Monday, January 30, 2012

Frye boots to 'fall' in love with!

Back in 1863, a man by the name of John A. Frye, started a small boot company. With 'quality in craftsmanship' as the company's cornerstone, it is no wonder that the Frye company is the oldest continuously operated shoe company in the United States.

While Frye boots are both fabulous to look at and to wear, a glimpse into their worldwide influence is just as appealing. The signature Frye Harness boot not only holds a coveted spot in American culture, it has also been featured in international fashion spreads!

Various retailers across the country carry Frye boots. From the company's website that features the entire collection (plus their line of shoes, sandals and handbags) to Zappos.com, Nordstrom, and even Bloomingdales, there is no excuse not to pamper your feet with a pair!

Got old Frye boots?

The Marlborough Historical Society is looking for former Frye shoe factory employees, World War II vets who wore Frye boots, and for anyone who might have old Fryes in their attic, vintage boots that may bring back fond memories.

The Frye shoe company, now owned by New York-based Jimlar Corporation will be celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2013 and is currently researching the company’s history for that celebration. The Tarica brothers, Jim and Larry, owners of Jimlar Corporation, are fascinated by the rich history of the old boot company and want to further trace its roots and history.

Frye boots were worn by American troops during World War II, and by college students and hippies through the decades, making them a cultural icon. The Smithsonian Institute, in its search for items to best represent 1960s America, chose a pair of Frye Boots, which proudly remain on display today.

You Can Tattoo Your Boots at Frye’s First-Ever Store in NYC

It only took the Frye Co. about 150 years to open its first retail store. The beloved boot brand, which is perennially popular with people from all walks of life, manages to be both “heritage” and trendy at the same time. The footwear seems so ubiquitous now that it’s hard to believe that there hasn’t been a freestanding store until now.

Opening on August 1 in NYC’s Soho neighborhood, the store is meant to be a reflection of the brand’s history and unique DNA: “worn in, not worn out.” The shop was built of and features antique and repurposed materials; it will be one of the few stores in Soho to be certified by the US Green Building Council. Fixtures are made from iconic elements, like harnesses and bits, with plank floors and lots of brass adding to the charm. The company plans to open stores within the next few years in cities like Los Angeles, Boston, Dallas, Aspen, and London.

If you’re used to buying your Frye’s online with the choice of only a few styles, you will rejoice in the hundreds of styles that will be available in the store (this includes men’s, women’s, kids’, and accessories.) The store will also feature some cool customization options, like boot tattooing and hot stamping. If you already own a pair, you can bring them in for free hot stamping. Designer collaborations are also in the works–though reps were tight-lipped about who was involved–and seasonal offerings, like leather jackets, will rotate through the store.

Whether your taste is a classic motorcycle boot (my generous parting gift from Frye after visiting the store opening) or something more fashion-y, these boots are definitely made for walking.

New Arrivals! Frye Shoes and Boots

It's always exciting when new shipments come in - and lately we've been getting something almost every day! Since not everyone is willing to brave the arctic temperatures to shop, I'll give you a little preview of the awesome boots, clothes & accessories that are new to our sales floors. They're fun, fresh and even bright - a sure way to beat those winter (and post-holiday) blues!

Harness Boot

In a cracked, distressed leather, the Wyatt Harness is our newest arrival from Frye. Picture them paired with black skinnines and a chunky wool sweater... or a feminine frock for a hard/soft combo. Whether you're looking for a shorter ankle boot or a mid-calf style, we have both options for you to incorporate into your winter wardrobe. The best part - these will transition easily into spring too!

Mother May I?

Rules are often broken in the popular children's game Mother May I. "Yes, you may take 3 giant steps forward" usually means run forward as fast as you can. Similarly Mother denim breaks a lot of rules (but in all the right ways!) that has put them leaps and bounds ahead in the denim scene. With impressive washes & creative names like "Honkeytonk Cinderella" and "Maiden & the Unicorn," Mother denim makes you want to be a kid again. 3 new washes & cuts came in this week - one crop, one skinny and one slim boot. With this many choices, it's hard to pick just one.

Leather Love

Recently, our stores seem to be over-flowing with belts - and that's definitely not a bad thing! We just received a huge shipment from Motif 56 full of skinny braided belts and wide leather belts. Wrap them around an oversized sweater to show off your waist or wear one to give your look a subtle update. Either way, you can't go wrong with a Motif 56 belt.

The First Sign of Spring

CP Shades is a brand we all know and love. Their American-made clothing is easy-to-wear, and though we sell the brand year-round, their early spring arrivals always have a way of brightening up our stores. Crisp, white linen blouses, striped tunics, airy dresses and gorgeous mid-length pleated skirts are here... and we couldn't be more happy about it. Wear them now or wear them later - these iconic CP Shades pieces make getting dressed every morning fun (and easy!).

Hues from the Heart

Bright blues and vibrant reds were the theme in our recent Only Hearts shipment. Six new styles of dresses are on our racks - a striped bateau dress (love the long-sleeves!), a tank dress with a cut-out back detail, a simple short-sleeve dress (great for the office!) and even a few printed dresses. If you're looking to add a little cheer to your closet, these dresses are a great place to start. After all, when it comes to Only Hearts, it's okay to wear your heart on your sleeve.

I hope you've enjoyed this quick glimpse of what's new on our shelves. And trust us, this is just the beginning. If you ask me, it's a pretty fabulous start to a much-anticipated spring!