This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Business & Tech

Looking to Spice Up Your Wardrobe? Two Chatham Boutiques Have the Answer

The owners of Bliss and d.j. crater discuss 2010 fashion trends.

Every woman should have the primary staples of a wardrobe that never go out of fashion. Blue jeans, solid colored tops, and classic pumps are always in style.

But it's the fashionable trends that add that extra flair to an outfit and that make you go from ordinary to extraordinary with every changing season. Two boutiques in Chatham have the pieces and know how to help you start the year off right with a little more pizzazz.

The four-year old Bliss boutique on South Passaic Avenue has a friendly atmosphere where customer service is clearly paramount. Owner Lori Ann Medico changes her stock every week, but is constantly circulating the hottest looks.

Interested in local real estate?Subscribe to Patch's new newsletter to be the first to know about open houses, new listings and more.

"Dresses and tunics—some people call them tresses," said Medico. "These are great paired with leggings, tights and boots."

Oversized sweaters are also popular with tight-fitting pants this season.

Interested in local real estate?Subscribe to Patch's new newsletter to be the first to know about open houses, new listings and more.

Along the accessory line, layered jewelry is still a seasonal must-have. Apart from the different length necklaces, Bliss carries stackable rings that can be mixed and matched to make different combinations and create an elegant layered look on your finger.

With its ever-changing stock, Bliss guarantees unique pieces for affordable prices perfect for the fashion forward gal.

A spring preview provided by Medico shows the most popular color to come: turquiose.

A second boutique has been in Chatham for a bit longer. Main Street's d.j. crater, a 27-year old veteran boutique, is owned by Doris Crater, who certainly knows what she's talking about when it comes to local fashion.

This boutique has a warm, homey atmosphere. It has been inviting customers back for years.

Crater is a fan of combining plaid with sparkling jewelry. Doing so, she said, is now trendy.

"Mixing fancy with sporty," said Crater. "Plaid is flattering on most body types and transcends ages." 

The boyfriend sweater, which is long, unshaped and super comfortable, is also popular.

For those who want to stay out of men's closets and keep a girly style, soft-looking feminine tops are also in vogue. And if you're looking for bottoms to go with your shirt, jeans are always a classic.

"Boot leg will always be in fashion, but straight leg is the current trend," said Crater.

Crater also recommends layered necklaces for accessories and promotes the use of pearls accompanied by metal. Oversized bags are also still all over the shelves.

Crater's prediction for the spring: "A lot of neutral [gray and tan] knits."

So if you're looking to spice up your wardrobe with a few choice selections to follow the trends, either one of these boutiques can help you stand out and show your fashionable side.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?