Kismet in the News...

5280, The Denver Magazine   April 1, 2013

Kismet has been featured in 5280's April "Where to Shop Now" issue on page 53!

Go here for: A just-right gift for that friend with discriminating taste.

Editor’s pick: Single buck Tano Chicklit wallet in curry, $103.

The details: For seven years, Shana Colbin Dunn has been filling her shelves with gorgeous leather handbags, weathered-cool jewelry (we covet the delicate semiprecious rings from Brooklyn designer Emily Amey), and sassy scarves to complete any outfit.

In the know: Like Kismet on Facebook and get a first look at new arrivals!

Find it:
Lowry Town Center, 200 Quebec St, Bldg 500, Unit 101 |  303-366-0513;
Highlands 3640 W. 32nd. Ave, Denver, CO  | 303-477-3378;
Streets at Southglenn, 2154 E. Commons Ave, Centennial  | 720-335-6496,
kismetaccessories.com

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See us featured in Denver Life!
Winter 2013
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FASHION

5 Tips: How to use accessories to update your fall wardrobe

 

POSTED:   10/04/2012 12:01:00 AM MDT

By Suzanne S. Brown
The Denver Post

 

Italca scarf, $52, and cowl-neck Wooden Ships ruana, $92. (Cyrus McCrimmon | The Denver Post )

Accessories have the ability to update and transform a wardrobe, alternately lending edge and attitude, or refinement and sophistication. Shana Colbin Dunn knows this only too well, having spent years as a wholesale representative before opening her own store almost seven years ago. That gave Dunn both the experience to know what's in the market as well as a chance to hone her sense of style and figure out what would appeal to her customers.

She describes her store, Kismet, as selling "boho cowboy chic" — clothing, jewelry, belts, bags and more that appeal to Colorado women. Dunn originally focused on accessories at her store at 3640 W. 32nd Ave. in the Highlands shopping district because a good friend on the same block was selling clothing. That store has since moved on and Dunn now carries apparel in addition to accessories. She's also branched out and has stores at the Streets at Southglennas well as Lowry Town Center.

Echo hat and fingerless gloves, $32 each. (Cyrus McCrimmon | The Denver Post )

What you'll find in her stores is a lot of color, from camisoles and cardigans to handbags and jewelry. She avoids black and anything too basic — the idea is to add a little something special to enliven an outfit, not dull it down. Here are some of her tips on items to update your fall wardrobe. Photos by Cyrus McCrimmon, The Denver Post

1. A knit scarf or layering piece. Ruanas capes, vests, shawls and wraps all come in handy when it's not cold enough to require a heavy coat but you need something to take the chill off. It may have taken a few years, but American women have joined the Italian and French in embracing the scarf as an essential finishing touch to an outfit. For fall, long but lightweight styles are great because they can be tied in multiple ways without being too bulky.

Christy Lea Payne triple-strand half-choker, $115. (Cyrus McCrimmon | The Denver Post )

2. A colorful hat and gloves.  nstantly update a fall outfit with color and pattern. Among the colors Dunn likes this year are teal and orange. Echo's knit cap and fingerless gloves (perfect for texting) fit the bill, particularly when in a pattern motif, or with such details as ruching.

3. A convertible necklace. Jewelry that can be worn multiple ways is going to add versatility to your wardrobe. Among Dunn's favorites in this category are necklaces by Colorado designer Christy Lea Payne. Payne's half-choker necklaces with semi-precious stones can be purchased in single, double or triple strands and can be worn long, midlength or as a short necklace. "They're also necklaces that you can wear every day," Dunn says.

Ayala Bar earrings, $97. (Cyrus McCrimmon | The Denver Post )

4. Statement earrings. The bold necklace has been around for a while, so as a different kind of accent, try unusual drop earrings. Kismet carries a variety of pieces from Israeli designerAyala Bar, who combines various materials, colors and patterns in a single design. "They go with everything," Dunn says.

