Q&A: Andover Fashionista Answers Holiday Style Questions

Holiday wrapping paper, lights and wreaths are popping up in local stores, the advertisements are starting and Thanksgiving is just two weeks away, like it or not, it is time to start thinking winter.

We asked local fashionista Nancy Dube, owner of on Main Street to get us ready for the holidays, even if we haven't started our gift shopping...Yet.

What are three must-have items to pick up now before we enter the holiday season?

Actually, it’s just one item that can easily be worn three different ways. We pick our favorite sequin tank from White & Warren for its versatility. Layered under a black suit, it will bring you to the office holiday party in style. Paired on it’s own with your favorite jeans and killer heels and it rocks a Saturday night. Under a sweater with leggings and boots, this tank becomes the ultimate casual outfit with just enough edge to make itinteresting.

Is there such a thing as being warm and stylish? Or, is it bulky sweaters and parkers for the next six months?

The key to warm and stylish is layering. Start with a super soft long sleeve tee shirt from Lilla P. Next comes a cozy cashmere sweater from Qi, top with a wool tweed cape from Puli and you’re good to go in all but sub-freezing New England weather.

What do you think makes Andover so stylish?

The women of Andover have a strong sense of their own style. They are confident, trust their instincts and are willing to try new things. They like to be on trend, but not trendy.

What is one item in your store now, you want to bring home and hang in your own closet?

Oh, that’s easy. We have a sweater by Nicole Miller just calling my name. I love the mix of textures. The smooth, soft knit front, ribbed knit back and leather sleeves. Yummy.

What are the trends for the rest of fall/early winter?

Color blocking is fun. Leggings and skinny jeans are here to stay, but we love the new trend back to boot cut jeans and wider leg trousers. It adds versatility to your wardrobe. This question is hard for me when my head is full of next season’s spring clothes we’ve just ordered. Here’s a hint – lots and lots of vibrant color and pattern. It’s really exciting.

What do you hope people feel when they enter your store?

Welcomed and relaxed. We try hard to create a warm and friendly environment that’s visually exciting. We want our customer to be able to buy their favorites, feel free to experiment and try something outside their comfort zone or just browse. Shopping should be fun.

How many years have you owned your business, what do you love about owning a business in Andover?

CoCo Collection celebrates our seventh anniversary March 1, 2012. I love that there are so many women owned businesses in Andover. There is a real sense of community. CoCo Collection has an amazing group of women who are loyal customers. People really do understand how important it is to support Andover’s local economy.

Have a fashion or Andover news tip you want to see featured in this weekly column? E-mail us at Katherine@Patch.com