We sat down, with Ariana Blumenfeld, – owner/buyer at Denim (and more) Specialty store, Rear Ends, in West Bloomfield, Michigan.
{SS} What inspired you to start the store?
{AB} Ariana's parents, Mark and Elaine Blumenfeld Established Rear Ends in 1978. Originally located at Applegate Square, We moved to the Boardwalk Shopping Center in West Bloomfield in 1995, and have grown twice in the center since then. Ariana was born into the business, and prides herself on being a true fit expert when it comes to jeans from the many lines found at Rear Ends. She says, "I always knew I would go into the business. 9 years full time".
{SS} Favorite Part about your job?
{AB} Different interactions through out the day with customers! I love when people leave super happy with their outfits.
{SS} Whats the hottest denim trend right now?
{AB} Denim on Denim! Yes its true, the Canadian Tuxedo.AG Denim Button down with Light Wash Skinny Boot Seven $198 or with the grey ware denim Dakota rip Shoe with booty and cuffing – or heel for night – Life is more casual ripped jeans and blouse.
{SS} Currently, do you have a favorite style or trend you are wearing?
{AB} I'm a 3 piece kind of person. Jeans, Tank, Jacket or Sweater. Not one for accessories I just like to keep it simple. I dress for the trend I am most comfortable in. There is no reason to wear something you are not comfortable in.
{SS} What are your thoughts on the flare / bell bottom denim trends?
{AB} Always comes back around, especially in the summer – so, always keep them around – even if you only pull them out once a year!
{AB} My signature look (she laughs) – Jeans. In the summer I dress it up with a black or color maxi dressBlack Maxi Dress (click for product info)
{SS} A few items in your "Styleshack" (aka) closet that you can't live without?
{AB} Any one of my 10 jean jackets, a black cashmere sweater, open cardigan, a really great pair of boot-cut jeans (even though all I wear is skinny).
{SS} Who or What inspires your personal style? Favorite Style Icon?
Both my parents are my style icons (Denim on Denim comes from my Dad and 3 piece comes from my Mom).
{AB} Sporty
{SS} Favorite fashion or lifestyle blog?
{AB} Instagram @rearends
{SS} New Arrivals in the Store, that you love?
(Click on images for product info)
{AB} For Denim, I'd have to say, Grey ware Denim, it is a new brand and truly amazing people behind it. (Based in NYC).
Always love whats coming out of AG!
Novelty that Paige is doing – they are creating new denim, in such a wear-able way.
Other new arrivals that I love, are the blouses from Joie – they are very pretty with chic feminine look and easy to wear!
{SS} Quote you live by?
{SS} One fun fact about you?
{AB} I am moderately obsessed with my dog and yes she's allowed at the Store (Georgie – beagle)