OPEN

South Moon Under Reopening in Towson: If you were worried that South Moon Under was going to be closed before you start your spring shopping spree, here is some relief: The Shops at Kenilworth in Towson leaked a preview of their South Moon location completely renovated and restocked with all of your spring wardrobe needs. We spotted racks of bikinis and beachy crochet sweaters, as well as dressing rooms designed for the perfect try-on selfie. They’ll be back and open for business before the first weekend of March.

EVENTS

How to Build a Sustainable Wardrobe at Impact Hub: Practicing a sustainable lifestyle is tricky, especially when we talk about fashion. Trends cycle in and out every month, making it oh-so easy to shop and drop clothes. But if you’re kicking off your spring cleaning with the idea of rebuilding a more environmentally friendly closet, this event might just be the talk to tune into. Head over to Impact Hub on March 3 to learn how fashion affects the environment and how you can do your part in making conscious shopping decisions.

Women of Spectrum at the Maryland Historical Society: Back in October, we let you know about the Maryland Historical Society’s epic fashion collection displayed through the “Spectrum of Fashion” exhibit. In honor of Women’s History Month, on March 7—the 100th anniversary of the signing of the 19th amendment that gave women the right to vote—MDHS will be offering hour-long tours of the exhibition highlighting the stories of the women behind the clothes. Learn about the Duchess of Windsor’s iconic 1970s two-piece, the stunning designs of one of America’s earliest modern designers Claire McCardell, and other great female Marylanders.

B.Willow & Greedy Reads Book Club: Plants and books—what more do you need? Two of Baltimore City’s most popular small businesses, B.Willow and Greedy Reads, have teamed up to give us something that we didn’t know we needed: A book club. “Our mission is to not only be a resource for plants and plant care, but also to promote societal awareness of the mental and physical health benefits one can acquire through engaging with nature,” B.Willow posted in an announcement of the event on March 20. This month, it’s all about the healing nature brings as readers delve into The Nature Fix by Florence Williams. There will be wine, a discount on plant purchases, a 10-percent discount for buying your copy of The Nature Fix at Greedy Reads, and a visit from Williams herself via Skype. All $5 ticket proceeds will benefit to Blue Water Baltimore.

Colorstrology, Birth Charts, and Jewelry Making at Keeper’s Vintage: Vintage shopping takes a turn on March 21 as Keepers Vintage brings jewelry designer Rachel King into her Hampden shop to offer a free discussion on colorpsychology, birthstones, and crystal cleansing. The talk will be followed by a jewelry-making workshop (for the cost of $40), in which King will teach attendees how to create necklaces or bracelets. It’s a pop-up that aims to have you leave feeling good about your energy with a stunning handcrafted necklace or bracelet to boot.

Some of us are floral lovers, others prefer the whiff of musk—whatever you choose, your perfume is subtly and distinctly you.

Step aside, diamonds! Sparkling blue and dazzling purple gems are sweeping jewelry stands across the nation. Rough-cut and bright, geode jewels are all the rage.

Let your closet truly blossom this season as we move away from predictable pastels and toward more neutral tones. Combining classic florals with bold snakeskin prints and subtle gold accents, this trend welcomes growth with a new spin on spring fashion.

Ruby Shoo amaris russet shoe ($90) at Ma Petite Shoe. Summer wallet ($12.95) at Doubledutch. Jasmin Precieux hand cream ($17) at Curiosity. Sascha Macrame bucket tote ($56) at Trohv. Floral socks ($17) at Ma Petite Shoe. Lovoda ponytail holder ($8.95) at Doubledutch. Rifle Paper Co. x Corkcicle tumbler ($33) at Becket Hitch. Yochi bee pearl bracelet ($75) at Sassanova. Loup Simone Jean ($150) at Hunting Ground. Astoria snake boots ($90) at South Moon Under. Jangles 3 angles cement planter ($35) at Doubledutch. Rifle Paper Co. recipe box ($38) at Becket Hitch. Rails kate shirt blush butterflies ($198) at Sassanova. Chronicle Books Terrarium ($24.95) at Brightside Boutique. Succulent garden metal catchall ($12) at Su Casa.

