Fashion

Grab and Go

I'm starting to think that when it comes to seasonal dressing one can never get a break. I say this because I'm currently sitting inside, away from the sun and humidity, and ironically freezing. Now I've mentioned this before in posts but suffice it to say, you really can never be prepared. When temperatures fluctuate from 60 to 90 what's a girl to do? Be ready with lots and lots of options.

Layers are an excellent way to stock your closet. And I don't just mean cardigans, girls! I mean leggings (under dresses), tanks beneath flowy blouses and cute 3/4-sleeved jackets and shrugs for over tee's and tops. These are all things that can be worn throughout the seasons which makes their cost-per-wear quite reasonable.

Below I've taken it upon myself to not only find great sale items (the best time of year for that) but I've also added in the challenge of making sure whatever I'm suggesting will be just as fashionable in
2008 as it is right now.

Where did I begin? At my favorite discount designer website bluefly.com of course. First up, this brilliant orange top by Rachel Pally. The design is perfect when worn under a cute khaki jacket in the summer or over a thick, textured turtleneck in the winter. Also on bluefly.com is short sleeved gold jacket by Generra which is ideal in any climate. Wear a long sleeved black top underneath in the winter and in the summer, button it up over a simple cotton shirt.

Moving along, American Apparel, long a favorite of college grads and thrifters alike, has upped the anti with one of the largest selections of tights and leggings around. Seriously, look no further than the jersey placket version with cute calf buttons or the acrylic cable-knit legging. If you're a one-stop shopper like me then pick up other essentials like this unisex wide striped cardigan and baby rib 8-button pullover.

Finally, for an extra special selection you can't beat Nordstrom.
There is something ultra appealing about their collections lately.
Especially the Marc by Marc Jacobs (of course anything by him is brilliant)! This sweater is especially hip because it's bulky and baggy. The design makes for a cozy wear while the extra wide arms are any girls dream (hides everything) during the summer and winter months. Equally appealing for evening soirees is this Wilster knit jacket with bow. The color is neutral enough while the cut makes it convenient to wear both open and closed.

What do I wear with this?

I was asked to an impromptu wedding this past weekend with only a few days notice. And after deciding if we should go or not (we said yes) I was faced with a dilemma many girls can relate to...what to wear when you have no time to shop. I'm beginning to realize that I should have a separate entry on this altogether but for the time being, suffice it to say, you should always have at least three great dresses hanging in your closet for times like this.

I do. And though mine happen to all be black I really do love them. I believe that when it comes to trustworthy options (through thick or thin waistlines and varying temperatures) these three are my answers. So I continually pull them out on various occasions. First off, yes it's ok to wear black to a wedding. Honestly, I'd rather tell girls to do that then don some sad floral dress with disappointing heels. At least with black you have options--colored pumps, fancy jewels, smashing clutch's. So please don't hesitate there.

What I do believe is a matter of importance--and something this entry is solely devoted to--are all the trimmings. When you wear black you're virtually a blank canvas so what you put with it takes center stage.

My perfect ensemble begins with a great pair of earrings. How about these graphic hearts by Betsy Johnson? Neutral enough they'll support any gold necklace (this one from Urban Outfitters is fantastic) especially if it's made out of lucite, black and gold. Following the jewelry is the bag. I love options so I always keep a few metallics on hand along with a nice, simple black clutch. This one from Etsy is fun and cheap!

Moving on from there come the shoes. You can never go wrong with something in gold, especially when it comes woven and textured. But if that's too flashy opt for something soft and sleek. I can't say enough about these taupe satin slingbacks from our favorite shoe king, Christian Louboutin. You can wear them alone in the summer or with tights in the winter.

Whether it's shoes, handbags, jewelry or the dress, the most important thing is that you buy something that'll last longer than a night. Having closet staples is important, but having ones you like to wear is even better.

Pre-fabulous fall

Recently I was given a couple department store gift cards, which to me is like winning the lottery. I love the idea of having to spend money at a store without all the guilt (it was a gift!) or indecision. Besides the fact that it’s fun (so much to chose from!) it’s also convenient when you think of how expansive the department store’s online offerings are these days. I certainly don’t have to shop online, but when 10 o’clock hits and there’s nothing on TV, what does one do? I say shop!

