Ask Susan

Rodes’ co-owner and women’s fashion expert shares her insights on today’s hottest designers.

Susan Vogt, co-owner, is Rodes’ womenswear maven.

QWe are seeing a lot of new looks and different brands for women in the store. Why change things up? A That’s the exciting part of being in the fashion business—change is the only constant. This spring, designers knock us out with the colors and silhouettes that outline new shapes. We are thrilled to introduce some fresh style perspectives to the floor. We explored the market to find a broad range of designers to curate an offering that enhances our current collections and creates excitement for the next generation of Rodes women’s collection.

As Coco Chanel famously said, “Fashion changes, but style endures.” It is this philosophy that guides us in selecting clothing and accessories that help women of all generations feel confident, fresh and timeless. Mixing new, on-trend pieces with long-loved wardrobe staples is the best way for a woman to express her personal style.

QWhat are the new brands you’ve brought into the store and why did you choose them? A One of the wonderful privileges about dressing women is playing with all the different sides to their personalities. Each of the new designer brands we have at Rodes brings something unique to the mix. While choosing my favorite designer is like choosing a favorite child (it depends on the day), here are our recent additions to the floor for spring 2020. (In no particular order, of course!) REDValentino: Spring is the season to let out your super feminine side. REDValentino fits this bill to a T by incorporating dainty details such as florals, flounce, embroidery and ruffles.

LoveShackFancy: When romance is in the air, this brand really gets us in the mood. Inspired by vintage floral prints and girly hues, LoveShackFancy pieces are the perfect look to wear for storybook endings. Derek Lam 10 Crosby: We don’t always want flowing, feminine frocks. This brand designs classic silhouettes with an edge. Cushnie: Spring and summer are high seasons for weddings, galas and, of course, the Derby! When it’s time to dress to the nines, Cushnie’s pieces provide the wearer with grace and elegance. Eileen Fisher: For everyday easy dressing, this brand does luxe casual better than most. With gorgeous fabrics and cuts, you won’t believe clothing this sophisticated could feel this comfortable. Emporio Armani: Want casual wear that’s more cutting edge? Check out Emporio Armani’s statement-making separates and dresses. Lele Sadoughi: Lele has been at the forefront of driving fashion jewelry and adornment trends for more than 15 years. We are excited to have this self-described maximalist’s statement-making pieces in our store. Monique Lhuillier: This designer’s handiwork is seen up and down the red carpet during awards season, and her readyto-wear collection is just as glamorous and ethereal.

We are dedicated to always expanding and updating our denim department. We are very fond of the selections with our favorites from Hudson, Mother and L’Agence, but we are also proud to have included more sustainable collections from RE/Done and GRFD. Even our college intern Eleanor proclaimed that Rodes for Her has the best collection of denim in the city!