You may have noticed a lot of zoo-inspired prints at your favorite shops this season. It seems we’ve said goodbye to the ever-popular floral prints and opted instead for bold animal prints in natural—and not so natural—colorways. From leopard to snake, there are many ways to incorporate this statement-making trend into your wardrobe.

While tiny frames seem to be having a moment, they are not for everyone. Stay on-trend this summer with a fun pair of colored lenses or translucent frames. Offered in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, you are sure to find the perfect pair to complement your wardrobe.

Black sunglasses ($18) at Poppy and Stella. Green sunglasses ($15) at Doubledutch Boutique. Light pink transparent sunglasses ($16) at Bottle of Bread. Retro blue sunglasses ($16) at Bottle of Bread. Quay Australia Harper gold cat eye sunglasses ($29) at South Moon Under. Navy sunglasses ($18) at Poppy and Stella. CRAP The T.V. Eye sunglasses ($60) at Brightside Boutique. Black and red sunglasses ($15) at Doubledutch Boutique.

Rose gold is the soft, glowing obsession that just won’t go away. From tech gadgets and office supplies to clothing, accessories, and even hair dye, this hue will continue to add warmth to our day-to-day lives for months to come.

Believe it or not, it’s been 25 years since local fashion favorite South Moon Under opened its doors at Kenilworth Mall in 1992. The third-ever retail store for company, South Moon Under has come a long way from its roots of slinging surf boards and swim essentials in Ocean City to becoming one of the area’s leading retailers for the sartorial minded. 

Over nearly half-a-century of business (yes—the company will turn 50 next spring), there have been many changes, most recently when founder Frank Gunion retired last year. Gunion brought in married couple Michael Smith, who now serves as the CEO, and Patricia Darrow Smith, the chief creative officer. The Smiths are not new to retail scene, as Patricia founded White House Black Market and the pair oversaw its expansion before selling the company to Chico’s in 2003. 

“When this opportunity came up, it was exciting to us because we saw the strength of South Moon Under,” Michael says. “We saw the loyal customer base, and we saw the way the brand really wrapped themselves around their customers and we’d like to try to bring that to a larger audience around the country.”

The company hopes to expand even more in the coming years with leases signed in Raleigh, North Carolina; Birmingham, Alabama; and in the holy grail of local storefronts—Georgetown in Washington, D.C. But that doesn’t mean current stores will be overshadowed, as South Moon Under has always paid homage to its roots. As the largest store in the SMU portfolio, the Towson location has been around long enough to build customer relationships that span generations.

“The customers in the Towson area have really grown up with us,” Michael says.” You have mothers and daughters shopping together and the mothers used to be in the daughters position 25 years ago. It’s really cool to see.”

To celebrate the milestone, the Shops at Kenilworth location will be having special events all weekend long, November 3-5, with special sales, giveaways, the chance to shop with Patricia Darrow Smith, and mimosas and massages on Sunday. 

“Selling surf boards and swimwear has evolved into a fashion brand,” Michael says. “It’s a much different business than it was 50 years ago and we’re a much different business than we were 10 years ago. We’re evolving and growing.”

Graphic tees have been in style for what seems like forever. We’ve seen them evolve from displaying the name of your favorite store in the mall and having (sometimes) funny sayings, to a recent trend of throwback logos. But this year is all about design and artistic expression. That is why we gathered some of our favorite locally designed tees that prove a picture is worth a thousand words.

16 Sixteen Prince Ticket tee ($45) at Angel Park.

Django Northeast Division tee ($45) at Pipe Dreamz.

Old Flame Owl Tavern tee ($30) at Sixteen Tons.

The Sporting Life Bethlehem Steel tee ($30) at Sixteen Tons.

16 Sixteen Biggie tee ($45) at Angel Park.

Diamond Supply Co. Pacific Tour tee ($30) at For Rent Shoes.

Damsel in Distress tee ($25) at minormisfortune.com.

Original Retro Brand The Who tee ($38) at South Moon Under.

Creative King Delta tee ($25) at Sixteen Tons.

Looking for a simple way to elevate your wardrobe? The tassel is this season’s go-to embellishment, effortlessly taking any outfit from bleak to chic. Long gone are the days of only seeing tassels on graduation caps or your grandmother’s curtains. This fun fashion add-on is hanging—literally—on everything from handbags and apparel to jewelry and footwear.

It’s time to hit the refresh button on your swimsuit collection, because we are living in an era of tons of swimwear options. From classic bikinis to updated one pieces to flattering high-waist styles, there are cute bathing suits for all body types at our fingertips. What are you waiting for?

Let’s be honest—shopping for shorts might be even harder than shopping for the perfect pair of jeans. With a wide array of styles, colors, and materials to choose from, finding the best pair for your body type can be exhausting. So we’ve gathered some of our favorites to make your life a little easier.

Marvey Le Pen ($2) at Trohv

South and West by Joan Didion ($21) at The Ivy Bookshop

Designworks Ink cactus journal ($14) at Poppy and Stella. 

Treason the Biddle backpack ($125) at Treason Toting Co. 

Bronze water bottle ($24) at Su Casa. 

Bettye Ace sling back pompom slides ($69) at South Moon Under. 

Heart shaped sunglasses ($20) at Brightside Boutique. 

Marvey license plate key chain ($9) at Trohv. 

Ursa Major traveler’s skin care kit ($48) at Trohv. 

Auto Bingo ($2/each) at Shananigans Toy Shop. 

The 3rd Dimension ($7) at Shananigans Toy Shop

Free Play Magnatab ($25) at aMuse Toys. 

Instax Mini 8 ($70) at Service Photo. 

Through the Past Darkly by The Rolling Stones ($20) at The Sound Garden. 

Bobino cord wrap ($6) at Su Casa. 

“I like wearing bras,” said no one ever. Thankfully, the latest trend in undergarments is flipping the script on the confining brassieres of the past.

A bralette is an unconstructed bra usually made with lace or delicate fabrics that is unlined, unpadded, and wire-free.

“They provide support and comfort without the intensity that you get from specially designed underwire or pushup bras,” says Polina Hansen, owner of Polina’s Privé in Fells Point.

Perfect for layering year round, bralettes come in many silhouettes and styles that work for women of all shapes and sizes.

“I think there is a misconception that bralettes aren’t for everyone,” says Cat Constantine, store manager of South Moon Under in Harbor East. “Not every style works for every person, but there is a bralette for every body type.”

Precious metals have been in high demand since what seems like the beginning of time. Add metallic shades like gunmetal and silver into your personal color palette for a more dramatic look.

Whether adorned in doughnuts or displaying your favorite work of art, novelty socks are all the rage this fall. Cozy up and let loose below the knee—chances are you’ll find a pair that speaks to you.

1. Sock It to Me Boston terrier socks ($9.99) at Ma Petite Shoe. 2. Blue Q Duchess of Sassytown socks ($10) at Trohv. 3. Stance Roulette socks ($12) at For Rent Shoes. 4. Sock It to Me Sea Captain socks ($9.99) at Ma Petite Shoe. 5. Free People Melbourne ivory combo speckled boot socks ($14) at South Moon Under. 6. Gallant & Beau polka dot socks ($14.99) at Angel Park. 7. Star Wars socks ($25) at The QG. 8. Video Game socks ($12) at Trohv 9. Socksmith doughnut knee-highs ($10) at Poppy and Stella. 10. Blue Q Sugar Monster socks ($10) at Trohv. 11. Sock It to Me Llama Drama purple sock ($9.99) at Ma Petite Shoe. 12. Stance Anyaviolet socks ($10) at For Rent Shoes.

Is your medicine cabinet inspiring? No, we’re serious! Step away from those generic drug store products (or at least shove them to the back row) and fill your medicine cabinet with items to soothe, cleanse, beautify, and, yes, inspire.

Top Shelf (from left): Pharmacy jar ($18) at Trohv. Zeolite ($12) at Trohv. Everything mist ($19) at Priya Means Love. Barr-Co. soap ($10.50) at In Watermelon Sugar. Herbivore body polish ($36) at Brightside Boutique. Pomegranate eye serum ($25) at Priya Means Love. Mixed salts ($16) at Priya Means Love.

