Five Favorites: SweatPants

▲▲▲

Wear sweatpants to work… yes please!

The fancier the shoe – the fancier outfit. If you want to dress-up these sweats – pull focus to the shoe.

Madewell: Marles Slouch Sweatpants -$95.00

Splendid: Melange Sweatpants: $98.00

Rag and Bone: Easy Sweatpant – $350.00

The Kooples: Side Stripe Sweatpants – $195.00

T by Alexander Wang: Fleece Sweatpants – $195.00

Anticipation: Isabel Marant pour H&M

✧✧✧

The anticipation is building as the eagerly awaited Isabel Marant collection for H&M draws nearer. As we all know, Parisian designer Isabel Marant has teamed up with H&M to create this autumn/winter designer collection featuring clothing as well as accessories for women, men and teenagers.

“I aim to create something real, that women want to wear in their everyday lives, with a certain carelessness, which I think is very Parisian: you dress up, but do not pay too much attention and still look sexy. The collection is infused with this kind of easiness and attitude. Everything can be mixed following one’s own instincts: my take on fashion is all about personality” say Isabel Marant. The collection is available from November 14th 2013 in H&M 250 stores worldwide.

Unpredictable: Sass & Bide

✘✘✘

sass & bide is the namesake label of Sarah- Jane Clarke (sass) & Heidi Middleton (bide). A former accountant and advertising art director, the label offers a full range of women’s ready to wear, denim  & accouterment collections. Bold yet free-spirited, you can always find unique pieces in their collections.

The In Love With Romance Snake Chain Harness is a good example. Full bodied jewelry that can be worn over tees, dresses and jackets. Novel and unpredictable, the label is awfully fun to follow.

Fall Favorite: Chelsea Boot

❊❊❊

A favorite for Fall is the Chelsea Boot. Also known as the “Beatle Boot” as the original was adapted for The Beatles in the early 1960’s. The style was inspired by the Cuban’s Flamanco Boot – only the Chelsea had a higher heel.  This ankle boot has been redesigned and modernized over the years into a comfortable and  very versatile/practical shoe. Here are a few of my favorites:

Opening Ceremony: Coachella Flat Suede Chelsea Boots: $402.00

Topshop: August Classic Chelsea Boots: $120.00

J.Crew: Chelsea Boots: $268.00

Saint Laurant: Suede Rock Chelsea Boot: $995.00

Frye: Pippa Short Chelsea Boots: $278.00

Rag and Bone: Bannon Closed Toe Booties: $550.00

 

Spring 2014: Orange Lip Trend

◭◭◭

The trend seen all over the runway this Spring 2014 Fashion Week is bright orange lips. From tangy tangelo and muted melon to flourescent flame and cool carrot – this lip trend certainly stole the show.

Spotted at:

• Prabal Gurung
• Creatures of the Wind
• Marissa Webb
• Rag & Bone

Dark & Skinny: Paige Skyline Ankle Peg / Voyage

▵▵▵

Fall denim trends range from moto to metallic. My favorite is the return of the dark and skinny. Super dark denim that pairs well with everything and flatters the slim-fit style.

Pair with statement heels or tucked into boots – boots drenched in cognac, tan and camel provide a great contrast to dark denim.

This super-slim fit style and dark wash is a Fall wardrobe staple.

Seeing Stripes: Zimmerman Stripe Tank Dress

▲▲▲

Easy, breezy summertime fashion. Zimmerman’s Stripe Tank Dress is a great addition to end-of-summer ease.

Add some ankle boots for night and sandals for day. Transfer into fall with boots and a leather jacket or layer over your favorite leggings or skinnies.

Stripes are the perfect neutral for mixing prints. Add some leopard pumps, a floral scarf or colorful cardigan.

With summer coming to an end… sigh… purchase some great staples that will transition smoothly into fall.

Ornately Oversized: Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent Banker’s Oversized Clutch

✥✥✥

While searching for an oversized clutch, I stumbled upon this beauty by Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent. The Banker’s Oversized Clutch has an eclectic charm. Subtle details like leather trim and gold grommets give the clutch a touch of luxury – while the ikat print plays of the designer’s bohemian style.

This clutch can fit everything from your everyday essentials to electronic devices. The flat panel opens to a satin-lined tie-dye print and large, zipper side pockets. This versatile clutch can be taken on a night out or complement all essentials for travel.

