Must-Have: Colored Denim

It all started with a pair of J Brand Mid Rise Skinnies in Electric Blue. They were comfy like leggings (hello, Japanense Twill!), structured like jeans, and right on-trend. I wore them to work with a cropped trench, out in Brooklyn with a hot pink silk tank, and lunching with friends paired back to a simple tee. OBSESSED MUCH?

The answer is yes. But after awhile, my eyes began to wander. And my heart began to lust. First it was a purple pair, a Spring style that I hunted down relentlessly all over the Upper East Side-to no avail….huge bummer.  I did, however, find them in Emerald Green and now we are insperable! These jeans have become my new uniform.

There are a multitude of ways to wear colored denim, but this is my go-to look:

Of course, the bright denim takes center stage in this ensemble. I tone down the bright factor with some of my wardrobe staples-an easy tee and classic blazer. My favorite tees are the v-necks from Old Navy and my all-time favorite blazer is the Gabe from Theory. Jazz it up with a great necklace-currently, I’m into big gold collars-and you are all set!

Have you jumped on the colored denim trend? What’s your favorite way to wear it?

Inspiration: Fall 2011

It’s definitely a bit early to start stockpiling fall duds. But that doesn’t mean you can’t start collecting your thoughts and building an inspiration board so that you have a good jumping-off place when you do begin to start shopping. Living in NYC, space is limited so I can’t always create an elaborate inspiration board of magazine clippings, fabric samples or pictures. My tech-savvy and style-friendly answer is pinterest! It allows me to create an online inspiration board-everything in one place and able to be traced back for easy shopping. Here’s a peek at mine:

all images available here

As you can see, I am loving the combination of bright hues like Cobalt and Goldenrod against a saturated neutral like Cognac. You can still find me colorblocking, but this time it will always involve a deep neutral anchor. Vintage prints and silks always keep Fall from being too frumpy, and there’s nothing like a simple shoe to keep the focus all about the clothes.

What Fall trends are calling your name? Do you create inspiration boards a la pinterest or the old fashioned way?

Classic Capes: Not Just For Little Red Riding Hood

Capes have slowly been making a comeback, and it’s easy to see why. As outerwear, they are super versatile and the perfect transitional item as we slowly move into cooler temps. As mid-weight layering pieces, they add a little touch of Fall and can convey undertones of whatever mood you’re feeling-sassy, comfy, quirky…you name it. Check out a few of my favorites.

MODERN: Looks great paired back to simple bottoms like leggings in a neutral color (ie black or charcoal) or a pair of uber-dark skinny jeans.  A long sleeve tee in white really makes the patterns of this one pop. Ultra Chic Cape $284

UTILITARIAN: Is cute and feminine, but does double duty as rain gear. And in the “it” color for Fall, you can’t go wrong! Caped Raincoat $78

LUXE: Take the “stuffy” feeling out of a fur piece. Instead of having a full length mink hiding away in the closet awaiting a special occasion, this guy works back to the most casual pieces in your wardrobe and can be worn day-to-day. Inès & Maréchal Fur Cape Coat $1668.

COZY: Throw this one on over your favorite henley, turtle, or long sleeve tee. Pair it back to leggings, jeans or shorts for a fun, simple look that says “I’m casually chic!”. See by Chloe – $760

CLASSIC: Nothing is more classic than a red piece of outerwear. (With toggles!) Back to jeans and boots-riding, over-the-knee, wellies…..seriously, do I need to paint a better picture? Classic Red Cape $170

Which look is your favorite?

Fall Color Trend: Camel

Alpaca, khaki, caramel, cognac…whatever you want to call it, camel is definitely the “it” color for Fall.  A great neutral, it can be the basis of any outfit or an added accessory that lends instant sophistication. Pair it back to other neutrals like cream, white, or champagne for a nice monochromatic look. Use it as an anchor for a louder piece in a bright color or a print. The options really are endless….

1. A sweater coat will work back to just about anything in your closet; use it as outerwear until it gets really chilly. Elie Tahari, $402

2. It doesn’t get any more classic than a pair of camel-colored trousers and a crisp white shirt. LOFT, $69.50

3. For your next special event, forget that LBD-try an LCD (little camel dress!) for an eye-catching ensemble. Alexander McQueen, $1535

4. A slouchy, oversized sweater is the perfect match for the old standby-leggings! Alexander Wang, $528

5. Feeling a little more shabby than chic? Throw on some cozy cords and a chunky knit sweater for a casual look. Current/Elliot, $189

6. Cozy camel can be a trend too-try an oversized scarf or wrap. The Limited, $148

7. If your take on a camel skirt is more sexy than preppy, try a fitted mini-it works back to poplins for day and to silky blouses for play! Express, $49.90

8. However, “literal” may be my favorite camel look. Virginia Johnson, $215

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?

