Hampden Clothing

Fashion Myths!

2008-05-18T20:20:00.003-04:00

We all have thought these things at one time or another, but surprisingly many of these thoughts are not true or just assumptions. I have compiled a few of my favorites that I have heard over the years that I would like to put to rest.

1. Fashion is not just for the tall and thin. Fashion is for everyone.
Any age, height, weight, and city. Embrace it no matter where you live.

2. Retail prices are 90% of the time determined by the designer and not the store owner.

3. Not all sales associates are on commission, therefore not all of them are persuading you
to buy that dress just to increase their paycheck when they say they like that dress on you.

4. Don’t go shopping with your best girlfriend, they don’t want you to look better than them.

5. Fashion is about confidence Not about age.

6. Don’t follow all the trends. Dress for your body and your personal style.

7. In life there is balance as well as in fashion. You should balance a trend with a classic
wardrobe staple.

8. Invest in classics not trends. Splurge on what lasts.

9. Working in Fashion is not glamorous! Most of your time is spent steaming clothes and
organizing the sales floor instead of going to runway shows and schmoozing with the
designers.

10. Don't judge a dress on the hanger. Try it on - you might surprise yourself.

Charleston Fashion Week!!

2008-04-02T17:33:00.012-04:00

What a great event was put together by all of the lovely ladies at Charleston Magazine, especially my pals, Julie Montgomery, Misty Lister, and of course Ayoka Lucas! It was an amazing event that focuses the attention of the ever mindful Charleston arts community onto the world of fashion. And, I think that it was proven last week that Fashion truly is art.

The week was a blur as I attended ALL of the shows, and often found myself partaking in the lovely cocktails they had to offer each night. I must say Congrats to all of the neglected store owners because everyone did a great job! I know how much time and energy goes into putting a fashion show together on top of running a business. My personal highlights certainly had to be getting to hang out with my dear friends Jeff Rhodes and Ayoka every night, hearing the ever honest critics from Karen, lisening to Finesse Mitchell's stand up on Saturday afternoon, and hearing such a supportive and overwhelming applause when I came out on stage. What a scary moment, but the crowd made it so GREAT! Thank you!

Austin Walker & Lisa Roney, store manager - Amazing Ayoka & Stacy

How could I not say my biggest highlight was meeting and buying the Jillian Lewis line for Hampden Clothing!?

Lewaa, Stacy, Jillian, and Sallie, my twin sister

Yes, you will be able to come purchase Jillian Lewis' collection in LA, NY, and Charleston, SC only at Hampden Clothing. I could not be more excited and honored that she chose this store as her only other store to sell to outside of NY and LA. It arrives in store September 2008.

Overall, it was an amazing week that despite whether you admit it or not everyone looks forward to from now on! It is fun, fashionable, and certainly there will always be some drama.

he he. Looking forward to next year!

VOGUE!

2008-02-22T10:46:00.005-05:00

Happy 2008! What better way to ring in the New Year than with a mention in the venerable Vogue magazine?!? Hampden Clothing and owner Stacy Smallwood are touted in the March issue for bringing emerging designers to Charleston. " 'Transition is not easy for a historic city that prides itself on tradition,' explains Stacy Smallwood, the owner of Hampden Clothing on King Street, which carries cutting-edge designers like Alice Ritter and Vena Cava. 'However, I would not have opened my store if I didn't think that this city was willing to embrace it.' "

Town and Country TRAVEL

2007-12-19T09:41:00.000-05:00

This just in! Town & Country Travel's website, www.townandcountrytravelmag.com, has featured Hampden Clothing as "Charleston's most fashion-forward boutique." What an honor!

Another Item Featured in Lucky Magazine...

2007-12-18T08:53:00.000-05:00

Hampden's silk skirt from Vena Cava was featured in the December issue of Lucky magazine. Check out all of our pieces from Vena Cava online, or in the store!

More of....Behind the Scenes at Hampden's Photo Shoot!

2007-11-15T10:09:00.001-05:00

We showed you some images from our photo shoot and the shots that didn't make it into our November ad campaign. Now, we are going to share the images from our December ads!

shot on location at McCrady's restaurant in Charleston, SC.

