am
Looking gud Claire!!
Could I have them jeans, top and shoes plz? Pretty plz!!!
May 1, 2012 10:56 am
I would love to win a pair of those shades!
May 1, 2012 10:57 am
Very nice! I would say though, that there is quite alot going on. Not sure if that’s a bad thing, but I’m still getting used to the neon trend. Nice work.
May 1, 2012 10:57 am
Those shades are super cute!!
May 1, 2012 10:58 am
Alas, as Fashion Bomb staff, I cannot win those shades. But they will be mine. And I want ur top. but u already know this.
May 1, 2012 11:00 am
You look great! I love the shirt and those neon heels :)
Id love a pair of those sunnies, theyre very fun and unique.
May 1, 2012 11:00 am
Loving hearing about successful young entrepreneurs!
May 1, 2012 11:01 am
Those shades are fierce!
May 1, 2012 11:03 am
Would love to win the shades. So unique
May 1, 2012 11:06 am
Those sunglasses are awful.
May 1, 2012 11:09 am
I think I could pull those off. Funky shades are my thing. Also, deets on the nails please :)
May 1, 2012 11:10 am
hand over the shoes, claire, and nobody gets hurt…!
May 1, 2012 11:16 am
i love love LOVE the shades. very cool indeed.
May 1, 2012 11:24 am
LOOOOOVE THE WHOLE LOOK ….YOU BETTER WERK! Loving the color scheme. Keep it up. PS. THE SHADES ARE TO DIE FOR!!! XOXO
May 1, 2012 11:25 am
YOU ARE A BAD CHICK!! HANDS DOWN!! Your style is phenomenal~~~~
May 1, 2012 11:29 am
Claire I need these sunnies in my life! They are totally giving me an Indian inspired vibe. So Fab…I never win anything so I am keeping my fingers crossed that I will be able to rock these.
May 1, 2012 11:30 am
claire we have the same exact body and hair lol!
May 1, 2012 11:35 am
OH MY! The things i will do with those frames. I love the vintage yet cool vibe I am getting from them. Please Pick me!
May 1, 2012 11:36 am
Claire your outfit gives me life!! love it!
May 1, 2012 11:39 am
Great shades would love to rock them this summer
May 1, 2012 11:42 am
I would love to win these shades! They would be nice to have in my life! P.S. Fashion Bomb Daily is by far 1 of my favorite sites! Keep up the great work, Claire and team!
May 1, 2012 11:42 am
Me me me meeeeeeeeee Claire I would love those shades! (Pokes out bottom lip like baby )
May 1, 2012 11:47 am
I appreciate this interview being from a young owner standpoint. I’m 22 and dream to open a boutique here in st.louis. I love that she stated you dont need a lot cash it made the thought a little less stressful. Never thought i would need a visual Merchandiser so that’s something to look into. THANKS FOR THE TIPS
May 1, 2012 11:52 am
I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to have those shades…they’re awesome!
May 1, 2012 11:53 am
Give them to me please I deserve them..
May 1, 2012 11:54 am
Thank you
May 1, 2012 11:55 am
Claire!!!!! You are absolutely FLY n adorable! I luv your hair ;) Outfit was Fashion Bomblicious!
P.S. – I want to win those shades n I don’t even rock glasses (shades) like that!
May 1, 2012 11:55 am
Those shades are BADD! I need them ASAP!
Clair you look fabulous! Love your jeans and shoes.
May 1, 2012 11:57 am
Claire I just want to say… you have come such a long way from your blogspot days! You truly inspire. Love the outfit!
May 1, 2012 12:01 pm
Love the that the interview was from a young owner standpoint. I’m 22 years old and have always dreamed of opening a boutique here in St.louis. Love tip 2 . I never thought of hiring a Visual Merchandiser for a small boutique but i see how it can help a business grow. Thanks for the insight!
May 1, 2012 12:04 pm
Me again ;) Just watched the interview (free second at work) and wanted to say thanks Blake Scotland for the tips! Please stay tuned as I will be next! ;)
SN: Pssst…shades!
May 1, 2012 12:05 pm
pants look a little too tight BUT the whole outfit is cute!
May 1, 2012 12:05 pm
Love the rag and bone jeans Claire! Omg I live for those shades! I freaking live hunty! But I never win anything so I can only dream…
May 1, 2012 12:08 pm
Those shades are so VINTAGE! Love em to bits !! <3
May 1, 2012 12:08 pm
I LOVE those shades. She looks fab !
