Oct 31, 2010

Boo: Scary Trinkets Part 2

Macabre art is so intriguing, I am drawn to it... and using animal skulls, antlers and claws in design is such an unexpected delight. The Taurus ring would be my go-to accessory if it was in my jewelry box.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
1. Pamela Love @ Net-a-porter.com | 2. Solange Azagury-Partridge @ Net-a-porter.com | 3. Harakiri @ Farfetch.com | 4. Long Chain Drifter Necklace @ Modcloth.com  | 5. Pamela Love Claw @ Net-a-porter.com


Boo: Scary Trinkets Part 1

The skull trend may be slightly played out, nevertheless I still like to find them in design. Here is some of the Crème de la Crème of skull accessories.
1. ASOS Skinny Bracelet With Skull Charm @ Us.asos.com | 2. Bing Bang by Anna Sheffield @ Barneys.com | 3. Tom Binns @ Barneys.com | 4. Rachel Roy @ Macys.com | 5. Richmond Multi-Skull Ring @ Us.asos.com | 6. Gold Crowned Queen Skull Ring @ Alexandermcqueen.com

Oct 30, 2010

Rose Bakery Marais, Paris

I need to make breakfast, but I am thinking about the Rose Bakery on rue de Debelleyme in Marais. They have the most delicious dishes served up fresh, homemade and beyond yummy. Who's up for chartering a plane?

Winter Wonderland Slumber

I desperately need a new duvet cover to lift my spirits. I am thinking of getting this dreamy ruched voile duvet from Pottery Barn. Doesn't it evoke the feeling of a peaceful sleepy wonderland?

Oct 29, 2010

Fraile Exotic Bird

Daphne Guinness, heiress of the Guinness family and muse to late fashion designer Alexander McQueen, bared all last night including her emaciated frame with a see through outfit at the Night of Stars event in New York. This mother of three (21,19 and 15) may not promote a healthy body image, but I have to admit I respect how she preserves Haute Couture and blurs the line between fashion and art.
Photo Credits: 1. Brokeandbeautiful.com | 2. Brokeandbeautiful.com  | 3. Sipa Press | 4. Patrick McMullan | 5. Unknown



Happy Halloween

I have a full weekend of pumpkin carving, costume parties and trick-or-treating. Can't wait for the weekend to start. Hope you have a wonderful Halloween!
Photo credit: Marthastewart.com

Instant Outfit: Menswear Redefined

1. Wool Herringbone Contrast Trim Jacket  @ Jigsaw-online.com  |  2. Prince of Wales Tailored Trousers @ Jigsaw-online.com  | 3.  Red Valentino @ Net-a-porter | 4. Vivienne Westwood @ Net-a-porter.com  | 5. Brian Atwood @ Net-a-porter.com

Polychromatic

Okay, I am the first to admit I tend to go for more monochromatic neutrals, but this blue bow top and burnt orange skirt, unbelievable. Well done Karen Walker, you can see more of her colorful separates at Otteny.com.

Oct 28, 2010

Reese... Is That You?

Another post on Reese Witherspoon? What can I say, she's my girl crush. Her M.O. is usually chic or cute, but not sexy. So, I am really surprised to see her do edgy and sexy... and pull it off. She is a definite "DO" in this Jason Wu dress at the 10th Anniversary Avon Foundation for Women Gala. Keep it up little Dani Trant.
Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Avon Foundation

Kiddy Couture

Toddlers in Gucci. Really? The fashion house reveals a kiddy couture line for Spring/Summer 2011. Feel free to editorialize. My last words on this topic... does that lavender jacket come in an adult size?

Stitched to Perfection

Often times the use of embroidery can date a garment and not in a good way, but the pieces below are brilliant. I do wish this overlooked handicraft was used more often in fashion... wait let me rephrase that, I wish it were used more often in fashion forward ways.
1. 525 America Nationaljeancompany.com | 2. Paul & Joe Sister @ Stylebop.com | 3. Oscar de la Renta @ Net-a-porter.com | 4. Oscar de la Renta @ Stylebop.com | 5. Wendi Reed @ Barneys.com | 6. Gryphon @ Stylebop.com

Oct 27, 2010

Indie Fashion: WHIT

I first saw this outfit on Francesmay.com and fell head over heels. Motivated to find out more I hit Google and discovered designer Whitney Pozgay. Whitney's first collection for WHIT is comprised of beautifully crafted garments with a unique sense of whimsy. I'll take a few of her polka dot blouses and ruffled skirts, pretty please.


