Fur For Fall

Fur is a major trend this fall. Back in the day, it used to be an accent here or there or when you heard “fur”, it was a full length mink. But now we are finding it everywhere and on everything-head to toe and everywhere between!  Read on for a few examples of the “new” way to wear fur.

coats by: andrew marc; madisonavenuemall.com

LaRok; Haute Hippie; Kenna-T

Bombers with fur collars are a great way to ease into the fur trend and can be found from a variety of lines across many pricepoints. But if you don’t want to stash yet another leather in your closet, look to the biggest trend (by far)-the fur vest. They are available in genuine furs or faux options, and work in all climates. If it’s warm-ish, consider it your outerwear. For those colder nights, add it on as an outfit topper and underneath your bulky coat.

bags by Marc Jacobs; scarves by Theory

Feel like you can’t pull of fur without looking like a bear? Try incorporating it into your look with accessories! It’s much less commitment and if you run into an activist friend, you can stash it under the table. This can actually be the most sophisticated and least obvious way to tap into the trend. It’s simple and chic. And what’s cooler than that?

boots by Michael Kors; Alexander Wang; Christian Louboutin

You didn’t honestly think I would let you get by without mentioning “BOOTS WITH THE FUR!”? This is by far the most outlandish and creative way to work the fur. Sure, they are all cute but what happens when the fur meets snow? The puppies are truly for the catwalk and not the sidewalk. But if you have somewhere fancy to go and you can pull ‘em off, why not work it? Just please, please, don’t wear them with your Apple Bottom jeans.

Preppy Looks For Fall

With short skirts, boyfriend blazers and button downs still dominating the racks, one can’t help but put a preppy spin on everyday outfits. This look works on so many because it’s clean, understated, and always classic. From obvious to edgy, here are three looks to channel your inner prep.

top-Banana Republic; skirt-Old Navy; boots-LOFT; blazer-Theory; earrings-pearlearrings.com

Nothing’s preppier than a big ole pair of pearls. They dress up any outfit. (even gym clothes-trust me) Another go-to for the inner prepster is the riding boot-and OTK (over the knee) is by far the chicest way to go this Fall. Worn with a crisp white shirt and a schoolgirl length skirt, it gives off a Gossip Girl vibe. Blazers are classic and can be worn in a variety of ways. Styling tip: roll the sleeves of this theory blazer to expose a cute striped lining a la Lauren Conrad.

chain hoops-Blu Bijoux; scarf-MMJ; dress-Rugby(does it get any preppier than RL?); boots-LOFT

This look is a little more understated, but still has many of the preppy elements. The equestrian-inspired boots define the look, and the chain earrings are a sophisticated throwback. The subtle suede elbow patch details on the dress are also a nod to that bourgeois lifestyle. Throw on a plaid scarf, and you’ve got the perfect outfit to watch that polo match (or SEC football game!).

sweater-J Crew; chambray shirt-Gap; legging jean-Gap; oxfords-Steve Madden; ring-Emily Rose

This look borders between prepster and hipster, making it the easiest to wear of all three looks. The men’s chambray button down is a great foundation. Pair it with a cable knit crew neck-a preppy must! Skinny jeans and leather oxfords round off the look and a piece of monogrammed jewelry is the icing on the cake.

There’s even a brand new book from the author of The Original Preppy Handbook if you need further inspiration!

So go find your WASP alias (mine is Thayer Shofield Newcomb the Fifth, aka “Bunny”), channel her,  grab a martini and find yourself a boat to spend the day on.

The Fashionable Girl’s Guide To Fall Sweaters

Fall is officially here and so are the sweaters! Whether you’re looking for lightweight, something colorful, a chunky knit or a cardigan, the options are endless. With all of the options out there, it can be a daunting task to find one that’s perfect for you. Being the lucky little shopper that you are, I’ve done all the hunting for you! Below you’ll find a guide to some of the best/easiest/most fun/coziest options out there.