May 1, 2012 12:09 pm
LOVE this article. Great to see you in front of the camera. Those pants and heels are everything but the glasses? Amazeballs..they should be mine :)
May 1, 2012 12:11 pm
Those shades are screaming my name, “Maaarrriiiiaaa!!” They’re soo fierce, I must have them for my outfit repertoire :)
May 1, 2012 12:13 pm
I love THE WHOLE THING, from the woman, to the store , to the products! Inspirational for me. I want to do my own STORE HERE IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST. I AM TRULY INSPIRED! Congrats , and much success :)
May 1, 2012 12:15 pm
I loved the look Claire, The white really pops against all the bright colors as well as your fab skin! Interesting look
May 1, 2012 12:18 pm
Love your outfit! And yes I would love those shades!
May 1, 2012 12:21 pm
Life.. these shades.. they give it to me.. . lol They are SO gorgeous! .. they have a classic vintage yet urban look to me. Unique,eye catching, and sexy ( they keep attention in a “girl where’d you get those I NEED THEM” kinda way ) Im still a newbie to fearless fashion expression ( big chop/ new wardrobe/ new makeup/ new me ) but it has been exhilarating, and an incredible learning experience about the woman I am/can/desire to be. These shades and the clothes I have seen have made me wanna start shopping in boutiques,I’ve never even shopped in one.. let alone been in one. These shades are more than enough of a reason to start! I would so love to rock these for the summer!
May 1, 2012 12:28 pm
This sporty chic with big hair will know exactly how to rock those shades. Very chic! I would love to win.
BTW: Very cute outfit! Love the earrings.
May 1, 2012 12:30 pm
Claire those SUNNIES ARE FABULOUS!!!!! Can I pretty please have them with chocolate and strawberries on top! Sprinkles too :)
May 1, 2012 12:36 pm
Love the shades and love your outfit Claire! and Blake gave great advice!
May 1, 2012 12:37 pm
Love the eyewear (and you outfit)! I need some summer stunnas to add some FIRE to my basic T, heels and jean days. Please Pick Me; promise to send you a photo if you do.
May 1, 2012 12:38 pm
I would love to win those glasses they’re so unique and will definitely stop the crowds as well as the sun rays! HOT!
May 1, 2012 12:39 pm
I really, really want to open a boutique, so I appreciate the learning opportunity. Keep them coming.
And I’ve said it before, but I really like the blonde on you. It makes a big difference. Anywho, carry on.
May 1, 2012 12:39 pm
Some pretty good advice. I love your outfit btw but what else is new? :-)
May 1, 2012 12:42 pm
Claire…thank you so much for posting this. I had anepiphany the other day that I want to own my own business. I have no interest in owning any other type of business but a clothing boutique. This post gave me that extra push I needed to know that this is my dream,and it’s up to me to see it through.
And and I love, love, love your blouse and shoes.
May 1, 2012 12:42 pm
I love that lip color Claire! I can’t pull off the shades but they are hot!
May 1, 2012 12:55 pm
I love these ‘break into fashion stories’. I also love your shirt Claire. I would like to submit my name into the drawing for the shades. Fingers crossed.
May 1, 2012 1:07 pm
I will surely wear my hair in an enomous bun
to make those glasses my focal. Paired with
diamond studs and Mac lipgloss color rags to riches.
May 1, 2012 1:12 pm
I want those shades!
May 1, 2012 1:20 pm
Loved the article, loved Blake and her store is adorable! I am headed to Jamaica and those shades are EVERYTHING! Would love to rock those while I’m there ;)
May 1, 2012 1:22 pm
You look gorgeous as usual, but I agree about the pants looking a bit too snug…almost like you couldn’t get them up all the way.
May 1, 2012 1:34 pm
Great post. Love Tip #2. Those shades are calling my name :)
May 1, 2012 1:36 pm
Claire, you look gorgeous!!!! Love those sandals, m’am. Those shades?! Vomit ’cause they’re fierce.
May 1, 2012 1:48 pm
I want those badly!
May 1, 2012 1:51 pm
Hey Claire,
Love you outfit by the way!
I would love to win those shades….I’m a young college student and I’ve just started working in NYC and I need some chic and edgy sunnies to wear!!
