Elan: Contemporary Fashion, One-Of-A-Kind Jewelry

07.18.2008

Publication: So Scottsdale, July 2008 

By Michelle Everson 

Want to stop traffic? Whether you're looking for your next figure-flattering outfit or a piece of jewelry that will make you stand out in a crowd, Elan Fashions at The Mix has you covered.

At Elan, a boutique located at The Mix Shops at SouthBridge, you can find an array of popular designers and current trends - Ema Savahl, Soul Revival, Hale Bob, Marisa K. and Rock 62, to name just a few. The store also carries popular local brands, such as Classic Sessy (a fun women's fashion line by local designer Wendy Lane).

Owner Lisa Colaw opened Elan less than a year ago after expanding it from a small boutique she ran inside a tanning salon she used to own. She says her boutique stands out because she offers quality clothing items in an array of prices.

"Fashion changes and so do people's wallets," Colaw says. "We offer a range of prices so that no matter your budget you'll walk away with a great piece."

In addition to its clothing collection, Elan is the exclusive home of Velvet Edge jewelry, a collection of bold, dramatic, one-of-a-kind pieces handcrafted by Colaw herself.

This fall, new fashion lines will be added to Elan's already eclectic mix. One such brand is Seduce from Australia, which will make it U.S. debut at Elan.

Colaw thrives on helping every customer find something that looks great on them. "People may come in not knowing what looks good, but we like to make them feel welcome and help guide them towards what looks good for them," she says.

In the future, Colaw hopes to either expand Elan at its current location or open a second store.
Elan Fashions at The Mix, 7144 E.Stetson Dr., Ste. 115, Scottsdale; 480.941.5575; www.elan-fashion.com

Lisa Colaw, store owner

What is your all-time favorite brand?
Like all girls, I love shoes, especially Jimmy Choos. I have so many clothes, I don't know if I can pick - it all depends on what I feel like wearing at the time.

What is your favorite clothing find?
I have this vintage cowhide jacket from that 1950s that is the coolest jacket, ever. I like it because it's unique and one-of-a-kind.

What is the biggest mistake you see people make with their wardrobes?
When people buy for the trend and not their body style - it drives me crazy! You have to buy what looks good for you, despite the trend.

What do you do when you aren't at the store?
My husband and I have a house in Mexico that we like to visit. It's by a golf course - I golf poorly, but drink quite well, so it works out. I also love scuba diving and making my jewelry.