Stylepoints: Shops talk with Target

By Sara Glassman, Star Tribune

September 21, 2012 — 10:29am

Target has already mastered the art of cheap chic fashion, but the Minneapolis-based retailer also knows how to throw a great party.

To celebrate the launch of the latest Shops at Target collections, the bull's-eye retailer hosted a preview event with editors from Vogue and O along with celebrities Hailee Steinfeld, Brooklyn Decker and Jessica Chastain.

They were among the first to get their hands on the collections, inspired by boutiques from across the country -- Kirna Zabete (women's), Odin (men's), the Curiosity Shoppe (trinkets and stationery) and Patch NYC (home).

Beth Buccini, co-owner of Kirna Zabete, said it was an "absolute dream" working with Target. Wearing a leopard-print jumper to the party, she was clearly thrilled with the collection. "It's how to bring downtown cool to America," she said.

You can channel Buccini's sense of style with the pieces of bold prints and colors of the Kirna Zabete for Target collection. She offered this insight to dressing for fall. "I love the rich colors of burgundies, hunter greens and emeralds and the brocades," she said, adding that most important, "it was really a power woman season."

Leveraging fashionFans of the TNT show "Leverage" (8 p.m., Sunday) are familiar with Beth Riesgraf's character, Parker, a quirky former thief who now puts her skills toward good. Like her TV persona, Riesgraf, a model-turned-actress, is all about being a chameleon. Originally from Belle Plaine, she went from a small town to Los Angeles and runways to on-camera. She called us to talk style.

Q What's your character Parker's style like?

A It has sort of varied over the years. She's a mix of tomboy and sweetness, but definitely has an edge to her. When she's in her thief mode she's more streamlined with the jackets, leggings, boots. And then when she's herself, she's comfy. She's the kind of girl who would wear a suit on a con and then go take a nap in it.

Q You were a model and I know you've been to a lot of fashion shows, such as the Tommy Hilfiger show for fall.

A [My best friend] Ilaria Urbinati happened to style that show, too, so it was extra fun. She dressed me head-to-toe in Tommy Hilfiger. That show was very cinematic -- I loved the military vibe they had going.

Q What do you like about fashion?

A I like classic, beautiful, soft patterns and dresses and vintage-inspired dresses. But then I also love very structured, more futuristic looks depending on what the event is. I love fashion, especially as an actress, because it helps tell the story.

Q How has your style changed over the years?

A My style has always sort of been vintage mixed with modern. Over the years it's definitely gotten more sophisticated. I understand cut and structure of what I'm wearing.

Q Since you left Minnesota when you were 13, I bet you've grown quite a bit.

A I remember my first boots were these Punky Brewsters with all kinds of different suede colors and had a neon glow around the heels.

Q Do you have any go-to favorite items now?

A While filming in Portland, I found a drawstring pant that's basically a dressed-up version of sweatpants at this great store Aritzia [aritzia.com]. In real life I have my Isabel Marant suede booties that I've been wearing with jeans, tank tops, and blazers.

Q Are there any fall trends you're excited for?

A I go into moods with fashion, based on films. Like, I'll see "Annie Hall" and then become obsessed with vests and high-waisted trousers. I was watching a lot of French films and all I wanted to do was look like a French girl. I do always tend to go with a good knee boot, a good pair of trousers and a great blazer.

PICK OF THE WEEK

Juicy CoutureMall of America

Juicy Couture used to be all about bedazzled coordinated sweat suits, but that's no longer the case as evidenced by the recently opened store at the Mall of America. The first boutique dedicated to the brand in Minnesota, it offers plenty of feminine takes on fall trends, including lace, plaid and florals and those signature track suits -- everything a girl-on-the-go needs.

SALES + EVENTS

FRIDAY

Askov Finlayson X Hodinkee event: Learn all about extraordinary timepieces from writer and watch expert Jason Heaton of the site hodinkee.com.

6 to 8 p.m., the Bachelor Farmer, 50 N. 2nd Av., Mpls., 612-206-3920; RSVP required to store@askovfinlayson.com.

SATURDAY

Northern Grade: Twin Cities companies J.W. Hulme Co. and Pierrepont Hicks founded this popular men's pop-up shop with all made-in-the-USA merchandise. The two-day event features more than two dozen vendors such as Alial Fital, Duluth Pack, BlackBlue, Greenwich Vintage and Red Wing Heritage.

Noon to 7 p.m., Sat. and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sun., Architectural Antiques, 1330 NE. Quincy St., Mpls., northerngrade.com.

Dessa Lipstick Launch Party: The Elixery, the local eco-friendly makeup line, created a new signature lipstick for songstress Dessa, which will be unveiled at the event.

8 to 10 p.m., $5 cover at the door, Icehouse, 2528 Nicollet Av. S., Mpls., www.elixery.com/dessa

Ann Taylor store opening: Celebrate the latest redesigned Ann Taylor concept store opening with a gift for purchases over $100 as well as music and raffles.

1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Southdale, Edina.