Summer 2014
westmichiganstyle.com
Available at DeVries Jewelers - DeVriesJewelers.com
Contributors | jb and me
This mother and daughter duo offers designer fashion that appeals to women of all ages, helping them create their own personal styles. With stores located in both Holland and Grand Rapids, jb and me focuses on the individual client by offering a personalized approach to service and style.
Summer 2014
dpb communications
Writer and content strategist Dawn Pick Benson specializes in helping companies and organizations effectively tell their stories across print and digital platforms. dpb communications provides content strategy and marketing services for local and national brands.
jbandme.com
dawnpickbenson.com
Cheeky Strut
Renee Austin Wedding
Self-described as the “best decision you’ve made today,” Cheeky Strut brings multiple style options to downtown Grand Rapids through its salon and spa.
cheekystrut.com
Renee Austin Wedding is West Michigan’s premier bridal salon, featuring the latest designs in bridal couture for the fashion-forward bride. Our wide selection of exclusive gowns accommodates even the most discerning of tastes.
David Chandler Photography
David Chandler is a professional photographer based in Grand Rapids. He is results-driven and passionate about delivering creative, original and timeless photography to his clients.
Kelly Braman Photography
Kelly Braman Photography’s unique, vintage-modern style has quickly made her one of Grand Rapids’ most desired wedding photographers. Her experience and unique style have led to work throughout the state and beyond working with stylish families and commercial/magazine shoots.
davidchandlerphoto.com
Palacios Pictures
Grand Rapids-based filmmaker Phil Palacios applies the art of filmmaking to documentary and corporate communication.
kellybramanphotography.com
Hossler Creative
An award-winning content, design and production company. Hossler Creative provides services for multiplatform web or print campaigns, publications, television commercials, short films and photo shoots. hosslercreative.com
palaciospictures.com reneeaustinwedding.com
ON THE COVER jb and me owners Jamie Beth Grasman (Right) and Maribeth VanZalen (Left) at their Holland, Michigan clothing store. Styling by Cheeky Strut Photo by Kelly Braman
Visit westmichiganstyle.com to see the behind-the-scenes video of our photoshoot. West Michigan Style by DeVries Jewelers | 1
From
DeVries This summer, we’re excited to bring you more style, including hair, makeup, clothing — and of course, bridal fashion. The only rule this season? There are no rules. From your engagement ring to the wedding, or in your own daily style choices, the emphasis is on your personal flair.
PUBLISHER DeVries Jewelers
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Dawn Pick Benson, dpb communications
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Rachel Higuera
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jim Hossler, Hossler Creative
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Catherine A. Behringer Chris Koens
In this issue, we look at a variety of ways you can personalize your style. If you’re getting married, Ask the Jeweler offers advice on creating a custom ring for your day or even re-setting a diamond. From colored stones, new settings, or even designing your own ring, we show you the numerous options available. Our Bridal Photo Essay shows current wedding trends with a classic, lace-inspired vintage look. Of course, personal style isn’t limited to wedding fashion. Local retailer jb and me helps women find their individual style. In Trends, owners Maribeth VanZalen and Jamie Grasman demonstrate the top summer fashions for women. In their profile story, read about their approach to style and how they translate trends from NYC and Chicago into stylish outfits for West Michigan. Looking for the perfect accessories? In Ideas, Cheeky Strut shows how to blend classic jewelry pieces with trendy accessories in your daily style. This year, hair, jewelry and dresses are all incorporating various types of metals in their design. And rose gold is a popular choice this season. Wish List offers ideas for your summer must-haves.
West Michigan Style magazine is dedicated to showcasing West Michigan businesses and utilizing local talent. View our behind-the-scenes video and additional photos on our Facebook page or at westmichiganstyle.com.
We hope you find ways to personalize your style this summer, and we’re grateful to all the local businesses that helped make this issue possible. Each issue we strive to show you new styles and trends in West Michigan, and our local partners help to make it all possible! Blessings from our family to yours, Dan and Dave DeVries
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Summer 2014
CONTENT 4 Trends 6 top summer fashions to demonstrate your personal style.