5. A clutch bag. This season, handbags are either small — the handy and functional clutch — or big, as in a tote large

Latico Lidia clutch, $112. All items from Kismet. (Cyrus McCrimmon | The Denver Post )

enough to hold work papers, a laptop, lunch and an extra pair of shoes. Dunn likes the idea of a colorful clutch (with an optional strap when you want to wear it as a cross-body bag or over your shoulder) for carrying money, cards, keys and a phone. And it can be slipped into your larger bag for going to and from work or errands, then pulled out when you don't need to haul the entire load.

 

Have a fashion issue we can help you solve? Contact Suzanne S. Brown: 303-954-1697, sbrown@denverpost.com

5 Tips: How to use accessories to update your fall wardrobe - The Denver Posthttp://www.denverpost.com/lifestyles/ci_21691073/accessories-are-an-inexpensive-way-update-fall-wardrobe#ixzz28KHb6W5R
 

5280, The Denver Magazine   June 7, 2012

Trend: Americana

Maybe it’s the upcoming Summer 2012 Olympic Games—or the fact that all-American designer Ralph Lauren has created the closing-ceremony uniforms for our athletes—but fashion is having a moment with all things red, white, and blue. From denim shorts to flag-embellished tank tops, this summer's looks are all about showing off your patriotic style. Check out some of our favorite pieces inspired by classic Americana.


MZ Wallace’s killer combo of modern shapes, clean hardware, and functionality (lots of pockets!) makes these Teflon-coated nylon bags a NYC fashion staple. Look chic carrying the lightweight Bianca (pictured, right)—a rounded version of the classic bucket-shape tote—that can be hand-held or worn cross-body.

Get it: $375, Kismet, 3640 W. 32nd Ave., 303-477-3378, kismetaccessories.com

(read the whole article at http://www.5280.com/blogs/2012/06/07/trend-americana )

Reign Magazine

Premier Issue
 

Summer 2012

It's in the Bag

They say the perfect man is hard to find. Respectfully, we disagree. while we have the gent of our dreams it's the handbag of our dreams that's been missing. And so we were starry eyed when we stumbled into Kismet's new(ish) Lowry location and found MZ Wallace. The brainchild of former stylist/editor Monica Zwirner and Lucy Wallace Eustice, MZ Wallace delivers all the oomph a gal could want without sacrificing one bit of function. We're smitten with the signature Bedford line, a perfectly conceived collection of Teflon coated nylon bags. With three exterior pockets and six interior pockets that fit everything from your lipgloss to your iPhone, the "Jane" bag ($355 and the company's best seller) is the does-it-all number for which we've been missing. Large enough to fit an iPad or a 13-inch laptop, but small enough to comfortably tote around town, these bags hit the mark. What's more, the detachable wristlet that's tucked away inside is perfect for transitioning to evening. Little details like the Italian leather trim and protective leather feet are indicative of Wallace Eustice's past life at Manolo Blahnik and the line's trend right looks play homage to Zwirner's stints as stylist for likes of Gucci and Clinique.  choose from a fresh palette of colors like cayenne, peacock and clover, or go for basic black. MZ Wallace, available at Kismet, 200 Quebec Street in Lowry Town Center, Ring 303.366.0513 or kismetaccessories.com

Dec. 14, 2011

REIGN MAKER Shana Colbin Dunn

1.  My African Dance class on Saturday mornings elevates me to a different world. I am in awe of the immense strength, concentration and coordination it takes to make African dancing look easy. Just to have a small taste of this empowering and inspiring culture through dance is an honor and a privilege.
    
2. The only “real” piece of art that I have. I purchased it from an exhibit that I went to at the Denver Botanic Gardens. They were featuring stone sculptures crafted in Zimbabwe and the company that represents the artists, Chapungu, had a small tent filled with pieces available for purchase. I keep it in the back yard and and I can just sit and gaze at its beauty and complexity.
    