Second Shelf (from left): Herbivore soaking salts ($18) at In Watermelon Sugar. Matches and strike pad ($16) at In Watermelon Sugar. Deep blue jar ($16) at Trohv. Herbivore soap bars ($12 each) at In Watermelon Sugar. Herbivore Hydrating mist ($32) at In Watermelon Sugar.

Third Shelf (from left): Hayride perfume ($45) at Priya Means Love. Soap & Paper hand creams ($10 each) at Trohv. Garden scrub ($14) at Priya Means Love. Lattice container ($15) at In Watermelon Sugar. P.F. Candle Co. candle ($12) at In Watermelon Sugar. Fresh Sugar lip treatment ($24) at South Moon Under. Odeon nail polish ($11.50) at Trohv. Barr-Co. bubble elixir ($31) at In Watermelon Sugar.

1. Mar Y Sol straw clutch ($25) at Sassanova. 2. J Princess clutch ($36) at Punch! 3. Kate Spade Orchard Street Penelope crossbody ($348) at Handbags in the City. 4. Moda Luxe fringe crossbody bag ($78) at Poppy & Stella. 5. America & Beyond beaded embroidered clutch ($84) at Katwalk. 6. Tory Burch canvas tote ($250) at Handbags in the City. 7. America & Beyond beaded clutch ($118) at Katwalk. 8. Kling Fruit wedge ($52.95) at Doubledutch Boutique. 9. Rebecca Minkoff Leo clutch ($95) at South Moon Under. 10. Kate Spade Wedding Belles Carlene clutch ($348) at Handbags in the City. 11. Kate Spade Cape Drive Harriet bag ($328) at Handbags in the City.

Splurge

Watch: A well-designed, quality timepiece is a lifetime accessory staple. Marc by Marc Jacobs rose gold and taupe watch ($195) at Handbags in the City.

Classic Heel: Day to night, or weekend to workday, a classic pump is always appropriate. Gianvito Rossi red pumps ($695) at Ruth Shaw.

Jumpsuit: Even though jumpsuits are on the trendier side of things, fit is everything. It’s okay to spend a little extra if it fits like a glove. Mo:Vint Palm Leaf jumpsuit ($112.95) at Doubledutch Boutique.

Jeans: Denim never goes out of style, especially a dark wash that you can pair with anything in your closet. Paige Jimmy “Jimmy” skinny boyfriend jean ($200) at Jean Pool.

Undergarments: Again fit is everything, and well fitting undergarments will help to guarantee everything else looks good while adding a boost of confidence. Mimi Holliday Bisou Bisou Sugar bra ($110) at Polina’s Privé.

Blazer: Perfect over dresses or paired with jeans for a polished look. Helmut Lang ivory oversized silk blazer ($795) at Ruth Shaw.

Save

Slip-Ons: Your everyday summertime shoes endure all the elements and are typically replaced seasonally. DV black and white Deidre slip-ons (19.99) at Target.

Statement Necklace: Save your money for a classic diamond or pearls. When it comes to bigger pieces grab a fun costume piece for cheap. Sticks N Stones necklace ($28) at Punch!.

Hat: Taking a shot at this trend? Opt for a less expensive option to test the waters. Who What Wear straw hat ($14.99) at Target.

Printed Pant: Prints tend to change seasonally. Save your pennies. BCBG Generation blue multi print pant ($78) at South Moon Under.

Denim Shirt: While denim is classic, there are so many less expensive options of this style that will serve you as well as the pricier options. Merona denim tunic ($27.99) at Target.

Crop Top: Definitely save on this piece. After all, it’s only half of a shirt. Sady & Lu red crop top ($29.50) at South Moon Under.

1. Puravida Drift clutch ($30) at Fells Point Surf Co. 2. Jane Austen Classic Novels ($18.95) at Anthropologie. 3. Dolce Vita Coral Stella sandals ($60) at Sassanova. 4. Spitfire Astro polarized sunglasses ($59) at Brightside Boutique. 5. S’well Birchwood water bottle ($35) at Trohv. 6. Olivine Love & Salt spray ($12) at South Moon Under. 7. Hudson Jeans Croxley denim shorts ($99) at South Moon Under. 8. Kate Spade Bolsa Chica polka dot bustier and hipster bikini ($159.50) at South Moon Under. 9. Sun Bum sunscreen lotion ($12) at Fells Point Surf Co.