Lately whenever I go to the main page of said department stores there is a big, bold advertisement for pre-fall collections. What is this you ask? It’s the fashion world’s way of saying that it’s time to embrace your wools, as summer is a distant memory.

And ironically as I was thinking more about pre-fall and it’s place in the fashion world, I come upon this questionnaire on fabsugar.com. “Are you ready for pre-fall?” Most of the answers were “no, I’m still shopping summer sales,” but there was a notable shift from season’s past to yes. Perhaps that’s because the summer fashions are just a tad bit boring, or better yet fall is a tad more delectable…either way you have it, pre-fall is on it’s way to becoming it’s own must-stop shop season.

So what about the collections and goods? Let’s start with Milly. A contemporary favorite, Milly is the quintessential label for uptown girls with a bit of sass. I love this black, strapless bandeau dress which is ideal for that transitional summer into fall period when the temperature is so skittish. Pre-fall = transition.

Less pricey but just as fun is this Lux Pleat Back Trench coat from Urban Outfitters. The cornflower blue is the perfect shade to carry you from summer’s whites to fall’s dark browns. Also from Urban are these fantastic multi-colored Ikat scarves, which are very reminiscent of what Drew Barrymore has been wearing lately. Wear this with a tee now and a long cardigan in late September.

If you’re not so sure you’re ready for sweaters just yet, opt instead for closed-toe flats and leggings. Again, they’re transitional but incredibly wearable from now until next spring.

Sensible selling

Today I managed to unload years of clothing, accessories, shoes and handbags in my first ever garage sale. Now before you say anything, yes I’ve been to garage sales before. I may have even contributed to a friend’s in the past (when I was ten and only had old copies of Sweet Valley High to offer). Nevertheless, I’ve never actually thrown my own, which after today’s success seems like the most ridiculous thing imaginable.

Let me begin by admitting I don’t know much about garage sales. I didn’t know that there were people who specifically went on Friday, or that many sellers price their stuff so low. I didn’t realize that the most absurd junk usually went first, while my Prada pants with last year’s tag would still be hanging at the end of a successful day.

It’s this type of “unknowing” that’s led me to the internet boards of garage sale tipsters…People who’ve had success and understand what it takes to make the sale the best it can possibly be.

Their tips: Make your garage sale a destination. Treat it like a true shopping experience with displays and convenient pricing. Advertise, advertise, and advertise. Put signs up everywhere while also listing your sale on both craigslist.com + yahoogroups.com. Only sell good stuff. If it’s junk it’s not worth anyone’s time.

With that said I thought it might be fun to browse the online “garage sales” or auctions as they’re called. Not quite garage sales but similar. Ebay.com is the largest and one of the most fun to browse. Lately I’ve been looking for mid-century modern furniture but if a Gucci tote pops up far be it from me to resist the temptation. Ebay has everything you could ever want from cheap, affordable jewelry to high-end, gently used designer shoes.

Another site, more under the radar than over-exposed is jillsconsignment.com. Specifically target to selling designer goods, I found a sensational pair of Celine ankle boots, which would be PERFECT for fall with a new pair of jeans and a thick wooly sweater.

In addition to the above is the chic portero.com auction site. I happened upon this while digging a bit further and what a nice surpirse! I’m still dreaming of their certified and pre-owned jewelry, specifically the Roberto Coin braided ring. Likewise, you can’t beat this swanky Jimmy Choo clutch, which would be the perfect accent to a smart tweed coat come fall. Whether you’re going all out or looking for deals, don’t be afraid to buy online (or at garage sales!). There are so many cool things out there.

Cover up queens

Seeing how its summer and the weather's quite fantastic I thought it was time to do some cover up comparisons-you know, see what really goes from the beach to beachside party without a change in sight. And as with all types of comparison-shopping, I typically start with the usual suspects (bathing suit/sporting goods sites) first, and then carry on from there.