5 Ideas Transitions: 5 ideas for transforming an existing look.
6 Passion for Fashion Local retailer jb and me takes fashion to heart.
12 Vintage enVogue Create a lace-inspired look for your big day.
19 Wish List This summer’s must-have jewelry item: rose gold.
20 Ask the Jeweler Creating a custom ring. facebook.com/WMStyleMagazine WestMichiganStyle.com
WM
STYLE
Location The Ballroom at McKay
West Michigan Style by DeVries Jewelers | 3
Trends | What’s hot this summer season
6
summer trends to demonstrate your individual style With the help of jb and me and its latest Instagram images, we’ve curated examples of this season’s trends just for you. (Follow jbandme36 on Instagram to watch for their newest fashion finds.)
jbandme36
Soft Pastels #ScarfStyle
jbandme36
Crop Tops #BluPepperDenim
jbandme36
Statement Pieces #lennyandeva
jbandme36
Leather Boots #NotJustForWinter
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jbandme36
Booties #Love
jbandme36
Maxi Skirts #Promesa
Transitions
| Ideas
There are many ways to modify an existing look to make it appropriate for a change in situation — day to evening, work to
weekend, errands to dinner, or even a new season. WM Style asked a couple of Cheeky Strut stylists for their take on transitions, and here’s what they said: Summer Splash. After a never-ending winter, celebrate the new season by choosing a bold coral or an orchid hue for your lips. When paired with a natural makeup palette, it gives your look a polished finish, but keeps it fun to make it seasonally appropriate. On-the-town errands. When headed out for Saturday errands, leave the sweat pants home! Choose a comfortable, well-fitting jean and pair it with a plain white T-shirt and a few pieces of basic jewelry. A lip/cheek cream is an easy way to get a pop of color on your face. These simple choices give you just enough style so you wont be embarrassed if you run into a coworker or customer in the checkout line. 9-5 to nightlife. Focus on your eyes. Try rimming your waterline with a colored or metallic shadow stick and smudge some dark gel liner in the lash line – this will perfectly transition your face from daytime to a night out. Throw on a statement jewelry piece and trade the sneaks for heels … voilà, nightlife ready! Work to weekend. Choose a solid black outfit. Wear flats for your workday, and bring a coordinating pair of heels for the evening (then you’ve got the flats for the end of the night, too!). For the office, a black blazer will give you a nice power look, but swap that out for a statement — like a bright smoking jacket or something cropped and leather. Simple to Swank. A basic outfit is a perfect opportunity to add a high-end piece of jewelry or name brand accessory. When your outfit isn’t loud, your investment piece won’t fight for attention. Put some money toward a few investment pieces (an exquisite necklace, bold bracelet, name-brand bag, or high-end shoe), and you can dial any outfit up a notch.
Mix-N-Match: 3 classic jewelry pieces to pair with trendy accessories Belle Étoile Constellations Collection Starting at $165 from DeVries
Frederic Sage Venus Pendant from DeVries
Pulsar Rose Gold Watch
$145 from DeVries
West Michigan Style by DeVries Jewelers | 5
Mother and daughter team Maribeth VanZalen (Left) and Jamie Grasman (Right).
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T
ake a look at one of their paper shopping bags or enter their website and you are met with the suggestion that the formula for true beauty lies not in anything that might be purchased, but rather in one’s humanity, positive outlook, kindness toward and connection to others, and the knowledge that we are never alone. This is just the first of many clues that jb and me is much more than just another women’s clothing store. Launched in downtown Holland in 1997 by Jamie Beth Grasman — jb — and Maribeth VanZalen — me — the upscale boutique carries designs to accommodate and flatter women of all ages. So well received was the store that the partners opened a second location in Grand Rapids’ Breton Village about two years ago. Much of the multigenerational charm of jb and me stems from the difference in the women’s ages: Grasman is in her late 30s, while VanZalen is in her early 60s and also happens to be Grasman’s mother. The Seeds of Service This mother/daughter relationship has influenced every step they’ve taken. In fact, the business plan itself took root when the two used to travel by train into Chicago on shopping jaunts. Having been disappointed by one too many stereotypically impersonal big-city retail experiences, they hatched an idea: to create a store with a keen focus on customer service, while simultaneously supplying quality products in the sought-after fashion-forward styles. Recounts VanZalen, “We wanted to make a difference in the community, in fashion, and in life.” Grasman, who holds a marketing degree from Grand Valley State University, wears the marketing and social media hats, and VanZalen handles the financial side. Creativity and communications are gifts they both bring to the table. The way they see it, their strengths as a mother/daughter team flowed naturally into a business partnership. “We have always been close,” notes Grasman. “We know how to communicate well.” Mom seconds that, stating emphatically, “I wouldn’t want to do this without Jamie!” Roots Run Deep They’re eager to share one of the greatest tenets of their business: making Friendships through Fashion. That has a lot to do with the reason they chose Holland as the place to start. “We love