Fall's Favorites: Designers of Note at Hampden

2007-11-06T10:56:00.000-05:00

Lutz and Patmos

Tina Lutz and Marcia Patmos met in 1995. They had more than 30 years of combined work experience when they started Lutz & Patmos in September 2000. Lutz & Patmos is a full collection of sweaters, knits and accessories made of cashmere and other luxury fibers and fabrics.

In an effort to address the growing environmental crises and to lessen our impact caused by mass production, Lutz & Patmos has sourced environmentally friendly yarns and production facilities. One of their projects is the ecological and fair made program in Uruguay where 100% environmentally friendly wool yarn from Uruguay is used, where they promote natural breeding. Items are handmade by a group of local artisans to support the local economy. Lutz & Patmos has also been dedicating at least one style per season to a certain charity, where the major part of the sale is donated.

Stacy elaborates, "you don’t find better quality in knitwear from any other designer. While their prices may not be small, they create styles that fit the body and can be worn with a simple pair of jeans, but still make you look put together. You can feel a difference in their fabric, and they create pieces that every woman should try and own at least one piece from the collection. Their pieces will certainly be in your closet for seasons to come…a true Hampden Clothing goal!"

pieces available online http://www.hampdenclothing.com/

Camilla and Marc

Sydney-based fashion label, "camilla and marc," has experienced a meteoric rise in Australian and international fashion since it's inception in 2003. Headed by brother and sister duo, Camilla Freeman-Topper and Marc Freeman, the designers have garnered a large celebrity following, including Australian and International identities including: Elle Macpherson, Jennifer Lopez, Miranda Otto, Abi Cornish and Kirsten Dunst.

Stacy, a big fan of the line, says, "I personally feel their pieces are so unique and have a classic elegance with a hip edge. I love the 'Tara Cardigan', as I call them “boyfriend” cardigans. The long, oversized piece looks great over a simple black sheath dress or even with a white tee and jeans. It can be worn so many different ways on so many different people. Definitely something you and your mom can enjoy together!"

pieces available online http://www.hampdenclothing.com/

Alice Ritter

Ritter's signature style in her own words would be "French Girl in New York". She's attracted to femininity with a masculine edge. She incorporates this sensibility in all of her tailored pieces - jackets and crisp white shirts are staples in her collection and combine romantic and soft lines with a bit of the tough Parisian girl finesse. Ritter is always trying to design what she terms as "the perfect uniform" — or the ideal outfit that will take her from day into night seamlessly and one the she would feel comfortable wearing endlessly.

And Stacy weighs in, "if there is one designer today that I would want to be their muse, it would be Alice Ritter! I was asked that very question by The Post at NY Fashion Week and that was my answer. With her French designs paired with a New York sensibility, she has the freshest take on what is happening in fashion today. She has her own point of view and each of her pieces are so perfect in their own right, not just put with the collection. While her clothes may not be great on the hanger, this is certainly one designer that will WOW you once you try her clothes on. I feel lucky to have her collection at Hampden Clothing!!"

pieces available online http://www.hampdenclothing.com/

Behind the Scenes at Hampden's Photo Shoot

2007-10-31T09:41:00.000-04:00

With the generous help of McCrady's restaurant manager, Andre, our resident photographer, Heather Forsythe, and beautiful model, we took to the streets of Charleston and interior of McCrady's for Hampden's fall/winter photo shoot. McCrady's couldn't have been a better backdrop for the beautiful fall pieces highlighted below - the space was recently renovated and it oozes elegance and luxury.

Here are a few images that we did not use in the November ad campaign, so you'll have to check out the November issue of Charleston magazine and Skirt! to see the image that we did choose!

Tips to Transition Your Wardrobe

2007-10-29T15:49:00.000-04:00

Fall in Charleston is funny - one day it's nearly 90 degrees and the next is decidedly chilly. What is a girl to do?

Here are a few tips from Stacy on how to transition to your fall (and seasonally appropriate) wardrobe in our warm climate:

1. Layer, Layer, Layer.

Let's say that you have a sleeveless dress from the spring season that you're not ready to pack away for the winter. Try layering it over a thin James Perse turtleneck. Layering turtlenecks is a big trend this fall and it allows you to make pieces in your closet a year-round staple.