Let's start with one of the most well known, Everything But Water. I really do love this site. After getting caught up in numerous bathing suits (not why I'm here!) I remember to go back to cover ups, where I find not one, but two fantastic pieces. Becca, a company known for their cute beachwear, designs the first, which is a cross between the colors and patterns of Hawaii and Mexico. I love the blue and red…this would go great with a solid colored tank suit like this one from J.Crew. The second option, also from Becca, is this is sultry version with long sleeves, a deep V and some delicate embellishment to boot. When I say go from the beach to the bar, this is the dress to do it in.

Moving on, we come to Adidas. The collection of Stella McCartney's sport clothing is super cool, a lot of which would work well as a cover up. I am completely taken with this "sport bathrobe" which looks more like a cute dress/cover up to me than a robe. The tie dresses it up while the cut, shape and color add an added designer dimension.

From here we hit the department stores. Lately Nordstrom has offered all sorts of great treasures, and the 33% discount isn't hurting either. I've found a TON of cute dresses, but am especially impressed with this gorgeous pink and blue graphic cut by Free People. A little cheaper but just as snazzy in butter yellow is this Necessary Objects button front version made out of lightweight cotton. Imagine this with a pair of white flip flops and one of those feminine straw beach hats!

If you're interested in super cheap but super cute, hit up Target and Old Navy. Target's got a whole section on cover-ups and Old Navy has amazing casual skirts, which are another necessary staple.

Whether you're hitting a private pool, the public beach, or simply a friend's sprinkler, there is nothing stopping you form looking great and being comfortable. Even in the heat.

Crafty closets

When it comes to dressing for summer, convenience is certainly key. That's because with so much going on (parties, pools, activities, socializing) there isn't a lot of time to waste wondering and worrying about what to wear. Being prepared with essential items like great cotton tanks, tees and a colorful array of casual footwear will only help you when your packed schedule becomes more of a burden than blessing.

So what are some of the closet staples this summer? Well, first off, everyone needs a great pair of sunglasses. In fact, I'd by one cheap pair (for beach, sand and surf) and another for those afternoons of boutique shopping and restaurant noshing. For affordably chic glasses you can't go wrong with Urban Outfitters. I recently bought some plastic aviators painted in what looked like splattered blue (I promise they were cool) for $14! I mean how can you go wrong with that. And after a recent browse I came across these, which have a fetching tiger print. For $18 you really have to go a bit wild, don't ya think? If your answers no then opt for something simple and sensible like these oversized tortoise.

Besides sunglasses a fantastic tote bag is essential. Not only can you carry magazines and lotion for the beach, but a change of clothes when necessary. Barney's Co-Op has the BEST totes lately; I always eye them when I walk by the store. But for the true original go no further than Lands End.

Accessories are great but it's time for the clothes. And boy are there a ton of things out there. I'm especially fond of Splendid t-shirts, the jersey and cotton is super soft and their styles are really fun. For something with more style (which you can quickly throw on with jeans and flats) I would suggest checking out Forever 21. I'm not entirely familiar with this store but I do know after browsing online they have a TON of great tops like this long-sleeved version in blue or this white and black tank with buttons.

Summer weight jeans are something we don't often think of but which are always a good thing to have. Ditch the Capri versions for a lighter, leaner cut, like these twill, white jeans from Goldsign. White is a cool, classic color and believe it or not can be worn straight into fall with brown boots and a cozy cardigan. Now that's what I call being prepared.

The breakdown on bikinis

Earlier today I was reading a trend newsletter I get from London. In it, they mentioned a study done by Gardenburger (yes, the veggie burger company) launched in the US about woman and their bodies. It was quite intriguing as only 6% of women said they felt ready to wear bikinis this summer. Gosh, that's a bummer as there are so many cute options out there!

Listen, we all wish we were thinner, more toned, more fit, and svelte, but more than likely we're not and won't be this summer. So instead of letting the warm days go to waste (because the bathing suits have you scared) I suggest looking at other options (one-pieces, tank-inis, and fuller bikinis) that help, not hinder your figure. Hitting the beach doesn't have to be a disaster, but a lesson in looking your best no matter what shape your in.

