Nouvelle

The Versatility of Pajamas

Posted on November 18 2016

What to do if a wardrobe malfunctions strikes while traveling. Firstly, don't panic; particularly if you're traveling with a beautiful pair of Olivia Von Halle pajamas. I can't be the only one who has made such a blunder; to depart from your hotel & leave half your wardrobe behind in a dresser drawer?! On the upside, it doesn't happen very often. I don't know why I thought my packing was genius & how congratulatory I was in how easily and handily I managed to repack my same bags with room to spare! Spatial awareness, mathematical equation; I don't know, maybe I was tired?

Layering for Autumn

Posted on November 05 2016

If we must proceed into a season of cold - and I am trying to be cheerful about this! - then I'm thankful for the colorful options of layering. If it's time to tuck away sheers, then bringing forth an arm load of camisoles & feeling the deliciously cozy hand of silks, cashmeres, & wool knits; that's sure to bring the sensation of the lips curving upwards into a smile. Hello winter; cashmere coziness, knitwear & a plentitude of opaque leg wear. Over the knees are great with boots, & opaque patterns & washes of rich jewel tone colored tights allow you to continue your love affair with dresses otherwise unable to continue in your wardrobe with the cold weather.

Embracing The Season

Posted on November 01 2016

It's definitely a winter day; it can happen just like that. Yesterday was a blustery day with plenty of rain & occasionally it would change to fat snowy rain; beautiful to watch. Today I'm with two lovely dogs looking out across Lake Tahoe, winds whip coldly & I can see snow dusting the peaks of the mountains that rim the lake. No better time than now to change my wardrobe to reflect the season that's no longer deniably here to stay.

French Style & Lingerie

Posted on October 27 2016

Ah, French Style. The subject of an uncountable number of books, blogs, and magazine articles; so many women are in search of that certain je ne sais quoi that seems to permeate the French culture. As regular visitors to the city of light, we’ve noticed a trend that is largely untouched in conversations about French style, abandoned in favor of tousled tresses and the perfect red lip. We’re happy to share, though. It’s lingerie.

Shop Men's Loungewear

Posted on October 19 2016

Dapper men’s loungewear is now at your fingertips. Over the 26 years Jane’s Vanity has been in business, male clients have often inquired about items they could purchase for themselves. Now they can. These tailored offerings are sensuous and comfortable, perfect for relaxing while sipping your morning espresso or evening scotch. Their exquisite materials and construction offer a lifetime of easy wear, heirloom-quality offerings that will become constant companions over the years.

Robes as Outerwear

Posted on October 02 2016

If there is one trend we are always delighted to see hit the mainstream, it is lingerie as outerwear. With garments this beautiful, who can resist the urge to show them off? We live for pajama dressing, celebrated the return of the slip dress, and shiver with joy every time we see a peek of an intentionally-displayed camisole or bra. We've been poring over Fall's innumerable fashion magazines, and are thrilled to see one of our favorite styles getting the accolades it deserves as outerwear: the robe.

On Lingerie & Imagination

Posted on September 30 2016

There's no place like Munich for finding the perfect dirndl, and I do believe I did! Now you might wonder what this has to do with lingerie, but it does. The upper part of the dirndl is very much structured like a corset to help lift the bust line skyward, but for the final lift upward, a great push-up bra is required. Lucky for me, I travel with an assortment of great lingerie options, and a push-up is always included; she came to the rescue!

Behind the Scenes: Summer Lookbook

Posted on September 22 2016

Fall is officially upon us, but I’m still clinging to the sun and saturation of the Summer months. The transition to dark days and cooler temperatures is always challenging for me, but this year I have a jewel-toned gem to brighten these early fall days: this behind the scenes video of our Summer lookbook with Gia Goodrich.

26 Years of Jane's Vanity

Posted on August 25 2016

26 years of memories is like a museum in my mind. Most of it seems to be total serendipity: landing in Portland Oregon, finding the perfect little jewel box of a storefront on Broadway. I opened Jane's Vanity without a business plan or a budget (I still don't have one today), just determination, desire, & my crazy heart that keeps on beating to my personal mantra: I can do this.

Pre-Fall Transitions

Posted on August 23 2016

Every year, September draws close and we are left to contemplate the transition from summer to fall. While most of the country is still battling blazing temperatures, the novel-sized September fashion magazines are hitting the stands and store windows are filling up with styles that can’t comfortably be worn until winter strikes.

