Unpredictable: Sass & Bide

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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.

Five Favorites: Peasant Top

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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

Currently Coveting: Vince Leather Jogging Pants

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Jogging down the runways of Alexander Wang, Isabel Marant and Michael Kors, the jogging pant is a sporty and comfortable alternative from everyday denim or leggings. Evolving from jersey, the jogger can be found in silk, satin, wool and/or leather.

The jogging pants trend introduces a new hybrid of sweatpants and haram pants. The slouchy, relaxed fit and tapered leg is very figure-friendly. A great pant to dress up, the jogger yearns for your highest, high-heel. Keep the rest casual for a perfectly chic ensemble.

I am currently coveting the Vince Leather Jogging Pants. Sporty-style with some edge.

Spot On: Polka Dots

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Perk up a drab wardrobe with some polka-dots. The playful pattern is flirty, retro, whimsical and befitting at any age.

The classic style has evolved from Minnie Mouse to runways and red-carpets. It’s a style for all seasons, simply because it exudes an undeniably youthful flair, and yet remains an incredibly timeless option for women of all ages. Since the pattern is not restricted to one size, these pieces can be bold and vibrant or soft and subtle. The design adds texture to any ensemble and can be worn in a dramatic or casual fashion. Mix and match with other quirky patterns and prints for a bit of drama or use as the focal piece for casual style. Embrace the spotty trend this season and seasons to come with polka dots.

Spotted… a few of my favorite pieces:

JCrew ~ Polka Dot Dress: $198.00

Madewell ~ Dotted Chambray Boyshirt: $72.00

Madewell ~ Calf Hair Polka Dot Belt: $48.00

Mango ~ TOUCH Polka-Dot Wool Foulard: $69.99

JCrew ~ Polka-Dot Cashmere Sweater: $268.00

Comme des Garçons ~ Polka-Dot Leather Coin Purse: $155.00

Miu Miu ~ Sandali Polka Dot Cotton Sandals: $495.00

Open Ceremony ~ Shirley Polka Dot Haircalf Booties: $506.00

Paige Denim ~ Verdugo Ultra Skinny (selection of colors): $189.00

ModCloth ~  Dash of Dots Tights: $14.99

Heavy Metal: Metallic Trend

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The runways for Fall 2012 were ablaze with molten-like metals in gold, bronze, silver and jewel-tones. Metallics glimmered in the form of dresses, denim, skirts, shoes and bags. Interpreting runway looks into everyday life can be tricky. Embrace this trend with wearable pieces that will make an impact all season long.

Since metallics create such a bold statement, wearing too many at once can cheapen a look. Choose one key piece (cigarette pant, pencil skirt, statement bag) and let it be the star of the show. Pair these pieces with basic neutrals. Try a cozy knit sweater/slouchy boyfriend sweater for ultimate comfort and understated style. For a dressier look, pair with a structured blazer that will not draw attention from the showcased piece. Keep accessories basic or forfeit them completely.

Metallics offer a fun way to freshen up your look for Fall and update your wardrobe for a new season. Here are a few of my favorite pieces:

J Brand ~ 9202 Low-Rise Metallic Coated Legging: $249.00

Alice + Olivia ~ Connie Metallic Flounce Coat: $798.00

Tibi ~ Lurex Jacquard Strapless Dress: $485.00

AllSaints ~ Metal Pencil Skirt: $95.00

Diane von Furstenberg ~ Tonda Metallic Clutch: $395.00

Jimmy Choo ~ Anouk Metallic Leather Pumps: $650.00

Topshop ~ Jacquard Metallic Shorts: $60.00

5 under $50: Summer Dress

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Take the guess-work out of summer outfits. With the simple summer dress, one can quickly and casually throw it on all summer long.

Look for universal prints and colors. If you choose a more trendy version, i.e neons and/or bold prints, it will be more recognizable and you will not get as much wear out of it. Let the summer dress be the base of any ensemble and change it up with different pairings: jackets, scarves, layers (crop-tops/slouchy tees) and accessories. These dresses will be in your closet for numerous summers to come. Here are five favorites all under $50.00.

Volcom ~ Festivus: $45.00

Element ~ Robin Striped Dress: $44.50

BB Dakota ~ Dora Stripe Dress: $49.00 (sale)

Hive & Honey ~ Floral Blousant Dress: $39.99 (sale)

Forever 21 ~ Casual Chambray Dress: $15.50

The Boyfriend Jean

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The term “boyfriend jean” refers to the over-sized, slouchy nature of men’s jeans. The relaxed style offers the benefits of comfort and simplicity. Boyfriend jeans are no longer just for casual wear, they are becoming a fashionable choice for everything from a night out to a red carpet look.

To make this look work for you, choose your style. There are several different options available: distressed, slouchy, straight-leg, light-wash, dark wash, low-rise, high rise. Choosing your ideal pair should be based purely on your own personal style and what you feel comfortable wearing.

Stay casual. For an easy, hassle-free outfit, style your boyfriend jeans with a pair of brightly-colored sandals, flip-flops or even high-top converse or sneaker. Keep the top simple with a T-shirt or tank top and accessorize to your heart’s content. Then transition seamlessly from day to night with a simple change of shoe. Wedge styles are a popular choice and allow for the leg to appear elongated.