What I Want: Wishful Thinking

Alright this is all pie in the sky, but here are some dreamy items I would like to make my own. It's a random mix, yet there is no denying each is a little slice of retail heaven. 
1. Hunter 'Cervina' Over the Knee Boot @ Nordstrom.com| 2. Helmut Lang @ Net-a-porter | 3. Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Hillier @ Nordstrom.com | 4. Sammy Handmade in Ethiopia @ Barneys | 5. Malene Birger @ My-wardrobe.com | 6. Vivienne Westwood Red Label @ Net-a-porter.com

The Quintessential Porch Party

I attended the most beautiful porch party this fall, it was a delight for the senses; the decor was styled perfectly, the food was delectable and the hostess was beyond gracious. Read more about this picture perfect gathering at my friend Aurora's blog Red Organic. The imagery and words are worth the extra click. Trust me.
Gina Zeidler Photography 2010

Oct 26, 2010

Lavender Buzz

I want to be wrapped in cashmere sipping a lavender martini. I have a date with the girls for exotic cocktails in a few weeks, but I may have to bump that date up. Melissa and Katie check your schedules, I am desperate.
 

Lavender Martini Recipe
1 1/2 ounces vanilla vodka
1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
1/4 ounce Lavender Syrup 
1 fresh lavender sprig... and don't forget the sugar rim!

Pint-Sized Stylistas

Come on, you're 9 and you have a wardrobe women three times your age envy. These young ladies are the ones to watch, serious up and comers in the fashion scene. It's hard to believe Willow Smith (1), Selena Gomez (2) and Emma Roberts (3) have already crafted their signature look and at such a young age. I wish I could say the same about myself.

I Ain't No Hollaback Girl

Aw yeah that's my jam. I may have to enlist some backup dancers to walk behind me today. They could accompany me to meetings, stomping and gesturing when I make relevant points.

Oct 25, 2010

Jenna Lyons Harnesses the Power of Glitter

Yup, I am not ashamed who knows it, I am a glitteraholic. To feed my sequins addiction I often look to J.Crew's Jenna Lyons to lead the way. See how she works at least one sparkly number into her ensemble. I pulled some of my shiny faves currently featured on J.Crew.com... definitely check them out.
1. Merino Sequined Crochet Cardigan | 2. FENTON/FALLON™ for J.Crew Carrington Crystal Bow Necklace | 3. Glimmer Sash | 4. Metallic Sequined Bell Skirt | 5. Drapey Sequin Tank | 6. Glitterati Ballet Flats

Instant Outfit: English Countryside

1. Poplin Stretch Blouse @ Esprit.com  | 2. Fossil @ Macys.com | 3. Chaiken @ Bluefly.com | 4.Neon Lights Belt @ Madewell.com | 5. Seychelles @ Zappos.com

Classic Beauty: Gaia Repossi

Gaia Repossi, heir and designer to the Repossi Joailliers house, has a classic look with nontraditional extras. Her look is very now, without being trendy. Here is some of her top looks and a budget friendly spin on her work day casual.
1. Elie Tahari @ Zappos.com | 2.Black Tie Neck Blouse @ Ctshirts.com | 3. Vanessa Bruno @ Theoutnet.com | 4. StuartWeitzman @ Footnotesonline.com

Oct 24, 2010

In Tatters

Destructed jeans with faux fur or glitter, I just love the way they play off each other. The party goer below (via the blog Knightcat) is pulling it off, isn't she marvelous? Create the look yourself... here are some cheap tattered jean choices.
1. Current/Elliott @ Theoutnet.com | 2. Zco Rhinestone Stretch Bootcut Jean @ Alloy.com | 3. PRVCY Premium Monaco Straight Leg @ Singer22.com

Instant Outfit: Void of Color

1. Heavy Jersey Blazer @ Espritshop.com | 2. Lauren by Ralph Lauren Necklace @ Macys.com | 3. LAMade @ Shoppenelopes.com | 4. Prague @ Espritshop.com | 5. Betsey Johnson Calandra @ Piperlime.com

Oct 23, 2010

Pursuit of the Perfect Poncho

I have a sassy co-worker who rocks the poncho with confidence and beauty. She wears it to ward off the ever-present draft in our historic brick building, thus her pursuit of warmth has created her signature look.  I myself fear the poncho, but am slowly warming up to the thought of tossing one on. Here are some options and the late Gloria Guinness (style arbiter) showing us how to wear the poncho the right way.
1. T by Alexander Wang @ Net-a-porter.com | 2. Vanessa Pearl Sweater @ Frenchconnection.com | 3. Nik Nak Sweater @ Frenchconnection.com | 4. Cable-Knit Cape @ Oldnavy.com

Twisted Knits: Bodkin Bliss

Bodkin really showcases their knit prowess with these four looks. The gathering and layering have a masterful touch.  I can just imagine how comfy these outfits would be. I really want to the recreate the look of the cream jacket with charcoal tights. 