Fortunately, in the world of lingerie, transitioning can easily be a gradual process.

An Ode to Imagination

Posted on August 09 2016

The serene blueness of Lake Tahoe invites the imagination to wander down paths & I found myself meditating on the exquisite fabrics used in Morpho + Luna's sophisticated chic loungewear collections. The shapes are classic but the fabrics are the tipping point to desire.

Behind the Scenes: SS16 Photo Shoot

Posted on August 02 2016

A new video has (finally) been added to our YouTube Video feed: a behind the scenes peek at our Spring/Summer 2016 lingerie and swimwear product shoot! See the model, stylist, makeup artist & photographer work together to create the perfect images to showcase some truly beautiful products, all of which are now available for purchase in our online boutique.

Three Years Ago

Posted on July 29 2016

Three years ago today, after nearly 23 years on SW Broadway in Portland, the Jane’s Vanity storefront closed her doors. The transition from a physical retail location to an online and events based business has been lengthy and challenging. Jane and myself were left to completely relearn the business she began, and to attempt to present a luxurious and personal shopping experience in a fast-paced digital era.

Jane's Love Affair With Pajamas

Posted on July 26 2016

I've been thinking about my love affair with Olivia Von Halle's terrific loungewear collection. I remember meeting Olivia at the London market The Lingerie Collective in 2012, and I'm pretty sure I was her first US stockist. She completely embodies her collection; she skyscapingly tall, beautiful, & fun spirited, just like her gorgeous prints. Each season I think, she cannot top the last one, & yet she does!

The World of Loungewear

Posted on July 18 2016

In the film playing during the V&A exhibit “Undressed: A Brief History of Underwear”, the creative director for La Perla said “…Loungewear is the perfect bridge between the inner and the outer world. It's a way to take out the boundaries and to allow people to feel good.” This so perfectly encapsulates the way that Europeans view loungewear.

Set Our Hearts on Fire

Posted on July 15 2016

People often ask, & again someone recently inquired; what is it you're looking for when you attend the lingerie markets? It is always the same answer, I'm looking for inspiration & beauty; something new that will set our hearts on fire.

Linen & Cotton SALE

Posted on July 10 2016

The heat of summer is upon us. In the season of the sun, it is vital to know how to keep your cool – and, more challengingly, how to do so fashionably. We’re here to help. From July 10^th-23^rd, take 30% off all garments made of linen or cotton by entering code BEATTHEHEAT at checkout.

Designer Spotlight: Dana

Posted on July 06 2016

One of the most beloved designers we have ever carried, Dana Pisarra has won legions of loyal fans in our customer base. These women have learned first hand the versatility of Dana’s designs, and eagerly await the latest seasonal offerings that they can add to their extensive collections of colors and styles.

The Coolness of Whites

Posted on June 24 2016

It was just a few short days ago that I was sitting in my garden in our home in Italy; sun was shining, I was embracing the warmth of summer, & suddenly the coolness of whites made such good sense. White & every shade that slips into the pastels invokes a soothing coolness to counterbalance the assault of the sun. You might gather, I'm not a sun worshipper! Anything that will help with even the illusion of cool, I embrace.

Jane's Ode to Color

Posted on June 15 2016

There is something about color & patterns I find to be so soothing & peculiarly calming; white walls have the exact opposite effect on me; they are disquietingly alarming. Now you may find this strange, but I feel the same way regarding my lingerie. Bold colors, quirky designs, that may be too zingy in my outerwear attire, I find completely comforting, under wraps & just for my knowledge & the pleasing calm it brings to my mood.

Bridal: Behind the Scenes

Posted on June 02 2016

Lingerie & romance: has there ever been a better match? While we fully believe in wearing lingerie for your own pleasure, we hold a special place in our hearts for garments worn for special occasions, forever imbued with the memory of their first wearing. This is one of the many reasons that we love procuring lingerie for wedding nights or honeymoons. These treasures celebrate the height of love, and will forever remind the wearer of that special time and place.

Bralettes and Travel

Posted on May 23 2016

I travel a lot, in fact I often say my home is up in the skies. I for one do not wish to sleep in an underwire bra, anything that alleviates the discomfort of hours confined in a small location such as an airplane seat qualifies as a godsend; thank heavens for soft cup bras! They are great travel companion & easily packable. Just one of the many reasons they should never be overlooked in your lingerie wardrobe. We have some beautiful editions in stock for your summer travels.