3. 3.I try to support restaurants in the Denver community that focus on local and organic foods. By buying from local farmers, they help keep them in business, not to mention, fresh, organic food tastes so delicious! To name a few, Watercourse and City O’ City, Root Down, Frank Bonanno’s restaurants; Izakaya, Ototo and Sushi Den; Potager, Fusion, Devil’s Food and many more! YUM!
    
4. Michael Pollan’s book, The Omnivore’s Dilemma should be re-named Shana’s bible. I adore his writing, his content, and his steadfast dedication to the cause of saving our food and our farmers. He’s my hero!
    
5. My custom jewelry from the Kismet Charm Bar made for me by Denver jeweler Christy Lea Payne! We’ve had such fun at the store with our charm bar, where customers can come in and build their own necklaces on the spot by choosing from several designers or they can customize their own piece from our extensive custom section. Either way, no two ever come out alike and, coming soon, we are offering the whole collection online!
    
6. Everything about the Style Section of the New York Times Sunday edition. From Bill Cunningham’s pictures of NYC pedestrians to the entertaining and delightful narrative of the Modern Love Column, I try to read the style section every week from cover to cover.
    
7. There’s nothing like the Aubrey Organics skin care line. They offer everything from hair care to sunscreen to everyday cleansing. It’s hard to find, but Vitamin Cottage usually has them in stock. I go for the sensitive skin collection!
    
8. These boots are made for walkin’. I love these Fiorentini and Baker boots (psst. I hear you can get them at Strut!). They were a definite splurge that I’ll enjoy for many years to come.
    
9. Hail Merry Chocolate Almond Butter Miracle Tart…the yummiest healthy desert I have ever tasted! I found them at Vitamin Cottage. The perfect match made in heaven! Raw almond butter and dark chocolate so decadent and creamy you won’t believe it’s actually good for you! It’s like a healthy Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup!

 

 

 

 

5280.com Fashion Insider

 

Accessory Pick: Summer Hats

Whether you're rocking this summer's 1970s vibe or just wanting to stay out of the sun, investing in a floppy, oversize hat (like the ones from Onigo Imports) is a chic way to revamp your look mid-season. Our favorites are made of hand-dyed raffia from Madagascar. The moldable brims let the wearer easily change the shape or even roll them up for packing--a traveler's godsend. The striking colors are just plain fun--the perfect buy for a little summer pick-me-up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tips and Trends from

5280 magazine's Georgia Benjou,

Fashion Insider

 

Trend: Camel 

 

The theme of our style page in this month's print edition of 5280 is camel, which is turning out to be one of the major color trends for fall 2010. Seen prominently in designer collections--from Michael Kors in New York to Céline in Paris--its resurgence comes just as the fashion momentum for classic, 1970s American sportswear hits overdrive. 

 

 

Read Boulder designer Carol Ann Wachter's tips on how to wear this not-so-easy hue in the magazine, then check local stores for our wardrobe picks: A lightweight knit poncho gives camel's tailored demeanor a bohemian edge. Wooden Ships wool, mohair, and acrylic knit cowl neck poncho (pictured).

 

LA VIE CHERIE MAG

Posted by Trina George on October 23, 2009

I seem to run into the greatest places when I don't mean to. Strolling along the historic highlands area of northeast Denver, on my way to meet a friend for a glass of wine, I fell upon a unique jewelry lover's dream; Kismet.

The curious name wasn't the reason it caught my eye, but it did explain how I had stumbled upon a boutique gem. Kismet is Turkish for destiny or meant to be, and it was in fact destiny for me to stumble upon this accessory store.

Shana Colbin Dunn, a former jewelry rep from New York City, started Kismet three years ago. She decided she would set her store apart by being a boutique that only sold accessories and home decor.

By only selling accessories, her jewelry selection is extensive, from $15 jeweled studs to $250 Jeanine Payer pendant necklaces. With over 200 pieces in the store, you are bound to find your perfect jewelry piece, most likely more then one.