Have to check out the boutique too!!
May 1, 2012 1:56 pm
Very inspiring and those shades are dope !
May 1, 2012 1:57 pm
Love those shades!
May 1, 2012 1:57 pm
Hey Claire,
Love you’re outfit combo by the way!!
I would love to win these fab sunglasses!
I’m 21 and I ust recently started working in NYC and I would love to wear these sunnies on the regular!!!!
Have to check out the boutique too.
Hope I win!!!
May 1, 2012 1:57 pm
Those are out of this world..
I see myself as a walking billboard with those!
Probably keep everything on my face simple make my lip pop
and have my hair pulled back! oooowwww thats the wave new york!
May 1, 2012 1:59 pm
Love the top and the heels. And of course, love those funky shades! I want ‘em… please :) lol
May 1, 2012 2:01 pm
Your outfit has inspired my memorial day look…I just need to incorporate those shades lol
May 1, 2012 2:10 pm
DUH, PICK ME.
BTW YOU LOOK SMOKING HOT
May 1, 2012 2:15 pm
Bomb outfit Claire!!!
May 1, 2012 2:15 pm
this post is a reminder to myself, that i too can do anything i put my mind to.
May 1, 2012 2:20 pm
BLAKE SCOTLAND, WOOT WOOT! I PURCHASE MY BOXING KITTEN ITEMS FROM THERE!!!!! I LUV THE SHADES… VERY VERY VERY FLY. MY NAME IS ALL OVER ‘EM! MY DARK CESAR AND A CUTE BRIGHT LIP= KILL ‘EM!
May 1, 2012 2:31 pm
Very inspiring, thanks Claire! Oh, and you’re such a natural!
May 1, 2012 2:35 pm
yass to those shades
and ure skin is so clear :)
May 1, 2012 2:35 pm
I love them pants! and your body is banging!!!!!!
May 1, 2012 2:36 pm
Her boutique is nice. I would love to win those glasses :) :-*
May 1, 2012 2:47 pm
I would love to have those pants if you know of any similar looks for less???
May 1, 2012 2:48 pm
i love your style….u are rocking that entire outfit…..love the hair also….i wanna win the shades please…..
May 1, 2012 2:59 pm
the jeans & the jacket are very tight fitting esp around the (crouch area) to the point it makes them looks small on you ( maybe its the pics) idk but my mom said the camera never lies IJS
as for the shades i’ll pass #next
May 1, 2012 3:07 pm
Such an inspirational interview! I’m always looking for insider tips on having my own boutique, and this was perfect. Loving the heels, Claire. I also the glasses!
May 1, 2012 3:15 pm
LOVE your outfit Claire and those sunnies are def different and def should be in my closet… please and thank you
Jen
http://www.commecoco.com
May 1, 2012 3:27 pm
Some of you jealous birds will just say anything as long as it’s negative. @Bella didn’t your mother also tell you that if you don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say it? Get out of Claire’s crotch. #next
Loved the interview!
May 1, 2012 3:34 pm
I’d like to win the shades :)
May 1, 2012 3:43 pm
Please do an update on your skincare products. Love the shoes and blouse..I really want to win those shades. They would look so fly here in LA.
May 1, 2012 3:44 pm
Love your outfit Claire. I would LOVEEEE those shades ! :)
May 1, 2012 3:49 pm
Hey Hey, thanks for the feedback. My skin regimen is now just using a Clarisonic Mia brush. I live.
http://rstyle.me/f9kmmkjhkw
Regarding my pants, to be honest, the salesperson at Intermix indicated it’d be best to get the size down in Rag & Bone jeans. I manage to get ‘em up and zip ‘em, but I guess it’s just a matter of taste whether you like the fit or not. I’m fine with it.
Stay tuned for the contest winner tomorrow.
xoxo
May 1, 2012 3:56 pm
LOVE! LOVE! LOVE those sunnies! They’re a perfect combo of DeWayne Wayne meets Scarlett O’Hara!!!!
May 1, 2012 3:57 pm
I love your outfit claire
May 1, 2012 4:00 pm
I SO need these sunglasses in my life! Love, love, love! I pray that I win :)
May 1, 2012 4:03 pm
This is my favorite look on you!!!