1.       A girly take on the fair isle sweater; it looks great back to cognac boots or over charcoal leggings. Pins and Needles, $48.00

2.       The ex-boyfriend cardi looks like a parting gift straight from his closet; wear it casual chic over tanks and button downs.  Madewell, $68.00

3.       The cardi wrap is a travel essential-it provides both fashion and function…and of course, comfort! Victoria’s Secret, $39.00

4.       This combo style creates a laid back look without having to layer. Doesn’t get easier that that. Converse One Star, $29.99

5.       The shawl neck brings some interest to a plain sweater; keep it simple or throw a fun color on under for unexpected pop. J Crew, $248

6.       Slouchy and relaxed is a modern take on a striped sweater. Pair back to skinny cargos for the perfect balance. MINKPINK, $70.00

7.       A fun print has never been so sophisticated. This cardi is great for work or play. See by Chloe’, $350.00

8.       Basic doesn’t mean boring. A cardi finishes off a casual look and turns an outfit from playful to polished. Gap, $44.99

9.       A hooded open cardi makes for the perfect lightweight “coat” for warm weather climates. Theory, $375

10.   A nod to the biker look, but softer. Layer over a timple tee. Old Navy, $34.50

11.   Cable knit is a throwback to the heyday of preppy style-don’t forget those pearl earrings! Christopher Fischer, $625

12.   There is nothing more perfect than a long fair isle sweater coat after a long day on the slopes. Design History, $185.00

13.  A colorful sweater does the trick for those of us not ready for the dark colors of Fall. Forever 21, $29.80

14. This conversation starter lets you show some personality and add a little fun to your look. Forever 21, $19.80

15.   A double breasted cardi in classic navy works for both work and play. Gap, $44.99

Hopefully, these styles have you covered (really bad sweater joke) no matter what your taste. Which one is your fave?

5 Messenger Bags For Fall

I’m not sure why Fall is the perfect season for a messenger bag…perhaps it’s because this style is bold enough stand out from an outfit that’s packed with layers and accessories? Or because we need somewhere to stow our gloves, hats, chap stick, and tissues? Or maybe just because I said so? Whatever the reason, a fab cross body is a must-have. Luckily, you can find them at every price point and in a style to fit just about every look, purpose, and attitude. See below for some standout styles.

1. The working girl uses this as her work bag. She hustles through the big city from appointment to appointment, with all of her work necessities neatly tucked inside.  The bold size and sleek details mirror a briefcase, so she still fits in at the boardroom meetings. Yet, with a quick tuck of the strap she can head right off to drinks with the girls.  Miu Miu, $1650 at Net-a-Porter

2. The girl-on-the-go needs a simple, sleek style that can resist wear and tear. She’s going to class, meeting friends at the mall, attending outdoor concerts and spending time at outdoor cafes with her pup. The leopard nylon is right on trend for Fall and it’s super easy to clean and care for. The price point is just right for the girl who’s just starting out on her own. Longchamp, $240 at Bloomingdales

3. The indie chick is no-fuss but full of style. So is her bag-she uses her messenger as a catch all: for accessories, torn magazine pages she uses for outfit inspiration, a small stash of makeup, and her camera. This bag has to be big, tough, and neutral enough to handle her day to day outfits and adventures as they change. The gray color seamlessly blends with any look she comes up with, while quilted detail and grommets add a little edge so it can keep up with her fierce style.  Sara Berman, $275 at the Outnet.com

4. The savvy shopper found this budget friendly beauty. This bag is $90 at original retail and currently on sale, so she has plenty of cash left over to buy some over-the-knee boots! Its size makes it perfect for a long outing, whether it’s shopping or a daytime date. The strap is also convertible so she can carry it as a satchel. This style is simple in its design, but the starkness of the stone color will pop against a Fall wardrobe. Styling tip-remove the metal logo hanging from the strap for a simple chic look that doesn’t scream to everyone where you found your bag. Style & Co., $51.99 at Macy’s

5. The nonstop girl loves her small yet completely accommodating messenger by Marc. It holds all of her necessities like cards, cash, lip gloss and her iPhone with plenty of room for things she picks up along the way: matches from her favorite night spot, her cheat sheet of stores to hit while in SoHo, and perhaps a cocktail napkin or two with a gentleman’s phone number. This bag says that she is stylish but sensible enough not to haul a giant “it” bag everywhere she goes. This style seamlessly accompanies her as she crosses the Brooklyn Bridge, goes to a dive bar to hear live music, or quietly meanders the endless corridors at the Met. Sleek, simple, stylish stowage-she couldn’t ask for anything more. Except maybe a cute MMJ coin purse? Marc by Marc Jacobs $248 at Bergdorf Goodman

Transition Your Wardrobe From Summer to Fall: 5 Key Pieces

Fall is here! Or so they tell us….but for many of us, as much as we want the weather to match all the cute Fall clothes, sometimes it just doesn’t. So what’s a stylish girl to do? Turn to transition pieces. These items are buy now/wear now, but also go into the cooler temps seamlessly. Need some ideas?  Don’t worry, I’ve got ya covered!

SCARVES.