Kismet has a wide variety of home decor including metal creations made by Dunn's husband as well as stand-out picture frames and unique vases.    

Even with all the wonderful displays and tempting wearables, I was late to meet my friend and exited the store without a purchase. But while catching up with my friend and swirling the glass of Shiraz in my hand, I couldn't stop thinking about a necklace I had fallen for.

After I hugged my friend goodbye, I returned to the necklace that caught my attention; a Kathy Bransfield necklace with coin shape compass pendant covering a second circular pendant that reads "I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul."

As I purchased this distinct piece of wearable art, the sales woman said, "You just couldn't walk away could you?"

I replied, "No. I just kept thinking about it."

She just smiled at me.

That is why Kismet stays in business and is even building a new store. Because the pieces are irresistible and you might just find that accessory that was meant to be.

5280 Magazine's "Atmosphere - Fashion"
By Georgia Benjou; Photography by Joe Hancock
Kismet was featured in Denver's 5280 Magazine June 2008 issue in the "Atmosphere Fashion" section (page 46). Our World Traveler bracelet made the "Pool Party" apparel list!

May 08, 2008

Spotlight on Mom

It certainly doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg to show Mom you care this Mother's Day -- although if you have the cash, you sure can score some beautiful, keepsake items. In case you haven't done your shopping yet, here are few fashionable ideas for Mom.

Kismet, a local boutique at 3640 West 32nd Avenue in Highland, carries unique jewelry. If your mom is the type who appreciates one-of-a-kind artisan pieces, this is the shop for you. Two nice, very different choices:

Sterling silver wrapped square drop earring with blue topaz and chalcedony. $194, by Dana Kellin -- an artist out of Los Angeles who is known for her intricate, fine-gauge wire work.

Antiqued sterling silver, hand-carved wishbone. $67, by Avindy Designs, a mother-daughter duo out of Atlanta. Very rock-and-roll chic!

If you stop by Kismet at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 10, not only can you get all of your shopping done, you can also help celebrate the shop's second birthday. Champagne, live music, door prizes and cupcakes from Happy Cakes are planned,and a percentage of the sales will be donated to the Cambodian Children's Fund and the Tennyson Center. You'll even be entered to win a leather Tano bag with purchases of $75 or more, so you might just have two great gifts for mom (or you can keep the bag for yourself -- I won't tell). Call 303-477-3378 for more information.

For the complete blog: http://blogs.westword.com/catspjs/2008/05/spotlight_on_mom.php

May 07, 2008

A (Window) Shopping Spree

Cat and Cheese Bikini spent the weekend window shopping, scouting for interesting home and fashion items for Westword’s annual Summer Guide. Cat was on Tennyson and Tejon, Larimer Square, South Pearl and South Gaylord and South Broadway, and even 13th Avenue. . .

. . . We also stopped in at Kismet on West 32nd Avenue, where we found some delightful summer hats. (You’ll recognize Cat from the Brooklyn hoodie; Cat really needs to update with a Denver Neighborhoodie. She rocks for Cole now.) Then we popped into Perfect Petal, where Cat oogled a pair of the feather lamps that she’s always wanted but which would be instant cat toys – for the three little “c” cats -- at her house.

May 5, 2008

Eat! Drink! Shop!:
Denver's Highland Neighborhood

By Maria Cote

This close to Mother's Day, we looked around for a shopping area that would help you out with the old "what to get Mom" dilemma. If you can't find the perfect gift in the shops along 32nd Avenue in the Highland area, sorry, but there's no hope for you.

A few shop owners acknowledged that the stretch is jammed with "girly-girl" stores, but even the most virile of men will enjoy ste

pping into the past to admire the classic Victorian structures in Highland, which became a city in 1885. Many of the boutiques and eateries in this northwest Denver area are nestled in some of the area's oldest structures. You'll hear old wooden floors creak, admire exposed brick interior walls and wind through tiny rooms that have lovingly embraced generations of families.