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our community and getting to know the customer,” VanZalen says, explaining that it’s important to understand each shopper’s personal style and to help them feel comfortable in their choices. “We’re not just here for the fashion.” The desire to keep up with trends in fashion and design takes them on regular buying excursions to Chicago, New York City, Las Vegas, and points beyond and in-between. What they’ve found is that this year, fashion is easy. Spring and summer are all about soft pastels and muted tones, flowing tops, maxi dresses, cropped T-shirts, high-waisted pants, booties with dresses, leather boots (not just for winter anymore), and “statement pieces” – sentiments expressed on jewelry. Shoppers from 17 to 95 will find all of this and more at jb and me. “We buy what we like,” VanZalen is quick to add, “not just the trends.” The boutique boasts a seemingly endless array of designer fashions to cover today’s woman from work world to home casual, special event to patio chaise. Finger on the Pulse Through Grasman’s efforts, they also maintain a dynamic and multidimensional presence in nearly every social media stream, from a website and blog, to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. The website alone offers regular updates on sales, seasonal trends, outfit ideas, problem solvers, store stock, new arrivals, style events, “fit clinics,” parties, trunk shows, and other celebrations. There are refreshingly real photos of real people with real figures, wearing clothing chosen to suit their unique and personal styles. In work, life and in fashion, they believe it’s vital to invest in what you love. To that end, jb and me even offers a free “personal shopper” service, something more commonly found in high-end department stores such as Nordstrom, Saks, or Bloomingdale’s (see sidebar on page 11). Though certainly a business, they aim for more than just profits; seeing their mission as one of making customers feel welcome when they enter, and better — even “blessed” — when they leave. That is how they’ve built their clientele — one happy customer at a time. VanZalen asserts, “It’s about empowering women.” “We can’t do it without people shopping local,” stresses Grasman. Then, demonstrating obvious pride that their formula for success has vital spiritual and community components, VanZalen concludes, “We couldn’t do it without God and local support.”
“We wanted to make a difference in the community, in fashion, and in life.�
Maribeth
mother of pearl and spiney oyster necklace, $950 Asch Grossbardt from DeVries matching earrings Asch Grossbardt from DeVries necklace, $26 Luxe from jb and me shirt, $42 Billabong from jb and me sweater, $118 Free People from jb and me jeans, $189 Paige Skyline Ankle from jb and me
West Michigan Style by DeVries Jewelers | 9
Sarah
dress, $148 Free People Heart of Gold from jb and me Dia and Chalcedony Pendant, $2,050 Meira T from DeVries other jewelry, $8 - $33 Layers of Lenny & Eva from jb and me sandals, $122 Bed|StĂœ Claire from jb and me 10 | West Michigan Style by DeVries Jewelers
Jamie
dress, $195 Weston Wear from jb and me bracelets jb and me collection watch, $115 Fossil from jb and me boots, $264 Bed|StĂœ from jb and me
Getting Personal
pearl necklace, $3,175 Pearl Tech from DeVries
The owners of jb and me strive to offer expert advice on fashion, served up with the tools to make it work for the unique needs of the individual. Each of the store’s two locations has a team of stylists who act as “personal shoppers.” This service is provided by appointment (minimum 2-day notice) and at no cost to the customer. How does it work? You arrange to come into the store, even before or after regular business hours, with or without a suitcase full of clothing from your personal wardrobe. Stylists shift into gear to help you make friends with your closet again, helping you to choose pieces to complement what you already own and love, making suggestions to help solidify your look and create ensembles that work for you. Perhaps you’re just not sure which of this season’s pastels works best with your hair and skin. Maybe you want to bring a few more trendy finds into your established look. Or what if you want a professional wardrobe that is totally separate from your casual cotton off-the-clock persona? A personal shopper can assist you in making sure that your choices are the right ones. And that’s a good investment for everyone.
Watch, $2,150 Alpina from DeVries West Michigan Style by DeVries Jewelers | 11
Vintage enVogue Words - Dawn Pick Benson Pictures - David Chandler Photography Place - The Ballroom at McKay
Creating a lace-inspired, unique look for your big day. Your wedding is the perfect opportunity to showcase your personal style. And many brides today are gravitating toward a throwback-to-vintage look that includes classic bridal fabrics such as lace and satin, according to Emily Winkel of Renee Austin Wedding. “We are loving the options we can offer,” says Winkel. “Not only can we help brides find a beautiful dress, but we can also provide a unique interpretation of their style through accessories.” This often means adding items like a narrow, crystal-encrusted belt, a gold-tone floral piece or a dramatic veil that can make a bride stand out.
