“I’ve always loved fashion, but I definitely enjoy it more as I get older and more progressively in tune with how I want to feel and represent myself,” says style influencer Alice Yardley, the contemporary handbag designer behind Portland’s Alice Yardley Maine. “Fashion has always been one avenue that makes me feel like a true artist because I feel confident, self-expressive, and true to myself,” she adds.
After growing up in Portland, Yardley spent time in a variety of cities, each with its own style profile: the preppy southern style of Richmond, Virginia; the colorful urban style of Atlanta, Georgia; the chic experimental style of New York. “I’m not the most ‘outdoorsy’ of Mainers, but I love to experience the excitement and emotions that come with the seasons changing here—part of which is the opportunity to change up your style,” she adds. “After having lived away for 12 years, it’s fun to be back in Maine and merge some of the elements from where I’ve lived with a more practical and traditionally ‘Maine’ style,” Yardley explains.
For Her:
I love anything with a nod to art history, and these Studio Choo11 Matisse Coral Earrings are the perfect statement piece. choo11.com
I couldn’t write the list without my personal favorite accessory: my own handbag! This trendy color-block mini bag will fit your phone, card holder, and sunglasses. aliceyardleymaine.com
For Him:
I recently ordered this travel cribbage board as a gift for my dad before a family trip. The sleek leather case with a magnetic closure makes it easy to bring anywhere. castandcarve.com
Rancourt & Co.’s Classic Ranger Mocs can be dressed up or dressed down and fit a wide variety of personal styles—plus, they’re based in Maine! rancourtandcompany.com
For Them:
The Casco Bay Lines Sunset Run is a 2.5-hour BYOB ride, so grab a group of friends, a bottle of wine, a cooler of snacks, and enjoy Portland from the bay. cascobaylines.com
My go-to order at Tipo is the cauliflower dip, rye cavatelli, a green salad, and a wonderful glass of Sangiovese Chianti. tiporestaurant.com
Alice Yardley Young is a Portland, Maine handbag designer. When starting her company in 2018, Alice utilized her relationships with local upholstery and leather shops to repurpose leather pieces into unique colorful bags. A portion of her work continues to be made with remnant leather, and she is passionate about contributing to the sustainable movement in the fashion industry. @aliceyardley.maine