Some people just have an incredible presence no matter what they’re wearing. It’s instantly noticeable and most often has more to do with attitude and body language than anything else. But, a fashionable wardrobe definitely comes into play as these individuals have usually figured out what works for them – and use the knowledge to choose well when building or editing personal ensembles. Our CLOSET ENVY series is all about getting up close and personal with these personalities, and (of course) sharing the best details with you. Meet Elizabeth Allen.
If you can see through the tourist lined sidewalks in the Gulch, you may have seen the name e.Allen scrolled across one of the buildings. Elizabeth Allen is the founder of e.Allen, a stylish upscale women’s clothing boutique, a staple in the Gulch. Although she majored in biology and minored in chemistry, her passion for style is what led her to open her first location in Murfreesboro in 2008. This mother of three built her store on the principle of quality versus quantity and notes she is drawn to versatile, timeless pieces while injecting affordable more trendy items that won’t break the bank. Known for her sense of style and bubbly fun personality, her street cred in the fashion circuit around town is no joke as she has one of the most covetable closets (and great smelling as she often burns Jo Malone ‘s Peony & Blush Suede candle) in Nashville. In fact, at the shoot we heard some rustling around in the adjoining closet and jokingly asked her, “who are you keeping in the other closet?” It was none other than The Home Edit! They had transformed her closet the day prior and were there again to work on her husband’s. Anytime we couldn’t find something, we just shouted into the other closet and they popped their head out to direct Elizabeth where a shoe was or that favorite bag was hidden. We gushed over her prized possession, a Celine leather jacket with a to-die-for red lining (covet this) that was purchased on a trip to France, bonded over our love of Westman Atelier make-up (her go-to gift for friends), and had the most fun playing dress-up for this style filled shoot. She is an extraordinary well-dressed, ultimate girl boss and we are excited to share a peek into her oh-so fashionable world below!
IN THE CLOSET
Hero Items: A floral maxi dress, my Balmain blazer, my favorite pair of Mother denim, and my chunky chain necklace.
Daily Uniform: It varies but usually consists of something like this…denim, a neutral top, great shoes, wavy hair, minimal makeup, and a neutral lip. I also love an oversized, flowy dress.
My Look: Effortlessly chic. Classic with a modern twist.
Best Closet Organization Trick: Hire The Home Edit.
Hanging Up: Matching, thin velvet hangers.
Item (s) You Will Own Forever: My blazers and leather jackets! They are so classic.
Look That Will Never Go Out Of Style: A power suit! I love a menswear item for women.
Packing Essentials: My skincare regimen.
Capsule Collection: Denim, white button-up top, white v-neck tee, blazer, leather jacket.
Trend You Are Most Excited To See Go: Sweats! Don’t get me wrong, I love a Sunday sweats/PJ day…but ladies get out of the sweats everyday!
Collector: I do love bags. I change out my handbag several times a week, and really think they can make an outfit. Functionality is important!
Day Bag: A structured bag. I am a busy mom, so like to have a larger bag for day time, and even sometimes toss a smaller one in it. I love my Celine Tote for this.
Evening Bag: My Gucci Horsebit clutch in red, for it’s pop of color!
PERSONAL STYLE
Online Shopping: Moda Operandi, Shop Bop, Saks.
Spring Crush: At e.Allen we picked up the brand Sundays a few seasons ago. I literally almost buy the entire line, with minimal edits, because it is so good! Regardless of how old you are, or how you spend your time, it stands the test of time. I am also currently loving hair accessories…hair scarves, head scarves, Lele Sadoughi headbands, and pearl clips.
Go-To Designers: For Spring and Summer, I appreciate light, packable pieces, that don’t cause too much of a fuss. I love AGOLDE cut off’s, Michael Stars tees, Lack Of Color hats, Rails or Bella Dahl button ups, and Misa for flirty, flowy prints. Another ‘tried and true’ favorite is French Connection. They always hit the high notes on their collections.
Best Style Tip: Confidence is the best style….exude confidence in whatever you choose to wear!
Scent: Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede, Gucci Bloom, and Coco Chanel Mademoiselle. I often layer these!
Accessory + How To Rock It: My diamond cross necklaces. I love to layer them together or with other necklaces. I always have on at least one cross.
My Motto: Be NICE. Do or say something kind everyday.
Shoes: I definitely don’t discriminate with shoe styles…they all have their place. I can’t pick a favorite brand. It changes from season to season with what they have going on. Boutique priced, Dolce Vita really corners the market in my opinion. They typically have all the current on-style trends and last several seasons, but you don’t feel bad for editing them from your collection. I always tell people Stuart Weitzman does a great job with their collections, they are well made, mid-priced, and comfortable. Bottega Veneta has been a designer I have had fun with over the past few seasons too. I love their textures, and vibrant colors.
Fashion Icon: I love the ease of Olivia Palermo’s style! She’s classic, feminine, and evolving. I appreciate how she mixes styles, while staying true to a timeless look.
Always Bulk Buying: Nécessaire body wash, lotion, body serum, and deodorant.
Favorite Local Places To Shop: e.Allen boutique, duh (ha)! I also love H. Audrey’s selections.
Jewelry: I really enjoy a mix of collection here. I definitely have my fair share of fine jewelry and watches, but I enjoy mixing with pieces I may not care to keep forever. For everyday I love layering dainty necklaces, bracelets, rings. Evening, I enjoy a statement earring.
Wardrobe Wishlist: A new trench coat. My current one is really structured, and I’d love a more effortless fit.
Trend You Are Loving Lately: Sets! Quarantine really kicked these into gear, and lines are really perfecting them. They are cozy, chic, and so versatile. It is amazing to have the option to wear together or break them up.
Best Splurge: My Celine navy leather jacket, that has a red lining. I was visiting Paris, and wanted a special piece to remember our trip-this was it!
Worst Splurge: Christian Louboutin’s in styles that weren’t classic or just ridiculously uncomfortable. I am a big believer in sticking with styles you can wear over and over, year after year. It is just a better return on investment.
Loungewear: I am a self proclaimed PJ snob. I love matching PJ’s and robes. My favorite brands are Natori for silks, and Skin or Rails for cotton pieces. I also love Mason Grey.
SHOP ELIZABETH’S LOOK IN NASHVILLE:
