The Saratoga Race Course summer meet at Saratoga is in full swing, and the town is jam‐packed with fashion moments you won’t find anywhere else. Hoping to join in the fun? For some fashion inspiration for a day at the races, we went straight to the pros. After all, no one knows race‐track style like Capital Region die‐hards. Featuring Pantone’s color of the year, a stunning coral that seamlessly transitions into fall, here are must‐have looks, from three local fashionistas with horse racing on the brain.
Effie Vasilakos is the owner of Effie’s Boutique and the stylist of her track‐ready look. The A‐line cut and above‐the‐knee length are perfect for a petite frame. This look is comfortable and boasts versatile elegance for a day‐to‐evening transition.
Vasilakos chose this dress for a bit of easy sophistication. The minimalist but sparkly jewelry matches the stiletto sandals that were, according to Mackenzie (our stunning model), quite comfortable. For a long day at the track, that is what we always want!
Vasilakos explains, “a fashionista is a woman who knows what she likes but is also not afraid to try new things.“ I couldn’t agree more!
Effie’s Boutique is a must stop for the one‐on‐one service and the selection, truly something for everyone. From formal wear to everyday pieces, including amazing accessories, many of which hail from Europe, interesting items abound.
Circles owner Sharon Fenno presents her look. Circles, located in Stuyvesant Plaza, is a wonderful store offering contemporary sportswear, denim, dresses, accessories, footwear, and cosmetics. Their services include wardrobe consulting, on‐site alterations, and beauty makeovers. Fenno’s goal for her customers is to make them look and feel their absolute best…and who doesn’t want that?
The polka dot dress with flowing material on the bodice is a knock‐out for any summer outing in upstate New York. Add a pair of drop earrings, clutch, and sexy sunglasses with a neutral heeled sandal, and your style will be on point for a day at the track, an afternoon wedding, or a charity event at Saratoga National.
Fenno defines fashionista as “someone who isn’t afraid to step out and be different.” Fashion is a personal choice, so why not dare to be different?
MKas Lika, a boutique filled with colors and one‐of‐a‐kind styles from around the world, brings unparalleled quality and service. The owner of MKas Lika, Monica Kasongo Muamba, selected a coral rosette dress and turquoise accessories to create visual interest and a splendid silhouette, and to bring positive energy full of light and life to her look. She says that quality is one of her priorities when selecting items for her shop, which offers classic styles for formal and business wear.
Being a fashionista, according to Muamba, is an art, speaking individually and communicating to others through your style. Fashion is timeless, and style is personal and original.
All three of these women summed up “fashionista” perfectly; it is confident, different, personal, and artistic. Here’s to all the fashionistas out there! Enjoy the races!
Luann is a lifelong curator of fashion and enjoys researching the latest trends and tips for our Capital Region Living readers. You can reach her at luann@crlmag.com.
Effie’s Boutique
1 Birchwood Drive, Halfmoon
518.280.0040; effiesboutique.shop
Circles
Stuyvesant Plaza, 1475 Western Avenue, Albany
518.482.2554; circles‐shop.com
MKas Lika
2080 Western Avenue; Guilderland
518.456.6818; mkaslika.com