Shopping along this stretch, you're as likely to see people who live in the neighborhood as folks who have driven to the destination. Get hungry and you might grab a quick bite at the very first Heidi's deli or a relaxing meal at Coral Room, Bang! or Stella.

Still struggling? Why not pick up a gift certificate to one of the many restaurants, spas or shops in this trendy area? Trust us, she'll love you for it.

Kismet

It's stuffed full of eco-friendly and local merchandise, so we had to wander into this treasure. If you're searching for a gift for a handbag- lovin' mom, here's one of many shops along the street that will draw you in. But we loved the jewelry, much of it by local artists, some of whom give proceeds to charity. Mom might like to know that the gift she's holding is helping the planet in some way.

Don't miss: Envirosax, eco-friendly bags that fold up tight; tuck them in your handbag when you shop.  3640 W. 32nd Ave.; 303-477-3378       

Photo Above Right by Marie Griffin © The Rocky Mountain News

For the complete list of neighborhood haunts and story: CLICK HERE

Friday, 02 June 2006

North Denver Fashionista- Kismet

Written by Rossy Kay, North Denver News

North Denver - Like the store window proclaims at 3640 W. 32nd Ave., Kismet means destiny or meant to be. And destiny it was that brought the newest of shops to North Denver. Shana Colbin Dunn opened Kismet just two weeks ago and already the buzz is starting. Located on the corner of 32nd and Meade, the door is always open and welcomes people into the sunny interior, complete with hardwood floors and fresh colors.

What sets the shop apart from other boutiques is that it only sells accessories. A past jewelry rep, Shana selects funky eclectic pieces that would top off any outfit. Adorning the walls are beautiful bags from such brands as Tano, Latico and Bunnera. Some are embellished and flashy, while some are understated and classy. They range from leather to felt, from aqua to black.

There are sunglasses that look like they belong on any Hollywood celebrity, and jewelry so original it literally makes women squeal. You can find thin wood hoop earrings by Bauxo or a hammered silver necklace from Christy Payne. Dress your feet up with bejeweled flip-flops or step into summer with a bright ribbon belt.

Kismet also carries distinct home decorations. These include funky picture frames, magnets and wall vases that would make the perfect housewarming gift. Many of the wares are displayed on beautiful metal creations made by Shana's husband David. The store is a mini art gallery, and makes you feel cool just by walking in. With such a plethora of beautiful objects, anyone with taste could find something appealing. Shana knows what's in style, and how to bring that style to the people of Denver. I myself had an eye on a certain burnt orange bag that I couldn't stop thinking about.

After about the fifth time walking around the store with it, Shana pointed out how good it went with what I was wearing and I was sold. Of course, it also looks good with my pajamas and my yoga gear because I can't put it down. But that's the great thing about buying something original, no one else will have it and you can always say nonchalantly, "Oh, I got it at Kismet."

-- Rossy Kay

Find your destiny at Kismet

By Susan Froyd 
Published: Westword, December 7, 2006

It's the little things that count - at least in Shana Colbin Dunn's little corner of the world. And the jewelry rep raised in New York City knows her accessories inside and out, so her decision to open an accessories boutique was, well, an act of Kismet. The theme works its way throughout the store, which is accentuated by symbols of fortune and good luck.

But today the good fortune will be all yours when Dunn hosts a holiday Christy Lea Payne Trunk Show, showcasing casual-chic looks by the Sundance catalogue mainstay - including a limited-edition gold collection and pieces set with rough-cut diamonds. "It'll be a treat even for me," Dunn says, adding that a percentage of the day's sales will go to the threadbare art and music programs at Skinner Middle School. And while you're shopping, check out the super-savvy gift items lining Dunn's little gallery of a shop: hand-knit, retro-look scarves and hats; wall-mounted folk art and metalwork; sea-colored jewelry made from ancient Roman glass; novelty socks; and hundreds more affordable adornments and functional goods.