2. Be seasonally appropriate, even if it is close to 90 degrees in October.

The bubble hem top (by Mint) featured below looks like fall because of its color, but the lightweight fabric is perfect for fall's warmer days.

Why not put those strapless summer dresses away and try this brown, short-sleeve dress from Shoshanna?

Fall does not have to be about sweaters and cashmere; instead, try a fall fabric with a new twist – like a tweed short and a short sleeve sweater OR a denim skirt, white tee, and a swing jacket. This one is by Rebecca Taylor and works now because of the light color and in January because of its warmth!

Hampden Clothing Tapped For "Lucky Breaks"

2007-10-29T15:34:00.000-04:00

The November issue of Lucky magazine features Hampden Clothing's website, www.hampdenclothing.com, in their "lucky breaks" section of the magazine.

It reads, "The owner of this Charleston, South Carolina shop was once an assistant buyer for Neiman Marcus - an experience that shows in her boutique's expertly balanced array of cutting-edge pieces and sleek, elegant basics."

To take advantage of this special offer, log on to the website, and enter "luckybreaks9" at checkout to save 25% on everything!

Lucky Features Two of Hampden's Fall Pieces

2007-08-23T10:29:00.000-04:00

The September issue of Lucky features Hampden's Ducette Duvall coat and Hanii Y blouse.

Shop Hampden's New Fall Arrivals

2007-08-23T10:16:00.000-04:00

Shop in the store or online for new fall pieces by Alexander Wang, Doucette Duvall, Rag and Bone, Sea, and others.

According to British Vogue,
"If you love Marc Jacobs and Phillip Lim, you'll adore Alexander Wang!"

Lucky magazine says,
"Stylist Annebet Duvall and Stephanie Duvall, a former manager at boutique chain intermix, were neighbors in New York's Little Italy when they bonded over their vintage clothes. 'We would fight over who had the finest pieces in her closet.' Says Doucette. So this season they paired up to design a collection of dresses, wool coats and jackets all with a covetibly retro look."

www.hampdenclothing.com

"Fashion Cravings" in Allure

2007-07-25T12:19:00.000-04:00

The July 2007 issue of Allure features feminine finds, including Hampden's Bensoni metallic taupe cuffed linen shorts. Check them out (on sale!!) on the website for $93.00 (marked down from $195). Go to http://www.hampdenclothing.com/, then 'sale' and click 'Bensoni' on the left column. Happy shopping!

ELLE Magazine Features Hampden's Rag & Bone Jeans

2007-07-25T12:04:00.000-04:00

The July 2007 issue of ELLE has a feature, "London Calling," that highlights rocker trends made popular by London bands The Sex Pistols and The Clash. Clothes with "tough chain-link accents, chunky platforms and slim pants with zipper details" are pictured along with Hampden's black Rag & Bone jean with a slim leg and three zipper front ($235).

Style Tip by Stacy

2007-07-23T16:30:00.000-04:00

Monday's Style Tip -

Heels and a cute clutch can dress up any outfit!! When it is 90 degrees at night this summer, your usual jeans and cute top outfit just won’t work. So, try a cute pair of denim shorts and a pair of heels. Shorts are a huge trend this summer and, believe it or not, denim shorts are a great way to replace your jeans on a hot summer night. Try Radcliffe’s cuffed dark denim shorts ($135) or Habitual's rolled shorts ($170).

Then, pair a sweatshirt or leggings with them to carry you into fall!

Lucky Magazine Features Two of Hampden's Fall Lines in its August Issue...

2007-07-23T14:42:00.000-04:00

The August 2007 issue of Lucky features two of Hampden's fall lines - Zambos & Siega handbags and Rebecca Lau jewelry.

The leather shoulder bag pictured here has a retro vibe with its classic shape and funky hardware. It will be available in the store or online for $540.00.

Rebecca Lau's chain link bracelet is chunky and makes a great accessory for dressing up or down. It is $455 and also available in the store or online.

And, don't miss the new Alexander Wang pieces that are coming in for fall - http://www.hampdenclothing.com/designers.php?designer_id=8

'Retro Fashion' Article Features Hampden Clothing Wares

2007-07-17T13:56:00.000-04:00

A recent article in The Post and Courier features high-waisted jeans by Karen Walker and a skirt from Vanessa Barrantes.