Five Favorites: Wedge Espadrille Sandals

The wedge espadrille is the perfect compliment to summer. Comfortable and versatile, these sandals provide the hight needed paired with comfort. The rope detailing couples well with casual and dressy styles and remains durable year after year. Available in different styles and colors, the platform wedges will flatter all summer long. Here are a five favorites for summer:

Topshop: Whispered Sandal – $84.00

Michael Kors: Giovanna Wedge Sandal – $134.95

Jimmy Choo: Pallis Wedge Sandal – $450.00

Delman: Trish Sandal– $250.00

Dolce Vita (DV): Tarry Sandal – $59.60

Brand Bravado: LemLem

◒◒◒

lemlem:

n. 1) hand made in Ethiopia from natural cotton.
v. 2) [Amharic] bloom, flourish.
3) [history] Since ancient times in the land of the Queen of Sheba, the Ethiopian people have adorned themselves in beautiful hand woven and hand embroidered clothing. The hand spinning of cotton and intricate embroidery was the work of women while the hand weaving was done mainly by men. It is there wish to bring to you an incredible handwork and help preserve this ancient art form by creating opportunities for the Artisans.

Supermodel / actress and former World Health Organization’s Goodwill Ambassador for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, Liya Kebede discovered that traditional weavers in her native country of Ethiopia were losing their jobs due to a decline in local demand for their goods and wanted to do something about it. Recognizing the beauty, quality and historic significance of their work, Liya started Lemlem in 2007 as a way to inspire economic independence in her native country and to preserve the art of weaving.

Today, Lemlem, which means to flourish or bloom in Amharic, is thriving. All pieces are handcrafted in women’s and children’s clothing and raise awareness to improve the health of mothers and children in developing countries.

LemLem Elsa Short – $140.00

LemLem Konjo Hooded Tunic – $238.00

LemLem Beach Blanket – $170.00

LemLem Teddy Tunic – $225.00

LemLem Walsh Sarong/Scarf – $140.00

Wrinkle-Free: Madewell Boyjean in Linen Wash

◉◉◉

A classic laid-back style for summer is white linen pants. Perfect for outdoor BBQ’s and days at the beach, linen keeps you cool but it can also turn into a wrinkled-mess.

A great alternative to the usual drawstring linen pant is Madewell’s Boyjean in Linen Wash. These pants are thin, lightweight and comfortable. They will keep you cool all summer and are a great transitional staple for work and play.

Stay crease and wrinkle-free with the linen-alternative.

Crowning Collaboration: Isabel Marant for H&M

⫴⫴⫴

H&M will team up with Isabel Marant for its latest design collaboration. The collection of must-have clothing and accessories inspired by Marant’s signature laid-back Parisian style will be available in 250 stores worldwide as well as online November 14 – and there will be menswear too, which will mark Marant’s first foray into catering for men.

“I am flattered by this collaboration: H&M works with the best designers and this invitation is an exciting honour,” Marant said this morning. “I aim to create something real, that women want to wear in their everyday lives, with a certain carelessness, which I think is very Parisian: you dress up, but do not pay too much attention and still look sexy. The collection is infused with this kind of easiness and attitude. Everything can be mixed following one’s own instincts: my take on fashion is all about personality.”

Let’s just hope it doesn’t sell out before we can get our hands on it…

Fantastic Flat: Splendid Newberry Flat

⫩⫩⫩

Soft, supple suede and cushiony sole, makes Splendid’s Newberry Flat one of my new favorite finds. Available in a multitude of bright colors and everyday neutrals, it is hard to choose just one.

My first purchase, Sand (pictured), pairs well with everything and works well with my work wardrobe. However, I am already contemplating a next purchase in Punch (bright red) and, of course, Black.

This simple ballet flat looks delicate and girly. The suede is so soft I was afraid they would loose structure quickly. However, I am pleasantly surprised that they are holding up so well after very long work weeks.

Finding a simple, comfortable flat is not as easy as it looks. These fulfill all your basic everyday needs, wrapped up in a simple and elegant design. Try them – let me know what you think.