Bralettes For All

Posted on May 19 2016

No underwire? No problem. The lingerie trend towards bralettes has been steadily growing, influencing even the most unlikely of lingerie behemoths. And what’s not to love? With a vast array of beautiful styles and the added comfort of being underwire free, we can see why triangle bras are in the fashion forefront. Here are some tips for embracing the trend, and a few of our favorite offerings!

The Water Trilogy: Part III

Posted on May 13 2016

You might have a clue by now, that I like water. I like to drink it, bathe in it, & swim in it. I've heard that water is a metaphor for emotions; I rather like that thought. It's true; water can quench your thirst, soothe your soul, & of course, there is what I like to refer to, as the zen of swimming.

The Water Trilogy: Part II

Posted on May 07 2016

Now the question of stepping out of the bath & what to slip into. I'm usually on fire from soaking in extremely warm water for an extended period. So after toweling, I reach for a breathable silk or cotton robe. Wrapped in the perfect slip of a robe, I'm ready to contemplate my next move into the world with a sense of serenity brought to you by the miracle of a bath; not such an exaggeration after all!

The Water Trilogy: Part I

Posted on May 06 2016

Finally, the season of outdoor swimming is approaching & I can once again broaden my field of options. I always travel with more than one swimsuit, they take so little room in your luggage for the return pleasure. Plus often swimwear can be integrated into wardrobe beyond swim.

An Ode to Womanhood

Posted on April 28 2016

Mother's Day is right around the corner, and with it comes an important reminder to celebrate all the women in our lives - mothers or no. Take a moment to think of the women that have loved, nurtured & inspired you throughout your life. From sisters to lovers, mothers to friends, we all get our consolation and encouragement from different female voices.

Easy Ways to Check Bra Fit: Comfort Is Key

Posted on April 20 2016

We’ve all heard the scare stories about the huge percentage of women wearing the wrong bra size. From Oprah to magazines to newspaper headlines, the world has been in an uproar about bra fit for a number of years now. The question remains: how do you know if your bra fits correctly? This segment of our three-part blog series is focused on one of the most controversial elements of bra fit, yet one of the most important: comfort.

Easy Ways to Check Bra Fit: The Cup

Posted on April 19 2016

We’ve all heard the scare stories about the huge percentage of women wearing the wrong bra size. From Oprah to magazines to newspaper headlines, the world has been in an uproar about bra fit for a number of years now. The question remains: how do you know if your bra fits correctly? This second segment of our three-part blog series is focused on one of the trickiest parts of the bra to fit: the cup.

Easy Ways to Check Bra Fit: The Band

Posted on April 18 2016

We’ve all heard the scare stories about the huge percentage of women wearing the wrong bra size. From Oprah to magazines to newspaper headlines, the world has been in an uproar about bra fit for a number of years now. The question remains: how do you know if your bra fits correctly? This segment of our three-part series is focused on one of the hardest-working pieces of a bra: the band.

When Velvet Meets Spring

Posted on April 10 2016

One of the reasons I don't mind the seesaw weathers of early spring is the opportunity to retrieve a beloved item from your wardrobe & pull it forward in a new fashion. I absolutely love my Gilda & Pearl velvet jackets, & they are sliding into my Spring wardrobe in very clever ways. There are a myriad of possibilities when velvet meets Spring!

Spring Favorites from Fleur of England

Posted on April 08 2016

The latest arrivals from Fleur of England have solidified the shift to Spring in our Portland atelier. We can always count on this UK-based brand for opulently romantic styles, and look forward to the fashionable twists on classic silhouettes that Fleur releases each season.

Basics of Lingerie Care

Posted on April 07 2016

One of the most common inquiries about lingerie is that of care. Caring for your lingerie, loungewear & hosiery is vital: proper care and storage are the only way to enjoy the full lifespan of any piece. Below we address three of the main elements of lingerie care, which include cleaning, storage & wear.

Meet The "Real" Jane

Posted on April 05 2016

Jane began her life in St. Paul, a normal enough infant until as a tiny little girl she was abducted by a swarm of giant Minnesota mosquitoes and carried away to the wilderness and lakes of Northern Minnesota.