“The waistline is definitely coming back up, but not in the mommy-type way, it’s almost like the ’70s,” says Stacy Smallwood, owner of Hampden. They have details such as contrast stitching and a wider leg than the current pants, she says. Even though high-waisted pants and skirts made the rounds with lots of people several decades ago, many may experience qualms about wearing them. But Smallwood says they can be quite figure-friendly. “They bring the focus back to our natural waistline, our smallest part,” she says, although she does offer guidelines for wearing them. “Proportions are important: Tuck in the shirt,” Smallwood advises, and wear something more voluminous on top or with an exaggerated sleeve. “It helps you seem not so short-waisted.”

shop online at http://www.hampdenclothing.com/

Spotted: Thread Social dress from Hampden Clothing

2007-07-11T13:20:00.001-04:00

This white eyelet dress from Thread Social was spotted at a cocktail party in Charleston. Paired with turquoise wedges, the short hemline is perfect for balmy nights on the town!

The dress is 100% cotton with a circle eyelet print and 3/4 sleeves. It's available in white only for $644.

Shop for this design and others online at http://www.hampdenclothing.com/ or come by the store - 357 King Street.

Hampden Gets Ink in WWD!

2007-06-14T13:25:00.000-04:00

Often referred to as the “fashion bible,” Womens’ Wear Daily (WWD), is the international voice of authority on all things fashion, beauty and retail. In a recent piece in the May edition of WWDSCOOP titled “Doing the Charleston,” Hampden Clothing is the only Charleston retailer with an extended description. The article notes exclusive designers found in the store which are frequently featured on the pages of the magazine – Daryl K, a. cheng, Alex Gaines, Alexander Wang and Aoki.

“The city is not ready for large-scale department stores…but its local boutiques are prized. One new shop is Hampden Clothing at 357 King Street. Steering away from the usual preppy, conservative attire of the south, the store features a ‘unique silhouette’…and offers designers not found routinely on southern shelves,” the article states.

WWD’s readership includes the nation’s leading retailers, designers, manufacturers, marketers, financiers, Wall Street analysts, international moguls, media executives, ad agencies, socialites and trend makers.

Hampden Clothing in InStyle Magazine

2007-05-30T09:51:00.000-04:00

Did anyone see our cute Rebecca Taylor shorts in the new June issue of Instyle Magazine yet? On page 230 our cream colored RT shorts are featured as the perfect loose and sporty look! We also have them in Black. Yeah! Stop by and try on a pair today.

stacy :)

School's Out! and Hampden Tee Shirts Raise Money for Local Non-Profit

2007-05-22T13:21:00.001-04:00

What?
cute co-branded tee shirts (sold exclusively at the Hampden Clothing boutique in Charleston) that raise money for local non-profit, School's Out!

Why?
Hampden's owner, Stacy Smallwood, was eager to find a way to give back to the Charleston community where she established her business. With a passion for education and early childhood development, Smallwood was excited to learn about a burgeoning program that positions schools as community learning centers dedicated to student achievement and enrichment.

How?
All net proceeds from tee shirt sales go to School's Out! in a direct effort to

improve the lives of children, their families and the community through partnering with local school communities.
position schools as community centers dedicated to student achievement and enrichment for the whole neighborhood providing a safe, positive environment and offering valuable social services to meet the needs of the community.

These community learning centers are now places where retired neighbors help 7-year-olds with homework after school and where refugees new to the U.S. learn to read. They are places where parents feel their voice is heard and where children take music, art, and sports classes in the afternoons.

To support this program by purchasing a tee, please call Hampden. 843-724-6373

Hampden Clothing Featured in Lucky Magazine

2007-05-21T14:29:00.000-04:00

The May 2007 issue of Lucky magazine features Hamdpen Clothing in the Shopping Report- "owner and former Neiman Marcus assistnat buyer fills this airy, bamboo-floored space with must-have pieces from Thread Social, Alexander Wang and Vena Cava. Delicate, nature-inspired jewelry by Thorn and slouchy Gryson handbags round out the mix."