5 Favorites: Maxi Dress

⬖⬖⬖

The best item to have in your closet for a “what to wear” moment – the maxi dress. This versatile item is an all-in-one ensemble that works for almost any occasion. From bright colors and bold prints to strong slits and cinched waists – there is a maxi out there for everyone. Here are a few of my favorite finds:

Monrow ~ T Back Racer V Tank Dress: $76.00

Rebecca Taylor ~ Paisley Gown: $395.00

BCBGeneration ~ Slit Maxi Dress: $101.99

Raquel Allegra ~ Tie-Dye Silk Maxi: $680.00

Splendid ~ Always Hi Lo Maxi Dress: $118.00

Currently Coveting: Céline Trio Crossbody Bag

⩔⩔⩔

Currently Coveting:

Céline Trio Crossbody Bag

No explanation needed…

The Classics: J Brand Black Skinny

⌘⌘⌘

Like fine wine, the J Brand Black Skinny only gets better with age. Known for both comfort and style, J Brand (btw: ‘J’ stands for Jeff – Jeff Rudes owner) creates great basics that last. The J Brand Black Skinny is the only black skinny I may ever buy. No fading and no stretching – this classic should be a staple in every woman’s closet.

Bored of black denim? Reinvent your day-to-day classics. If you have exhausted all combinations in your closet – mix-it-up with a great shoe or accessory. Try a colorful or embellished flat or rugged ankle boot. However, if you are not six feet tall, ankle boots can be tricky. Paired with skinny jeans they can make you look stumpy.  The key to wearing ankle boots with skinny jeans is to create a continuous line. This means wearing dark rinse blue jeans with black ankle boots, or black jeans with a dark gray pair of ankle boots. The colors do not have to match exactly, but should be close enough that there’s no significant break when one ends and the other begins.

Keep it classic and style your J Brand Skinnies with sophisticated black and white pieces. Always on trend and deceptively simple, the black and white combination looks polished and fresh.

When it comes to the classics, investing in great pieces makes a world of difference. These J Brand Skinnies will outlast the next three pairs of less expensive versions bought. Save yourself the time and headache and buy the best.

Five Favorites: Peasant Top

⩥⩥⩥

Peasant tops are are great transitioning piece from cold to warm weather. Available in basic neutrals or super bright colors – these tops are both relaxed and casual.

Slip into a breezy peasant top and pair with your favorite denim, white and/or colored. Equally cute with shorts and skirts, marry the look with some ankle boots and a floppy hat. Peasant tops also make a great beach coverup.

Designers continue to offer peasants tops in many styles but the one constant is their flowy and breezy nature. Appealing to all body types, this top will work hard in your closet all-year-long.

Here are five favorites:

Joie ~ Meliana Embroidered Gauze Blouse: $198.00

Urban Outfitters ~ Ecote Split Back Embroidered Tank Top: $49.00

Anthropologie ~ Embroidered Aureolin Tunic: $98.00

Urban Outfitters ~ Embroidered Bazaar Cami: $54.00

Free People ~ Rolling Stone Woven Top: $118.00

Unrequited Love: Tassel Jewelry

⌘⌘⌘

A more playful take on statement jewelry has been popping up in the form of swingy tassel earrings, bracelets and necklaces. The global-inspired look is available in a multitude of colors, lengths and styles. From colorful bracelets and shoulder-grazing danglers to simple rope pendants, finding a piece of tassel jewelry to fit your style and budget is a cinch. Here are a few favorites.

1. Isabel Marant: Asphalt Cowboy Necklace: $342.00

2. Max & Chloe: Ali NY Silver Traveler Tassel Earrings: $60.00

3. Lucy Folk: Jasmine Flower Braided Bracelets: $72.00

4. Max & Chloe: Ali NY Gold City Tassel Belcher Bracelet: $70.00

5. J.Crew: Double-Tassel Necklace: $62.00

Currently Coveting: Isabel Marant Linda

✺✺✺

Currently Coveting: Isabel Marant Linda Studded Leather Shoulder Bag

Inspired by Elvis, the Linda bag is embellished in multicolored studs, grommets and Swarovski crystals. Designed in leather and suede, this bag is beautifully structured and keeps with Marant’s western cowgirl theme from SS13 runway. Not to mention… my perfect summer bag.

Festival Accessories: Free People

✵✵✵

Nobody can get you festival-ready like Free People. The uber-boho brand exemplifies true festival style.

Try stomping around the fairground in rugged ombre leather boots, decking out your arms in bangles, or trying-out some bohemian headgear.

No need to scour the web with this one-stop-shop. Here are a few of my favorite festival accessories from Free People:

Keaton Sunglasses: $18.00

Zig Zag Banded Panama: $38.00

Printed Widebands: $18.00

Dipped Phoenix Boot: $398.00

Avery Sandal: $85.00

Alex Convertable Backpack: $258.00

Hard Bangle Set: $28.00

La Luna Ring: $113.00

Marisa Haskell Leather Fringe Breastplate: $188.00