For a night out. Adjust the cuff of your boyfriend jeans according to the height of the shoe. Pair with a great bootie or sleek stiletto and make sure a little ankle is peeking out – this will break-up the look. Choose a flowing top or blouse and finish-off with a fitted blazer.

The boyfriend jean will always be a staple in my closet, even if the trend dies. They are comfortable, versatile and just plain easy. Here are 5 of my current favorites:

J.Crew ~ Vintage Straight Jean in Old Faithful Wash: $168.00

Goldsign ~ Hisjean Cropped Boyfriend Jeans: $238.00

Current/Elliott ~ The Boyfriend Jeans: $206.00

JBrand ~ Aiden Slouchy Boyfriend Jeans: $218.00

AG ~ Ex Boyfriend Jeans: $215.00

Wish List: Rag & Bone Capri Skinnies Coated Black

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Rag & Bone Capri Coated

Rag & Bone Capri Skinnies are at the top of my Christmas Wish List this year.

Unlike the faux-leather legging of the past, these beauties are simply coated denim. They fit like denim, can be washed like denim, but look like leather.

Comfortable and perfectly constructed, the Rag & Bone Skinnies are incredibly flattering (unlike most faux-leather leggings that make legs look like stuffed-sausages). They can be worn all year, paired with chunky cable-knit sweaters or free-flowing tanks, ankle boots or Converse sneakers. Invest in a pair of Rag & Bone’s this season, you will not regret it.

Sequined Basics: J. Crew Glimmer Long Sleeve Tee

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J. Crew Glimmer Long Sleeve Tee

As the holiday season approaches, sparkle is everywhere. Taken in small doses, sequined pieces can spruce up a wardrobe instantly.

The Glimmer Long Sleeve Tee by J. Crew is the perfect example of pairing glitzy items with simple toned-down ones. Available in black, stormy sea and dark khaki (pictured here), these simple boat-neck cotton tees are drenched in tiny sequins.

Pair with denim or simple black pants for an everyday look. Under a great blazer or jacket with the sleeves rolled to peek at the glittery layers. Or at night, coordinate with clean shorts, tights and textured heels.

Sparkle this season with everyday basics that shine.

Boot Week: Vera Wang Lavender Label Eldora Suede Wedge Boot

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Vera Wang Lavender Label Eldora Suede Wedge Boot

Boot Week continues with the wearable wedge boot.

The Eldora Suede Wedge Boot from Vera Wang Lavender Label has a wedge heel to give you a sturdier stance when standing out in the crowd. The classic suede silhouette features a full-length exposed zipper on the inner lining. The chocolate brown suede is incredibly soft and couples beautifully with fall and winter colors.

The wedge boot offers stylish poise. Providing comfort and stability, this is a great boot to have in bad weather or running around town. Wear these boots over your tightest denim, add a chunky knit sweater and floppy hat and you are all set.

With this wearable wedge from Vera Wang Lavender Label, standing tall is a little easier.

Boot Week: Pour La Victoire Bardot Ankle Boot

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Pour La Victoire Bardot

Boot Week continues with the versatile ankle boot.

The Bardot Ankle Boot by Pour La Victoire is a simple ankle boot with sex-appeal. The sky-high heel and hidden platform accentuate and elongate the leg. The suede is soft and easy to maneuver in and the side zipper provides comfort and flexibility.

This ankle boot pairs perfectly with just about anything; tights, leggings, pants, denim, skirts, dresses. Available in many colors and textures the ankle boot can be the focal point of an outfit or accentuate it.

Though they can easily be concealed under a pant hem, take advantage of the ability to add a chic edge to an otherwise ordinary outfit.

Denim Expedition: Seven For All Mankind

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California Coast Classic Straight Leg Jeans

Shopping for jeans is an exhausting experience. Hauling 15 pairs of denim into the dressing room, hoping that at least one is the perfect fit, style and color.

Seven For All Mankind Classic Straight Leg in California Coast is my current blue ribbon-winner. Wanting to test-drive a new style and vear away from the skinny jean, I went looking for a pair of jeans I could live-in. Don’t get me wrong I do love the skinny, however, sometimes I want jeans to look like jeans and not second skin.

The Classic Straight Leg is exactly that…classic. Form-fitting in all the right areas to accentuate the body, but leaves room for comfort, detail and style. These jeans are soft and comfortable and have an amazing stretch. The dark inky-blue wash is my favorite for everyday jeans, polished and perfectly worn-in.

5 under $50: Fall Blouses

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Silky, flowing blouses are popping-up in Fall collections everywhere. Available in beautiful colors and patterns, these tops are extremely versatile. For a casual look, pair with denim; flowing over skinny jeans or tucked into high-waisted flares. For work, tuck a silky blouse into a sleek pencil skirt or couple with blazer and tailored pant. For a night out, grab some leather capris and sky-high pumps and you are ready to go. Here are five Fall blouses, all under $50.00:

Olivia Moon ~ Print Chiffon Blouse: $37.90

Fred Flare ~ Polka Dot Chiffon Top: $48.00

Bellatrix ~ Pleated Silk Blouse: $49.90

Hive & Honey ~ Poet Blouse: $49.00

Tinley Road ~ Bow Tie Blouse: $49.00