The one-piece
Every woman has a curve or two she'd like to cover. I suggest instead of hiding them, accentuate with a great suit like this one from Miraclesuit. The design, which claims to make anyone look 10 pounds lighter, is incredibly chic with its sophisticated, ruched detailing and built-in underwire bra.

If low cut isn't your thing then opt for a style like this button-front halter tank from J. Crew. I love the black and white stripes (so Amalfi Coast!), which transcends seasons and can be worn year after year.

The forgiving two-piece
You don't have to give up on the bikini just yet. I found a ton of options with more coverage. If you focus on your positives it's almost 100% sure everyone will notice them and these will definitely accentuate all the right places.

First up, try this swanky number from Diane von Furstenberg. I found it on Bluefly for so cheap! The top has a ton of coverage while the bottoms are cut both high and moderate. If a tankini or fuller coverage bikini is more your style then this floral version from Boden should have you giddy. I love the idea of mixing and matching, and the colors they offer are so summery.

So if you can stomach a suit and are off to the beach, then check out the vast assortment of cover-ups to compliment and accessorize your look. I particularly like neutral colors because in a pinch you can pair with them with sandals and wear them out that same night. This navy jersey dress from KZ JerZey is really fun with its crossover front and tie at waist. I also love the feel of anything by Clu, a fairly new brand on the contemporary scene.

Mini madness

Short and to the point. That's the mini for you. A flamboyant ovation to the never ending leg, this 'swinging sixties style' is definitely sticking around this spring. So what's all the to-do about now? Well with all things fashion related trends come and go. But the ones that reappear again and again usually arrive with added benefits, better styling and clever changes to and existing hit. And that's where the mini comes in.

With its revival is the chance to try this look made popular during a time when girls weren't afraid to show a little leg. If styled well, it can promote a carefree exuberance. If worn incorrectly, the mini had the ability to present its owner as more tart than tasteful.

But don't let a potential blunder deter you. Because the mini is fantastic. It's miniscule and shocking in a flirty sort of way. Part cheeky and fun, it tends to laugh in the face of modesty, while representing something impractical and young. Dare to embrace this look - for the mini isn't to be reckoned with. Women don't wear it; it wears them.

So the question is: can the everyday woman give the look a new spin? Well this year's crop of designs point straight in that direction. You have super short, like this mint green chino version from Target. I see it paired perfectly with a white tank but let's be honest, unless you've got legs to hear you're not going to be able to get away with this. For most girls a mid-mini will do the trick and The Gap is proving to have a stellar selection. I like this striped denim on sale for $25! You can't beat a price like that when you're buying a tiny piece of fabric.

I'd also suggest checking out shops like H & M and Zara. Unfortunately their sites don't carry online shopping but they've got incredible deals on super trendy items. Their mini's are endless and in the best fabrics and colors. Likewise I stumbled upon these dresses from Victoria Secret of all places. I love the black halter neckline and figure friendly trapeze. A mini needn't be super tight to be super fantastic. The flowing fabric and modest cut suggest the wearer is a fashion follower with sense enough to take the trend only as far as their individual comfort.

Whatever way you wear it, the mini is a true summer staple. So grab your favorite version, pair it with flats or flip flops and head out on the town.

DON'T LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP

There is an old Russian Proverb that says, "He who doesn't risk never gets to drink champagne." I love this train of thought. To me taking a risk is one of the many things that helps us grow. Well that and learning when not to.

How I equate this to clothing is by imagining what I perceive as a risk. Perhaps mixing patterns in bright, delicious colors. Or layering unique fabrics and textures with an item of clothing that normally would be worn on its own. Basically doing something a tad out of the ordinary to make an impact. It might not always work out the way you imagine but the idea is that you tried.

So I'm dedicating today to risks. I'm suggesting we infiltrate our closets and put together something we secretly have imagined but have never actually had the guts to wear out. Define your individuality with pieces of clothing or accessories that are in the true spirit of you. Perhaps a sensible black dress paired with these fantastic zebra heels. Or a smashing green necklace paired with yellow seersucker. The idea is to think outside your norm and in doing so create take a risk in style.

