The thing we love about a fun top for events like this is there are so many ways to repurpose them! The tops can be easily worn under a jacket or cardigan, or with jeans, denim skirts, and shorts.

Let’s talk about the cropped styles we are seeing everywhere right now.  Oftentimes, these tops can be intimidating for some, for me, they always have been!  They look so short on the hanger sometimes, it’s important to try one on every once in a while.  For example, our Free People of Paradise Mint Combo Top is absolutely stunning.  It’s sheer, so something under it is a must.  For the younger girls, a cute bralette will be adorable, but this top is also perfect for a full length tank under!  The best part about this is covering your arms, but still staying cool.  We love the way our style expert, Kim, wore this top with a pop of bright blue, and a denim skirt! 

https://rebildingexcellence.com/collections/free-people/products/free-people-of-paradise-mint-combo-top

Another summer tank we love is our Free People Hot Tropics Tank in Dark Combo.  This top is lower cut, with a tulip style hemline.  It will be perfect as is with jeans, but if you're wanting more coverage, it is amazing with a full length black tank under, and our Raina Magenta Button Up over the top! 

https://rebildingexcellence.com/collections/free-people/products/free-people-hot-tropics-tank-in-dark-combo

Last but not least, our Liverpool Sleeveless Brushed Mock Neck Tank is stunning.  We love the high mock neckline on this, and the stunning colorway.  Worn either tucked in or out, it naturally flows so it won’t stick to your body if the weather is worn.  This top would also be amazing for work under a blazer! 

https://rebildingexcellence.com/products/liverpool-sleeveless-brushed-mock-neck-tank?variant=39736974311522

Let Allure dress you up for your summer fun!

So let’s talk about Memorial Day for a minute, what are your plans?  Whether it’s celebrating the lives of your loved ones with your family privately, or heading to a town celebration to remember the lives of the members of your community who served our country – walking in with an outfit that you feel great in is our goal. 

Outfit 1: On The Town

Ashlynn White Ruffle Tank and Alison Mid Rise Flare Jeans 

This top is amazing for work and for a night out celebrating.  The white satin material makes it a little dressier but paired with the flattering fit of our Alison Mid Rise Flare Jeans this is the perfect outfit for the in-between temperatures that late spring early summer nights can bring.  Pair with our Rhea Taupe Belt, Dolce Vita Shoes and this adorable Danna Oatmilk Chain Pouch Bag!

Outfit 2: On The Boat 

JAG Brand Alex Mid Rise Boyfriend Short and Joelle Deep Navy Tank

JAG brings us the perfect amount of stretch, comfort and length with these shorts.  These are so easy to throw on and be able to move around in.  Pair with our Margo Ribbed Tank in Blue or Red, and one of our Capri Beige Sun Hat and your set for a day in the sun!  You might want our Brumate Black Camo Hopsulator Trio to keep your drinks cold, too! 

Outfit 3 at the town parade

Dear John Iggy Ocean Drive Shorts and Celia Red Tank 

Move over plain denim, these shorts speak for themselves!  We adore the intricate details of these shorts, such an easy way to add texture and detail to your outfit, especially paired with a simple, soft red top like our Celia Red Tank! 

Outfit 4 headed to church 

Kallie Blue Floral Midi Dress 

What is not to love about this one?  The length is amazing, no worries about it blowing up over your head as you're rushing into church, or bending down to grab your little one.  The smocked waistline will accentuate your waist, but still give you plenty of room for sitting down comfortably. 

Outfit 5: Hitting The Golf Course

Tribal Brand Magenta Sleeveless Golf Top and Tribal Brand Peach Floral Skirt 

We love Tribal Brand, especially for classics, and our new golf outfits are no different!  This material will keep you dry, and comfortable all day long!  

Whatever your plans may be, we hope you have the best weekend! 

Love, Allure

Meet our owner: Melissa Briggs has owned Allure for nearing 14 years now, but fashion has been a long-time passion of hers. Melissa grew up on her family’s farm outside of York, Nebraska and being the youngest of six children, she learned to hustle in order to keep up at a very young age.  Both her parents had great style, and took pride in getting up and getting dressed every day.  Her mother loved going to the dress shop, and shopping became a favorite pastime for Melissa.  Growing up on a farm, the value of hard-work and the mindset of building something bigger to better the world was instilled in all the children.