Love the sunglasses!
lbelle
May 1, 2012 4:10 pm
Those glasses are certified hot, me likey…and I want to win :)
May 1, 2012 4:17 pm
You have definately helped my baller on a budget (lol) style looking at this site… Love Love Love it all… You look great as always… <3 <3 <3
May 1, 2012 4:28 pm
I will be visiting!
May 1, 2012 4:34 pm
GLASSES ARE CRAZY!
May 1, 2012 4:35 pm
I think my mom would love those glasses. She’s rocking the baldie right now, but is such a diva I know she could pull them off. (loves.. loves her :) !!!!!!
May 1, 2012 4:38 pm
Aww Claire, I like your combo— it’s so unique and fresh! I would absolutely love to have those shades. Please and thank you! :)
May 1, 2012 4:39 pm
I love those shades and pray that I win :)
Off Topic:
-I love this website
-I love your name lol
-I Will be submitting my pics in hopes of being featured as a Fashion Bombshell one day
-I’ll be NY soon so I really hope to meet you when I’m there! (You never know!)
-Keep up the great work I love everything you do :)
-Love your hair
Have a nice Day, God Bless You :)
May 1, 2012 4:46 pm
Hot fit Claire!!! Skip my entry for the shades.
May 1, 2012 5:03 pm
You look cuute! This Post was right on time, just the motivation I need!
I would love the shades a major upgrade from my $5 f21 shades lol
May 1, 2012 5:23 pm
You r looking absolutely faaaabulous darling!!! SN: I hope I win those amazing sunnies :)
May 1, 2012 5:28 pm
I would so rock the hellz out of those shades!!! Please let me win..oh and I love this blog! *straight face* :)
May 1, 2012 6:10 pm
This was my favorite “Breaking into Fashion” post yet,especially since my goal is to open a sucessful, hip boutique! Truly loved it, as do I ADORE the sunnies! PICK ME!!!! ;-)
May 1, 2012 6:46 pm
Claire, omg love your outfit! So super cute! I was wondering how do you keep makeup from rubbing off on your white outfit?
Also, no I don’t want to win the shades not sure how I’d rock em.
May 1, 2012 7:11 pm
LOVE those shades!!!!!!! I want them!
Love, skinnygenes!
May 1, 2012 7:15 pm
Thank you for the inspiration Claire.
May 1, 2012 7:16 pm
BTW you look great
May 1, 2012 7:20 pm
Shades are dope!
May 1, 2012 7:44 pm
Love this story…and def the shades :)
May 1, 2012 7:45 pm
Them sunnies r definitely some fly girl s**t!!!
May 1, 2012 7:45 pm
Hello Miss Claire (even though you don’t know me)!!! I just finished my finals so, I decided to come and visit you. Now on to buisness. I would love those shades. If selected, I promise to shut it down in those glasses. Thank you.
May 1, 2012 7:57 pm
OMG! this is exactly what I want to do! and those shades are fire!
May 1, 2012 8:02 pm
Soo Claire darling could you kindly pass those shades.. Yhe jacket, the shoes oh and tje ring. Tootles booski
May 1, 2012 8:29 pm
I love thosee shadess!! And she seems like a cool chick, i wish i lived in NY so i could take A look at her shop but in the meantime ill check out her online store
May 1, 2012 8:37 pm
Quirky! I love these!
This post was heaven sent! Ive been looking for advice like this!
Lol, btw Claire, you looked like you were having a good time! Cute!
May 1, 2012 8:42 pm
Hi, I love this post. I’m very interested in opening up a boutique and you guys addressed many of the questions and concerns I have. Is there an extended version of this video? I’d love to see more of your conversation with Blake. Amazing post! This is why I’m addicted to your site!
May 1, 2012 9:01 pm
I love the sunnies and those shoes, accented with neon they are lovely!
May 1, 2012 9:12 pm
I agree with Bella, the shirt is too short and the jacket is a bit much. I find that you try too many trends at once, just sayin.
May 1, 2012 11:09 pm
Claire, you are serving TONED CALVES REALNESS FOR THE GODS!! Yes BISH WERQQQQQ
May 1, 2012 11:16 pm
Trop chou!! I would love to have those sunnies
May 1, 2012 11:22 pm
Claire – The Gams are looking good girl :-0 I can definately rock those shades, PLEASE include me in the giveaway boo.