In advance of this blog I scoured the stores for some out some standout pieces. I'm always happy when I find affordable options that still carry their weight in punch. And one of the best places to look for this type of thing is in the BP section of Nordstrom's. Yes the stuff is trendy, but when you're talking about statement stuff this is where it's at.

After briefly browsing I found numerous items for risk takers. How about a bright kelly green, houndstooth jersey wrap dress a la Diane von Furstenburg. Pair it with a black cardigan or go all out with a pair of gold flats. If patterns aren't your thing they opt for pieces with a dramatic cut or flourish. The bubble sleeves on this dress are both flirty and feminine.

If your typical brown sandals and black wedges have you feeling a lot more ordinary then I've got the answer. Who could resist raspberry patent leather flats for only $19.50? The peep toe is perfect for showing off your pedicure while the faux leather material is super eco-conscious for those of you who care.

Finally, when I think of risks I think of plunging necklines. While most of us shouldn't go around wearing these it's still fun to look. I mean who wouldn't love to toss on a top like this with a pair of jeans and hit happy hour? Oooo…and the sequins! This dress is a must have for any girl on the go. Imagine this with flip-flops and a deep purple handbag. Perfect for summer.

The four way test

The other day one of my favorite email sites, net-a-porter, sent me a seasonal trend email. I love this shopping site and if you aren't familiar you should definitely check it out. They carry all designer (so the prices are high) but they've also got top notch trend forecasters and editors working to encapsulate the newest, best and brightest of the season.

In any event, the subject of this email was "How to wear one pair of heels four ways." Oh goody I thought as I clicked on the message. This type of breakdown on fashion is one of my favorite features in magazines like Lucky and Marie Claire. As a stylist myself I love the idea of creating something original from one select item. It's challenging but obvious as we all have a "top" something we want to wear with everything.

For net-a-porter the item of choice was a pair of smashing Jimmy Choo studded heels. Take a peek here. They break down the outfits by categories like urban, beach, work and weekend. From dresses and capris to short shorts, they provide a great assortment of options with endless possibilities.

Which leads me to my own version. Lately I've become obsessed (I use this term often to mean I can't stop thinking about said item) with Rebecca Taylor's amazing collections. Nearly everything she designs (for both spring and fall) has the appeal of wearable, everyday glamour. Definitely check out Fall/Winter 2007 collection for further examples of what's to come.

For my "ode to net-a-porter" I've chosen her sweet denim runway cropped jacket with gold buttons from the spring 2007 line. I realize picturing these options without a direct pictorial will be hard but bear with me as I'm going to list all the links and hopefully, with patience you'll be able to piece it together.

Let's begin with look #1. Cropped jackets are quite popular right now because they're versatile (in style) and can be worn with a variety of dresses, skirts, pants and tunics. I especially love this one because of the color and collar. The look is unique and contemporary while still being simple and cool. And for the first ensemble I'd definitely go with a dress. For me an ideal pairing would be the jacket and this Lux mélange, bright tube dress from Urban Outfitters. The style is a bit boho in color and pattern making the jacket stand out as a statement itself with it's solid stance in hue.

Following this option I'd pair it with a casual top and shorts. Last year I bought a pair from Paul and Joe's line at Target and though they'd be perfect, they're no longer available. Instead I've found these from their new GO star Patrick Robinson, which are equally chic and affordable. Pair them with this top from Splendid and the look is casual and fun with a bit of glam thrown in.

For the third look I'd definitely do jeans. Tight, skinny, gray cast jeans. As with any type of cropped jacket you have to be careful with the pant leg. Skinny seem to work well when balanced with a loose top. A recent favorite of mine are these level 99 Chloe jeans.

Finally, I'd do a skirt a la Rebecca Taylor's own styling for her show in which this jacket was featured. Her look is fantastic but I also like this quirky paper bag tulip (it really does resemble a paper bag btw) 3.1 Philip Lim skirt. The white color will accent the denim nicely adding a bit of a sailor meets hip chick on dock while on break from the high seas. Love it.