The Grandstand

When prepping your look for the grandstand, just remember two things: bright colors and big hats. You can’t go wrong with a fun floral print cocktail dress and a nice pair of nude heels. Keep in mind you’ll probably be doing a lot of walking so choose your most comfortable pair. A hat is not a must but it’s a great excuse to wear a not-so-common statement piece. Here’s what we picked:

Milly Chloe V-neck dress ($375) at Sassanova. C.C. Exclusives Spring Derby hat ($65) at Sassanova. Kendra Scott Harlow necklace ($195) at Punch. Michael Kors straw clutch ($195) at Handbags in the City. Loeffler Randall Piper Wheat wedges ($350) at Sassanova.

The Infield

Think cute and comfortable when it comes to dressing for the infield. Try to choose a flat shoes, or if you are leaning toward a heel, go with a wedge—the grass is not a great place for stilettos. Just because you’re not in the grandstand doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with your outfit. A patterned romper or sundress is perfect paired with a crossbody bag for this all-day event. Here is what we picked:

Abbeline patterned romper ($98) at South Moon Under. Spitfire Teddy Boy #2 sunglasses ($39) at Brightside. Street Level crossbody bag ($48) at Brightside. Leaf Scoop Pendant necklace ($16) at Punch. Converse low-tops ($55) at South Moon Under.

It’s time for spring-cleaning, so why not start with your shoe collection? This season is all about style and comfort. From chunky platforms to dainty flats, we’ve gathered the trendiest new styles from some of our favorite local stores.

1. Restricted “Glory” flat ($49.95) at South Moon Under. 2. Eric Michael “Sadie” platform ($132) at Poppy and Stella. 3. Vince Camuto “Tad” in python ($250) at Sassanova. 4. OTBT “Nadia” low platform gladiator ($139.99) at Ma Petite Shoe. 5. Nicole “Maci” wedge sandal ($99.99) at Ma Petite Shoe. 6. Steve Madden “Hilltop” boot in cognac ($99.95) at South Moon Under. 7. Lucky Brand “Emmie” flat ($59) at Poppy and Stella. 8. Dolce Vita “Mazarine” fringe boot ($179) at Poppy and Stella.

The holidays are stressful. Between cooking, cleaning, and shopping, finding the time to pick out the perfect party look can be tricky. Whether you’re attending a family brunch or a fancy office fete, we’ve got you covered with an outfit for each occasion.

Friend Function

Metallic sweater with black trim ($22) at Hunting Ground.

Blank NYC dark denim jeans ($88) at South Moon Under.

Black lucite dangle earrings ($13) at Go-Go’s Retread Threads.

Chinese Laundry black pumps ($79.95) at South Moon Under.

Dinner Date

Ark & Co. romper ($64) at Brightside Boutique.

Gold and silver dolphin brooch ($42) at Go-Go’s Retread Threads.

Circus by Sam Edelman bond black leather boots ($98) at Poppy and Stella.

Family Feast

Everly wine dress ($38) at Sweet Elizabeth Jane.

Beaded collar ($28) at Go-Go’s Retread Threads.

Gold lamé clutch ($22) at Bottle of Bread.

Restricted New Day booties in olive ($75) at Poppy and Stella.

Festive Formal

Laser panel dress ($88) at Hunting Ground.

Sybil metallic clutch ($38) at Poppy and Stella.

Chinese Laundry burgundy pumps ($79.95) at South Moon Under.

Though I had absolutely no control over the timing, having a fall baby has provided a fantastic gestational fashion calendar. It was still cold out when I needed to hide my bump in the nascent pregnancy days, and with the help of belly bands, I cruised into the second trimester still wearing my favorite jeans. As soon as we went public with the news and the temperature promised not to go below 75 for a while, I ditched pants entirely and have spent the summer in dresses and skirts.

Initially, I was intimidated by maternity fashion. It’s a drop in the bucket, time-wise, which makes it difficult to figure out how to spend your clothing budget. But it’s also a really important time, during which your body becomes a science experiment and feeling pretty is both impossible and crucial for your mental health—so you’ve got to make something work.