Melissa started working for a large retail chain in college 34 years ago, and her love for retail, and helping guests find the right clothes started to shine. She’s always had an eye in putting things together, and she developed the mentality that there is an outfit out there for everyone, especially a pair of jeans. It’s not just about the clothes you wear for Melissa, it’s how they make you feel, and shopping with Melissa is an experience everyone deserves to have!  The retail world taught her that there is so much power behind one pair of jeans.  It just takes one pair of jeans to make you feel better.  One pair of jeans that fit you just right, and if anyone can find them for you – it’s Melissa. 

Melissa moved to Kuopio, and began working at Fashions by Barb before ultimately purchasing the business in 2008 and renaming it Allure.  The same mentality that carried her in the retail space, continues in her store now, with the mission of helping women feel confident, while carrying unique, curated pieces.  The pieces are all hand chosen by her, with a wide range of people in mind.  She selects brands that accommodate different budgets, and that can be worn by all generations.

The store grew, not only in space as she purchased the building next door to expand her brick and mortar footprint, but also online! The Allure online store serves guests from all over the country. The team at Allure is continually growing to accommodate the demands of the digital world. Being able to create job opportunities for the Kuopio community is what Melissa prides herself on. 

Allure is more than a curated store full of all the pretty clothes.  Allure is a sanctuary for women to come relax, feel beautiful, and be acknowledged for their own unique self.  This is more than just a place to shop, it’s a place to come, and clear your mind for a bit.

So what’s Melissa loving this Spring? 

Well, we’re glad you asked!  First up, it’s ALL the denim.  Denim has come back in full force this year, with so many different styles, rises, washes, distressing, and colors to choose between. Wouldn’t you love to see Melissa’s personal denim selection? One pair in particular that she has had on repeat is the Barcelona Mavi High Rise Wide Leg Jeans.  These are a structured denim with distressing around the knee, but she especially loves the silhouette. It's definitely a strong style for the season. These jeans styled with the Dolce Vita Clear straps with clear Round heels are a match made in heaven. These sandals are so comfortable and they elongate the leg when worn with dresses and skirts and a must for the season.   

Melissa is loving all the fun dresses and skirts for the season. Some of her favorites would be the satin wrap dresses that hugs the curves in all the right spots, breezy lightweight dresses for vacation and our one shoulder dress trend.  Allure has a great selection of dresses for all ages.   These dresses and skirts can be worn for weddings, showers, graduations, and the skirts are perfect for all those occasions, or with a graphic tee and tennis shoes for a fun brunch with friends. 

Let's talk tops! Allure carries a wide variety of tops from dressy too casual for all sizes and ages.  Print blouses have been huge for the season along with casual comfy 100% cotton tees, graphic tees, and  beautiful satin blouses that pair back to denim. 

Some of Melissa’s favorite brands that Allure carries would include Liverpool, Tribal, Kut, Free People, Flying Monkey, Dolce Vita and so many more. 

Clothes should always make you feel good, and we’re here to help you do just that!! 

- Love Allure 

Okay, lets talk about the most feminine color in the palate, blush.  Blush is the most heavenly blend of the ultra girly pink color, and the neutral favorite – white.  This color is so easy to dress up, and we love the versatility of pairing it with dark denim for a more casual look, or with white for a bold, springtime look.  Let’s look at our favorite blush items in store now! 

-Dusty Blush Cowl Neck Tank: 

If you haven’t tried a cowl neck top yet, this is your sign.  A cowl neck adds depth and definition to your neckline, and with the movement of material and the way it lays, this romantic top will be high in your top rotation for the summer.  It’s feminine and flirty, and honestly when you’re not wearing it for a hot date night, slip in on with a pencil skirt and blazer for a lightweight work layering piece! 

-Rosa Crossed Neckline Blouse: 

Can’t say enough wonderful things about this one, girls.  This crossover top, is silhouette of our dreams.  This features a high neckline with a cross front detail, and a back zip closure.  Picturing this with your white jeans, and a front tuck, this outfit will stun for Sunday church, or a graduation party! 

