Helene M. Fashion Blog

by Kristen Ockenfels

Hola ladies! Have you shopped in our Portland store within the last year? If so, chances are you’ve met Emily! If not, I’d like to introduce you to my right-hand gal. I think she’s fabulous and you will, too! She’s got a great eye, is super sweet, and will have you leaving with a smile whether you buy something or not! So let’s get to it - here’s a little Q&A with Emily:

We know you’re Emily, tell us more!

Hmmm… I was born and raised in Maine. I’m a full-time student at USM working toward a degree in Art.  This is hard (smiling) - I have two kitties that I love! I love working in Portland, it’s one of my favorite cities!

How did you start working at Helene m?

I’ve been shopping here for years! I mostly worked with Liana and one day asked if she was hiring and ironically she had just posted an ad on craigslist. After hearing that I told her that she needed to hire me (laughing) and was hired a week later.

What do you love about retail?

My favorite part is meeting all types of people. One of the best feelings is when you help someone find an outfit and you make them feel happy and confident. To me, that’s priceless. My coworkers have been huge influences on my life and style - I’ve made amazing friends here!

5 faves on the sales floor now:

Ohhhhhhh (laughing) - that’s like choosing between ice cream, I like them all! Beth Bowley striped skirt with piping. Alice and Olivia chevron print dress. Bella Dahl anything! I’m totally obsessed. Beth Bowley high-low dress. White and Warren t-back cardigan in cashmere or cotton.

What are 3 things things we don’t know about you?

Ok - hmmm… People think I’m a crazy cat lady but I actually wish I could get a dog but I don’t have the time! When I was 12 my family and I went on a trip to El Salvador and that experience changed my life. My guilty pleasure are Big Macs!

Any advice or comments for our customers?

My biggest piece of advice is to go with your first reaction or instinct. Those reactions have led me to some of my favorite pieces in my wardrobe. Have fun with fashion! It’s good to have your staples but I also think it’s important to mix in something that’s exciting.

Stop by the Portland store and say hello to Emily - see you soon! xxo

by Kristen Ockenfels

Hello ladies! We’ve been busy, busy with new arrivals this past week. Just yesterday we received our first spring delivery of G1 (we only carry the line during spring/summer months) - a sure sign that warmer temps are upon us! Although it’s never a good time to ditch the denim, it’s always fun to set our jeans aside and go for softer, lighter bottoms like khaki, linen, and soft twill. Take a look at these cool hues:

{Left to Right: Michael Stars ‘Tee’ scarf; French Connection ‘Veronica’ sweater; G1 ‘Reporter’  chino - Tory Burch ‘Brigitte’ blouse, J Brand ‘Skinny’ in blush - Michael Stars ‘Calypso’ scarf; Tory Burch ‘Orrin’ linen tunic; G1 ‘Pencil’ chino; AJ Morgan sunglasses & Portia Pearls}

Happy May 1st - see you soon! xxo