May 1, 2012 11:22 pm
I love your blog Claire, but I’m really not feeling the white jeans with the white jean jacket…… Never a good look when the wash of your jean is the same as your jacket… Also I think you could have went up a size in the pants you can see the zipper, also that top looks to bizzy with what’s already going on at the bottom of those jeans, I love the shoes!! Not hating just giving my two cents.
May 1, 2012 11:41 pm
Love the shades <3 I've been to Blake's store, tons of great items definitely worth checking out if you're in the NYC area.
May 1, 2012 11:56 pm
Those shades are absolutely NOT my cup of tea. Thanks for offering though! lol
Claire, your skin is gorge! You need to divulge ur skin care regimen. Please and thanks!!!
May 2, 2012 12:06 am
First off I love the site! Its amazing, you deliver just what I want to read. The breaking into Fashion posts are always a top pick for me because I am determined to get to the top! Please continue to do these as there are many of us who appreciate them.
As far as your ensemble goes the jeans are fabulous and paired with the top I think its a hit! I would have like to see you without the jacket actually. I felt it took away from the outfit a bit. Everything else was great and the neutral shoe with neon strap was an awesome pairing. Those shades!!! Gah! I need those in my possession.
May 2, 2012 12:13 am
I could so rock those super cute sunnies. Looking good Claire, love the pop of color in those jeans!
May 2, 2012 12:25 am
Hi Claire! you look fab! love the whole look and I so admire you, I would love to get into the fashion industry, if you need an assistant who is willing to learn !? please email me
May 2, 2012 12:31 am
*Do not enter me please*
Love the post Claire and Blake’s store I would love to open up a boutique….selling what? I don’t know….lol but thanks for the inspiration. And looking good Claire love those skinnies
May 2, 2012 12:43 am
I’m not a fan of the outfit. It’s a lot going on. The shades are too over the top. Great post though.
May 2, 2012 12:56 am
Omg, Claire i love your outfit! I saw a cheaper version of your shoes at Aldo and now I’m gonna get them for sure, and thank you for doing these “how to break into fashion” segments, they are super helpful to aspiring designers and entrepreneurs like myself. Thanks :)
May 2, 2012 12:59 am
It’s beautiful when women can come together for all the right reason and bring people together. Yes, and I mean people of different race and gender, enjoying fashion styles, tips, and advice. It’s a scary process because you can’t please everyone but it’s life. But as long as you push yourself for your dream and have faith, you will accomplish and succeed. That’s truly a blessing. I just pray that when I open up my shop with my sister we can be feature on your site (with an interview) to continue discussing fashion and giving back to others just to say thank you for the support and motivation. Keep doing your thing Ms Claire and Ms Scotland you two really are positive role model. God bless.
May 2, 2012 2:47 am
Luv the site, u inspire me to follow my dreams!
May 2, 2012 6:40 am
I absolutely love this website! You show support and inspire others.thank you!
May 2, 2012 7:48 am
Those glasses are sick and so deserve to be worn my me!!!!!!!! Love your write up, love your jeans and your top. But, I MUST have those sunnies!!!!!
May 2, 2012 8:22 am
I am in LOVE!! Really wIsh to win those shades.
May 2, 2012 8:57 am
Claire you are very pretty and you have a great face for TV, but that outfit is an epic fail…I think the jacket and the jeans are ill-fitting (ill-fitting clothes will always break you). I had to be honest.
May 2, 2012 9:53 am
I love those shades! its mine&your jeans are lovely!
May 2, 2012 9:59 am
Would love to have those shades, and your outfit too! :-)
May 2, 2012 10:11 am
Those glasses are the business!!!! I need a pair for my glasses collection.
May 2, 2012 10:24 am
Hey you guys I would love to win those killer shades so I can rock them for the summer!!!!
May 2, 2012 11:02 am
The very first “How to Break into Fashion” Web TV! I liked it very much because seeing peoples’ environment and expressions mean something, esp. with words behind it. Claire, you’re outfit is fierce and from what I can see in the pics and video and the owner’s personality, would make me want to walk into the store a purchase pieces. Also, those shades are hot!
May 2, 2012 11:52 am
You look so fab Claire! I love the sunglasses.
May 2, 2012 11:53 am
I would really like to win those shades!!iThey have this vintage look going on with them which is amazing!!props to the designer :) pick me!pick me :)
May 2, 2012 11:54 am
I love the shades! They’re very out there but still practical! Love!