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!

Fall Fashion Trends: Studs and Spikes

The winds of my favorite fashion season are beginning to stir. With layers, scarves, bold colors, extra accessories, fall is always about standing out. One of my favorite trends that has been lingering through summer and is sure to make a statement throughout these next few months of fall and winter is studs.

I believe that the perfect outfit will draw a little bit of inspiration from different genres of fashion. A pinch of classic or vintage, something bold and unique, etc. Studs are certainly influenced by the punk movement, but when worn properly, can compliment any look beautifully.

Here are some of my favorite looks that will certainly be my inspiration for all the shopping I will doing these next few months.

Michael Kors’ Pyramid Studded Set is killer.

I envision that it would look phenomenal with a denim jacket, or a black coat and a colored scarf to add a pop of color.
Marc Jacobs Stardust Stam Python-Embossed Leather Studded Satchel

This is a statement accessory which is obviously to die for! I love this color- alluring, and certainly made to match autumn’s boldness.

Topshop tackles the trend, too.

For a studded bag that will take less of a chunk out of your bank account, this is from London/New York’s famous fashion boutique, Topshop, for only $70.

Betsey Johnson ‘Lu Lu’ Studded Bow Leopard Print Leather Hobo

Betsey Johnson is a genius when it comes to mixing feminine and edgy. All of her clothes embody girlie qualities, but have a dash of funkiness as well.

Louboutin Clou Noeud Spikes – Black

Louboutin has a cornucopia of studded shoes. Loafers, pumps, peep-toed, closed-toed- and each made my mouth water. This particular design is my favorite. It’s edgy, but still sophisticated.

And voila! Maybe some of these can get your creative side going so that you can start the search and for some studded pieces this fall as you begin to trade those sun dresses for sweaters.

Fall Trend Watch: Precious Metals

I actually can’t believe that Halloween is over and that the Holiday Season has officially (in my eyes, anyway) begun.  That means warm sweaters, leggings, and jackets (oh my!).  Naturally, the change in seasons doesn’t just involve the weather, but fashion as well.  So, while you’re dusting off those sweater boxes, start thinking about ways you might be able to spice up your fall wardrobe.  Instead of purchasing new clothes, try updating your look with some new accessories.  A few carefully chosen pieces can breathe new life into that old ensemble!

One of the hottest trends for fall will be more hardware-focused items.  Far from dainty, these pieces are bold, metallic, and above all, they make a statement. Grab a few metal cuff bracelets, or some dazzling bangles.  You can play up a simple top by pairing it with a necklace that is a bit bulkier than your normal comfort level; pieces this season are all about making a statement.  Of course, only choose items that you can wear with confidence, because if you don’t feel amazing wearing it then no one else will notice it!

These definitely aren’t your grandmother’s pearls!  Classic, elegant pieces certainly have their place, but you can strike a balance between classic round pearls and modern metal with this gorgeous Golden Orb Choker. (Anthropologie $118)

I’m lusting after this braided metal necklace that can really help me to “tie” the perfect outfit together.  (Serpentine necklace, $29.99 at Urban Outfitters)

And lastly, don’t think this trend is isolated to jewelry alone.  Have fun with it, but go for something simple like this Deux Lux Chain Flap Clutch ($29.99 at Urban Outfitters) that you’ll be able to use long after the fall trends have faded.

How to Wear: Ruffles

Feminine and frilly is all the rage this fall so don’t be afraid to embellish your look with ruffles.  (And yes, I did indeed just say “all the rage”.  And then I used indeed.  See how I did that?)  This is an easy trend to pull off, but you should be careful that you don’t go for too much of a good thing.  If you have ruffles on your shoes, then skip the ruffled bag.  If you have a cute ruffled top, then skip the ruffled skirt.  You’re smart – you get the picture.

The key to rockin’ this trend is to KISS.  (Keep it simple, silly.)  (Ok, ok, the real phrase is Keep It Simple, Stupid – but frankly I didn’t think it was very nice to call you stupid.  You’re here, right?  Ten automatic smart points!) Pair a ruffled top with a tailored pant or a pencil skirt and simple shoes.  Think of it as your signature item.  If you wear fire engine red shoes, you’re going to keep the rest of the outfit and accessories simple, right?  The same goes for ruffles.

Check out some of these awesome ruffled and frilly looks for fall.  I’m especially in love with the Walter dress on the right – it has a cutout back with a simple tie, and it is just gorgeous.  Be on the lookout for it on Leighton Meester in the season premier of Gossip Girl on September 14th.  So, what do you think?  See anything that catches your eye or stikes your fancy?