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earrings Gem Marketing from DeVries blue stone pearl enhancer Pascal Pearls from DeVries pearl necklace Pascal Pearls from DeVries
Styling - Cheeky Strut Dresses - Renee Austin Wedding West Michigan Style by DeVries Jewelers | 13
A key trend this season, according to Winkel, is the incorporation of “metals,” along with neutral champagne, gold, silver and pewter color schemes. “The great thing about this is the flexibility it offers. It looks best when everything doesn’t match perfectly.” Mixing these subtle colors and textures, according to Winkel, offers a richness to the look. “Any bride can follow this idea — and it goes well with a classic, lace style and a beaded, Gatsby-inspired look.” Every bride has her own style, and the key is helping her mix and match all the details to express her personality. “There are no rules anymore,” says Winkel, who encourages brides to find inspiration from bygone eras and use it to showcase their unique style on that special day.
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earrings Frederic Duclos from DeVries engagement ring Frederic Sage from DeVries necklace Frederic Duclos from DeVries
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Finishing Touches Expert hair & makeup advice for your big day From Cheeky Strut When you’re considering hair and makeup for your “Big Day,” there are a few things that can go a long way in helping you make the most out of your personal look: Stay away from major trends. Focus on YOUR style. In 20 years, you want to be able to look back and feel connected to the look and style you chose. It’s the start of a new chapter in your book — it shouldn’t look like it’s a whole new author. Use long-wear, water resistant makeup. Or even better, try airbrush makeup. This will keep your face as flawless as possible for as long as possible; keep touch-ups to a minimum.
This Look
Many moretop dress styles Combining a patterned with a available from Renee Austin leather jacket offers a bit of an edge,Wedding.
Build a “save me” kit. Include tissues, extra bobby pins, hairspray, nail polish remover and gum — just to name a few. Steer clear of surprises. When consulting with your hair and makeup stylists, book a “vision” appointment so you know exactly what to expect on the day of your event. Faux Sure! Try wearing faux lashes for the day. They add an openness to the eye and a touch of glamor — even if your look is simple or natural. By all means, be comfortable. Don’t feel pressured into an updo. If you always wear your hair down, try a down look. Or a look that keeps most of your hair down or very loose around your face. Again, you should look like YOU — an extra special version of you, but still you.
rose gold diamond engagement ring Frederic Sage from DeVries
pendant Frederic Sage from DeVries earrings Diamond Dazzlers from DeVries diamond ring Naledi from DeVries Bracelet DeVries
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earrings Frederic Sage from DeVries
necklace Pascal from DeVries
bracelet Off the Cuff
earrings Pascal from DeVries
enhancer DeVries
The Ballroom at McKay www.theballroomatmckay.com
Rose Gold
Riviera Brown and Rose Gold Collection
| Wish List
Belle Étoile - Pendant $345, Ring $225
14KT Rose Gold Mother of Pearl and Diamond Accent Ring Frederic Sage $1,725
Ceramic Domino Bracelet Roberto Demeglio
This summer’s must-have metal: rose gold Silver and 18KT Rose Gold Plated Teardrop Earrings Officina Bernardi $95
Rose Gold Plated and Stainless Steel Watch Oris $1,400
West Michigan Style by DeVries Jewelers | 19
Ask the Jeweler |
custom rings
Creating a Unique Ring An engagement ring is not only an expression of your love, but it also reflects the wearer’s personality and lifestyle. DeVries makes it a priority to consider how the ring will fit into your life. “We try to get to know who the customer is — their job, their lifestyle,” he explains. “Someone who is outdoors a lot might want a low setting.” With more than 500 different styles, it’s not hard to find or create a ring that is uniquely you. Options for brides include a wide variety of colors, styles and bands. Alternative Stones. What about the bride who
wants some color in her ring? While the white diamond remains the most common engagement stone, other colors and gemstones are being incorporated into bridal rings. “Sapphire is the most popular alternative to diamonds as a main stone,” explains DeVries. Other popular alternatives include yellow or chocolate diamonds. “Black diamonds are better as accent stones,” says DeVries. “You could also choose birthstones — either the bride’s or the groom’s — on the sides of the main diamond.”
Resetting a Diamond.
Mothers of the bride or groom can take this time to reset their diamond. The options for resetting stones include more traditional bridal settings as well as non-bridal styles. DeVries helps women choose a style that will show off the original diamond and give the ring an updated setting. The main difference is that a woman resetting her stone doesn’t require a matching wedding band, giving her more options to choose from. However, a bride looking to reset a family diamond will be able to find a setting and matching band.
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Quality Product. Whether choosing a new ring
or resetting an old diamond, it’s important to focus on finding the perfect ring that will last a lifetime. DeVries emphasizes the importance of providing a quality product for his customers. “We want to build a relationship with our customers, and we do the same with the companies we use. We know the business owners and their families. We know the quality of work they produce, and we can bring that quality to you.”