Wear now: Throw this scarf on over a basic tank or easy v-neck tee in neutrals like grey or white paired back to easy summer shorts. Gladiators or flip flops work if they are still weather-relevant but if you’re really yearning for Fall, oxfords can finish up this outfit well.

Wear later: A cozy black tee worn back to jeans is a great canvas for this scarf. Tie it on, and add a coat or blazer in a cheery color like red to make it really pop! And of course, boot it up: over-the-knee, riding, heeled, or booties…a wardrobe of fab boots is always on trend.

TUNICS.

Wear now: This one’s easy.  Show off those legs before that golden tan fades! Throw on a tunic (keep in mind it needs to be long enough to be pulled off as a dress/mini-dress) with your favorite pair of flat sandals for day. At night, you can shake things up by wearing a heeled sandal or wedge. The key here is a rich color palette that says Fall, but in a fabric that still says “it’s 80 degrees out!”.

Wear later: Leggings, uber-skinny pants, and skinny jeans all work under a tunic to bring it into Fall. This look can work not only back to that wardrobe of boots, but you can keep it simple with easy flats in a coordinating color.

THE LEGGING JEAN.

So if you’re a fan of the “jegging”, go ahead and wear ‘em.  But I personally am IN LOVE with the legging jean (“lean”?) from Gap. They are super skinny, made with lots of stretch and have functioning zipper/button closure. They offer a feeling of more coverage than their predecessors we all became familiar with this Spring.

Wear now: Another easy one-back to your favorite tees and tanks, and even under lightweight sweaters. We all still love a good open cardi, so don’t feel like you have to smother under a chunky knit. Menswear inspired shirts look great for a cool, casual look and you can always wear a sexy silk blouse with heels and skinnies.

Wear later: With…everything! Under the long, oversized oh-so-cozy knits that are hitting the racks; in a classic prepster way with a button down layered under a cashmere v-neck (and pearl earrings, of course!); or go for chic and simple layers like a fitted tee under a boyfriend blazer-accessorize with a fun scarf or pile on some fun necklaces.

JUMPERS.

Wear now: Pull on a simply tailored jumper and go. Wear it with pumps for work, booties for a night out, or boots to make it casual. Accessories are your opportunity to make this look truly “yours”-a statement necklace can instantly make this bold, edgy, or fun; a belt can draw attention to a feminine shape (only belt softer fabrics, ie not leather Vince one pictured); and a cardi makes it appropriate for work.

Wear later: It’s all about layers. A crisp poplin works under a jumper for a classic pulled-together look. A thin turtleneck provides both function and fashion-this is also a great way to bring a little attitude to your look, by choosing one in a fun color. Cardis and blazers of course, look chic over a jumper-just make sure the fabrics work well back to each other.

If you’re feeling creative, find a sweater that hits just below the natural waist and fake a sweater-and-skirt look. Textured tights always work back to a Fall dress and make it a little bit funky. Boots are a must, but if you want to go a little dressier add a fun lace-up bootie.

CLOGS.

Wear now: If you’re sick of your galdiators or perhaps have worn them out, update your look with an open toe clog! These look great with shorts, dresses, skirts, and your skinnies. To convey the Fall look best, I would suggest them with skinny crops that hit just at the ankle. You’ll show off the cute buckle on the side and get just a few more uses out of those pants before you flip your closet. Leggings are also an easy basis for a cute pair of clogs. Oversized men’s shirt, black leggings, fun clogs-boom! Fall fashionista.

Wear later: This look may not be for everyone, but I LOVE socks or tights with clogs. The key is to keep the hosiery in a Fall weight and color. Charcoal, navy or black socks (to-the-knee is cute, but regular work too) are best while opaque or thicker, textured (think cable-knit) tights are just right. This look can be pulled off best with skirts, but we are seeing a huge trend of shorts for Fall this year so go ahead, be brave and try it!

inconSEQUINtial: Sequins Standout as Fall’s Hottest Trend

Sequins: they’re not just for breakfast anymore. Breakfast after a long night of merriment, that is.

Let’s face it-these shiny little suckers are everywhere. And they can now be worn everywhere. for work (yes, only for the fashionati) or play; from a day of shopping to a night on the town. Styled ultra-fem or downtown-cool, sequins can be rocked by laides both young and ahem, mature.

Jay Godfrey’s Athenee tank is fresh, updated way to get this look. The assymetrical hem gives it more interest than a basic sequin tank and looks great back to skinny denim and sandals for a casual look and black jeans and heels if you’re looking a little more “oomph”.

