Alyssa "Aly" Coffman wanted to open a new boutique with a trendy atmosphere, one that had a more "Brentwood feel." So she did in April.
Called Aly & Sy, the new boutique was named after her 12-year-old daughter, Sy. In addition to clothing, Aly offers gifts, jewelry, shoes and accessories. Gifts include NASH hats, BFF tokens, journals, hostess items, funky framed readers, baby and kids onesies, tees, bibs and custom denim jackets, complete with monogramming. They also carry men's apparel and accessories.
"I'm all about fabulous accessories," Aly says. "Spice up the most bland outfit with unique earrings, lots of bangles or a cool cuff. And an amazing necklace always does wonders. Shoes and bags do it, too. A good leather riding boot goes with just about everything!"
But if Aly had to put her money into one item, she says it would be outerwear.
"A big fuzzy sweater with bell sleeves, well-cut vest or an amazing leather jacket—I also don’t know anybody that can’t wear a scarf. Bright flowers, stripes, chevron ... in a cotton or linen blend—light enough for a basic T-shirt in the summer and adds a pop of color to any jacket in fall or winter. It also frames the face—instant color pop! I have tons of them. They never go out of style," she assures.
Aly has firsthand knowledge about what works in attire. She was born and raised in San Francisco. Her family immigrated from Malta, a little island in the Mediterranean. Her grandmother was a seamstress for Nordstrom’s bridal department, and her grandfather was a San Franciscan upholsterer well known for making sails for the boats in the Bay area. He later made custom drapery for the fabulous Victorian homes throughout the city.
"So being around those fabulous dresses and thousands of upholstery samples, as well as spending countless hours watching them work, has really instilled a love for fabrics and quality workmanship in me," Aly says.
"Of course, that upbringing bred a strong work ethic and the mindset that anything is possible if it’s done well and with passion."
Aly shops for the store at markets in Los Angeles and New York City. She also offers truck shows, which provide opportunities to meet the brains and beauty behind one-of-a-kind, handmade vintage masterpieces.
615.922.4165
Nashville Nights – Dance the night away!
Animal prints are all the rage this fall, from the smallest detail, such as earrings or a belt, to this tunic and booties. Paired with fierce liquid gloss pants, which look like leather but feel like a light denim. Either way, you’re set for the evening!
Tunic by Caramela, $79
The Weekender
Who doesn’t love plaid? Whether you’re just out shopping or grabbing lunch with friends, this style is here to stay, layered with a great T-shirt or buttoned up and tucked into some great jeans. You’ll always look amazing in this classic.
Rodeo plaid button-down, $63
Necklace by Inspired Designs, $58
The Date Night Jacket
Be sure to impress on a date night with your sweetie with this perfect mix of naughty and nice. A classic tweed mix jacket but in a biker cut complete with zipper closers. Think Jacquie O on a Harley! I spent a lot of time in their New York showroom. This line is from Best Mountain and imported from Paris.
Jacket by Best Mountain, $249
Black Shiny Leather Pants by Scully, $129
A Day at the Office
The kimono-cut blouse is an effortlessly cool way to get away from the old basic office button-down. This fun, loose cut can also be worn over a cami or alone with fabulous jewelry, so you can wear it from the office to an after-work cocktail party in a pinch.
Kimono tunic, $62