LWD: Little Wool Dress

Wool? Ouch. Don't worry, you can wear wool-felt, almost as soft as cashmere. Tip: when purchasing the LWD, be sure to look for construction to avoid looking like a librarian.
1. Plein Sud Jeanius @ farfetch.com | 2. Mod About You @ Modcloth.com | 3. Marc by Marc Jacobs @ Net-a-porter.com | 4. Le Mont St Michel @  Calypsostbarth.com | 5. Michael Kors @ Theoutnet.com | 6. Love Moschino @ My-wardrobe.com | 7. Kosmic Kiss Dress @ Frenchconnection.com  | 8. Carven @ Net-a-porter.com | 9. Winter Wool Piped Dress @ Net-a-porter.com

Oct 22, 2010

Friday... Finally.

Tonight, I will raise a glass to two Birthday girls and I am really looking forward to an evening of laughter, drinks and good food. I hope you have a great weekend.

Noteable Fall Line: Thread Social

I'm really liking Thread Socials Fall Collection. Check out their dresses and separates. It's a small showing with a big impact. The blue cinched dress is a definite winner.

Big Bling Cocktail Rings

Under $100.00... seriously. 
1. Kenneth Jay Lane @ Net-a-porter | 2. Lucy Hutchings @ My-wardrobe.com | 3. Andara Smoky Quartz Ring @ Maxandchloe.com | 4. ASOS @ Us.Asos.com | 5. Lucky Brand @ Piperlime.com.jpg | 6. Kate Spade @ Zappos.com | 7.  Debutante Jumbo Zebra Ring @ Henribendel.com | 8. Obey @ 80spurple.com

Oct 21, 2010

Luxe: 24-Karat

1. Roger Vivier Haute Couture Clutch | 2. Cole Haan Sunglasses | 3. Nikon Watch @ Net-a-porter | 4. Yves Saint Laurent Ring

Balancing Act

This shoe is exquisite, it is more of a sculpture than a utilitarian tool. The truth is I would fall on my face if I tried to cross a room in this Herve Leger, but humiliation be damned, I adore it.

Oversized Style, It's All About the Collar

1. Donna Karan Sweater @ Stylebop.com | 2. ALICE by Temperley @ Dianiboutique.com | 3. A.L.C @ Farfetch.com | 4. Duffy @ Net-a-porter.com | 5. Knitted Cowl Neck Jumper @ Us.topshop.com

Oct 20, 2010

Toasty Digits, Wrists and Elbows

1. Minimalist Effort Gloves @ Modcloth.com | 2. Marc by Marc Jacobs  @ Net-a-porter.com | 3. Lanvin @ Net-a-porter.com | 4. Diane von Furstenberg @ Dianiboutique.com | 5. Victoria Long Glove @ DVF.com | 6. Kashmere @ Bluefly.com

Instant Outfit: Refined Punk

1. Suno Ruffled Tee @ Barneys | 2. Alexander McQueen @ Couture.zappos.com | 3.Eryn Brinie @ Bluefly.com | 4. Tom Binns @ Net-a-porter.com | 5. LAMB Plum @ Piperlime.com

Colorful Catch-Alls

Stack these Pantone tins on your desk and transform your cube with color, an added bonus, you can fill 'em to the brim with paperclips, push pins and post-its. Once again A+R Store is hawking ingenious design items to decorate your space and body. They are so clever.

Oct 19, 2010

Proud To Serve: Military Mix-Up

1. Juicy Couture @ Net-a-porter.com | 2. James Perse @ Net-a-porter.com | 3. Juicy Couture @ Nordstrom.com | 4. 7 For All Mankind @ Zappos.com | 5. Willow & Clay @ Piperlime.com | 6. Smythe @ Calypso-celle.com | 7. Stella McCartney @ Net-a-porter.com

Instant Oufit: 6th Arrondissement

Look at that ROCK! The woman who wears this outfit has got to have nerve, strutting around town wearing patent cranberry platforms and a cobalt blue agate choker. I want to be her.
1. Boy @ Barneys.com | 2. Scott Wilson @ Asos.com | 3. Diane von Furstenberg  @ Net-a-porter.com | 4. Pour La Victoire Meila @ Zappos.com

Hommage to the 90's Supermodel

Let's start Tuesday with a 90's supermodel explosion. Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, Tatjana Patitz and Cindy Crawford all appeared in George Michael's Freedom video in 1990. It's a spectacular display of lighting, fashion and pretty faces. Crank it up!