The Budding of Spring

Posted on March 28 2016

Out on the trails with my dogs, I've been watching the budding of spring. Buds begin their thrust to openness with an intense saturation of color. I think that's why I gravitate to strong colors in my underpinnings this time of year, to propel me into & through the gray days; with the fervent hope that the sun will surely shine again.

Glamour & Seduction: The Robe

Posted on March 24 2016

There is nothing quite like the insouciant glamour of the robe. The sensation of slipping into a robe is that of total ease, which lends it self to a comfortable confidence that is inherently seductive. Whether it's after a hot bath or immediately upon returning home for the night, slipping into a robe is the perfect way to signal your body to relax.

The Scent of a Memory

Posted on March 19 2016

I'm thinking of fragrance & what a gift of the senses it is. It evokes both mood & memory. It got me thinking about how symbiotic scent is to memory & place. The scent of a memory can also be held in a beloved garment, imprinted by the power of a moment; when time stood still. May we all be on the scent of a trail that brings us back to joy.

Lingerie as Self Care

Posted on March 18 2016

Wearing beautiful lingerie for your self alone is the ultimate form of self care, an indulgence in your self worth that isn’t physically apparent to the world at large. Just as the female form is not inherently sexual, the things we place closest to it are also without implicit connotations. Allow yourself the pleasure of wearing beautiful lingerie and feel your self confidence soar.

Artist Spotlight: Shae Detar

Posted on March 11 2016

Today’s artist spotlight features Shae Detar, whose painted photographs seem to usher in another world, most often showcasing the female form. Her style is varied and evocative; some pieces ethereal, others assertive. Shae was kind enough to agree to answer some questions for Jane’s Vanity; this exchange is detailed below.

The Power of Mystery

Posted on March 08 2016

I woke up in a strange dreamland called Riyadh Saudi Arabia, only I wasn't dreaming. Very different culture. I slipped into an abaya before I stepped out the door to mingle in the exterior exotic landscape of Saudi Arabia. The abaya created a mystery; & that got me thinking about the equally amazing power of lingerie.

An Ode to the Slip

Posted on March 06 2016

For decades the slip was a daily wardrobe necessity, and yet somehow it has slipped out of fashion in recent years. Layering a slip under your clothes can add warmth in cool weather, modesty to un-lined apparel, and a hint of intrigue when you opt to let pattern or lace become a visible part of your ensemble.

Colors Invitation to Mood

Posted on March 04 2016

What's your favorite color? Oh never mind, mine's always changing. That's what I love about the intimate world of lingerie, you can change your mind depending on your mood & no ones the wiser!

Styles for Spring

Posted on February 23 2016

Whether you’re fortunate enough to live in a climate where the sun is already shining, planning ahead for the sunnier season, or packing up for a tropical vacation, these styles will spice up your Spring lingerie wardrobe. Breathable, packable, and anything but warm, these designs were meant for sunshine!

Chasing The Grey Days Away

Posted on February 20 2016

On days like today, I take great comfort in the abundance of layering potentials that will allow me to participate in the day, no matter what the weather throws my way! I'm staying warm & changing my mood & the way I present myself to the world. One day at a time, winter can be won over.

The Cost of Quality

Posted on February 18 2016

One of the most common commentaries that Jane’s Vanity faces, especially on social media, is that of cost. Why are our products so expensive? In this particular case, the old adage “you get what you pay for” definitely applies: you are paying the cost of quality.

In The Mood for Romance

Posted on February 11 2016

In the mood for romance… It starts with just that. Maybe it's the luxuriousness of silk against the skin as soft as a caress. The transformative powers we imbue in our wardrobe that is closest to the skin should never be underestimated as our truest allies in creating a mood.

Designer Spotlight: Meng

Posted on February 10 2016

There was no way we could pass by the Meng booth at the Salon International de la Lingerie in Paris without going in. Rail upon rail of exquisitely printed silks were an irresistible siren call, and it didn’t take long for Jane and I to fall head-over-heels for this truly luxurious collection.

A Love Letter to Yourself

Posted on February 06 2016

It is the high season of romance as February 14 approaches. It's the day we culturally acknowledge love. It's the day I like to think we recalibrate our relationship to love & its importance in our life. Valentines Day is not only for lovers but for all who hold love in their heart. Celebrate in a way that brings you joy.

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