Late in my first trimester, I tried on almost every dress I own, and with very little exception, I realized I’d spent the past few years accidentally padding my wardrobe with bump-friendly options. My clothes were loose and flowy to begin with, or had enough stretch to both accommodate and accentuate my growing midsection. It’s only in the past week or so that I’ve had to retire a few of my favorite non-maternity options, which is incredible considering I’m due next month and I’ve gained every bit of the recommended weight. I highly recommend taking inventory of what you’ve got; I realize not everyone will find that they’ve been walking around for years dressed like a pregnant person, but I promise you’ll see a few of your outfits in a new light.

Once you’ve assessed your closet situation, invest in a few basics. I purchased the “bundle” from Storq, and it has been become integral to my maternity wardrobe. They send leggings, a tank, a short sleeve dress, and a high-waisted skirt and I’ve been able to style each piece with components of my pre-pregnancy wardrobe. The skirt has become my favorite option because somehow, almost every shirt I own still looks good with it. Button downs get tied off above my waistline, flowier tops are a little snug but hang nicely over my bump, and adding a jean or leather jacket to the look makes me feel more like an adult and less like a baby-stuffed parade float.

For shoppers willing to stalk a good deal, Asos is a pregnant lady’s shopping mecca. Their maternity selection is massive and on-trend, and while overall I think they are reasonably-priced, their site-wide sales are worth waiting for. I’m being as patient as possible to for the next sale to see the prices on this sweater, this swing dress, and this coat, which will all carry nicely into my post-birth clothing collection.

For those of you who don’t love online shopping, try your luck at the Free People and Anthropologie sale racks. Their clothes tend toward the looser, more ethereal end of the fashion spectrum, which is perfect for your expanding torso. I snatched up a few flowy dresses (all for under $40) and, now that my bump has lifted the front hems a little too high for bare leg comfort, I’m excited to transition them into fall with tights and boots. Look for dresses that either have an empire waist or no waist (like a shift dress) or go a size up and purchase something formfitting but with a forgiving spandex-to-regular-fabric ratio.

Pregnancy has also taught me to embrace accessorizing. I spent seven years at an all-girls, Catholic school that adhered to a strict uniform code, and the experience left me wary of sparkly self-expression. (On my first day of college, I remember waiting for the professor to give detention to the girl next to me wearing huge hoop earrings and chewing gum.) Pregnancy has released those fears, however, and now I am super appreciative of the mileage a good necklace can give a simple dress or pair of jeans. Accessories have the added bonus of being just as effective and useful during pregnancy as after, so I deeply encourage using that rationalization while you’re shopping. Try Becket Hitch for clutches, South Moon Under for bold necklaces, and ForRent for comfortable but cool lady sneakers.

And finally, don’t be afraid to borrow. Pregnant people and new moms have so much stuff, and giving second lives to clothes and outgrown baby items is a relief. Take lunch over to your fashionable mom friend and let her reminisce about her pregnancy while you raid her closet. It’ll be good for your wallet and her new mama soul.

Nanette Lepore Mallorca Mosaic halter ($146.50) at South Moon Under.

Huit Sweet Mermaid one-piece ($126) at Bare Necessities.

DKNY neon coral mesh one shoulder one-piece ($104.50) at South Moon Under.

Gideon Oberson black-and-white floral halter one-piece ($174) at Bare Necessities.

Kenneth Cole Reaction aqua printed one-piece ($100) at South Moon Under.

Seafolly black-and-white chevron halter one-piece ($145) at Bare Necessities.

Echo Design beach purple Malibu dot low-back one-piece ($128) at Sassanova.

Aqua green-blue tie-dye one-piece ($39.99) at Target.

Karla Colletto cobalt blue draped-front one-piece ($285) at Bare Necessities.

Fully lined with ever-so-soft-and-warm sheepskin and a durable outsole, these slippers are great for putzing around indoors or dashing outside in comfort and style.
UGG Coquette Rosette slippers ($120) at South Moon Under, 815 Aliceanna St., 410-685-7820.