Fashion Week: J Crew Spring/Summer 2012

images via style.com

Well, this is definitely not your mother’s J Crew. Or mine, even.

Jenna Lyons has done it again, this time transforming the prepster cool looks into an almost unrecognizable mashup of prints, color, and texture. Familiar highlighter pinks and citrus tones make their return for Spring. They bring with them familiar J Crew standbys like chambray, slubby silks, and sequined stripes.  The styling was part Tory and just a touch menswear…if you peered really deep, you can see a little bit of 2011′s Spring J Crew peeking through.

Was it tailored? Yes.

Playful? Yes.

J Crew? I’m not so sure.

Ms. Lyons has thrown me for a loop this time. Is this another J Crew revolution or just an update to their current recipe for success? I’m going to have to let this one sink in for a little bit. What’s your initial reaction?

Hot Mama: Stylish Summer Looks

If you’re reading this, of course you know that Erika is cute, stylish, and most importantly-a mom. I met her for coffee recently, and her whole look testified to these three things. This girl has got it down to a science…she manages to be comfortable enough to chase after her daughter, put together enough to roam the streets of NYC, and right on trend. Inspired by her fabulous style, I’ve put together a few summer outfits that would work for a hot mama like her-complete with accesories that work with all three looks. Which of these looks would you try?

tunic, jeans, tank, shorts, blouse, jeans
sunnies, polish, sandals

Note from the Erika: I had NO idea she was planning to write this – but thanks so much Kat! xo

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?

Z Spoke by Zac Posen (Current Obsession)

Currently gushing over? Z Spoke, Zac Posen’s secondary line. It has an all-around feminine feel to it, is fun and playful-basically a less schizophrenic version of the Marc by Marc Jacobs line. The current assortment is marked by vivid colors and simple details. Simply put by a salesperson at Saks this weekend, “it’s lunch clothes”, as in ladies who lunch. And it really is.

The collection is conservative as far as coverage goes but many of the styles are nice and body-con, so you can maintain a little bit of a sassy edge. Classy yet sassy! I love it. There are standout items as well as easy basics that make a nice foundation for a great look. Some of my favorite items are below.

Like what you see? Check out the Z Spoke collection – exclusive to Saks.

Tory Burch Private Sale

A Tory Burch Private Sale?  Heck, just a Tory Burch sale in general?  You know I’m in!

Tory Burch is having a private sale.  Don’t worry, I’m inviting you.  You have to hurry though, because this sale ends tonight (10/25/10) at 11:59 pm EST – so that means you don’t even have a full 24 hours to fill your cart with items like:

You know you want to.  Go, shop!   You can thank me later!

xoxo,

E

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

Fall Trendspotting: Denim Leggings

Leggings are back for fall, but this time they are disguising themselves as our favorite wardrobe staple.  Or, perhaps it’s the reverse, and denim is trying to look like leggings.  Either way – this is a trend you won’t be able to miss – I’m already seeing them pop up everywhere.  I’ve gotta say, though — I’m not sure I like it.  Even if they are disguised as jeans, I’m just not sure leggings should be worn as pants.

That being said, I don’t think imposter denim is the worst thing to happen to fashion.  My tip to you, should you decide to try this trend, is to treat these as leggings and not as jeans. I’ve laid out a few ideas for ways you should and shouldn’t wear this style if you decide to try it.  

Do: tuck them into a pair of boots this fall, pair them with a fantastic pair of heels, wear longer tops and tunics with belts over them. 

Don’t: pair them with your Pumas, wear them with shorter shirts, select an acid-washed style that will make your legs look bigger than they actually are.  Heck, in my humble opinion, even size negative zero chicks should avoid the acid wash style.  Just sayin’.

If you want to try out a pair of jeggings (jeans+leggings=jeggings) – try this relatively safe option from Juicy Couture.  While it pains me to pay $88 bucks for a pair of leggings, I don’t think this is a style you can go the inexpensive route on.

So tell me, what do you think about this trend?!  Are you a friend or foe of jeggings?