Oct 18, 2010

News Flash: You Can Wear White

Why can't I wear white after the first weekend in September? Sure, cotton and linen maybe a chilly choice, but wool and silk in ivory can have a cosmopolitan feel. Today, I took a leap and wore a winter white military-inspired jacket, and let me tell you I am glad I did.


Little Miss Know-It-All

In an effort to keep my fellow fashion addicts in the know I have added an RSS feed from Style.com/Style-File. You can find the top stories of the day below the Bloglovin’ follower link and the banner ad.  

Get the latest news in fashion as it happens. Pretty cool, eh?

Spectator Sport

High heel spectators with a wide cuffed wool or tweed pant is très chic. How cute is the Miu Miu claret and cream platform? I know, right.
1. Oh! Shoes Women's Traci Oxford @ Endless.com | 2. Miu Miu @ Saksfithavenue.com | 3. MILLY Spectator Pumps @ Theory.com | 4. Diego di Lucca @ Endless.com | 5. Michael Kors @ Neimanmarcus.com| 6. Betsey Johnson Nuri @ Zappos.com

Equestrian Jackets: Riding High

1. Kate Equestrian Jacket @ Fredflare.com | 2. Smythe @ Blueandcream.com | 3. Ralph Lauren Black Label @ Ralphlauren.com | 4. Smythe @ Ssense.com | 5. Tinley Road @ Piperlime.com

Oct 17, 2010

Mix Master: Olivia Palermo

Whatever your opinion may be of Olivia Palermo, you can't dispute that the girl can dress. She mixes high and low end effortlessly, she layers with ease and always adds an unexpected wow factor.
It was genius of Olivia to pair yellow high heel gladiators with a gray pant suit. Copy the look yourself, here are some colorful options.
1. Kate Spade Licorice @ Piperlime| 2. Madden Girl Sursey @ DSW.com | 3. Christian Louboutin @ Bluefly.com| 4.Bandolino Berry @ DSW.com

Layering Mango

Are you familiar with the clothing line Mango? If not, check them out. They are reasonable, fashionable and their website is user-friendly. You can pick from their combos or create your own. Plus, they have a super-smart blog that is definitely a good read. Here are some of the layered looks that I want in my closet.
Side note: one of Mango's designers is fashion royalty, Moises de la Renta, Oscar's son. 

The Breathtaking Bride

I think this Marchesa ruffled silk chiffon gown would be perfect for an older bride who knows what she wants. The draping is heavenly. 

Oct 16, 2010

Club Monoco + Shopbop.com = Wow

Club Monoco finally makes their frocks available for online purchase with the help of Shopbop.com. Here is one of my favorite looks from the capsule collection.

Lov-ing It! 'Nuff Said.

Short-Sleeve Car Coat @ Bcbg.com

Oct 15, 2010

Instant Outfit: Lazy Day Orange & Grey

1. Full Tilt Sweater @ Tillys.com | 2. Madewell.com | 3. Armand Basi @ Theoutnet.com  | 4. 7 For All Mankind @ Bloomingdales.com

Emily Takes on Fall Trends

Yesterday, Jonica (The Wanderer Diaries) and I took our coworker Emily shopping to get a few fashion forward pieces to match her age. We scored two items: a slouchy slate gray cardigan and a mixed metal choker. Here is Emily modeling her age appropriate picks.  I think she looks phenomenal.
1. Sweater, Kensie | 2. Necklace, Jessica Simpson

Rejuvenate Mind, Body and Soul

The old girl got a little work done this week, no not me, the Mary Tyler Moore statue in downtown Minneapolis. A team cleaned and buffed this fine lady, putting the bounce back in her step. I hope to do the same this weekend. I am going to pay some extra attention to my nails and hair, plus clean out my closet. 

Have a great Friday!

Oct 14, 2010

What a Show Off

It's so easy for you, isn't it Jenna Lyons? 

November's J.Crew catalog has astounding combinations, as usual. How does Jenna and her expert team of stylists come up with these super-smart mixes?

Hello Gorgeous

I have a conundrum. I spotted this necklace at Macy's on my lunch break, I desperately want it, but how often will I really wear a skull lariat? I may just bite the bullet and buy it. Thoughts?