Style

Southern Comfort

Talking style with Dixie Carroll of J. Marcel and Blue Suede

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Tell me a little about yourself.
I’m from Nashville. Like most girls, I have always loved clothes, but I have a special place in my heart for shoes.

How did you come to Rhode Island?
My husband, and the co-owner of the stores, Bill Jette, is from Rhode Island. I have lived in Rhode Island for about five years now.

How does the style differ between Nashville and Providence?

We like to say that Nashville is more Hollywood and Rhode Island is more New York. Nashville tends to get dressed up a bit more. I certainly like the casual vibe of Rhode Island, but sometimes a girl wants to dress up.

Tell me about your stores.
Our first store, J. Marcel, is located on Hope Street in Providence. That store sells overstock and closeout shoes at big discounts as well as handpicked jewelry, purses and gifts. Our second store, Blue Suede, is in Warren. There’s some limited overlap in the merchandise but at Blue Suede there is a wider range of price points. We have a third store on the way – or, on the road in this case. We’re launching a 1973 modified Airstream trailer for Blue Suede, coming to a street corner near you later this year.

Describe your personal style.
I am almost always in jeans, a sweater or a dress with boots. Then I like to wear jewelry that sparkles and stands out to make my look complete. Most of the time I try to dress in something that I am comfortable wearing at the store but can also wear out for dinner or drinks.

Tell me about this look.
This is very much an everyday look for me. The dress is really soft and comfortable, which makes it great for work. The belt helps to give a little definition and shape to the waist. The boots are Old Gringo from Blue Suede. I love the embroidery on them. It makes them little pieces of art for your feet. The jewelry is from Nashelle, a designer that we carry at Blue Suede.

How can a New England gal add some southern flair to her wardrobe?
Rhinestones, baby! Southern girls aren’t afraid to wear boots with skirts and they certainly aren’t afraid of a little bling. Add a little sparkle during the day and see how great it feels.

j. marcel, blue suede, dixie carroll, hope street, style, shopping, clothes, providence monthly

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