Sequin shorts work well back to a simple tank and a long blazer. Keep the shoes simple-flats or plain pumps. These shorts are an especially fun way to bedazzle your wardrobe-they’re under $25! Shorts not your thing? Topshop does a nice version of a bandage skirt that you can do instead. Love the neutral-ish hue of this one-if you’re feeling funky, pop on a pair of red shoes for that extra “rawwwr!“.

Now if you’re not a feelin’ the sparkly/girly vibe that sequins tend to bring, try the Disco Tartan top by J. Crew paired back with some easy cargos in a neutral color (like J Brand’s Houlihan in olive green). Slap on some sassy shoes and you’re set! Another no-frills option is Markus Lupfer’s tee worn back to leggings, shorts, or destructed jeans.

The above blazer from ASOS reminds me of last year’s to. die. for. Gucci blazer. This sick jacket came and went, and only a handful of ladies were lucky enough to get their hands on one (ie, Jessica).

If you happen to have a nice little pile of cash laying around and you’re looking to invest in this trend, go get yourself the Stam by Marc Jacobs. This baby will complete any outfit…no matter what you’re wearing.

These options are a few of many-oh so many-sparkly little things out there in the wild world of fashion. So put on your shoes, grab your bag and get yourself something nice and shiny – you deserve it.

Fall Fashion Trends: Military Inspired

A Ten- HUT! Sound the trumpets- military is back!  Fashion does indeed repeat itself.  During my past couple of trips to the mall, I could not help but notice that from wall-to-wall, the army was sweeping into fall fashion. I was at first, slightly disconcerted; the thing that comes to mind when I think of army is camouflage, which certainly is not my thing. Fortunately, I came to find that army and camouflage are not one in the same!

Almost every major retail store is joining the trend, selling plenty of military-inspired pieces that are suitable for all ages and styles.

Mackage ‘Diana’ Military Inspired Wool Blend Coat

Mackage certainly puts a posh spin on the standard idea of “military”. This classy wool jacket has a standout collar, and flared cuffs. Whether worn over jeans or a suit, it is sure to make a statement, and is ideal for those chilly days ahead.

Military Strapless Dress**Love

This casual dress is the epitome of the trend- super simple but still marvelously stylish. All that would be needed to complete the look is some layers of Bengal bracelets and ankle boots.

A Ten-Hut Military Jacket

And the essential staple piece of fall is undoubtedly the jacket, or in this case, the military jacket. Always known for selling trendy items at affordable prices, Forever 21 also caught on to the trend. This jacket is under $30

Michael Kors “Joplin” Buckled Military Boots

Combat boots are as military as it gets. To wear boots like this is a bold statement sure to turn heads and show off that “tough-girl” image.

Alexander McQueen Military Lace-Up Faithful Bootie

For those a little hesitant to strut in combat boots, there is a softer alternative. The late and legendary genius Alexander McQueen knew just how to intertwine lady and soldier. These peep-toed stilettos are absolutely to-die-for. Who wouldn’t feel like a supermodel in these six-inch-high sensations?

There you have it- military-inspired looks that are completely absent of camouflage. All of those pieces are only a sliver of what’s out there, so there is no excuse not to leap enthusiastically onto the bandwagon, especially after seeing that exquisite pair of Alexander McQueens.

Fall Fashion: Fun, Fresh, and Affordable

One of my biggest goals for this site is to find ways to make stylish clothing and staying on-trend available to every woman – no matter what her budget looks like.  With that, check out the looks below.  Most of the pieces are below $50 and all of them are extremely on-trend.  I think you’ll like what you see.

I love the military coats, the skinny cargo pants, the lace pattern inspirations, the rocker chic bomber jacket, the jeggings and boyfriend jeans – every fall trend is present.  So, where can you find these pieces to update your fall wardrobe?  Kmart.  Yes, you read that correctly.  This fall, Kmart is stepping up to the plate and offering fashionable, on-trend solutions for every woman, even if she is on a budget.  As a matter of fact, Kmart has been quietly reinventing itself on the design side of things for a few years now, and this season’s fall collection is hard and fast proof.

I had the opportunity to see the line in person in New York City a few weeks ago and I was incredibly impressed.  The stitching was impeccable, jackets and coats were fully lined, and there was incredible attention to detail in each piece.   You will not be disappointed in the quality of this line – I’m willing to vouch for it.

So, for the fashionista’s out there – check out Kmart’s Fall line to help update your wardrobe with some affordable pieces.  You can also enter to win one of 8 shopping sprees at Kmart Design – which would be a cool way to check it out without spending a dime!