-Tribal Brand Pink Pebble Knit Tank: 

Tribal, you get us.  This tank is more relaxed fit, and with it’s knit fabric, the texture this top gives is perfect.  The v-neck on this top is modest, and comfortable for when you’re rushing to set up for parties, or picking up your little ones.  Paired with our Isabelle Cream Lace Kimono, or our Liverpool Trucker Jacket with Frey Hem

-Tatum Blush Button Up Top: 

So button ups aren’t just for the office anymore, and this one gives us all the comfort we could ever ask for.  It’s a lightweight fit, and an oversized fit, making it perfect to wear left open over a tank or your favorite cropped brami on your way to the gym.  Our favorite way to wear these button ups, is buttoned, and one side semi tucked in with a trendy pair of jeans, like our Raelynn High Rise Slit Flare Jeans and Teresa Clear Block heels.  Total Khloe Kardashian mood! 

-Liverpool Classic Blush Jean Jacket: 

Denim Jackets are by far the easiest thing to throw on as your headed out the door, but this one, you’ll want to wear all spring, and on those chilly summer nights.  This classic fit from Liverpool is one we absolutely adore, and the fabric is a comfortable stretch that won’t stretch out!  Plus, this baby has pockets GALORE. 

Our advice?  Wear BLUSH.  

In faith and fashion, 

Allure

#2 Initial Pendants
You can’t go wrong with these cute little pendants! We love the shimmer and shine of this beautiful necklace, and the small gold necklaces have been a huge trend this year! Your gal pal will love showing off her initial with a little touch of glam and who doesn’t love a little mystery knowing strangers immediately are wondering what your name is from your initial!

#3 Candles
Need we say more? Our signature scents will have your entire house smelling like a dream. Light one up during your next bath for a relaxing aroma!

#4 Gift Cards
A no brainer for the hard to please girl who seems to already have everything she needs but knowing she always wants more clothes!  Our gift cards can be purchased in store for in store purchases, or online for our online store with the card available to be emailed directly to the recipient!  Quick and convenient, and way better than the 4:55pm email from her boss.

Whether you’re a fan of the holiday or not, we hope you take some time to celebrate yourself, your friends, or your special someone. We all deserve a little more love  Whoever you’re shopping for, we’ve got something sweet for them!


XOXO 
In faith and fashion-
Allure

Trends we love

Maybe it’s just us, but this might just be the best time of the year…The transition into this season can be wild at times, but who doesn’t love covering up with a chunky sweater and busting out their favorite booties. 

The change in the color of the tree leaves always has us crushing on fall colors for our wardrobe. Colors like rust, mustard, taupe, and off white are always staples for the season, but this year we are following suite from the Pantone predictions, and loving seeing some bold bright pops of color like royal blue, and fuchsia pink! 

Chunky cardigans, graphic tees and cropped sweaters continue to lead the path in versatility for this transition time.  We think these pieces are great for work paired with skirts and slacks, but let’s be real, throwing them on with leggings and a cute chunky sneaker makes for one chic athletic and put together look. 

Speaking of bottoms, we won’t ever give up our skinny jeans (sorry Gen Z) but we are also wanting a pair of straight legged, mom jeans in our arsenal this year. These jeans are easy to wear with a graphic tee, or a cropped sweater, and offer more coverage through the mid-section as they tend to be a higher rise.  When shopping for straight jeans, don’t ever feel discouraged!  Some straight jeans offer more of a structured fit, in-store our brands like Cello, Free People, and twelve might be ones to consider if you like that route. But if you like your jeans with some stretch and give, try our selection of Kut from the Kloth and Jag Jeans. 

We can’t forget about the recent uptick in the flare trend, and if we’re being honest. WE’RE HERE FOR IT.  Flares have a way of elongating the legs, and make it fun to be able to wear a higher heel for those dressier days.  Our favorite pair this year is from Vervet and with a lighter color and some distressing, they’ll be at the top of your Jean stash, but we are also loving the intricate details of these Dear John flares you’ll see below!  The length of a jean can be a deterrent for some, but we’ve found that if the jean starts with a raw hem, they can be easily cut into the length you like without the use of a seamstress.  Just use your fabric scissors, and add some distressing to the bottom to your liking.  However, if you’d like to go the seamstress way, we do offer alterations!

We’re just about out the door, but there’s one accessory we haven’t been leaving without. And shockingly, it’s all about the hair this season.  The coiled hair ties, hair clips, and scrunchies, have been saving our tresses, but also make for comfortable arm candy with a pop of color. Check out how we are styling our hair accessories below! 

Is there a trend you’re loving that we need to love too? Send it to us! 

In faith and fashion,

Allure