What do you think of Kmart’s Fall line?  See anything that you love?

Madonna’s Material Girl Line for Macy’s

In case you haven’t heard, Madonna is capitalizing on her material girl ways, joining the long list of singers and actresses who lend their names and fashion smarts to clothing lines. To be completely honest, when I hear that a celebrity has decided to make a fashion line, I roll my eyes. Madonna predictably named her line “Material Girls”, which can be found exclusively at Macy’s, and I must admit that my expectations were, well, minimal. Nevertheless, I looked online, and was pleasantly surprised to find that some of her line’s pieces will contribute to autumn’s attire rather well.

Unfortunately, looking at the pieces online and in-store are two very different things. I’m glad I visited Macy’s before making any impulsive online purchases. A lot of the fabrics were very inexpensive, and I felt like the quality wasn’t as high as it should be. However, among the disappointment there still were some great pieces.

This leather jacket, which is about $80, is my beloved. Doesn’t it just force that melting, I-have-to-have-it feeling into your heart? I definitely hope to buy this piece for this fall. It is both leather and studded. I get giddy with uncontrollable excitement thinking about how great this would look against a neutral-colored minidress, or even with just jeans and a t-shirt. Unfortunately, I didn’t see it at Macy’s, and although that perhaps is a sign that it’s so amazing that it’s sold-out, I’m on the lookout to find this jacket at every Macy’s I come across. Hopefully, it doesn’t disappoint.

The lace on this flannel shirt is another one of my favorites, as it adds a soft touch the “boyfriend” look which plaid entails. It comes in several other colors, and is, in general, a great piece for fall. I also am obsessed with the studded purse. Small crossbody bags have been everywhere lately, and I like Madonna’s studded version.

The striped crop top and studded fleece sweater were also great, and certainly a tribute to the 80’s, where Madonna first made her stamp in the world of pop. Cropped tops and studs are both also very in-style this fall, and these are two cute and casual pieces. They would look especially fashionable with high-wasted shorts over leggings, which is also a major trend.

There are adorable parts of her line, but all-in-all, I’d recommend checking out the clothes in person before you buy – not everything felt high-quality and durable. Fortunately, there are a couple of stellar items that I am actually very impressed with, and will certainly be great for the fall.

Military Inspired Totes by Clava

As I was scrolling through my email yesterday morning, these sexy, military-inspired totes caught my eye.  I stopped, and the sudden movement made boyfriend look over as well.   They must have caught his eye too, because suddenly he said “oh, those are cool.”  Completely unprovoked.

I knew I needed one.

Let’s be clear. I’m a handbag maven, but I’m insanely picky.  I’ve been carrying around nothing more than a wallet for 6 months because I can’t find a purse that I like.  This is serious business for me.  For me to instantaneously fall in love with a bag like this?  This is major.

As if the outside wasn’t enough of a selling point, our friends at Clava were nice enough to send me a photo of the inside of their tote.  Look at all of those fun pockets and compartments!  This would be amazing for all of the traveling that I do.

Military-inspired looks are hot again this fall – so these bags would give you a jump on the trend.  These Clava totes are available online and retail for $160.

Pamella Roland Fall 2010 Collection – Chic. European. Classy.

I’m not ashamed to admit it.  I fell in love last season when I was at the tents.  There was a designer who had barely made it onto my radar, but for some reason I attended her show.  And I fell in love.

Pamella Roland.

If you’re my friend on facebook or you follow me on twitter, this is a song that you know the lyrics to already.  But I don’t care.  Since it’s my favorite song, I’m singing it anyway.  Roland quite literally took the industry by storm when she released her first collection at age 42 – instantly winning over critics and gaining a huge celebrity following.  Her red carpet looks are to. die. for.  Yes my friends, when I die please make sure I’m wearing Pamella Roland.

Her fall 2010 collection was inspired by Venetian Glamour, and I was inspired as well.  Inspired to go out and buy it all.  True story.  Ah, the fashion writer’s dilemma.  The collection was extensive, from chunky, colorful knits, regal purple gowns that were dripping with sophistication, and fresh takes on the wool shift dress.  The evening gowns, always a favorite of mine (I blame the Princess complex), were nothing short of stunning.  Roland sent a final piece down the runway – a bridal gown – which was simply a perfect, airy confection that seemed to float down the runway.

I threw a few photos that I took from my seat during the show into the graphic above, but if you really want a good feel for the show, check out the video below courtesy of IMG.  Some of the best 3:40 of your day, I promise.

Swoon with me in the comments, please.